Unfortunately for the Mountain West faithful, there isn’t any first overall pick quarterback hype among the likes of Alex Smith, David Carr, or Josh Allen as the 2023 NFL Draft nears.
Unfortunately again for the Mountain West faithful, there aren’t even any players expected to hear their names called in Thursday’s first round. Still, there are plenty of intriguing prospects from this conference that will figure out their fates soon.
In a list that includes a variety of players, here are the top 10 prospects from the MW in this year’s draft:
TE Kyle Patterson, Air Force
One might be surprised to know that Patterson had just 18 career catches during his three years at The Academy and is still here. That’s because of what he can bring to a team that doesn’t involve pass-catching. Patterson’s blocking skills and athleticism for his size will have some coaches figuring out how to utilize him.
CB Tyreque Jones, Boise State
Jones is a versatile defender that has had an impact in multiple positions and coverages. An adaptable player like him will be a target in the draft. Jones had a solid day at the combine and also at his Pro Day, helping his stock.
S JL Skinner, Boise State
The most touted prospect from the conference, Skinner is projected to be selected in Round 2. His size and physicality make him a guy you want on your team and not someone you’re playing against:
Skinner roams around like Kam Chancellor and we know the impact he had on the league.
DL Scott Matlock, Boise State
Matlock’s stock has recently been on the rise following his showing at Boise State’s Pro Day. His time of 7.2 seconds in the three-cone drill and 4.27 seconds in the 20-yard shuttle would’ve been first among defensive tackles at the combine. His 40 time, bench press, broad jump, and vertical all would have landed him in the top 5.
OT John Ojukwu, Boise State
Ojukwu is about as reliable and consistent as they come. The 6-foot-5, 304-pounder didn’t allow a sack in 2022 after starting each game at left tackle. Ojukwu will fall into Day 3 but could be picked anywhere during that span.
QB Jake Haener, Fresno State
Arguably the best Group of Five quarterback in the Draft, Haener all but solidified this talk with his Senior Bowl MVP performance. Haener will probably be chosen on Day 2 and has the potential to carve out a lengthy NFL career, even if it’s as a backup.
WR Jalen-Moreno Cropper, Fresno State
A speedy guy who thrives in the slot, Cropper will need to do some work to make the 53-man roster, but he certainly has the potential to do so. Leaning on his speed and experience making big plays in key situations, Cropper should make an early impression wherever he lands.
DL Jonah Tavai, SDSU
Tavai is a big, strong defensive lineman that knows how to utilize his build to his advantage and take up space. While probably not immediately a starter, Tavai can pop in and make a difference in situations, especially against the run.
EDGE Viliami Fehoko, SJSU
If it’s one thing about Fehoko, he doesn’t take plays off:
That type of effort is attractive to any club. Fehoko was the 2022 Mountain West Player of the Year and is one of the most underrated players in the draft.
CB Nehemiah Shelton, SJSU
There’s definitely room for Shelton to improve, but he carries the size and the length to be an impactful cornerback in the league. Shelton had a good showing at the Shrine Bowl which increased his chances of getting drafted, but if not, he’ll be a priority free agent.
