Possible Eagles replacements for Fletcher Cox in 2023 NFL Draft
811. . . . Mazi Smith, Michigan. 6. player
Mazi Smith and Gervon Dexter figure to have their names added to the Eagles’ 2023 draft board.
Write Mazi Smith‘s name down if you haven’t already. He was overshadowed on the Michigan Wolverines’ defense in 2021, but that’s what happens when you’re sharing snaps with two future NFL stars.
Aidan Hutchinson and David Ojabo have both moved on from the Michigan Wolverines and are enjoying the greener pastures of professional football. It’s Smith’s show now, and he should shine. He’ll create a lot of opportunities for teammates Mike Morris, Jaylen Harrell, and fellow interior defensive lineman Kris Jenkins Jr. In 2021, his stat line carried 37 tackles and three pass breakups. He’ll want to show improvement as a pass rusher though. He has yet to register a sack during his first two seasons (16 games) at the collegiate level.
. . Gervon Dexter, Florida. 5. player. 840.
There wasn’t much to celebrate while watching the Florida Gators operate on defense in 2021, but Gervon Dexter never played like his team didn’t have a chance. In total, he racked up 50 tackles and 2.5 sacks, giving him 70 stops and three quarterback takedowns during his first 23 games at the collegiate level.
2022 figures to be his swan song, but he figures to shine brightly with the spotlight on him. He’s six-foot-six. He tips the scales at 308 pounds, and playing in college football’s best conference, he should get a few looks.