DRAFT TRACKER 2023

Forbes is long, can run and has a talent for taking the ball away, which means he has a chance to become a coveted cornerback. However, his wire-thin frame does not work in his favor. Forbes’ instincts and recognition are fun to watch. He pounces on quick-game throws and has the ball skills to take the ball away. He’s highly capable in all forms of zone coverage and operates out of press-man, but is inconsistent matching the release and staying in phase with routes through sharp cuts. His slender build and lack of tackle strength will make him a target for opposing running games. Forbes could become an early starter with quality ball production, but teams might need to expect some up-and-down performances.

Naturally powerful prospect who is able to take on capable challengers and come out in good shape despite playing with an elevated pad level. Young plays with early hands and a heavy punch to gain positioning quickly against single blocks. He has the core power and contact balance to force double teams to work. Also, he does a nice job of fighting against wash-down blocks and maintaining gap integrity against zone. He has the size, length and strength to become a proficient run defender but offers very little as a pass rusher. While Young will be seen as a natural nose tackle, he could see snaps as a 5-technique as well.

Wheat, a three-year starter for Mississippi State, offers decent versatility and good play strength. He has the physicality to go toe-to-toe at the point of attack, but he is lacking football instincts to anticipate and make more plays. Wheat tends to play from Point A to Point B instead of consistently reading and engaging as the play develops. He might benefit from a clearly defined role in a defense with more structure than the one he played in for the Bulldogs. His ability to drop in space or play with power could help him earn a spot as a backup 3-4 strong-side linebacker with special teams value.

The size and length are appealing, as is the potential to improve his contested-catch success rate, but Heath lacks the burst to back coverages off or separate consistently against press-man. The ball skills show up on tape, but he must become a consistent ball-winner and play to his size. Heath has Day 3 draft potential.