Northwestern Wildcats offensive lineman Peter Skoronski (77) prepares to block against the Maryland Terrapins at SECU Stadium. Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

Ideal NFL Draft fits for Northwestern OT Peter Skoronski

The 2023 NFL Draft has added an elite tackle prospect. 

Northwestern offensive tackle Peter Skoronski declared for the upcoming draft on Friday. 

ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper has Skoronski positioned as this draft class' top tackle prospect and the sixth-overall talent in his latest rankings. 

"He is a technician who can bend," Kiper wrote in his draft profile. "He shrugs off quick pass-rushers and can contain rushers who try to win with power. 

"Skoronski started 33 games at left tackle for the Wildcats, and he keeps getting better. He allowed just nine pressures and one sack this season, even though his team has struggled." 

There are no shortage of teams in the NFL that could use upgrades on the offensive line. Here are the most ideal fits for Skoronski for where the 2023 NFL Draft order currently stands. 

Pittsburgh Steelers 

If Pittsburgh wants to upgrade its left tackle spot, Skoronski would be an excellent fit. Second-year tackle Dan Moore Jr. is solid, but he could swap over to the right side of the team cuts ties with right tackle Chuks Okorafor. Moore could also hold down a key spot as a swing tackle. 

The Steelers need improvement up front to make life easier for young quarterback Kenny Pickett. To maximize Pickett's potential, Skoronski could slot right in to protect the quarterback's blind side. 

New York Jets 

Former first-round tackle Mekhi Becton has barely played since being drafted in 2020 because of injuries. The Jets have veteran Duane Brown on the left side, but he'll be a free agent next spring. 

New York needs a reliable left tackle for the future, which is what Skoronski could give the team. Whether it's quarterback Zach Wilson or someone else starting for the team next year, a young building block for the offensive line can keep the Jets' momentum swinging in the right direction. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers 

The Buccaneers have a manageable out on left tackle Donovan Smith's contract after this season. Even if Tom Brady leaves after the season, the Bucs need a good left tackle to help grow with what could be a team on a path toward a mini-rebuild. 

Skoronski is a plug-and-play talent, and he'd help the Bucs transition well if Smith's time is up with the team. If Tampa Bay goes with quarterback Kyle Trask or a veteran like Derek Carr via trade, having Skoronski can help steady Tampa's front five for a new era.

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