Well, here we go. It’s time to start ranking the best players in the ACC for the 2023 season.
As usual, we hope you enjoy the rankings.
Previous and Upcoming Rankings
Quarterbacks | Running Backs | Wide Receivers | Offensive Linemen |
Defensive Linemen | Linebackers | Cornerbacks | Safeties | Special Teams
1) Oronde Gadsen II, Syracuse
Orande Gadson is coming off 1st team All-ACC season at TE, and he returns as the ACC’s best TE. In 2022, Gadson had a great year catching the ball with 61 receptions for 969 yards and 6 TDs. The 6-5 Gadson, is versatile enough to play WR, but is he’s absolute weapon at TE.
A good route-runner with strong hands, he’s considered a 2nd or 3rd round NFL pick with the potential to move into the 1st round.
2) Bryson Nesbit, North Carolina
North Carolina’s Bryson Nesbit had a really nice season at TE for North Carolina last season. When you play with Drake Maye that certainly helps as Nesbit had 35 receptions for 507 yards and 4 TDs. He should have an even bigger role in the passing offense in 2023 with the departure of WR Josh Downs.
For a TE he’s pretty good after the catch as well. He was considered a late-round NFL prospect but could work his way up with a strong upcoming season.
3) Gavin Bartholomew, Pittsburgh
A couple of years ago, Bartholomew made a number of freshman All-American teams as a TE. Last season for his performance against Tennessee, he was named Tight End of the Week and landed on the All-ACC Academic Football Team.
He had 21 catches for 283 yards and 2 TDs. If Pitt develops a more consistent passing game, I expect Bartholomew’s numbers should really take off.
4) Jaheim Bell, Florida State
Jaheim Bell is one of the top transfers in the ACC this year. At South Carolina in 2021 he had a 30 reception for nearly 500 yards at TE. That saw him garner pre-season All-SEC votes going into last season. His production fell off last season to 25 receptions and 231 yards, but most felt that was due to the Gamecock’s offense rather than Bell.
He’s now at Florida State, and with the potential of the Nole’s offense he could have a huge 2023. There’s no question he’s an NFL prospect.
5) Jake Briningstool, Clemson
Clemson needs some playmakers to emerge on their offense. TE Jake Briningstool might be a candidate. Last season splitting TE time with Davis Allen, Briningstool still had 25 catches, 285 yards, and 4 TDs.
As the primary TE, those numbers should go way up. He has nice hands with good speed and a lot of potential.
