2023 NFL Draft: Why Tyree Wilson's Foot is Still Cause for Concern

With the NFL Draft quickly approaching the situation surrounding Tyree Wilson’s right foot remains murky.

The unique edge rusher out of Texas Tech has been mocked as high as No. 2, with an average overall rank of 7th overall, according to Mock Draft Database.

Our panel of doctors have not examined him, but the context around his right foot fracture from last November indicates that he could carry a big medical red flag regarding his availability in the 2023-24 season.

Wilson was injured on a non-contact play when he reportedly planted to push off on a pass rush. He was carted off, then returned to the sidelines on crutches and in a boot.

The worry for that injury mechanism is a significant mid-foot sprain (Lisfranc sprain, fracture, etc.) with bone and ligament damage, according to our panel of Pro Football Docs.

At the time of his injury, he was projected to be fully cleared by the NFL draft combine and/or the Red Raiders’ Pro Day in late March. However, Wilson did not work out at either event.

He spoke at Texas Tech’s Pro Day, telling reporters the plan was to get the hardware out at the four-month mark and he was advised to not sweat while letting the incision heal.

That timeline seems a bit fishy, as the typical route is to remove the hardware sooner than that mark or, alternatively, leave the hardware in for longer to ensure complete healing.

Based on public reports, it also appears he suffered a setback in his recovery that did not allow him to be cleared to work out at the NFL Draft Combine or his Pro Day.

NFL medical staff from numerous teams undoubtedly checked him out during the medical portion of the draft combine, thus we are not detailing anything that teams have not already examined or figured out themselves. 

It’s entirely possible his foot is now completely healed and he’s ready for the season, but his recovery trajectory thus far is cause for concern.

The 6-foot-6, 275-pound edge rusher is a generational prospect on the defensive line and undoubtedly has the talent to go in the Top 10 picks.

If he indeed slides in the draft, it will be due to concerns stemming from his right foot injury. 

Wilson is +340 to be picked at No. 2 overall, +270 to go at No. 3 overall and -550 to be a Top 5 pick. Odds are subject to change.

Given the issues with his foot, neither of those three are sure things.

For more NFL Draft injury insights go to Sports Injury Central. Our free weekly newsletter has the best NFL, CFB, NBA and MLB insights from our Pro Sports Doctors plus Free Picks to give you a unique edge!