SEC on pace to have most NFL draft picks (again). But Big Ten led way in first two rounds
Through the first two rounds of the 2023 NFL draft, the Big Ten was the belle of the ball.
For the first time since 2011, per ESPN Stats and Information, the Big Ten had the most prospects drafted in the first two rounds (with a conference record 20). But it wasn't long until the Southeastern Conference regained its status as the primary producer of prospects in the NFL draft.
Both conferences left Thursday's first round with nine selections apiece. The even pace carried into Day 2, when four of the final six picks in the second round hailed from Big Ten schools, leaving the SEC trailing by three.
The third round brought things back into equilibrium, with four of the first five picks being from SEC schools. When the Las Vegas Raiders took Alabama defensive tackle Byron Young with the 70th overall pick, the SEC went in front for good.
2023 NFL draft: Analysis of second and third round picks
Last year, the SEC boasted 65 draftees, compared to the Big Ten's 48.
Follow Chris Bumbaca on Twitter @BOOMbaca.