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The switch portal has ravaged the 2023 NFL Draft prospect pool. But, there is no such thing as a scarcity of expertise on this first-round 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Whereas solely two QBs come off the board, EDGE, OT, and DB fill Day 1.
2023 NFL Mock Draft
The NFL draft order for this 2023 mock is taken from the present NFL standings as of Dec. 12. Examine the PFN Mock Draft Simulator after each NFL sport to see essentially the most up-to-date draft order and be the GM of your favourite franchise!
1) Houston Texans: Bryce Younger, QB, Alabama
The issues surrounding Bryce Young‘s dimension (6’0″, 194 kilos) are legitimate, however he’s greater than quelled the doubters the final two seasons. What excites me most about his projection to the NFL is his means to increase performs and create outdoors of the pocket. That’s the distinction between him and the remainder of the 2023 QB class.
2) Seattle Seahawks: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama
The Seahawks have been looking for a star cross rusher for years. Nicely, it lastly ends with the number of Will Anderson Jr. Anderson has probably the very best first step within the class, exploding into and previous opposing OTs. He additionally owns the energy, bend, and adaptability to win across the edge or work again beneath.
3) Chicago Bears: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia
If I had been a Bears decision-maker, I’d be on the cellphone attempting to commerce down. But when Chicago can’t make a transfer, Jalen Carter is greater than a comfort prize. The Georgia DT pushes the pocket the place QBs hate it most — up the center. However he’s additionally a risk as a run defender, proudly owning the lateral spryness to maneuver from hole to hole with ease.
4) Detroit Lions: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
C.J. Stroud heading to Detroit is a standard pairing in 2023 NFL mock drafts. However outdoors of the Lions’ want for a long-term QB, Stroud’s comp could find yourself being Jared Goff for me. Each gamers might be extraordinarily efficient in construction, however as soon as out of it, their play deteriorates.
MORE: Top 10 QBs in the 2023 NFL Draft
So, why do I’ve the Lions choosing the youthful model of their present QB? Stroud is a stellar anticipatory thrower with the arrogance to check man/tight protection. Plus, his arm energy and mobility spherical out his profile.
5) Philadelphia Eagles: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson
The extra wins the Eagles rack up, the extra stunning it’s to see them drafting within the high 5 — thanks, New Orleans. Profiting from their early choice, Philly provides to an already sturdy defensive position by snatching Clemson’s Myles Murphy.
Murphy can transfer up and down the road and is already a stout run defender. Let him refine his sport within the Eagles’ loaded locker room and the 6’5″, 275-pound cross rusher may attain his ceiling sooner somewhat than later.
6) Arizona Cardinals: Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
There is probably not a Sauce Gardner or Derek Stingley within the 2023 NFL Draft, however there additionally wasn’t a Kelee Ringo final cycle. The Georgia defender is a rocked-up 6’2″ and 210 kilos, resembling a linebacker greater than a cornerback. Pair his dimension along with his total pace and fluidity, and you’ve got the makings of a top-flight prospect.
7) Indianapolis Colts: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern
Is Peter Skoronski a guard or a sort out? Does he have the arm size to carry up on the skin? These are the 2 most urgent questions with Skoronski’s scouting report, and I don’t care.
The Northwestern OT stepped into Rashawn Slater’s sneakers as a freshman and by no means appeared again, offering elite pass-blocking play yearly since. Skoronski is essentially sound, mild on his toes, and as dependable as they arrive.
8) Las Vegas Raiders: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
If Skoronski isn’t OT1 within the 2023 NFL Draft, it’s Paris Johnson Jr. The Ohio State lineman will get not less than yet another probability to point out off his ability set in opposition to high competitors when the Buckeyes face Georgia within the Faculty Soccer Playoff. However Johnson’s movie already speaks for itself — he’s an elite mix of dimension, energy, and mobility.
9) Carolina Panthers: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
There is probably not a receiver taken within the high 10 this yr, but when there’s, it’ll almost definitely be Quentin Johnston. The dimensions/pace freak shouldn’t be allowed to maneuver the way in which he does at 6’4″ and 215 kilos. Not solely does he have the lengthy pace to threaten defenses vertically, however he possesses the suddenness on the high of routes to create separation.
10) Atlanta Falcons: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
There won’t be a single participant that has improved his draft inventory greater than Jared Verse this season. The previous Albany EDGE grew bored with crushing FCS opponents and took his abilities to Florida State, starting his reign of terror on the ACC. There is probably not a extra downright explosive edge rusher within the class, as Verse’s pace off the road eviscerates opposing OTs.
11) Jacksonville Jaguars: Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson
The Jaguars could have spent their cash a yr too early in free company, however it is a proficient roster. Jacksonville can be sensible so as to add an inside penetrator to the EDGE duo of Josh Allen and Travon Walker. Bryan Bresee isn’t your archetypal defensive sort out, standing 6’5″ and 300 kilos with an excellent bigger pass-rush presence.
12) Houston Texans: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech
We don’t see many 6’6″, 275-pound prospects with 7-foot-plus wingspans strolling round, particularly these with Tyree Wilson means. He’s already an simply translatable run defender, because of his dimension and body. But, Wilson has flashed potential as a cross rusher and may very well be molded into an all-around difference-maker with correct teaching.
13) Pittsburgh Steelers: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
Broderick Jones appears like an NFL offensive sort out at 6’4″ and 310 kilos. He carries his weight nicely throughout cross units and when climbing to the second stage within the run sport. And with near-elite size and play energy, there isn’t a lot not to love about Jones’ bodily bundle.
14) Inexperienced Bay Packers: Jordan Addison, WR, USC
The Packers uncovered a gem in Christian Watson, and Romeo Doubs may nonetheless develop right into a strong No. 3. However the receiving corps remains to be a bit or a two away from difficult the highest items within the league — Jordan Addison can change that. He’s a plug-and-play WR with the pace and suddenness to separate at will, traits Aaron Rodgers can maximize.
15) Detroit Lions: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
A lot has been made from the Lions’ porous cross protection this season, and rightfully so. However Jeffrey Okudah remains to be the identical participant that Detroit chosen within the high 5 in 2020 — he simply wants some assist.
MORE: 2023 NFL Draft Prospects
So, why not take the highest cowl nook within the 2023 NFL Draft, Detroit? There are higher athletes than Devon Witherspoon (see: Ringo, Christian Gonzalez), however no participant has shut down the opposition as persistently because the Combating Illini product this season. Between his movie examine, short-area quickness, and instincts, WRs usually discover little room to breathe. Oh, and he’s the hardest-hitting CB in a while.
16) New England Patriots: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
At this charge, it wouldn’t be stunning if Jaxon Smith-Njigba fell out of Day 1 just because we haven’t seen a lot of him this season. But, it was simply final yr that he was the most efficient receiver in a gaggle that contained 2022 first-rounders Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave.
And each gamers sang JSN’s praises as they entered the NFL, with Wilson stating, “Jaxon is nearly as good as I’ve ever seen, in all probability the very best I’ve ever seen.”
17) Seattle Seahawks: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
“Hey Siri, present me a Seattle Cowl 3 nook.” “Okay, right here you go.” *Insert image of Oregon CB Christian Gonzalez*
Oftentimes, prospect/group matches matter greater than sheer expertise. They usually don’t make puzzles that match higher than Gonzalez touchdown with the Seahawks. His dimension/pace mixture interprets flawlessly to Seattle’s scheme — simply have a look at Tariq Woolen’s success in 12 months 1.
18) New York Jets: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson
HC Robert Saleh will get his new model of Fred Warner as Clemson’s do-it-all linebacker Trenton Simpson lands in East Rutherford. Simpson can generate strain off the sting, knife by means of gaps within the field, or cowl receivers from the slot.
19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: BJ Ojulari, EDGE, LSU
With Tom Brady lastly dropping the battle in opposition to Father Time, the Buccaneers may take a shot at a QB in the course of Spherical 1. Nevertheless, I’m not a fan of Will Levis or Anthony Richardson, and BJ Ojulari is staring proper at me. The youthful brother of Giants EDGE Azeez Ojulari, BJ wins with pace, leaving tackles lunging at air as he sprints to the QB.
20) Los Angeles Chargers: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma
Placing my love for Skoronski apart, there’s a reputable debate for the highest OT spots behind Paris Johnson, and Anton Harrison is squarely in that dialog. For the Chargers to safe his companies simply a few years faraway from choosing their franchise left sort out (Rashawn Slater) is kismet.
Harrison owns a few of the finest motion abilities of any huge man on both facet of the ball. He’s a pure and clean operator at sort out, and his finest remains to be forward of him.
21) Tennessee Titans: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
Austin Hooper has been serviceable as a cross catcher for the Titans, however he’s much less in order a run blocker. Chigoziem Okonkwo has progressed right into a reputable weapon, however at 6’3″ and 230ish, he’ll all the time be restricted. Now, often, I’m of the idea that tight ends aren’t price first-round picks.
However once in a while, a prospect like Michael Mayer comes alongside and shakes the tree. With how Tennessee needs to win (run the ball with Derrick Henry and transfer the ball by means of the air with play-action), Mayer makes an ideal match on the backside half of Spherical 1.
22) Washington Commanders: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
So long as Taylor Heinicke is underneath heart, the Commanders aren’t going a lot additional than a first-round playoff exit. However and not using a clear high QB to pick, Washington drafts the subsequent smartest thing: a nook of Joey Porter Jr.‘s caliber.
With elite size and fluid hips to flip and carry routes upfield, Porter has the instruments to be a nuisance in opposition to opposing WRs.
23) New York Giants: Noah Sewell, LB, Oregon
Is Daniel Jones the face of the franchise? The Giants aren’t even certain, as they declined to choose up his fifth-year possibility. Whether or not they re-sign him or not, NY has a obvious downside within the coronary heart of their protection. And who higher to repair it than the defender with essentially the most coronary heart within the 2023 NFL Draft?
One minute of Noah Sewell‘s spotlight tape is all it takes to see the eagerness and vigor he performs with. However he’s extra than simply emotion and temperament, blowing up blocks and ball carriers all the identical close to the road of scrimmage.
24) Denver Broncos: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee
Regardless of the battle they put up vs. the Chiefs in Week 14, the Broncos’ offensive points stem additional than offensive sort out. Nevertheless, that’s the lengthy battle; we’ll settle with successful this battle.
Darnell Wright can solidify the best sort out spot as a rookie, a place he has began in three of his 4 collegiate seasons (LT in 2021).
25) Baltimore Ravens: Rashee Rice, WR, SMU
If the Ravens go anyplace however receiver with their first decide, it will be roster development malpractice. Earlier than he obtained harm, Lamar Jackson was throwing to Demarcus Robinson, Devin Duvernay, and … DeSean Jackson. Sometimes, I’m not one to draft solely for want, however when it’s this unhealthy, your fingers are tied.
It’s not the very best yr to be a WR-needy group, both. Nonetheless, Rashee Rice is worthy of first-round consideration, proudly owning the X-receiver body (6’2″, 203), manufacturing (96-1,355-10), and athleticism.
26) Cincinnati Bengals: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
The Bengals are one other group with seemingly few wants. Nevertheless, the cornerback corps may use an infusion of youth and expertise. Cam Smith was a sizzling title this summer time however has seen his hype dwindle all through the season. Nevertheless it’s not as a result of he was struggling.
The truth is, Smith simply wasn’t examined a lot this season (38 targets), locking down his facet of the sphere (18 receptions allowed) and even sifting into the slot when wanted.
27) Dallas Cowboys: Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee
The Cowboys may go a number of methods with their first-rounder, however why not spend it on a participant inbuilt a lab to take the highest of defenses? Jalin Hyatt is the reigning Biletnikoff winner (nation’s finest receiver) for a motive, connecting with Hendon Hooker for 15 TDs and 18.9 yards per catch.
MORE: 2023 NFL Draft Big Board
CeeDee Lamb wants some reinforcements, and on the very least, Hyatt can stretch the sphere and alleviate strain. However the best-case state of affairs? He and Dak Prescott type a bond downfield, unlocking a wholly new dimension to the offense.
28) Kansas Metropolis Chiefs: Felix Anudike-Uzomah, EDGE, Kansas State
Whereas I’d love to present the Chiefs a receiver right here, their want at EDGE is way higher. George Karlaftis has dissatisfied a bit as a rookie, and Frank Clark is rising lengthy within the tooth. Felix Anudike-Uzomah may very well be the treatment, as he sports activities the bend and stability to beat NFL tackles across the arc.
29) Minnesota Vikings: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State
The Vikings simply suffered an embarrassing loss to the Lions — credit score to Detroit — giving up 330 passing yards and three TDs. The longer term doesn’t appear a lot brighter for Minnesota’s cornerback room, as Andrew Sales space Jr., Cameron Dantzler, and Akayleb Evans are the one gamers underneath contract in 2023.
Enter Emmanuel Forbes. Though snubbed from the Jim Thorpe Award, given to the nation’s finest defensive again, the Mississippi State CB was our Corner of the Year. With six INTs and three pick-sixes, how may he not be? Forbes has a knack for the ball within the air, however he’s additionally lengthy, explosive, and sticky in protection.
30) Buffalo Payments: Antonio Johnson, DB, Texas A&M
On paper, the Payments have few true “holes” on the roster. That’s a testomony to the expertise GM Brandon Beane has acquired and to HC Sean McDermott for getting essentially the most out of his gamers. So, Buffalo can look extra long-term with their picks within the 2023 NFL Draft, beginning with defensive weapon Antonio Johnson.
Jordan Poyer is a free agent on the finish of the season, and Micah Hyde shall be following 2023. However Johnson is greater than only a physique to fill a place. He can line up at deep security, within the field, or within the slot. Let him be taught from two (or one) of the very best safeties within the league and watch him transcend any alignment.
31) Philadelphia Eagles: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
With their top-five decide, the Eagles addressed the defensive facet of the ball. However with the ultimate decide on this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they flip their consideration towards Jalen Hurts and Co. Miles Sanders is a high quality again, however think about Bijan Robinson on this offense?
A backfield of Hurts and Robinson with Goedert at TE and A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith at WR? Yea, good luck stopping that. Merely put, the dynamism of that backfield duo alone can be an excessive amount of for defenses to deal with.
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