2023 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: Quarterbacks in High Demand
The 2022 NFL season is officially over following the Kansas City Chiefs’ 38-35 win against the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl 57. That means the 2023 NFL Draft is just around the corner with draft night slated for April 27. Both teams that battled in Super Bowl 57 have a history of drafting well.
Which teams can take the next step toward a Lombardi Trophy with a good draft haul?
Theock season is officially here. It’s time to get familiar with the draft’s best prospects. Who could be the next breakout star? Which teams would be ideal fits? Here’s how we see it playing out in April. Check out our first 2023 NFL Mock Draft of the offseason.
Let’s check the latest NFL news, stats, injury reports and NFL picks. We’ve got plenty of NFL lines for the upcoming 2023 NFL Draft.
1. Bears: DT Jalen Carter, Georgia
Many expect the Chicago Bears to eventually trade down with many quarterback-needy teams calling for the top selection. For now, the Bears are holding steady with the No. 1 overall pick. A defensive line is a clear need for Chicago. Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter is a generational three-technique talent that can wreak havoc in the middle. Per NFL odds, Carter is +60
0 to be the first player off of the board.
2. Texans: QB Bryce Young, Alabama
The Houston Texans can finally make progress in their rebuild. After hiring DeMeco Ryans as head coach, it’s time to draft a franchise quarterback. Alabama’s Bryce Young is the favorite to be the first quarterback selected. While his frame is a concern, there’s no denying Young’s playmaking and pinpoint accuracy.
Bryce Young poise through chaos
The quarterback position for me is about intangibles that can’t be coached and he’s got them
Imagination 101
pic.twitter.com/tL7CpendM4
— Joe O’Leary (@TheHQNerd) February 7, 2023
3. Cardinals: EDGE Will Anderson Jr., Alabama
A defensive line is a major need for the Arizona Cardinals, especially after defensive tackle J.J. Watt retired. After hiring Jonathan Gannon, acquiring a pass rusher becomes even more necessary. Gannon’s defense with the Philadelphia Eagles relied on a stellar pass rush and heavy man coverage. Alabama’s Will Anderson Jr. is the best defensive end of the class with his speed and length off of the edge. Anderson can also win with strength and is great against the run. Arizona can finally fill the second most important position in football – defensive end.
4. Colts: QB C.J. Stroud, Ohio State
Hiring Eagles offensive coordinator Shane Steichen proves the Indianapolis Colts are ready to acquire a franchise quarterback instead of trading for a signal-caller past their prime. C.J. Stroud is in the running for the top quarterback of the class. He excels as a traditional pocket passer with high-level accuracy. Plus, Stroud proved he can avoid pressure and make plays on the fly in the College Football Playoffs against Georgia. Indianapolis could pursue trading up for the top selection.
5. Seahawks (from Broncos): EDGE Tyree Wilson, Texas Tech
The Seattle Seahawks managed to get decent pass rush production in the 2022 season. However, the unit needs a boost of talent with a dominant edge. Tyree Wilson of Texas Tech could become that. He has ridiculous length and size at 6-foot-6. Plus, Wilson could be the most physically imposing edge rusher of the class. His speed is a concern, but Wilson’s physicality will make him an immediate impact against the run and pass.
6. Lions (from Rams): CB Devon Witherspoon, Illinois
The Detroit Lions will have a tough decision to make with the No. 6 overall selection. They must target defense, as the unit lacked talent in the 2022 season. Detroit could upgrade its defensive line, but acquiring a lock-down cornerback is a bigger need. Illinois’ Devon Witherspoon has all of the traits. He excels in man coverage with excellent instincts, and Witherspoon brings a nasty edge against the run.
7. Raiders: QB Will Levis, Kentucky
After releasing quarterback Derek Carr, the quarterback is the highest need of the offseason. The Las Vegas Raiders will have limited options in free agency. Instead, the Raiders can find a long-term solution with the No. 7 pick. Will Levis (Kentucky) has the best arm traits of the class with a quick release and cannon for an arm. Levis’s bulky 6-foot-3 frame and mobility also draw a comparison to Josh Allen. However, the Kentucky product is a raw prospect that needs to be developed.
8. Falcons: EDGE Myles Murphy, Clemson
Quarterback Desmond Ridder will likely run the show in the 2023 season. The Atlanta Falcons could go in several directions with this pick. Give Ridder better protection with an offensive tackle, find a running mate for cornerback A.J. Terrell or improve the pass rush. Clemson’s Myles Murphy would be a great value with his intriguing traits, like size and athleticism.
9. Panthers: QB Anthony Richardson, Florida
The Carolina Panthers could be a quarterback away from being an annual playoff participant. Carolina could aggressively pursue a trade-up to give coach Frank Reich a franchise signal-caller. At the No. 9 pick, Anthony Richardson could be the only first-round QB talent left on the board. He has every tool imaginable, from a strong arm to elite mobility. However, Richardson lacks consistency and has little experience with 13 college starts. With his high ceiling, Richardson could be worth the risk.
10. Eagles (from Saints): CB Christian Gonzalez, Oregon
The Philadelphia Eagles have several key defenders hitting free agency. Cornerback James Bradberry is one that could leave a hole on the roster. Fortunately, the Eagles are armed with great draft capital. Philly can grab one of the class’ best cornerbacks in Christian Gonzalez. The Oregon product possesses eye-popping athleticism and traits, and he can dominate in man coverage.
Christian Gonzalez comes down to match the 1st level crossing route, flips his hips fluidly, then plays the ball for the INT pic.twitter.com/pdmckzNSye
— Billy M (@BillyM_91) February 8, 2023
11. Titans: OT Paris Johnson Jr., Ohio State
If things pan out this way, the Tennessee Titans would be thrilled. They could select the first offensive tackle of the draft. Paris Johnson Jr. could separate himself at the top with a good NFL Combine. Johnson has an ideal size at 6-foot-6 with great movement and strength. After playing guard for two seasons at Ohio State, Johnson dominated in his first year at left tackle. Tennessee can get its blind-side protector.
12. Texans (from Browns): WR Quentin Johnston, TCU
After selecting Young with the second overall pick, the Texans can give their new franchise QB help. Houston needs a star wide receiver, and TCU’s Quentin Johnston is tracking to be the best of the class. His speed and agility at 6-foot-4 is rare. The Texans would have a new big-play threat alongside Young.
13. Jets: OT Peter Skoronski, Northwestern
This pick could be on the move if the New York Jets make a splash trade for a quarterback. For now, they could take an offensive tackle at No. 13. Left tackle Duane Brown is 37, and right tackle Mekhi Becton struggles to stay healthy. Peter Skoronski of Northwestern would be a fantastic value this late. Some believe he is the best tackle in the class. Skoronski would add an immediate boost to New York’s pass protection.
14. Patriots: OT Broderick Jones, Georgia
Offensive tackles are flying off of the board. Broderick Jones has perhaps the highest ceiling of the offensive tackle class. He has elite athleticism that allows him to excel as a puller and hold up against speed off of the edge. However, Jones has little experience and inconsistent technique. The New England Patriots could be happy taking the risk with Isaiah Wynn hitting free agency, and Trent Brown’s time could be wearing thin.
15. Packers: TE Michael Mayer, Notre Dame
With or without Aaron Rodgers, the Green Bay Packers need an upgrade at tight end. Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer is the top tight end of the class. He’s a reliable target with soft hands and savvy route-running. Plus, Mayer is a good in-line blocker and consistently wins contested catches. The Packers would suddenly have promising targets with wide receivers Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs paired with Mayer at tight end.
16. Commanders: CB Joey Porter Jr., Penn State
Joey Porter Jr. could give the Washington Commanders a future lock-down cornerback paired with their talented defensive line. Porter has good size and elite length that allows him to dominate in man coverage. The Penn State product is at its best in press coverage. Washington hopes to get back to its dominant defensive ways, and finding a premier cornerback is a step in the right direction.
17. Steelers: LB Trenton Simpson, Clemson
Selecting a cornerback would make perfect sense for the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, in this scenario, the Steelers would have to reach on a prospect. Instead, the Steelers could upgrade their linebacker unit. Devin Bush did not turn out and Myles Jack seems like a lost cause. Clemson’s Trenton Simpson would add great versatility to the unit with his impressive range and ability in coverage.
18. Lions: DT Bryan Bresee, Clemson
The Lions will be focused on upgrading their defense. Bryan Bresee would give Detroit a space-eater in the middle of the defensive line. This has the potential to be a home-run pick. Bresee has exceptional athleticism and strength at 6-foot-5, 300 pounds. Injuries are a concern, but when healthy, Bresee stuffs the run and adds interior pressure.
19. Buccaneers: S Brian Branch, Alabama
Following quarterback Tom Brady’s retirement, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers seem to be entering a rebuilding phase. Several key players are pending free agents, and the future at quarterback is uncertain. Brian Branch would add terrific value with his ability to play safety or slot cornerback. This would address two potential needs for Tampa Bay.
20. Seahawks: WR Jordan Addison, USC
The Seattle Seahawks have DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett but adding another wide receiver could be a good idea. Lockett is 30 and Seattle needs a wideout that can work the middle of the field. Jordan Addison would be a nice fit with his ability to work in the slot or on the perimeter. Addison is a great route-runner and can make defenders miss after the catch.
21. Chargers: TE Dalton Kincaid, Utah
The Los Angeles Chargers offense will have new juice in the 2023 season with offensive coordinator Kellen Moore taking over. Justin Herbert could use another target, especially if Keenan Allen is cut. Tight end Dalton Kincaid is quickly rising up draft boards. He could be the best receiving tight end of the class with elite ball skills paired with good athleticism and route-running.
Utah TE Dalton Kincaid had 234 yards vs. USC
No other TE has had 140+ this season 🌹pic.twitter.com/8wBFwlEEQ0
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) October 20, 2022
22. Ravens: WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State
Wide receiver has been a weakness of the Baltimore Ravens for years. Rashod Bateman played well before his season-ending injury. Jaxon Smith-Njigba can round out the group. He consistently gets open paired with sticky hands. Baltimore’s intermediate passing game with Mark Andrews and Smith-Njigba could quickly get dangerous.
23. Vikings: CB Kelee Ringo, Georgia
Patrick Peterson is on an expiring contract after a good season, and the Minnesota Vikings lacked a No. 2 cornerback in the 2022 season. At one point, Kelee Ringo was viewed as the top cornerback of the class. He has the intangibles with good speed and size, but his change of direction calls for some concern. Minnesota’s cornerback room would have good potential with Ringo and Andrew Booth Jr.
24. Jaguars: OT Anton Harrison, Oklahoma
Quarterback Trevor Lawrence made dramatic strides in his second season. The offensive line was solid, and the Jacksonville Jaguars’ receivers should improve with Calvin Ridley returning from suspension. Jacksonville can upgrade its pass protection with Anton Harrison. He has ideal size at 6-foot-5, and Harrison moves well against speed off of the edge. The Jaguars can replace free agent right tackle Jawaan Taylor with a promising rookie.
25. Giants: WR Rashee Rice, SMU
Brian Daboll managed to lead a solid New York Giants offense with limited receiving targets. There’s no denying Kenny Golladay was a disaster signing; he could be cut this offseason. New York desperately needs a No. 1 wide receiver. Rashee Rice is a prospect that could be on the rise with a good pro day and combine. He’s exactly what the Giants are looking for: A wideout that can do it all with reliable route-running and hands.
26. Cowboys: LB Drew Sanders, Arkansas
The Dallas Cowboys can go in several directions with the No. 26 selection. Linebacker Drew Sanders is a great option with Leighton Vander Esch and Anthony Barr due for free agency. Sanders has an exceptional range at 6-foot-5. Sanders has an edge rusher background, but he excelled as an off-ball linebacker at Arkansas. Dallas would have an intriguing defense with two positionless players – Micah Parsons and Sanders.
27. Bills: G O’Cyrus Torrence, Florida
Due to Josh Allen’s mobility, the Buffalo Bills have overlooked their poor to the mediocre offensive line. If the best guard in the class is staring Buffalo in the face at No. 27, the Bills must make the pick. O’Cyrus Torrence is a punisher in the run game and holds up well against bull rushes in pass protection. Torrence would be a significant upgrade at guard.
28. Bengals: OT Darnell Wright, Tennessee
The Cincinnati Bengals’ offensive line improved in the 2022 season. After several injuries, the line crumbled with poor depth. Offensive tackle remains a big concern following Jonah Williams’ and La’el Collins’ underwhelming seasons. Tennessee’s Darnell Wright is poised to crack the first round thanks to his impressive hand strength and bruising frame. Wright constantly throws edge rushers off with an enforcing punch. Plus, he has experience playing right and left tackle.
29. Saints (from 49ers): WR Jalin Hyatt, Tennessee
The New Orleans Saints are back in the first round after coach Sean Payton signed with the Denver Broncos. This pick could be too late to address the quarterback position. Instead, New Orleans could add another wide receiver. Chris Olave enjoyed a great rookie season, but Michael Thomas cannot stay healthy. Jalin Hyatt has game-breaking speed. He has a chance to run in the 4.2s of the 40-yard dash. New Orleans would have two great deep threats with Olave and Hyatt.
30. Eagles: RB Bijan Robinson, Texas
Bijan Robinson is the best running back prospect since Saquon Barkley. He could be one of the NFL’s best running backs for a number of seasons, especially behind the Eagles’ elite offensive line. Philly could also avoid spending big money on running back by taking Robinson.
Bijan Robinson is going to take the nfl by storm. He’s so gooood pic.twitter.com/kW86zhsIP6
— Adam Kahle 🥬 (@adamkahle) February 3, 2023
31. Chiefs: EDGE Lukas Van Ness, Iowa
Who says no to more pass rushing? Lukas Van Ness brings imposing physicality with the ability to play inside or on the edge. The 6-foot-5 defensive lineman is great against the run and is improving as a pass rusher. Van Ness is inexperienced but his high ceiling is enticing. The Kansas City Chiefs would have a bright future at both edge spots with George Karlaftis and Van Ness.
