Way Too Early 2023 NFL Mock Draft: Texans, Lions Get Quarterbacks
17. New England Patriots: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
Tyquan Thornton will be an interesting addition for the Patriots, but he isn’t a WR1. Jaxon Smith-Njigba is that potential WR1, as his production should go through the roof this season. Making the transition to the outside is important to watch, but his ability with the ball in his hands is special.
18. Arizona Cardinals: Garrett Williams, CB, Syracuse
The Arizona Cardinals have their top two receivers now in DeAndre Hopkins and Marquise Brown, but they still don’t have a top corner in town. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, Garrett Williams joins the Cardinals, as he has the technique and ball skills to be a WR1.
19. Tennessee Titans: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
Chigoziem Okonkwo will be a fun move piece at tight end for the Titans, but Michael Mayer is on a different level. He’s getting better and better as a receiver, seeing more reps in the slot. Mayer can already play inline and will be one of the prospects with the highest floor.
20. Indianapolis Colts: Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU
The Indianapolis Colts did just draft Alec Pierce, but why not load up with playmakers for Matt Ryan in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft? Kayshon Boutte is an electric playmaker with the size to thrive on the outside, which can kick Michael Pittman Jr. into the slot.
21. Houston Texans (via CLE): Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia
Great value arrives for the Houston Texans in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. After missing out on Jordan Davis, they get perhaps a better prospect in Jalen Carter. Carter has a great blend of being able to anchor, sit, and leverage in gaps while also possessing the quickness and explosiveness to win as a pass rusher.
22. Baltimore Ravens: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
The Baltimore Ravens stick to doing Baltimore Ravens things in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Do they need a running back? It depends on if J.K. Dobbins breaks out. But, Bijan Robinson is the next great running back. His three-down ability, especially his prowess as a receiver, is excellent. He has the burst, lateral toolbox, and ability to break tackles and have defenders coming up with air in space.
23. Cincinnati Bengals: Trenton Simpson, LB/S, Clemson
The Cincinnati Bengals added plenty to their secondary, but they have some decisions to make at the linebacker position. Also, will Dax Hill play safety or corner for them? It could lead to a need at safety as well as linebacker. Trenton Simpson can do a bit of both with his size, closing speed, reliable tackling in space, and production (12.5 TFLs in 2021).
24. Los Angeles Chargers: Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah
The Los Angeles Chargers can never have enough corners, according to Brandon Staley. They land one here in Clark Phillips III, who, while undersized, has impressive technique, transitions, and makes plays on the ball.