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2023 NFL Mock Draft: Falcons Land C.J. Stroud, Texans Pass On QB

By Jacob Schyvinck

COLUMBUS, OHIO - NOVEMBER 20: C.J. Stroud #7 of the Ohio State Buckeyes drops back to pass during the first half of a game against the Michigan State Spartans at Ohio Stadium on November 20, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)
COLUMBUS, OHIO - NOVEMBER 20: C.J. Stroud #7 of the Ohio State Buckeyes drops back to pass during the first half of a game against the Michigan State Spartans at Ohio Stadium on November 20, 2021 in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images) /
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2023 NFL Mock Draft, Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports
2023 NFL Mock Draft, Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports /

5. New York Jets: Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Maryland

The first surprise of this 2023 NFL Mock Draft comes here at pick five. The New York Jets have both Mekhi Becton and George Fant, but there are still concerns within the organization about Becton. If things don’t go well in 2022, they could look for a replacement next spring.

In an offense that wants its offensive linemen to be able to reach, get around the outside shoulder of defensive linemen, work to the second level, and pull to lead the charge in space, Jaelyn Duncan would be a good fit. His footwork, quicks, and space blocking is extremely impressive.

6. Jacksonville Jaguars: Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU

The Jacksonville Jaguars made some important moves to help out Trevor Lawrence, most notably hiring a competent coach. They did add a couple weapons in the passing game in Christian Kirk and Zay Jones, but a WR1 isn’t there in the offense.

Kayshon Boutte might not have the production of others near the top of early 2023 lists at wide receiver, but he has the skill set. His explosiveness, nuanced release moves, and natural hands make for a three-level threat and potential WR1 in the NFL.

7. Carolina Panthers: Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame

The Carolina Panthers have Brian Burns rushing off the edge, but a running mate for him would be helpful. Isaiah Foskey has some of the best athleticism in the class at 265 pounds, and it’s evidenced by his ability to corner as a rusher and make plays in space as a stand up linebacker. More reps on the edge in 2022 make sense for him, and it could be rewarded with a rise up draft rankings.

8. Chicago Bears: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

The Chicago Bears should be interesting to watch this year, especially if Justin Fields takes the leap. Darnell Mooney is on the leap list, and while he and Velus Jones will be a fun duo to watch, they are still in need of a WR1.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba is all production, crossing the 1,600-yard mark last season while playing with top 12 picks Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave. He’s deceptive and creative after the catch, and is quick to turn into a runner. He flashes impressive release packages, and while his route running is smooth rather than crisp, Smith-Njigba will likely prove he can be a boundary receiver in 2022.

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