2023 NFL Mock Draft: Lions Select Bryce Young, Texans Bolster Defense
![Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young (9) warms up before the game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports Oct 15, 2022; Knoxville, Tennessee, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Bryce Young (9) warms up before the game against the Tennessee Volunteers at Neyland Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/8921f3e5e818647c42e4b608f7e04daa06a50c16a62423a7cd6c79b6e1459556.jpg)
25. Tennessee Titans: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson
The Tennessee Titans get in a tough spot in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. With offensive linemen flying off before they pick, they have to switch gears here. Beyond 2022, the linebacker room will consist only of Zach Cunningham and Monty Rice. That’s not enough. Trenton Simpson is the modern-day linebacker in the Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah role. He can play off the ball in coverage and be creative to fill against the run.
26. New York Jets: Brian Branch, S, Alabama
The New York Jets are flying high, even with below average quarterback play. Zach Wilson has time to right the ship, but these last couple rookie classes have been a great success. This would be another spot for offensive line, but we’ll look for a running mate for Jordan Whitehead to complete the secondary. Brian Branch plays the star role at Alabama, but his route recognition and physicality will blend well in Robert Saleh’s defense.
27. Dallas Cowboys: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
The Dallas Cowboys’ defense has been their strength thus far. Trevon Diggs is actually playing better in coverage in 2022, and the Micah Parsons/DeMarcus Lawrence duo is nearly unstoppable. Could this be receiver? Maybe, but instead they get a great pairing at corner by selecting Joey Porter Jr. He needs work in off-coverage, but he’s physical in press, plays the run hard, and has impressive ball skills.
28. New York Giants: Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU
Yeah, so the New York Giants are 5-1. Who saw this coming? If you did, congrats. If the success continues, they’ll have a decision to make with Daniel Jones. At pick 28 in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, quarterback feels off the table. So, let’s right the ship at wide receiver. Wan’Dale Robinson can handle slot duties, but Kayshon Boutte has true “X” potential. After a slow start, he’s come on of late.