2023 NFL Mock Draft: Lions Land C.J. Stroud, Steelers Go Tackle
The Lions and Panthers get quarterbacks, the Steelers draft a tackle, and the Seahawks find a fit for their offense in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
We are nearing the midpoint of the NFL season, and the races are taking shape in both conferences. The AFC is still a feast for kings, as the Bills proved that, even on an off night, they still can beat up on teams. The Titans are flying high, the Ravens took care of the Bucs, and the Chiefs will be back to things next week. Miami’s offense is clicking as well.
In the NFC, it’s a changing of the guard. While the 49ers are still contending, the Eagles have taken over as top dog. Dallas and Minnesota are right there too, and a phenomenal draft class and commitment has the Seahawks turning around a lot quicker than expected. Somehow, the Falcons are in first place.
2023 NFL Mock Draft: Lions, Panthers get QBs
For the Packers, Rams, and Bucs, things aren’t looking very good. There’s a better than good chance none of them are still standing when the postseason begins. They all have different challenges to overcome, both in season and the looming offseason.
Plenty of teams are turning to the 2023 NFL Draft, especially the Lions and Texans, who both have multiple picks in the top 15. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, a few quarterbacks are selected in the first round, and the tackle run gets wild. Off we go!
1. Detroit Lions: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
Even as the Detroit Lions sit at 1-6, there are positives about this team. Their offense is tough to handle when everyone is healthy. The offensive line plays good ball, Amon Ra St. Brown is tough to defend, their running back room is great, and T.J. Hockenson can do it all. What they’re missing is the quarterback to elevate them, and that’s what they get in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
C.J. Stroud has the tools to become a franchise quarterback. He has sufficient arm strength, impressive accuracy and touch to all levels, and can make adjustments and quick decisions to handle what defenses throw at him. He doesn’t have elite mobility, and becoming a quicker processor will be important for him to reach his comp ceiling, which is Dak Prescott.
2. Houston Texans: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama
The Houston Texans were once again demolished by Derrick Henry, and it continues to be more evident that Davis Mills is likely a spot starter than a franchise quarterback. So why not select a quarterback here? This is a long rebuild for the Texans, and it’s possible that the size/durability concerns with Bryce Young are a turn off. Instead, they opt for the best player in the 2023 NFL Draft in Will Anderson, who is a phenomenal power rusher with advanced hand usage and an unbelievably talented run defender.
3. Carolina Panthers: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
The Carolina Panthers snatching defeat from the jaws of victory was a galaxy brain move to stay in the hunt for a top quarterback. They get their wish in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, selecting Bryce Young out of Alabama. Young has good arm talent, operates the quick game with efficiency, is masterful at extending plays, and has impressive poise for the position. If he’s the size outlier, look out.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State
The Pittsburgh Steelers are in an interesting position at pick four in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Do they improve the pass rush along the defensive line? Or, do they address the elephant in the room at tackle? Tackle is the move here, and while Olu Fashanu might not be a household name in draft circles just yet, he’s been the most impressive pass blocker this season at just 19 years old.