2023 NFL Mock Draft: Lions Land C.J. Stroud, Steelers Go Tackle
![Oct 29, 2022; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) drops back in the pocket during the first quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew OHaren-USA TODAY Sports Oct 29, 2022; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) drops back in the pocket during the first quarter against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew OHaren-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/2e650c43df727991464491f302b29069457d704313844b3f0e80e669661ffe19.jpg)
21. Los Angeles Chargers: Garrett Williams, CB, Syracuse
Injuries have really derailed things for this Chargers team, and it’s hard to survive losing a top pass rusher and a franchise left tackle. Still, the beat goes on in the playoff push. Hopefully J.C. Jackson can return to playing, but that sounds up in the air. Brandon Staley will want to upgrade the corner room anyways, and Garrett Williams has the skill set to play in off-coverage and be a nightmare at the catch point. He’s got impressive footwork and transitions so well.
22. Seattle Seahawks: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia
What a turnaround for the Seattle Seahawks. They’ve landed two talented tackles, impressive young corners, and a star running back in Kenneth Walker III. Where they could afford to get better is rushing the passer. Nolan Smith might be undersized for some hovering around 240 pounds, but he packs impressive power for his size. Combine that with explosiveness, bend, and great work defending the run, and he can be a top 15 prospect.
23. New York Jets: Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Maryland
The New York Jets might stumble a bit down the stretch, but it’s clear that they will contend in the future. It might require a new quarterback at the helm, but it’s too late here. Offensive tackle is next on the priority list, and Jaelyn Duncan will fit things perfectly. Duncan’s athleticism helps him thrive as a space blocker, and he has great angles and hits his landmarks, either on the perimeter or at the second level.