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)
25. Baltimore Ravens: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
The Baltimore Ravens have found a gem to help the passing game in Isaiah Likely, and him and Mark Andrews will form a great duo to attack the middle of the field. Outside of Rashod Bateman, though, they don’t have enough receiver help. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, in true Eric DeCosta fashion, they land a steal in Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He might not have true WR1 alpha potential, but he’s a great route runner who can thrive in all three phases.
26. Kansas City Chiefs: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
The Kansas City Chiefs getting Trent McDuffie back for the stretch run is huge, but corner is still a position that could use some help outside of McDuffie and L’Jarius Sneed, who is a free agent after 2023. If the Chiefs want to man up and trust their guys with Steve Spagnuolo blitzing, Devon Witherspoon would be a great add. He’s had a phenomenal 2022 season helping lead a great defense at Illinois.
27. Dallas Cowboys: Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M
The Dallas Cowboys have been riding the defense to several wins this season, but this Sunday, the offense took over on the back of Prescott and Tony Pollard. Their talent on both sides of the ball makes them a threat to the Eagles. While offensive line or linebacker could be popular picks here, safety is another. Antonio Johnson has the size and speed to be an enforcer and be sticky in man coverage.
28. New York Giants: Jordan Addison, WR, USC
The New York Giants might’ve been exposed a bit on Sunday against the Seahawks. They’ve had a nice season, but they don’t have the horses to compete with the top two teams in their division, along with the Vikings and 49ers. Quarterback could still be an option here, as Daniel Jones is a free agent after the season. However, let’s load up on weapons in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Jordan Addison can be an effective perimeter receiver with Wan’Dale Robinson manning the slot.