2023 NFL Mock Draft: C.J. Stroud or Bryce Young Number One?
By Evan Bachman
12. Atlanta Falcons: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
The Atlanta Falcons are still searching for a long-term solution at quarterback. Last year’s third round pick Desmond Ridder has some promise. However, given that they haven’t even given him a chance to start yet I don’t think he’ll prevent them from drafting a quarterback if they have the chance.
In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft they add a project quarterback. Will Levis is a very intriguing prospect as he certainly has all the tools to develop into a very good quarterback at the next level.
Levis’ combination of size at 6-foot-3, 232 pounds and freakish athleticism is rare for a quarterback. He has good speed, moves well, and even has hurdles on his highlight tape.
The drawback with him is a lack of production, specifically as a passer. This season he’s struggled in particular against better competition as in his six games against SEC opponents he’s thrown for just seven touchdowns with six interceptions.
However, there is a case to be made that the lack of talent around him is the biggest cause of his lack of production. Ultimately, there’s most likely going to be teams who feel they can take his arm talent and athleticism and mold him into a good quarterback in the NFL. So, despite the lack of production I still think he comes off the board somewhere in the top half of the first round.
13. Arizona Cardinals: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
With DeAndre Hopkins, Marquise Brown, and Rondale Moore at receiver and Zach Ertz at tight end the Cardinals have a solid collection of weapons in this offense, but they’re missing an explosive back. Bijan Robinson could certainly provide that.
Running backs aren’t valued as highly as they once were in the NFL, but Robinson is an exception. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft scenario he comes off the board in the top 15.
Robinson brings a lot to table as a running back. His best trait is his elusiveness as he consistently makes tacklers miss. Few backs possess his ability to change directions even amongst running backs in the NFL.
He’s got good speed, in particular his ability to make a jump cut and beat defenders to the outside is unique. He also has exceptional vision as he makes excellent reads on where he needs to run, specifically when and where to make jump cuts, he commits to where he’s going and gets there quickly.