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2023 NFL Mock Draft: Lions Get Bryce Young, Colts Get C.J. Stroud

By Jacob Schyvinck

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 /
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C.J. Stroud, 2023 NFL Draft
2023 NFL Mock Draft, 2023 NFL Draft, C.J. Stroud.Syndication The Columbus Dispatch /

5. Detroit Lions (via LAR): Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

The Detroit Lions will have a decision to make this offseason. Even with a potential playoff berth looming, it’s going to be difficult to continue to commit to Jared Goff. Goff is certainly playing well enough to make the Lions a playoff team, but we know that isn’t the end goal. Size aside, the Lions will almost certainly like Bryce Young, and he’s the pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Young’s ability to command an offense pre-snap, throw with anticipation, and be able to create outside of structure will add a dimension to the offense.

6. Indianapolis Colts: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

The Indianapolis Colts will have serious changes in the offseason. After the nonsense on Saturday, there’s absolutely no way that Jeff Saturday can return. Chris Ballard might be out the door as well. The fresh start has to finally include a highly drafted quarterback. C.J. Stroud plays a precise game, from slight pocket maneuvers, great touch and accuracy to all levels, and improving decision making as pressure abounds. Stroud can play conservative, but he trusts big-bodied receivers with shot plays, and the Colts have plenty of those types in the building.

7. Atlanta Falcons: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

The Atlanta Falcons are up next in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, and they’re in a position to potentially select a quarterback as well. If Desmond Ridder doesn’t show more in the next three weeks, quarterback becomes the pick here. For now, let’s address the defensive side of the ball. Myles Murphy would be a great foil to guys like Arnold Ebiketie and DeAngelo Malone, as his power, edge-setting prowess, and length to win as a pass rusher are worth an early pick.

8. Carolina Panthers: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

Time for the big time swing. The Carolina Panthers might retain Steve Wilks, as he’s done a very nice job keeping the Panthers in the NFC South division race. The defense has studs on it, but the offense doesn’t have the signal-caller to elevate everyone else. Anthony Richardson is going to be quite divisive with how raw he is at times, but his high floor scrambling ability, live arm, and flashes of potential will likely be worth a first round pick. Now, it’s about finding an offensive coordinator who can help him out.

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