Four quarterbacks are back in the top 10, and how late will Bijan Robinson and Michael Mayer go? That and more in this updated 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
Week 15 in the 2022 NFL season is nearly over, a glaring reminder of how time flies. But, it gives us the opportunity to really lean into NFL Draft season, which is, of course, a favorite of many.
It’s going to be interesting to see how the order of the top 10 of the 2023 NFL Draft falls. Could the Broncos keep up winning to push Seattle out of the top five? Will the Lions still have a top pick by the end of the season? Where will the Eagles first pick fall? How many teams could trade out as quarterback desperation resumes this April after a yearlong hiatus?
2023 NFL Mock Draft: Colts Get C.J. Stroud, Lions Get Bryce Young
In this updated 2023 NFL Mock Draft, we will traverse through the first and look at several things impacted by a top-heavy quarterback mock. Some value falls into the teens and twenties, and will the top tight end and running back in the draft find a spot in the first round? Let’s dive in and find out!
1. Houston Texans: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
I understand the urge to angrily type out some comment for this selection. Ultimately, this isn’t a pick that I would make. But, it’s impossible to ignore the fact that there are going to be scouts and teams with Kentucky quarterback Will Levis as the top signal-caller in this draft.
The Houston Texans could definitely be one of those teams. If they fall in love with the arm talent, tools, and the fact that Levis has gotten used to a “pro style” offense, they could believe in the ceiling that Levis has compared to other prospects.
2. Chicago Bears: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama
The Chicago Bears will be a prime trade down candidate when the 2023 NFL Draft rolls around. They have so many needs and must build the offense around Justin Fields. With no offers in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they settle by taking Will Anderson. Anderson’s production is off the charts as a pass rusher and run defender, and he hasn’t yet unlocked his ceiling as a rusher, often defaulting to bull rushes and converting speed to power.
3. Seattle Seahawks (via DEN): Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia
A Broncos win knocked the Seahawks out of the top two in the order, but Seattle still lands a stud in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Seattle must get better at limiting early down success rate and controlling the trenches on defense. Jalen Carter would be an instant-impact player in that regard. His explosiveness, short area quickness, flexibility, and three-down chops make him tops in the class.
4. Arizona Cardinals: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech
The Arizona Cardinals aren’t themselves without Kyler Murray, and truthfully, that paints a picture of how the roster is built around him. The offensive line isn’t very good, and the defense is still lacking cornerstones at every level. Let’s start the fix here, giving the Cardinals Tyree Wilson, who has the length, explosiveness, and disruption ability from multiple alignments.
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.
9. Philadelphia Eagles (via NO): Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
As the Philadelphia Eagles continue to cruise to the top seed in the NFC, they have a chance to beat the Saints in week 17 and send this pick closer to the top of the draft board. The Eagles could go the luxury route early if they don’t bring back Miles Sanders, but in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, the Eagles go the corner route.
James Bradberry could return, but the secondary could get a quick reload if he departs. Joey Porter Jr. would bring the physicality in man coverage and is a phenomenal tackler in space and against the run.
10. Green Bay Packers: Bryan Bresee, DL, Clemson
The Green Bay Packers have to get their defense humming on all cylinders at some point, and while this pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft feels very redundant, it’s clear that there’s a personnel/coaching issue, or maybe a bit of both. So, keep swinging. Bryan Bresee, Kenny Clark, and Devonte Wyatt would be a heck of a unit up front. Bresee’s length, power, and ability to rush the passer could have early returns.
11. Las Vegas Raiders: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
The Las Vegas Raiders are a team that would probably like to invest in the interior of their defensive line, but with the top two names off the board in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they pivot to the trenches on the other side of the ball. Paris Johnson Jr. would help the offensive line that lacks a true bookend to Kolton Miller. His athleticism and prowess as a pass protector would immediately keep Derek Carr clean, and his movement skills will be a huge factor in run game success.
12. Jacksonville Jaguars: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
The Jacksonville Jaguars are humming on offense, and that offense will add Calvin Ridley for 2023. The defense needs more playmakers, and Christian Gonzalez would immediately elevate the back end of the defense. His ball skills, fluid movement in coverage, and comfort in different alignments will form a great duo with second-year corner Tyson Campbell.
13. Houston Texans (via CLE): Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
Will the Brandin Cooks situation resolve itself? It’s hard to say, but the Texans have to be hopeful (as all of us are) that John Metchie will be back for 2023. Metchie and Nico Collins are good role players, but they are missing a true number one. Quentin Johnston can be that guy. He’s expanded the route tree this season, and has the explosiveness to win vertically and the size to win at the catch point. His ability to force missed tackles post-catch is impressive, as is his spatial awareness to set up before the ball arrives.
14. Pittsburgh Steelers: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
The Pittsburgh Steelers could look at a variety of positions, from corner to taking the first linebacker. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, the offensive line is the move. Tackle has to get better to give Kenny Pickett more confidence in delivering from the pocket on a consistent basis. Broderick Jones gives the Steelers a fantastic athlete for the position who has thrived on an island in pass protection this season.
15. Seattle Seahawks: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
A double dip on the defensive line for the Seattle Seahawks in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. After adding Carter, they look to the edge, which has a plethora of top talent in the 2023 NFL Draft. Jared Verse should get more first round attention right now, and likely will once the combine gets underway. His ability to get after the quarterback is up there with nearly everyone in the class.
16. New England Patriots: Jordan Addison, WR, USC
The New England Patriots will probably be looking at a few specific positions this offseason, but why not add a bit more to the receiver room here? Jordan Addison is a dynamic separator who can threaten all levels of the field and all phases of the position.
17. New York Jets: Peter Skoronski, OL, Northwestern
The New York Jets have the foundation to be a great contender for a decade. Quarterback is the position holding things back, but with no value pick here at that position, the next priority is the offensive line. Peter Skoronski will be a prospect that gets debate about where he plays, but whether it is tackle or guard, he’s a great player who will strengthen the offensive line for the engine to work better.
18. Detroit Lions: B.J. Ojulari, EDGE, LSU
After getting their quarterback of the future, the Detroit Lions switch to the other side of the ball in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Their defensive line has Aidan Hutchinson and solid play on the interior, but getting another stud pass rusher would be huge. B.J. Ojulari has the toolbox full of rush moves, and him and Hutchinson will provide a boost to the coverage unit behind them.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could also be in the quarterback market, as Tom Brady is likely to retire or play elsewhere in 2023. They’ll have options via trade or free agency, but for now, corner is a position that will potentially need a reload. Kelee Ringo is brimming with physical traits and plus athleticism to be a man coverage corner.
20. Tennessee Titans: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma
There isn’t a guarantee that Taylor Lewan is back for the Titans, and they’ve swung and missed at tackle in the previous few drafts. We’re back to it in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, and Anton Harrison is the pick. His smooth footwork and plus athleticism will provide the upside, but he’s very technically sound as a pass protector as well.
21. Washington Commanders: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
The Washington Commanders are in a weird state right now. On paper, they have the stars at many positions to consistently push for the playoffs. On the field, they are a high-variance group. Taylor Heinicke is very fun, but probably not the long-term answer. They are deep on the offensive line, but not talented enough at the top. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, BPA is the way. Cam Smith would be another lock down corner on the outside to match the developing Benjamin St-Juste.
22. Los Angeles Chargers: Siaki Ika, DL, Baylor
The Los Angeles Chargers are surging at the right time, but there are definitely changes they must make this offseason, most notably at offensive coordinator. Speed at receiver is a popular pick here, but in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft we’re going a different direction. The defensive line doesn’t have a ton of returners in 2023, and Siaki Ika can be the space eater on early downs to help the run defense. Even at his size, he can get after the quarterback from the nose as well.
23. Miami Dolphins: **Forfeited Selection**
24. New York Giants: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
Will the New York Giants commit to Daniel Jones? Could they get Lamar Jackson? Tom Brady? Kyler Murray? We will see, but getting a number one wide receiver is high on the priority list to raise the potential of the offense. Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been a slot extraordinaire, but with his ability to win as a route runner, he should win on the outside too. His prowess after the catch is very tantalizing, as is his reliability at the catch point.
25. Baltimore Ravens: Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
It shouldn’t be a debate. The Baltimore Ravens have to give Lamar Jackson what he wants to keep him for the long haul. What else shouldn’t be a debate? Running Greg Roman out of town. Let Jackson air it out, give the offense some life. Josh Downs would do that as well, giving Jackson an explosive, efficient route runner with the juice to threaten vertically. Downs and Rashod Bateman in 2023 sounds very good.
26. Denver Broncos: Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee
It’s easy to see the Denver Broncos addressing edge rusher or the offensive line here in the first round, but the defense is humming with Ejiro Evero at the helm. The receiver room could use another dynamic threat, and Jalin Hyatt is just the guy to do it in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. His explosiveness and straight line speed could ignite Russell Wilson’s deep ball game back into rare air in 2023.
27. Cincinnati Bengals: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
The Cincinnati Bengals could potentially afford a luxury selection here, even with the offense humming. Michael Mayer is a great tight end who can make an impact early in his career. He’s got the short area quicks and leverage threatening skills as a route runner, and his drastic improvement as a run blocker this season elevates his value in the NFL.
28. Dallas Cowboys: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
Injuries may make this feel like a panic pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. The Cowboys looked good until Anthony Brown and Jourdan Lewis went down, and since then, defenses have been picking on Kelvin Joseph and Da’Ron Bland. Outside corner and a better mentality feel like needs for 2023, and Devon Witherspoon address both. His mentality and coverage skills would inject more confidence into the unit.
29. Kansas City Chiefs: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee
The Kansas City Chiefs barely survived a game in Houston this week, which felt very out of character. However, this team has a glaring weakness heading into the postseason. Both Orlando Brown and Andrew Wylie have allowed 43 pressures, and Brown is a free agent after the season. Darnell Wright is a powerful, stout tackle at the point of attack, and he could help settle the issues at tackle right away.
30. Minnesota Vikings: Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah
Are the Minnesota Vikings the team of destiny? Maybe, as coming back from a 33 point deficit proves they can win any game they play. When looking to the future, the secondary is one that needs a bigger boost, even with the expectations for Andrew Booth and Lewis Cine next season. Clark Phillips III is a smaller corner, but he’s such a talented player in coverage.
31. Buffalo Bills: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
The rich get richer. The Buffalo Bills could look to help out the offensive line with Cody Mauch or O’Cyrus Torrence, but why not end the Bijan Robinson slide in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft? The Bills were definitely interested in Christian McCaffrey, and Robinson presents a stouter version of McCaffrey in the 2023 NFL Draft. Robinson’s ability to create more for himself, whether it be between the tackles or in space, is incredible. He can drop the pads, and is a phenomenal receiver who adds a fabulous dimension to the offense.
32. Philadelphia Eagles: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia
The Philadelphia Eagles got a corner early, and they continue to reload the defense at the end of the first round. The edge rushers are getting older and entering free agency outside of Josh Sweat and Haason Reddick. Nolan Smith isn’t the biggest edge rusher, but the power he plays with is impressive, and he can affect all three downs.