2023 NFL Mock Draft: Panthers And Jets Trade Up For Quarterbacks

Dec 31, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) passes the ball against the Georgia Bulldogs during the first quarter of the 2022 Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2022; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) passes the ball against the Georgia Bulldogs during the first quarter of the 2022 Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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2023 NFL Draft, Anthony Richardson
2023 NFL Mock Draft, Anthony Richardson. Mandatory Credit: Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Indianapolis Colts: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

The Indianapolis Colts have to stop entertaining the wheel of aging vets at the quarterback position. It’s time to make the move for a young signal-caller. At pick five, they could trade up if they desire, but for now, they stick at five in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft and select Will Levis.

Levis is the type of quarterback that will see his stock rise in the pre-draft process. He has some great tools, like a live arm, mobility, and reps working in play action and firing middle of the field darts. He has highlight throws deep down the field as well. Honing his consistency will be the task of whoever drafts him, and the Colts will have to iron things out as he develops.

6. New York Jets: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

Details: Jets send 13, 44, 2024 2nd to Lions for pick 6

The second big trade has the Lions moving back to pick up more capital for a potential QB move in 2024, while the New York Jets make the move to win while this defensive core and group of playmakers are on (mostly) rookie deals. Could the Jets go after Tom Brady, Derek Carr, or Jimmy Garoppolo? Sure! But in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they’re swinging.

Anthony Richardson is a roller coaster of a watch on film. There are things he can do that others can’t in the class. His rushing ability is tops, and he has the frame to handle a bigger load on the ground, akin to Josh Allen and Cam Newton. He has the best arm strength and velocity in the class, making 50 and 60-yard throws look like nothing. Richardson has instincts to maneuver the pocket as well. He’s young and can develop consistency in the NFL, and the Jets bet on that here.

7. Atlanta Falcons: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

The Atlanta Falcons are getting to see what Desmond Ridder has to offer right now in the closing stretch of the season, and right now the jury is still out. If they get the chance for a quarterback, they might opt for that. For now though, let’s build up the defense. Myles Murphy would be a nice foil to both Arnold Ebiketie and DeAngelo Malone rushing the passer. He wins with power, length, and can be dominant on three downs up front.

8. Las Vegas Raiders: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

The Las Vegas Raiders are moving on from Derek Carr, that much is clear. How they’ll replace him is a more interesting quandary. They’re also in the running to trade up in the 2023 NFL Draft, but that doesn’t happen in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Instead, let’s look to the offensive line. Broderick Jones is an impressive athlete at the position and has been consistent as a pass blocker when staying balanced. He could end up being the first tackle off the board, according to intel from The Athletic’s Dane Brugler.