The latest 2023 NFL Mock Draft at NFL Mocks features a couple blockbuster trades, which include the Carolina Panthers and New York Jets.
Just one week remains in the 2022 regular season, and we’re in for a great ride next weekend. Two divisions could be on the line (depending on the Bengals-Bills result), and the hunt for the seventh seed in both conferences is hotly contested.
The NFC has become quite interesting at the top. The Eagles aren’t getting things done with Gardner Minshew, and the Vikings got embarrassed once again in the spotlight. The Cowboys and 49ers are both closing on the possibility of the number one seed.
2023 NFL Mock Draft: Jets, Panthers Trade Up For QBs
As for the 2023 NFL Draft, the Texans and Bears are fighting for the top pick. If the Texans beat the reeling Colts, a Bears loss to Minnesota gives them the pick to field a mammoth of a draft haul for quarterback-needy teams.
This 2023 NFL Mock Draft takes a look at some draft trade possibilities, as a couple teams make the move to get a potential franchise quarterback in the class. Both the Panthers and yes, the Jets, make the moves, and the Bears get a big return. Let’s dive in to the latest round one projections in the new year!
1. Houston Texans: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
Who will the Houston Texans select at the top pick? It remains a big time mystery with four months until the 2023 NFL Draft. There are still plenty of answers to await. Bryce Young might be 5’9″ and 185 pounds at the combine. Is Will Levis going to inevitably rise into the Texans favor? Will the Anthony Richardson swing happen?
For now, it’s Young with the top pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. In terms of film, Young’s is the cleanest and NFL-ready. He can set projections, adjust at the line, throw with anticipation and accuracy, and has the scrambling ability to create out of structure. It’s all there for him.
2. Carolina Panthers: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
Details: Panthers send 9, 39, and 2024 1st to Bears for pick 2
A trade! The Chicago Bears make the move, landing plenty of capital to build around Justin Fields, while the Panthers make their move to get the true franchise quarterback going forward in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
C.J. Stroud showed off the mobility in the playoff game against Georgia, escaping pressure a multitude of times to find receivers down the field, including a couple touchdowns out of structure. He picked up some key first downs with his legs as well. As accurate and precise as Stroud is from the pocket, showing that on the biggest stage should earn him favor in the NFL scouting community, and he’ll be great for Carolina.
3. Seattle Seahawks (via DEN): Will Anderson, EDGE, Alabama
A trade in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft hands Seattle perhaps the best player in the 2023 NFL Draft. Sure, Seattle could look for a quarterback, but extending Geno Smith in the short term feels like the way they go. That will give them the opportunity to boost the defense. Will Anderson will come in and make an immediate impact. He’s winning with athleticism, power, and technique as a rusher, but could expand his repertoire to be dominant at the next level and give the Seahawks a superstar.
4. Arizona Cardinals: Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia
The Arizona Cardinals have started four quarterbacks this season in what has been a bitter carryover from the end of 2021. Are Steve Keim and Kliff Kingsbury safe? No. Kyler Murray might not be either. For now though, their potential next coach has some pieces to work with, but getting a cornerstone on defense is crucial. Jalen Carter would be a phenomenal addition. His explosiveness, flexibility, power, and disruption potential can transform a defense overnight.
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.
9. Chicago Bears: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
After the trade, the Chicago Bears will have the capital to completely reshape the offense for Fields, and it starts with a WR1. Quentin Johnston is a big play threat waiting to happen. His straight line speed is impressive for a 6’4″, 212 pound player. He attacks the catch point and has elite leaping ability, and can thrive post-catch with great twitch and awareness. Separation and body catches will be the concerns, but Fields will love a player like this.
10. Philadelphia Eagles: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
The Philadelphia Eagles are up with the first of their two selections in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, and they have plenty of options here. Instead of opting for an edge rusher or a luxury pick at running back, corner is the move here. James Bradberry isn’t signed beyond this season, and Christian Gonzalez could come in and make a quick impact. Gonzalez operates well in off-coverage, but has the size and length to play press. He is a good tackler with impressive ball skills to boot.
11. Tennessee Titans: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern
The Tennessee Titans haven’t met expectations at all this season. After beating the Packers to move to 7-3, it was all smiles. Now having lost six in a row, they will miss the postseason if they don’t win in Jacksonville. The A.J. Brown trade stings right now, but Treylon Burks is promising. What they need is to finally get right up front. Peter Skoronski will do that for them. Skoronski’s physical play as a run blocker and great technique in pass pro will be what the offensive line needs long-term.
12. Houston Texans (via CLE): Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech
The Houston Texans are back up in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, and now they turn to improve the defense. Tyree Wilson would be a fabulous selection at pick 12. Wilson’s athleticism and ability to disrupt as an edge rusher will ignite a defensive front that is starving for talent.
13. Detroit Lions: Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
The Detroit Lions officially will wait at quarterback in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, but no matter. They’re taking the long approach and building the team first. The offense is humming, but they have to have the defensive talent to handle top offenses. Yes, Jeff Okudah and Jerry Jacobs are doing well at corner, but you can’t have enough.
Kelee Ringo would be a great addition, as he has all the physical traits. His testing numbers will wow, and he does on film when he turns, runs, and locates the ball. But, working on patience and opening up too early will be what elevates him in the NFL.
14. Washington Commanders: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
The Washington Commanders, yikes. Losing to the Browns with playoff aspirations was rough, as was Carson Wentz’s three interceptions. Where do they go? It’s hard to know. When it comes to the 2023 NFL Draft, they need to be better up front. Paris Johnson Jr. is the high upside guy at tackle. His athleticism shows up in the run game, and he has the foot speed to match edge rushers.
15. Pittsburgh Steelers: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
The Pittsburgh Steelers miss out on a top three tackle in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, but no matter. They’ll shift gears to further bolster the defense. Joey Porter Jr. going to Pittsburgh is fitting, and he’ll bring the level of tenacity on the perimeter they need to dominate on the back end.
16. Green Bay Packers: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
The Green Bay Packers are finding their groove, but it’s still a defense that could have major changes in personnel next season. They need to improve their edge rushers, especially if Preston Smith ends up as a cap casualty. Does Jared Verse fit perfectly here? Maybe not, as he needs to be more consistent defending the run. But boy does he have serious juice as a pass rusher, which is what they’re missing right now with Rashan Gary out.
17. Detroit Lions: Bryan Bresee, DL, Clemson
The Lions are back up quick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, and now the defensive line gets a boost. James Houston and Aidan Hutchinson have been quite the duo as rookies, so the edge need has quieted a bit. The interior could use more pass rush help, and Bryan Bresee would be a great addition. He can be a game-wrecker from the interior, as his length and power will give guards issues. Bresee is also a great athlete to slant and attack gaps when needed.
18. Miami Dolphins: **Pick Forfeited**
19. Seattle Seahawks: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson
The Seattle Seahawks have a top three (at the least) 2022 draft class at this point in time. The tackles look good, Tariq Woolen is a stud, and Kenneth Walker III is the game-breaker we thought he’d be. Seattle can hunt for a need a bit more here rather than take value, and Trenton Simpson would be a great get. Simpson plays a ton of overhang, but he sticks his nose in the run game and can get creative to get around blocks. His athleticism in zone drop is great as well, and he’ll fit nicely next to Jordyn Brooks.
20. Jacksonville Jaguars: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
The Jacksonville Jaguars making the playoffs with Trevor Lawrence and Doug Pederson would be great to see. They can get it done. After this season, playoffs will become the baseline of moderate success. It’s time to hunt for a championship. There’s a chance that Evan Engram priced himself out of staying in Jacksonville, and at this point in the draft, Michael Mayer is a good pick. Mayer has looked much better inline as a blocker in 2022, and he’s got the quicks in the short area to dominate the middle of the field. Mayer, Christian Kirk, Zay Jones, and Calvin Ridley? Now we’re talking!
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
It’s going to be an interesting offseason in Tampa Bay, especially if the Bucs are one and done like many expect. They could go the veteran quarterback route if Tom Brady retires or plays elsewhere, and they’re likely out of the quarterback race outside of a mega trade. The defense still has talent, but in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, that’s the best option. Corner could be very shallow if players leave in free agency. Devon Witherspoon would be a home run fit in a scheme that trusts corners on an island.
22. New England Patriots: Jordan Addison, WR, USC
It is a little surprising to see the New England Patriots in this position, but they play good defense and do enough on offense to win a sufficient amount of games to play in a playoff game. They need to make a coordinator change this offseason to help out Mac Jones, and getting him another playmaker should be a priority, like this pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Jordan Addison is the quick twitch separator the Patriots need. He will separate at all three levels and give Jones windows to keep moving the chains.
23. New York Giants: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
The New York Giants need a number one receiver. Period. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they get him. The discourse around Jaxon Smith-Njigba will be his snap percentage in the slot and his testing numbers/lack of true explosiveness. However, he can, at the very least, play Z/flanker in the NFL. Smith-Njigba attacks leverage well and has the short area quicks and route efficiency to be a true separator on the perimeter. He’s excellent after the catch as well.
24. Baltimore Ravens: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
The Baltimore Ravens have to get better at receiver. They need to pay Lamar Jackson. Extending Roquan Smith is important. That’s hopefully going to patch up potential needs, and give the Ravens a chance to continue to just get value in the draft. Cam Smith is a very good pick here to address a thinning room at corner. His physical play style will be great in man coverage and he can attack when dropping in zone.
25. Los Angeles Chargers: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
Normalize not handing the Chargers a one-trick speedster in the first round. Trust me, there will be other opportunities to add one later. The Chargers need to get better in other areas, like defending the run, potential corner/safety depth, and right tackle. But, let’s have some fun in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Darnell Washington would be a fantastic add to the Chargers offense, giving them a third tackle as a blocker and a true mismatch over the middle of the field.
26. Cincinnati Bengals: Brian Branch, SAF, Alabama
Yes, the Cincinnati Bengals just drafted Daxton Hill in the first round of the 2022 draft. However, with Jessie Bates and Vonn Bell both potentially gone in 2023, it becomes a need again. Why not get a talented safety in Brian Branch? He has impressive eye discipline in zone, is a great tackler in space, and could handle things on the roof or in the slot.
27. Minnesota Vikings: Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
We got another glimpse yesterday of what happens when defenses key in on stopping Justin Jefferson. When things get dire and the Vikings chase, they need another receiver to step up and make plays. Josh Downs might not seem like an ideal “Z” receiver, but goodness is he explosive and goodness can he separate. Downs and T.J. Hockenson working the middle of the field is a great deal.
28. Dallas Cowboys: Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU
Speaking of needing more receiver help, while defense could be the move here for Dallas, we know they like to draft offense early. Michael Gallup as a jump ball winner is nice, but CeeDee Lamb is driving the passing offense right now. Kayshon Boutte is another versatile receiver with YAC prowess and reliability over the middle of the field. He could take on slot reps as a rookie.
29. Denver Broncos (via SF/MIA): Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma
It feels weird to see the Broncos holding this selection, as the Bradley Chubb trade isn’t talked about a ton relative to the draft help it gives Denver. Nevertheless, this is great for the Broncos. They could move out of this spot come draft time to get more capital if they’d like. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they get what they need.
Anton Harrison might end up a top three tackle in the 2023 NFL Draft when all is said and done and film gets watched. He’s got the physical traits that the others do and would be an immediate starter for Denver.
30. Buffalo Bills: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
It’s pretty simple here for the Buffalo Bills in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. They tried trading for Christian McCaffrey, and they get a bulked up version of him right here with their first round pick. Bijan Robinson is as good as advertised, with the creativity to forced missed tackles in spades. He doesn’t have the elite speed, but he has the twitch, contact balance, receiving ability, and pass blocking chops to be a three-down stud.
31. Kansas City Chiefs: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee
Where do the Chiefs’ weaknesses lie on offense? The tackle position, plain and simple. While some pressures and sacks are on Patrick Mahomes for scrambling, both tackles in Kansas City aren’t playing very well, and Orlando Brown is a free agent in 2023. Darnell Wright is a stout player at the point of attack and in pass protection, and would be a great fit in KC.
32. Philadelphia Eagles: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia
The Eagles finish out this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, and they do so by acquiring more help along the edge. Georgia’s Nolan Smith might be undersized in some eyes, but he plays so much bigger. He has the power and pop in his hands to stun tackles and shed blocks against the run, and the explosiveness and flexibility as an edge rusher.