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3-Round 2023 NFL Mock Draft: Who Will the Panthers Take at 1?

By A.J. Fagerlin

Jan 31, 2023; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich speaks at his introductory press conference at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Griffin Zetterberg-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 31, 2023; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers head coach Frank Reich speaks at his introductory press conference at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Griffin Zetterberg-USA TODAY Sports /
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Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets, 2023 NFL Mock Draft
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) eludes a tackle by New York Jets defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins (98) before completing a pass for a first down during the first half of their game on Sunday, Oct. 16, 2022 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay.Packers Jets 0935 /

13. GB-Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

It seems likely that Aaron Rodgers will follow in Brett Favre’s footsteps, leaving the Green Bay Packers for the New York Jets. While the deal is not done yet, and the compensation remains to be seen, I think it’s more likely than not that the teams get a deal done, and it involves this 13th pick of the 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

If the Packers are all-in on Jordan Love under center, they MUST do whatever they can to put him in a position to succeed. With Christian Watson and even Romeo Doubs flashing as rookies, Green Bay would be wise to go back to the draft to find another complement. Jaxon Smith-Njigba is the perfect candidate.

JSN thrived at Ohio State alongside Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave. He is a dynamic route runner who understands defenses and just knows how to get open. With big-bodied Watson and Doubs opening up things down the field, JSN should dominate underneath. He is my “WR1” in the class, and Green Bay seems to be a perfect fit.

14. NE-Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

The New England Patriots and Bill Belichick find themselves with needs at multiple different positions if they want to compete at a high level again. At this point in the draft, after letting Jonathan Jones walk in free agency, the team could use a player like Joey Porter Jr.

With obvious NFL bloodlines, Porter Jr. is an incredibly physical and dominant cornerback. His length and size are things that current Patriots corners lack, so Porter could truly transform this Belichick defense.

15. GB-Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

With there second selection in three picks in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, the Packers jump to the defensive side of the ball, selecting highly-touted edge prospect, Myles Murphy. A former five-star recruit, Murphy played well at Clemson and could very well be off the board earlier than this pick come draft day.

Pairing Rashan Gary with Murphy would give Green Bay a great pass-rush pairing for the future. Murphy will help develop this Packers defensive front, providing depth right away and tons of upside in the years to come.

16. WAS-Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

If the Washington Commanders fail to get a top quarterback with this pick (or by trading it), cornerback seems to be the biggest need. After an excellent performance at the Combine, Maryland’s Deonte Banks is flying up dashboard, and would take a short drive over to DC.

Banks’ combination of size and speed make him a perfect corner for the NFC East. If the Commanders want to keep up with the dynamic Eagles and Cowboys offenses, (and the much improved offense of the Giants) they must gather pieces to help stop them. Sure, they will need to add to their offense as well, but using Banks to cover receivers like CeeDee Lamb, A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith will certainly help the cause.

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