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3-Round 2023 NFL Mock Draft: Surprise At No. 1, Colts Trade Up For QB

By A.J. Fagerlin

Oct 8, 2022; East Lansing, Michigan, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) celebrates after throwing his fourth touchdown in the first half of the NCAA Division I football game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium.Osu22msu Kwr 46
Oct 8, 2022; East Lansing, Michigan, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) celebrates after throwing his fourth touchdown in the first half of the NCAA Division I football game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium.Osu22msu Kwr 46 /
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Zay Flowers selected 21st overall by the Los Angeles Chargers in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
Sep 4, 2021; Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA; Boston College Eagles wide receiver Zay Flowers (4) runs after catching a pass against the Colgate Raiders during the first half at Alumni Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports /

21. Los Angeles Chargers: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

We have now broken the seal on the wide receiver position in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft and the Los Angeles Chargers follow suit with a dynamic playmaker of their own. Even with Keenan Allen coming back for 2023, the Chargers need another reliable target for Justin Herbert in the passing game. Zay Flowers is sort of the best of both worlds. He has the quickness, route-running, and hands to be effective out of the slot like Allen and the high-end speed and contested catch ability, even at 5-foot-10, like Mike Williams. This would give Herbert a very promising trio of receivers as LA looks the reshape their offense under new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.

22. Baltimore Ravens: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

In a lot of mocks, I had Maryland cornerback Deonte Banks “staying home” and heading to the Washington Commanders. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, he doesn’t have to travel far to play for the Baltimore Ravens. Baltimore needs to reload at the cornerback position alongside Marlon Humphrey and Banks is another long, physical corner that has the speed and athleticism to stay with any receiver down the field.

23. Minnesota Vikings: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

We took a quick break, but we’re back with another wide receiver. This time it is the Minnesota Vikings tabbing former Pittsburgh and USC star Jordan Addison as the running mate for Justin Jefferson. Addison is a silky smooth route runner who has proven to be effective from the slot and lined up outside. He can slide right into the Adam Thielen role of this offense and I don’t think Minnesota will skip a beat.

24. Jacksonville Jaguars: Brian Branch, DB, Alabama

Most people view Brian Branch as the top “safety” in this draft class. When you watch the top, though, Branch primarily played in the slot during his time at Alabama. Wherever defensive coordinator Mike Caldwell decides to deploy him, Branch will make plays for the Jacksonville Jaguars. I think he starts right away in the slot in nickel packages and can push for a starting safety spot in base with Andre Cisco and Rayshawn Jenkins. I think he will be the centerpiece of the future for the Jags secondary and will help them take control of the AFC South.

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