With the Panthers trading to the first overall pick, and free agency mostly in the rearview mirror, we’re finally starting to get an idea of how the 2023 NFL Draft may shake out. So today, I decided to do a little mock draft of what I think *WILL* happen (even when that conflicts with what I’d necessarily choose to do myself). Leading up to the NFL Draft, I dissect as much information as possible from reputable sources to try and figure out where players will land.
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You can find my full 2023 NFL mock draft and breakdown right here! But below, I’ve got a little taste of the top. Enjoy.
2023 NFL Mock Draft
1. Carolina Panthers (Via CHI) – C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
The Panthers traded away their future to draft a quarterback first overall. I’m not buying any of the smoke surrounding a potential trade down after they traded up. Stroud makes the most sense for a team led by Frank Reich and new QB coach Josh McCown.
2. Houston Texans – Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
Young weighed in over 200 pounds at the NFL Combine which helped alleviate some of the fears of NFL GMs about him not weighing enough. Despite the weigh-in, most GMs know his playing weight will be closer to 190. That being said, he’s a special player who has overcome height/weight issues and had a ton of success in college.
3. Las Vegas Raiders (Trade Via ARI) – Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
It hasn’t been talked about a ton, but the Raiders were one of the teams very interested in trying to trade up to the No. 1 overall pick but ultimately didn’t offer enough. They also signed Jimmy Garoppolo to a bridge QB deal. I can’t imagine a better QB for uber-athlete Anthony Richardson to learn the nuances of being a more competent passer than Jimmy. In 2023 NFL Mock Drafts, Richardson’s draft range is extremely volatile.
4. Indianapolis Colts – Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
Behind the Panthers, the Colts are the second-most desperate team to draft a quarterback with just Gardner Minshew, Nick Foles, and Sam Ehlinger on the roster right now. If they don’t draft a quarterback they may as well just start tanking for Caleb Williams in 2024.
Leading up to the draft, I’ll be tweeting out tons of NFL Draft nuggets (@ConnorAllenNFL) but if you want to check out the rest of my 2023 NFL mock draft, go to 4for4.com and check it out for FREE!