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    2023 NFL Mock Draft: Bijan Robinson and Lamar Jackson Join Forces

    We're beginning to see college football players look to the future, and it's time to see where they'll land in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

    We’ve seen a large number of college players enter their names into the transfer portal. At the same time, we’re seeing some declarations of independence (in a way), meaning we know more players that will be available in a 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

    2023 NFL Mock Draft

    The NFL draft order for this 2023 mock is taken from the current NFL standings as of Nov. 30. Check the PFN Mock Draft Simulator after every NFL game to see the most up-to-date draft order, and each subsequent mock draft will indicate the rapidly changing environment that is the 2023 NFL Draft.

    1) Houston Texans: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

    Bryce Young hasn’t touched the playing field in a couple weeks, but his body of work speaks for itself. There may not be a playoff berth in store for the Tide, but their quarterback has bigger things ahead of him.

    When discussing his game, size is the first red flag brought up with Young. A smaller frame will always be the first thing people bring up as a concern, but it hasn’t appeared to affect him at Alabama. If anything, it’s helped him elude pass rushers and make some remarkable plays in his collegiate career.

    2) Chicago Bears: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama

    Even when people were concerned about Justin Fields, the Bears weren’t going to draft a quarterback this year. It just didn’t make sense. Fields continues to improve each week, so Chicago can really focus on other needs. With QB not being one of them, they can look to the other side of the ball.

    If you’re looking for a game changer, there are a few options in this draft class. Will Anderson Jr.‘s been frustrating offensive coordinators for the past two seasons, and the Bears’ staff won’t hesitate to add him to the roster.

    3) Seattle Seahawks: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

    It’s tough to stand out in a draft class, but that’s not new to Myles Murphy. Clemson boasted one of the best defensive lines we’ve seen in college football history, and it was Murphy that stood out above the rest.

    A long player, Murphy’s produced double-digit tackles for loss in each of his three seasons with the Tigers. He turned his potential into serious talent, and he’s worked hard to become a well-rounded player. Seattle may need a quarterback, but they might also be fine with holding off for now and enter the Caleb Williams sweepstakes next year.

    4) Detroit Lions: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

    Make no mistake about it, C.J. Stroud is still in the QB1 conversation. While the focus shifted to Young, Stroud remains a strong candidate to be the top pick too. As Ohio State snuck into the College Football Playoff, Stroud finds new opportunities to shine.

    He’ll face an elite Georgia defense, and a strong performance could change the QB1 conversation. Stroud has the tools and frame to be the best QB prospect in the class, and Detroit’s not going to wait this time to draft him in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

    5) Carolina Panthers: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

    Let the hype begin. Here’s the thing with Anthony Richardson: he has the highest ceiling of any quarterback prospect in this class. He also has the furthest to go to get to that point.

    An absolute rocket for an arm, Richardson can hit literally anyone on the field or up in the third deck. Pair that with his exceptional athleticism, and he has the tools most NFL teams covet.

    Carolina just sent Baker Mayfield packing, and the future of the position is pretty bleak. So it might be a higher risk to draft Richardson here, but it’s tough to ignore the upside. If he lives up to his potential, the Panthers are a major threat.

    6) Philadelphia Eagles: Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia

    The best team in the league has a top-10 pick, which is what the kids call “playing chess, not checkers,” I believe. Corner remains the most popular pick for the Eagles, and it makes sense. With the veterans on their roster, a young corner could learn so much from them to be the future at the position.

    Kelee Ringo‘s toughest test comes at the end of the year when he faces Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. in the College Football Playoff. We’ll get a good gauge of where Ringo belongs in the draft order, but also see another potential top-10 pick in Harrison.

    7) Jacksonville Jaguars: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

    It was tough to debate between protecting Trevor Lawrence and giving the Jaguars’ quarterback a weapon to utilize downfield. With Jacksonville seemingly finding their stride offensively, they can potentially wait until the later rounds for a pass catcher.

    Jones gets another big opportunity to put his skill set on display. Facing Ohio State’s JT Tuimoloau and Zach Harrison presents some challenges, but nothing Jones hasn’t faced already.

    8) Arizona Cardinals: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State

    Teams found all year that testing Joey Porter Jr. isn’t the best decision they’ll make. At 6’2″,  he has a great frame that makes him a potential top-10 pick, and he’s joining a Cardinals secondary that can be a problem for the NFC West.

    Porter’s length and reach allow him to make plays downfield, and it’s a big reason why he’s so strong at the catch point. His patience while letting a route develop before he bites keeps him in good position too, making this a great pick for Arizona.

    9) Indianapolis Colts: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

    There might not be a more volatile prospect than Will Levis. The Kentucky QB had an up-and-down year in 2022, but the traits he possesses still have many intrigued. Levis’ arm talent would be an instant upgrade for the Colts, but there are some consistency and turnover issues that must be addressed as well.

    With the Colts’ group of pass catchers, this could be a great pick. Levis, if in the right system, could flourish throwing to guys like Alec Pierce. Of course, it won’t hurt any prospect to have Jonathan Taylor in the backfield next to them as well.

    10) Atlanta Falcons: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia

    Jalen Carter is a top-five talent, but sometimes teams have other needs, which is why the Falcons see him drop in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. The further Carter drops, the better grade the team finally taking him will receive, and that fanbase might pass out, too.

    Carter’s a menace in the trenches. His power presents quite a challenge for any lineman trying to block him, but it’s his athleticism that makes the predicament worse.

    Carter’s footwork and finesse allow him to get in the backfield quickly, and he does a great job of switching up his approach every play. Most linemen are left blocking air because he’s so quick and powerful.

    11) Green Bay Packers: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

    One of the things Packers fans loved about Davante Adams was his ability to run great routes and create insane separation. They’ll get that in Jordan Addison too.

    As long as he’s healthy, Addison is a nightmare to cover anywhere on the field. His attention to detail will give fans in Green Bay a flashback to the Adams days, and it might be enough to keep Aaron Rodgers happy for a little while.

    12) Las Vegas Raiders: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State

    The Raiders have been a disappointing team thus far, leaving the fanbase looking ahead to 2023. With multiple positional needs on the roster, they have to start somewhere, and Paris Johnson Jr. seems like a good player to begin with.

    With experience at both guard and tackle positions, Johnson brings some versatility to the Raiders’ offensive line. He also gives them a safety net because Johnson can always slide into guard if tackle doesn’t work out for him.

    13) Houston Texans: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech

    Houston secured their future franchise quarterback, so now it’s time to add some young talent to the defense. Tyree Wilson‘s been a riser as of late, thanks to his naturally long frame and explosiveness. Texas Tech isn’t known for defense, but Wilson’s been a freak for them.

    At 6’6″, 275 pounds, Wilson’s frame commands attention. His reach allows him to keep blockers off his frame and shed those players with ease. Those traits will be tough for teams to pass on, and Houston is happy to snatch him in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

    14) Pittsburgh Steelers: Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson

    Whenever I think of a Pittsburgh Steelers defense, I think of tough players trying to bully their opponents relentlessly. Enter Bryan Bresee. The Clemson defensive tackle has top 10 potential thanks to his frame and play, so the Steelers are ecstatic to see him fall to them.

    At 6’5″, 300 pounds, Bresee’s size and power present challenges for any offensive lineman. He’s as strong as an ox, but his athleticism sneaks up on guys too. Injuries have limited Bresee’s time on the field, but he’s a headache to face when he’s 100%.

    15) Detroit Lions: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

    Jeff Okudah could use some help. Detroit’s already seeing Dan Campbell’s plan working this year, but they need some more talent to keep this team on the rise. Teams can afford to avoid Okudah’s side this year, so the Lions would like to challenge that thought process more next year.

    Christian Gonzalez made a great decision by transferring to Oregon. His development took off, and he finds himself on a great trajectory. His 6’2″ frame gives him good length to make plays on the football. There are some aspects Gonzalez must iron out, but again, he’s on the right path to giving Detroit two great corners.

    16) Los Angeles Chargers: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

    The best thing for Quentin Johnston will be to face top-tier talent in the College Football Playoff. Michigan’s defensive backs present new challenges for the TCU star, but they could elevate Johnston’s draft stock if he continues his elite play.

    At 6’4″, 215 pounds, Johnston boasts the frame teams will gravitate towards, but the rest of his game makes it tough for teams to pass. If Mike Williams can stay healthy, the Chargers will run out two big-time playmakers downfield, and Justin Herbert’s stock will rise as a result.

    17) New England Patriots: Rashee Rice, WR, SMU

    There are more well-known names available here in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, but that’s not how the Patriots roll. After drafting Cole Strange in the first round last year, they go with another small-school stud in Rashee Rice.

    Rice kept SMU’s offense afloat all year. As the top option by a longshot, he received plenty of attention from opposing defenses this year. Rice learned how to create separation and win contested catch situations frequently, but he should find less personnel sent his way at the next level.

    18) Washington Commanders: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee

    Hendon Hooker gets and deserves plenty of recognition for the Volunteers’ success this year, but Darnell Wright will be one of the first people Hooker thanks. Wright kept Hooker upright for most of the season and allowed the Tennessee QB to make big plays all year. Now, he’ll do the same in the NFL.

    19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State

    One thing I’ve noticed about FCS players that find their way onto Power Five rosters is that they typically have the fundamentals figured out. Jared Verse understands leverage as well as anyone, which pairs well with his long frame. He’s a tough player who’s worked through injury and wasted little time to get back to 100%, which shows resiliency that the Bucs will love.

    20) Seattle Seahawks: Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah

    One of the most entertaining matchups all year was watching Clark Phillips III and Addison go back and forth twice. Phillips’ Utes got the best of Addison’s Trojans on both occasions, and his play helped spark the upsets.

    One thing I loved about the Legion of Boom was the attitude they played with on a weekly basis. Phillips will bring back memories of that. It comes down to the willingness to do the work to win, and Phillips is the ultimate competitor. He’ll stop at nothing to win on a route, during a drive, and in a game. That’s the kind of guy you want on your team.

    21) Tennessee Titans: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

    A new general manager will make the pick, but it shouldn’t be hard to identify the right choice. If Michael Mayer‘s around, there shouldn’t be any hesitation.

    Mayer’s solid frame allows him to compete in the trenches as a blocker but also makes guarding him as a pass catcher difficult.

    Mike Vrabel loves tough, competitive guys on his team, and Mayer fits that mold. Despite not receiving much help in the passing game, Mayer continued putting in work to get better, and he’ll add to a good Tennessee offense.

    22) New York Jets: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson

    Prepare for the Isaiah Simmons comparisons, because Trenton Simpson reminds many of the former Tiger. A versatile weapon for any defense, it would be extremely fun to see him play for the Jets.

    New York’s front seven has a lot of talent, but a boost at linebacker is needed. The secondary appears to be in good hands with Ahmad Gardner, so drafting Simpson here helps round out the group.

    23) New York Giants: Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas

    Just like Simpson, Drew Sanders brings great athleticism to the linebacker position. The former Alabama transfer had his best season yet with the Razorbacks, and we saw his potential turn into production. He produced 103 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, and five passes defensed in his lone year as a starter.

    24) Denver Broncos: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

    Part of me is waiting for the time when people start talking about Peter Skoronski as a guard, but I hope it doesn’t come. He deserves time to prove that he can be an elite tackle at the next level.

    The backup plan should be guard. He doesn’t have the highly desired traits of some of the other tackle prospects, but he’s a winner who will put in the work week in and week out to be successful.

    25) Baltimore Ravens: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

    Lamar Jackson and Bijan Robinson in the same backfield is cheating. Then again, there are a lot of teams that Robinson could join and send excitement through the roof. The do-it-all back would take so much pressure away from Jackson, and gives the Ravens one of the best versatile weapons in the league.

    26) Cincinnati Bengals: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia

    Someone’s going to bite at drafting a 6’7″, 270-pound freak at tight end. Joe Burrow isn’t a stranger to finding special players downfield, and Darnell Washington presents exciting upside for the Bengals’ offense.

    Offensive line is another need for this team, but Washington can help protect Burrow as well when not terrorizing linebackers and defensive backs.

    27) Dallas Cowboys: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

    I’ll say it now.There’s a part of me that thinks Jaxon Smith-Njigba‘s hamstring will cost him a first-round spot. The talent is there, but I’m not sure if an NFL team will look past that to take him on Day 1. Ohio State’s top preseason wide receiver announced his decision to opt-out of the semifinal game to focus on his future, and no one would blame him.

    In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, he joins a Cowboys team that can already put up points in a hurry. Giving Dak Prescott another weapon to stretch the field isn’t necessarily a bad idea, so he could fall to the right team.

    28) Kansas City Chiefs: Gervon Dexter, DT, Florida

    At his peak, Gervon Dexter is a major problem for the blockers he faces. At 6’6″, 320 pounds, he has the natural size to compete in the trenches. It just comes down to consistency. Kansas City has the veteran players to help Dexter reach his ceiling, and that defensive line would be a terror if he did.

    29) Minnesota Vikings: Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame

    With Danielle Hunter and Za’Darius Smith already on the roster, Isaiah Foskey would be perfect to join this team. Minnesota’s scheme would be great for him to display his versatility too.

    A former LB who’s played mostly on the edge of the defense this year, Minnesota could line Foskey up with his hand in the turf or as a stand-up linebacker. Smith and Hunter have experience doing both, and they can teach him the tricks of the trade.

    30) Buffalo Bills: O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida

    While it’s tempting to give Josh Allen another skill-position weapon, it never hurts to bulk up the line in front of him. Especially one that’s learned how to thrive at every level he’s joined.

    O’Cyrus Torrence transferred to Florida from Louisiana, and he’s bullied everyone he’s faced. His natural power helps him compete in the trenches, and it’s a big reason he’ll be a first-round pick.

    31) Philadelphia Eagles: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama

    Jalen Hurts and the offense appear to be just fine this year, but what if they also had a dynamic running back?

    Jahmyr Gibbs does it all, and it’s easy to see why he’s getting compared to some great NFL running backs. At times, Gibbs was the only major source of help for Young and the Alabama offense. A natural pass catcher as well, he adds to the Eagles’ passing attack, which already features some good options.

    Gibbs’ quickness and speed make him a nightmare to tackle. Once again, the rich get richer with this pick to conclude this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

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