The NFL season is almost complete. We’ve crowned a college football national champion. The deadline for early 2023 NFL Draft declarations has passed. While much will change between now and April, we’ve never had a clearer picture of what the future holds for the 32 NFL teams. Seems like a good time for another 2023 NFL Mock Draft, no?
2023 NFL Mock Draft
You’re about to read three full rounds of our latest 2023 NFL Mock Draft, complete with analysis for all 100 selections. Don’t agree? Most won’t, but you can be the GM instead with the Pro Football Network Mock Draft Simulator. Select, trade, it’s 100% free and constantly updated between now and April.
1) Chicago Bears: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama
With as many as seven teams in need of a quarterback in the 2023 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears hold all the aces with Justin Fields leading their offense. They’re an obvious trade-back candidate, capitalizing on a sparsity of top-tier QB prospects to stockpile picks to address their multiple needs.
However, with no trades in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, Ryan Poles holds firm and addresses one of the biggest needs with the first overall pick. Will Anderson Jr. can be a game-wrecker, with the speed, ferocity, and power to be a disruptive force in the NFL.
2) Houston Texans: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
The Houston Texans don’t even have a head coach at the time of writing, but the opportunity to start a new regime with a new signal-caller is likely too good to miss.
At 6’3″ and 215 pounds, Ohio State QB C.J. Stroud has NFL-requisite size and the arm talent to match. While showcasing excellent accuracy during his entire career, the CFB Playoff gave a glimpse of exciting out-of-structure capability from the former Buckeyes quarterback.
3) Arizona Cardinals: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia
Like the Bears, the Arizona Cardinals are a prime candidate to trade back in the 2023 NFL Draft. There are several holes to fill, lots of potential free agency departures, and at this present moment, not a lot of draft capital with which to fill them.
MORE: List of Arizona Cardinals Draft Picks in 2023 NFL Draft
Taking a best player available approach in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, Arizona gets instantaneously better in the trenches with the selection of Jalen Carter. The 6’3″, 310-pound Georgia defensive tackle pairs ludicrous athletic ability with exceptional physical tools to be a dangerous force on the defensive front.
4) Indianapolis Colts: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
Picking fourth in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, the Indianapolis Colts simply have to pull the trigger on a quarterback. A cycle of stop-gap veterans isn’t taking the franchise anywhere.
While there have been well-voiced concerns about Bryce Young‘s size, his poise, professionalism, and leadership scream “face of the franchise.” And his arm talent, particularly in terms of short and intermediate velocity and accuracy, is as good as anyone in this class.
A diet of St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail might help get him to a reported 210-pound goal weight before the start of his rookie campaign.
5) Seattle Seahawks (From DEN): Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson
There are several players on the Seattle Seahawks’ defensive front out of contract this spring, and the 2023 NFL Draft might be the ideal opportunity to address them.
Adding an EDGE is a possibility, but snagging a monster like Bryan Bresee would be even better. The 6’5″, 300-pound Clemson defensive tackle uses his size, strength, and power to wreak havoc in the backfield.
6) Detroit Lions (From LAR): Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
Bresee and Carter should both draw attention from a Detroit Lions team looking to mold themselves in the ferocious image of their head coach. However, with both gone in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, Detroit addS a disruptive playmaking presence in the secondary to play opposite former first-rounder Jeff Okudah.
Christian Gonzalez has used his solitary season with the Oregon Ducks to establish himself as a genuine CB1 contender in this class. From his enticing athleticism through his football intelligence to his mind-blowing ball skills, Gonzalez looks every bit the next lockdown cornerback at the NFL level.
7) Las Vegas Raiders: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
Ben Sanderson, a screenwriter who lost everything because of alcoholism, moves to Las Vegas to drink himself to death. Oh wait, we got the wrong Leaving Las Vegas. The face of the franchise since 2014, Derek Carr departs the Las Vegas Raiders this offseason, leaving the team to address the QB position this spring.
Exit Carr. Enter Anthony Richardson. The Florida QB is a polarizing prospect in this class, but there’s no mistaking the tools that he brings to the table. Boasting a howitzer of an arm, Richardson has exceptional pocket presence and elite out-of-structure creativity to mitigate a dicey o-line situation.
Jarrett Stidham could bridge the gap if the Florida QB really does require some seasoning before seeing the field. However, in the city of casinos and high-stakes gambling, I’d be willing to bet on Richardson being ready to command the offense sooner than later.
8) Atlanta Falcons: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
Desmond Ridder showed enough in his rookie campaign to presume that the Atlanta Falcons won’t dabble in the 2023 NFL Draft quarterback market. Atlanta’s needs are primarily defensive, and while there’s a clamor from fans to add a pass rusher with the eighth overall pick, upgrading the secondary would be a wiser investment.
Penn State CB Joey Porter Jr. gives the Falcons a beast in the run game and in coverage. He’s a size, length, and physicality threat at the catch point while possessing eye-popping athleticism to fly around the field in all phases. The Nittany Lion forms a ferocious duo with former Clemson Tiger, A.J. Terrell.
9) Carolina Panthers: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
Frank Reich was announced as the Carolina Panthers head coach as I sat down to write this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, with much ensuing debate about which quarterback in this class might fit with the former Colts head coach.
MORE: Which Quarterback Is Best for Panthers Head Coach Frank Reich To Build Around?
With Stroud, Young, and Richardson all off the table picking at nine, it’s somewhat of a moot point. Kentucky QB Will Levis gives the Panthers a tough quarterback prospect with undeniable arm talent who can strap a team on his back. Carolina’s receivers might want to invest in some reinforced gloves because Levis delivers the ball faster than UPS Express.
10) Philadelphia Eagles (From NO): Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson
The Philadelphia Eagles might just well win the Super Bowl and pick in the top 10 of the 2023 NFL Draft, which we can file under “pretty good business” from Howie Roseman. But, how do they continue to build a team that can return to contention next year?
Multiple high-profile defensive-front figures are potential free agents, so adding a pocket-pushing presence like Myles Murphy is a must. The Clemson defensive end is a 6’5″, 275-pound beast with a practically unstoppable combination of size and strength.
11) Tennessee Titans: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
There isn’t a 2023 NFL Mock Draft that goes by where this partnership doesn’t make the most sense of any prospect and program union. Taylor Lewan — by his own admission — is unlikely to be in Tennessee next season, and the Titans need a franchise left tackle.
Having transitioned from guard for the 2022 college football season, Ohio State’s Paris Johnson Jr. established himself as the standard left tackle. His size, power, strength, and athleticism scream exceptional NFL bookend. A premier pass protector, Johnson would also be a run-defense wrecker for Derrick Henry.
12) Houston Texans (From CLE): BJ Ojulari, EDGE, LSU
The Texans’ head coach and defensive coordinator positions may be vacant right now, but there’s no escaping the fact that they need to find an edge presence this offseason.
LSU’s BJ Ojulari is a flexible pass rusher with off-the-snap dynamism who also boasts a developed pass-rush toolbox. Excitingly, Ojulari also knows how to use it to be devastatingly disruptive on every snap.
13) New York Jets: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
With the addition of Nathaniel Hackett as the offensive coordinator of the New York Jets, the Aaron Rodgers trade rumors are already swirling. It’s not surprising, given that New York’s position in the 2023 NFL Draft effectively rules them out of the QB selection sweepstakes in April.
Whatever direction the Jets take under center, they need to solidify the offensive line, and there’s been no one more solid than Georgia’s Broderick Jones this season. Jones is a violent people mover with explosive athleticism in both phases as the catalyst for a national championship-winning offensive line.
14) New England Patriots: Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State
There’s a glaring need at wide receiver for the New England Patriots. But, with just one player at the position selected in the first round since 1996 — and an abject failure at that — it seems unlikely that’s the direction that Bill Belichick’s team takes in April.
Equally pressing is a need at cornerback. That’s why New England strikes for Mississippi State standout Emmanuel Forbes in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. The FBS all-time leader in interceptions returned for touchdowns is more than just a statistical success. He boasts high-level route recognition, exciting footwork, and vertical athleticism, with the physicality to challenge anyone in the NFL.
15) Green Bay Packers: Brian Branch, S, Alabama
As is customary this time of year, the Green Bay Packers have been linked with just about every potential WR and TE prospect. Meanwhile, the long-term future at offensive tackle is up for discussion. However, the most likely scenario from the 2023 NFL Draft is a selection that shores up the secondary.
There isn’t a more sure-tackling safety in this class than Alabama’s Brian Branch. In addition to his reliability as a tackler, the Crimson Tide safety is fast and fluid as a force in coverage. He’s manned multiple roles during his college career as the ultimate utility man in the secondary.
16) Washington Commanders: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma
While many consider CB to be the biggest need for the Washington Commanders in the upcoming draft due to the porous nature of their pass defense, the depth of talent at the position may afford them the luxury of waiting until later rounds.
What you won’t find later in the 2023 NFL Draft is an OT of the caliber of Oklahoma’s Anton Harrison. An ascending prospect through his final season in Norman, Harrison boasts exquisite physical tools and a high football IQ, in addition to being an explosive athlete in both pass protection and run blocking.
17) Pittsburgh Steelers: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the offseason with offensive tackle as their biggest need. Having watched the best at the position fly off the board in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they instead address the most significant defensive need with a physical, ferocious, fast-rising cornerback prospect out of Illinois.
Devon Witherspoon‘s wince-inducing ferocity coming downhill caught my attention while watching the Illini this fall. When you flip on the tape, you realize he’s more than just a blitzing menace in the backfield but a physical enforcer at all levels of the field with top-tier athleticism and ball skills.
18) Detroit Lions: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech
While Aidan Hutchinson and James Houston have embarrassed many NFL offensive tackles this fall, don’t be surprised to see the Lions add another EDGE in the 2023 NFL Draft. With their second pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they land Tyree Wilson, a 6’6″, 276-pound defensive lineman with a gargantuan wingspan and preposterous power.
19) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers might be the franchise in most need of a full overhaul, with an aging roster and substantial potential free agency losses. Several of those are set to come from the secondary, where the addition of Clark Phillips III in this NFL Mock Draft gives them an instant impact-maker with fluid and ferocious coverage skills that bely his diminutive stature.
20) Seattle Seahawks: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa
Despite relative inexperience at the college level for Iowa, Lukas Van Ness has gained serious hype in recent weeks. When you flip on the tape, it’s easy to see why.
The redshirt-sophomore EDGE generates exceptional power from his 6’5″, 275-pound frame, with the bend capacity to be a true force from multiple alignments as a potentially dominant NFL EDGE.
21) Los Angeles Chargers: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College
If the Los Angeles Chargers are going to maximize the Justin Herbert rookie window, then they need to give him a weapon who can take the top off a defense and create yardage for fun by themselves.
MORE: Why Zay Flowers Is the Top Wide Receiver at the Shrine Bowl
That’s Boston College WR Zay Flowers‘ game. Flowers has the speed to trouble the deep third but comes alive as an elusive after-the-catch threat who snatches souls and breaks ankles on every play.
22) Baltimore Ravens: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
The Baltimore Ravens use the 22nd overall selection of this 2023 NFL Mock Draft to give Lamar Jackson the WR weapon he so desperately deserves. Quentin Johnston is a 6’4″, 212-pound big-bodied pass catcher who also happens to have the athleticism to rip open a defense after the catch. Giving Jackson a three-level threat like Johnston should terrify the NFL.
23) Minnesota Vikings: Jordan Addison, WR, USC
Yes, the Minnesota Vikings have Justin Jefferson. However, JJettas alone isn’t enough. He needs a stablemate.
With his dynamic speed threat, excellent route-running capability, and a solid, reliable pair of hands, USC receiver Jordan Addison gives the Vikings a dangerous duo that would dominate any defense that they face.
24) Jacksonville Jaguars: Tuli Tuipulotu, EDGE, USC
Cornerback is a genuine need for the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2023 NFL Draft, but the best of them are already off the board in this mock. Instead, Jacksonville adds a game-wrecker to the defensive front in the form of Tuli Tuipulotu.
The 6’4″, 291-pound USC prospect has an explosive first step and speed as a presence off the edge, with the strength and power to pulverize the pocket from the interior.
25) New York Giants: Rashee Rice, WR, SMU
I recently wrote a 7-Round 2023 NFL Mock Draft for the New York Giants, and I liked the pick of Rashee Rice so much that I’ve replicated it here. If Big Blue doesn’t bring back Saquon Barkley, this could be a legitimate Bijan Robinson landing spot, but as it stands, the need to find a legitimate WR is far more pressing.
The SMU wide receiver is exactly that. Rice didn’t lead the nation in receiving yards this season purely due to a high-volume passing attack. He has the size and body control to dominate the catch point, mixed with speed and elusiveness to add after-the-catch value.
26) Dallas Cowboys: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
If Michael Mayer had snapped the final play of the Dallas Cowboys’ loss to the San Francisco 49ers instead of Ezekiel Elliott, that play might have stood a chance, and we’d have been deprived of one of the greatest memes of 2023.
Joking aside, the Notre Dame TE boasts an all-round skill set that makes him a dangerous pass-catching threat as a deceptive athlete with ball-tracking skills and catch-point prowess while also being a technically savvy blocker.
27) Buffalo Bills: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
Yes, the Buffalo Bills added James Cook last draft class. Yes, they need to address the interior offensive line. Safety and wide receiver are also significant areas of need. I know all these things.
Yet, I still can’t allow Texas running back Bijan Robinson to slide past the AFC East champions in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Robinson’s ability to manipulate space as a pure rusher is awe-inspiring, and he adds a dangerous receiving presence out of the backfield for Josh Allen.
28) Denver Broncos (From SF via MIA): Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern
Do you know why microwaves were invented? It was because people didn’t have time to cook. Do you know who else didn’t have time to cook in the 2022 NFL season? That’s right, Russell Wilson.
Of course, it isn’t quite as simple as that. Nevertheless, finding an offensive tackle that can hold up in pass protection while helping the run game should be a priority in April. The entire process might be spent discussing his arm length, but Peter Skoronski is an elite technician and athlete who can upgrade the o-line.
29) Cincinnati Bengals: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
There are a lot of defensive backs currently on the Cincinnati Bengals’ roster who likely won’t be when the 2023 NFL season starts. As a result, this 2023 NFL Mock Draft aims to find a playmaker to line up opposite impressive rookie Cam Taylor-Britt.
With the addition of Cam Smith, Cincinnati lands a cornerback with the length, explosiveness, agility, and speed to be a coverage force on the outside. As you’d expect from a South Carolina CB, Smith also plays the game with jarring physicality.
30) Kansas City Chiefs: Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame
While George Karlaftis has had his impressive moments as a rookie, the Kansas City Chiefs still need to add further pass-rush pieces to their defense. Notre Dame’s Isaiah Foskey fits the mood, a 6’4″, 260-pound edge presence who puts the “fight” into the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. Foskey has the length, power, and relentless motor to be a wrecking ball in the AFC West.
31) Philadelphia Eagles: Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
The Eagles historically don’t draft cornerbacks in Round 1. However, with two first-round picks at present, neglecting a position of need — with one of the best players available — just for the sake of maintaining historical precedence seems, well, silly.
While his stock has soured a little compared to the early cycle, Kelee Ringo still gives Philadelphia a physical catch-point commander with elite speed for size. Some minor technical tweaks could make him a dominant CB in the NFL for years to come.
Round 2
32) Pittsburgh Steelers (From CHI): Cody Mauch, OT, North Dakota State
The Steelers missed out on an OT in the first round of this 2023 NFL Mock Draft but strike for Cody Mauch early in the second. The NDSU Bison is a high-level technician with impressive movement ability, footwork, and a mauler mentality.
33) Houston Texans: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
After snagging Stroud in Round 1, the Texans reunite two former Buckeyes by adding Jaxon Smith-Njigba to the WR room. An injury-riddled final season in Columbus might harm his stock, but JSN is a savvy route runner and catch-point connoisseur.
34) Arizona Cardinals: O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida
Nearly all the Cardinals’ starting offensive linemen are out of contract, so adding the best interior prospect in Florida’s O’Cyrus Torrence makes a ton of sense. He’s a technical pass protector and a powerful plow in the run game.
35) Indianapolis Colts: Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
Bernhard Raimann showed enough in his rookie season to be comfortable taking an exciting pass-catching weapon for new quarterback Young instead of an offensive tackle in Round 2 of this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Josh Downs‘ route running, agility, and play speed make him a dangerous weapon anywhere on the field.
36) Los Angeles Rams: Darnell Wright, OT, Tennessee
Andrew Whitworth’s departure from the Los Angeles Rams was felt this season. Now, finding a franchise LT is a priority in April. Tennessee’s Darnell Wright is a powerful and violent bookend as a pass protector while boasting the athletic ability to get out to the second level in the run game.
37) Seattle Seahawks (From DEN): Noah Sewell, LB, Oregon
Geno Smith might only need to guide the Seahawks to 14 points a game as Seattle continues to overhaul the defense in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Noah Sewell gives them a ferocious downhill linebacker whose closing speed is matched only by his physicality.
38) Las Vegas Raiders: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland
An ascending cornerback who has appeared in some first-round 2023 NFL Mock Drafts, Deonte Banks gives the Raiders a much-needed 6’2″, 205-pound, size-and-length threat with smooth athleticism and reliable tackling ability.
39) Carolina Panthers: Felix Anudike-Uzomah, EDGE, Kansas State
The Panthers find a pass-rush presence opposite Brian Burns in the form of Felix Anudike-Uzomah. He’s a relentless pass rusher with violent hands and the strength and length to impose himself at the point of attack.
40) New Orleans Saints: Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M
A 6’3″, 200-pound do-it-all dynamo in the secondary, Antonio Johnson has been a disruptor from multiple alignments for Texas A&M. He’s physical enough to play down in the box, with the size, speed, and length to contest at the catch point in coverage.
41) Tennessee Titans: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia
Once considered a slam-dunk first-round 2023 NFL Draft prospect, Nolan Smith brings an elite athletic profile to the OLB position for the Titans. Meanwhile, Smith generates more power than you’d expect from a 6’3″, 235-pound edge prospect.
42) Cleveland Browns: Nick Hampton, EDGE, Appalachian State
Expect to hear a lot more about Nick Hampton after the 2023 Shrine Bowl. The Appalachian State EDGE has been productive against Power Five opposition, with his off-snap explosion, flexibility around the edge, and surprising power.
43) New York Jets: JL Skinner, S, Boise State
The Jets were considered a potential Kyle Hamilton landing spot last spring, and they land an equally eye-opening safety in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. JL Skinner is a 6’4″, 220-pound wrecking ball who hits hard while possessing sideline-to-sideline range.
44) Atlanta Falcons: Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor
Although the Falcons could add an edge presence here, plugging in Baylor behemoth Siaki Ika into the heart of their defensive front would allow second-year pass rushers DeAngelo Malone and Arnold Ebiketie to thrive. Ika brings his own brand of backfield pressure to the table too.
45) Green Bay Packers: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
If Darnell Washington survives this long in April, the Packers have to swoop for the super-human Georgia tight end. An athletic freak who moves ludicrously well at 6’7″ and 265 pounds, Washington is a reliable receiver and dominant blocker.
46) New England Patriots: Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas
Drew Sanders has experience playing both on and off-ball as a linebacker prospect. If there’s a team who can extract the most from a hyper-athletic, physical playmaker, it’s the Patriots. The Arkansas LB can be the catalyst for defensive excellence.
47) Washington Commanders: Dalton Kincaid, TE, Utah
There aren’t many more reliable pass catchers in the 2023 NFL Draft than Utah tight end Dalton Kincaid. Technique, catch radius, strong hands, the kid has it all. Who knows who the QB will be next season, but Kincaid gives them a dangerous outlet.
48) Detroit Lions: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson
Adding Trenton Simpson to their first-round haul in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft means the Lions put playmakers in place at all three levels of defense. The Clemson LB is the epitome of a Swiss Army Knife in this class, a do-it-all disruptor in all phases.
49) Pittsburgh Steelers: Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU
The Steelers benefited from a falling star in last year’s draft with George Pickens, and they’re at it again here with Kayshon Boutte. Injury and some off-field dalliances might impact his stock, but Boutte’s a dangerous playmaker who can provide a short-game outlet for Kenny Pickett.
50) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Alabama
Rachaad White had an encouraging rookie season, but with other RBs unlikely to return next year, acquiring Jahmyr Gibbs can upgrade the Bucs’ run game. The Alabama back is an exciting rusher, top-tier receiver, and pass protects as well as any other RB in the game as a three-down NFL weapon.
51) Miami Dolphins: Henry To’oTo’o, LB, Alabama
In Alabama linebacker Henry To’oTo’o, Miami’s defense gets an instinctual player with a high football IQ, physicality, and the attributes to be a high-level run defender and command the center of their linebacker group.
52) Seattle Seahawks: John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota
The Seahawks hit the jackpot last season with Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas at offensive tackle, and the selection of John Michael Schmitz in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft solidifies the interior. He’s a top-tier run blocker and reliable in pass pro.
53) Chicago Bears (From BAL): Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee
Here come the weapons for Fields. Jalin Hyatt‘s breakout season for Tennessee showcased his elite speed and explosion, with route tempo variations and excellent ball-tracking skills, making him a dangerous target for the Bears QB.
54) Los Angeles Chargers: Jaelyn Duncan, OT, Maryland
Right tackle is a definite area of concern for the Chargers, and they address it here by selecting Jaelyn Duncan. The Maryland RT is strong with good footwork in pass protection while boasting the athleticism to impact the run game.
55) Detroit Lions (From MIN): Tucker Kraft, TE, South Dakota State
After trading T.J. Hockenson, the Lions should be in the market for a tight end in the 2023 NFL Draft. South Dakota State’s Tucker Kraft is one of the best out there. He’s a smooth athlete at 6’5″ and 255 pounds, and a genuine threat up the seams.
56) Jacksonville Jaguars: Cedric Tillman, WR, Tennessee
Although Christian Kirk proved his worth this fall and Calvin Ridley joins the team next season, don’t rule out the Jaguars adding further weapons for Trevor Lawrence. Cedric Tillman is a big-bodied threat who can haul in contested catches while employing impressive athletic tendencies.
57) New York Giants: Ivan Pace Jr., LB, Cincinnati
The Giants have been consistently seeking a long-term linebacker solution, and this 2023 NFL Mock Draft might have finally found them one. Ivan Pace Jr. is a constant threat in the backfield with his downhill dynamism and ferocity while possessing coverage capability.
58) Dallas Cowboys: Jordan Battle, S, Alabama
Jordan Battle returned to Alabama this year and enhanced his reputation as one of the best safeties in the country. Impactful in all phases, Battle is a highly intelligent player who reads the game extremely well and possesses the athletic ability to act on his instincts.
59) Buffalo Bills: Ji’Ayir Brown, S, Penn State
Penn State’s Ji’Ayir Brown has been an ultra-productive ball hawk with value in all facets of safety play. Brown’s equally adept coming downhill to hit you in the mouth as he is using his fluidity and explosion to impact the passing game in coverage.
60) Carolina Panthers (From SF): Marvin Mims, WR, Oklahoma
Marvin Mims quietly put together a 1,000-yard season for Oklahoma and is one of the more underrated WRs in this class. Mims offers this Carolina offense a speed threat who leaves coverage trailing in his wake while possessing catch-point acrobatic ability that few can rival.
61) Cincinnati Bengals: Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State
Oregon State TE Luke Musgrave offers the Bengals an exciting and reliable pass-catching threat, with explosiveness, speed, and catch-point prowess at the heart of his scouting report. Cincinnati might need that if Hayden Hurst departs in free agency.
62) Kansas City Chiefs: Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State
Both starting OTs are out of contract this spring, and while Lucas Niang is on the roster, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Chiefs add a legitimate RT. Ohio State mountain Dawand Jones is a natural solution, with his power and above-average athleticism striving up draft boards this season.
63) Philadelphia Eagles: Calijah Kancey, DT, Pittsburgh
Returning to the defensive front theme of the first round, the Eagles add an undersized but extremely dangerous DT in Pitt’s Calijah Kancey. With his explosion, dangerous swim move, and refined handwork, Kancey is a first-round talent that could slip due to size perception.
Round 3
64) Chicago Bears: Matthew Bergeron, OT, Syracuse
In Syracuse’s Matthew Bergeron, the Bears land a violent people mover with the footwork to match speed rushers in pass protection. There has to be o-line upgrades in Chicago this spring.
65) Houston Texans: Gervon Dexter, DT, Florida
The best Texans teams have thrived on defense, and the addition of 6’6″, 313-pound defensive lineman Gervon Dexter gives Houston an impact player with speed, agility, and length.
66) Arizona Cardinals: Andre Carter II, EDGE, Army
An athletic anomaly at 6’7″ and 260 pounds, Andre Carter II is an extremely explosive answer to the Cardinals’ pass-rush problems, arriving in the opposition’s backfield before the OT is even out of his stance.
67) Denver Broncos (From IND): Derick Hall, EDGE, Auburn
Auburn pass rusher Derick Hall gives the Broncos a dangerous, powerful force off the edge. The 6’3″, 255-pound prospect has enough burst and bend to go around the outside track in addition to the length and power to bully his way to the QB.
68) Denver Broncos: Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami (FL)
It’s back-to-back defensive picks for Denver as they solidify the secondary with Miami Hurricane Tyrique Stevenson. He breaks on the ball with swiftness and has the vertical athleticism and size to compete at the catch point.
69) Los Angeles Rams: Isaiah Land, EDGE, Florida A&M
One of the top HBCU prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft, Isaiah Land can have a similar impact in the NFL to former Jackson State OLB James Houston. Land is an explosive pass rusher with excellent play speed, change of direction, and understanding of how to exploit angles.
70) Las Vegas Raiders: Warren McClendon, OT, Georgia
Although he’ll battle size concerns, Warren McClendon’s role in Georgia’s national title-winning run showed he’s developed into a legitimate NFL prospect. He’s powerful with a violent punch and has exciting athletic upside.
71) New Orleans Saints: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee
Injury deprived Hendon Hooker of a Heisman run, but it likely won’t prevent him from earning a shot in the NFL. The Saints have to at least try some QB options in this 2023 NFL Draft class, and with his ability to drive the ball downfield and creation capacity, Hooker is worthy of a look in Round 3.
72) Tennessee Titans: Jarrett Patterson, G, Notre Dame
Although they landed a franchise LT in the first round of this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, the Titans have multiple offensive line spots to fill. Notre Dame’s Jarrett Patterson has experience across the board. He’s technically proficient and always looking for opportunities to put a man in the dirt.
73) Houston Texans (From CLE): Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson, CB, TCU
Despite being a 5’9″ cornerback, Tre’Vius Hodges-Tomlinson plays the game with exceptional physicality. The Jim Thorpe Award winner possesses excellent ball skills, and his fluidity ensures he can be sticky in coverage.
74) New York Jets: Owen Pappoe, LB, Auburn
Injury removed Owen Pappoe from last year’s LB class, but he returned to form this season, reinforcing his alluring athletic tendencies. The Auburn LB is a dangerous sideline-to-sideline threat with upside in coverage and against the run.
75) Atlanta Falcons: Isaiah McGuire, EDGE, Missouri
Although earlier defensive selections allowed for second-year development in their pass rushers, adding competition can’t harm the Falcons. Isaiah McGuire is explosive, powerful, and has an alluring build at 6’4″, 266 pounds, with impressive length.
76) New England Patriots (From CAR): Mark Evans II, OT, Arkansas Pine-Bluff
The Patriots are coaching at the Shrine Bowl, and you better believe that Bill Belichick has his eyes on some non-FBS offensive linemen. With his mix of strength, athleticism, and tenacity, Mark Evans II can be the first Arkansas Pine-Bluff player selected in the NFL draft since 2013.
77) Miami Dolphins (From NE): Devon Achane, RB, Texas A&M
Between Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins’ offense has the need — the need for speed. Devon Achane adds to that explosive speed threat at the RB position. He’s a legitimate track star who also boasts exciting vision.
78) Green Bay Packers: Blake Freeland, OT, BYU
The Packers add a 6’8″, 300-pound offensive tackle to their roster with the selection of BYU’s Blake Freeland. He’s a violent pass protector with a solid anchor and has excellent athleticism to get out to the second level in the ground game.
79) Indianapolis Colts (From WSH): Eli Ricks, CB, Alabama
Eli Ricks might not have lived up to his high school potential at the college level, but he gives the Colts a cornerback with elite ball skills, fluid athleticism, and the size-and-length combination that gives receivers nightmares.
80) Pittsburgh Steelers: Keeanu Benton, DT, Wisconsin
One of the best true nose tackles in the class lands with the Steelers in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Keeanu Benton was a force for Wisconsin this season, with his irresistible combination of strength, refined hands, and understanding of how to dominate with leverage.
81) Detroit Lions: Brandon Joseph, S, Notre Dame
Although his stock has waned compared to expectations ahead of the year, Brandon Joseph has the intelligence to read the game at a high level, particularly as a pass disruptor, where his ball skills come to the fall.
82) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: K.J. Henry, EDGE, Clemson
While there’s lots of focus on teammate Murphy, K.J. Henry might be one of the most under-appreciated edge rushers in the class. Henry plays with an explosive first step, and his combination of size and length allows him to punish at the point of attack.
83) Seattle Seahawks: Mekhi Garner, CB, LSU
LSU cornerback Mekhi Garner is one of the most physical DBs in the game. Meanwhile, he has the size, length, and athleticism to pose a threat at the catch point. Garner can be a force opposite Tariq Woolen in the Seahawks’ defense.
84) Miami Dolphins: Carter Warren, OT, Pittsburgh
With his excellent size, length, and explosiveness in his pass set, Pittsburgh’s Carter Warren excels as a pass protector. That’s certainly something that the Dolphins need if they want to protect Tua Tagovailoa.
85) Los Angeles Chargers: Adetomiwa Adebawore, EDGE, Northwestern
EDGE is an under-discussed draft need for the Chargers, and in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, they meet it with an underrated prospect. Northwestern defensive end Adetomiwa Adebawore might lack height at 6’2″, but he’s a powerful force with a high motor who impacts the game in multiple ways.
86) Baltimore Ravens: Myles Brooks, CB, Louisiana Tech
At 6’2″, Myles Brooks boasts excellent size, and he plays the game with ludicrous explosion downfield and vertical athleticism at the catch point. The Louisiana Tech CB could be a long-term Marcus Peters replacement.
87) Minnesota Vikings: Kei’Trel Clark, CB, Louisville
Recent additions should provide long-term outside cornerback assurance for Minnesota, but adding one of the best nickel backs in the 2023 NFL Draft class would elevate the unit further. Kei’Trel Clark is the type of explosive, speedy, physical presence that the Vikings need.
88) Jacksonville Jaguars: Cameron Latu, TE, Alabama
Doug Pederson’s offenses are where tight ends go to thrive, and Cameron Latu has a skill set that could propel him to greatness with the Jaguars. The Alabama TE is a unique athlete and a natural pass catcher with reliable hands in contested situations.
89) New York Giants: Luke Wypler, C, Ohio State
Jon Feliciano is out, and despite his remarkable comeback, Nick Gates’ injury history means the Giants are likely looking to add a center. In this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, Ohio State’s Luke Wypler provides the athleticism at the pivot to help extend Saquon Barkley’s runs, while showcasing refined hand skills in pass pro.
90) Dallas Cowboys: Zach Charbonnet, RB, UCLA
Will the Cowboys pay Tony Pollard? Either way, don’t be surprised to see a fresh face in the backfield rotation next season. At 6’1″ and 220 pounds, Zach Charbonnet can run straight through you, bouncing off tackles for fun. Yet, there’s a patience to his game too.
91) Buffalo Bills: Steve Avila, G, TCU
The Bills address their interior offensive line with Steve Avila. A versatile o-lineman who’s seen time at center and guard, Avila has a wide frame that is difficult to deconstruct. Additionally, he has the length and power to overpower his opponent in small spaces.
92) Carolina Panthers (From SF): Tank Bigsby, RB, Auburn
Tank by name, supercharged turbo tank by nature. Auburn RB Tank Bigsby has a physical play style that allows him to be a bulldozer on the ground. However, Bigsby also offers impressive vision as a rusher, exciting fleet-footedness for a 214-pound back, and receiving upside that should prove alluring come April.
93) Cincinnati Bengals: Mazi Smith, DT, Michigan
Could the Bengals prepare for life after DJ Reader a year in advance? The selection of Mazi Smith in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft assumes so. Smith has some development required in his game, but it’s hard to look past the power and freakish athleticism at 6’3″, 337 pounds.
94) Kansas City Chiefs: Jayden Reed, WR, Michigan State
It’s easy to think of Jayden Reed as just a gimmicky speed threat. That is, unless you’ve watched his tape. Then, you’ll realize he’s also a reliable receiver at all levels of the field, with the body control and ball tracking to snag passes in contested situations. More weapons for Patrick Mahomes is unfair.
95) Philadelphia Eagles: Israel Abanikanda, RB, Pittsburgh
Israel Abanikanda’s burst and long speed allow him to create yardage for fun, while his 5’11”, 215-pound frame was built for absorbing contact. Putting behind the Eagles’ offensive line should ensure his highly productive career continues in the NFL.
96) Cleveland Browns: Byron Young, DT, Alabama
Byron Young is not just another Alabama defensive lineman. He boasts an elite run-stopping profile at 6’3″ and 292 pounds, predicated on explosion and sheer strength. Young has the potential to elevate his draft stock even higher at the 2023 Senior Bowl.
97) San Francisco 49ers: Olusegun Oluwatimi, C, Michigan
The first of three consecutive picks in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft for the 49ers sees them add a center for the possibility of losing starter Jake Brendel to free agency.
Michigan center Olusegun Oluwatimi is a genuine people mover, with the football intelligence to maximize his combination of upper body strength and lower body power.
98) San Francisco 49ers: Kyu Blu Kelly, CB, Stanford
With several cornerbacks out of contract, the 49ers add secondary depth with Stanford CB Kyu Blu Kelly. He has the height, fluidity, burst, and technical excellence in press coverage to be an impact player like recent NFL draft acquisitions.
99) San Francisco 49ers: Zach Harrison, EDGE, Ohio State
The 49ers use their last third-round pick of this 2023 NFL Mock Draft to add a dangerous pass-rush force opposite Nick Bosa. Zach Harrison is the latest in a line of Ohio State defensive ends with elite athletic tools. He’s a powerful and physicality imposing edge rusher at 6’4″ and 271 pounds.
100) New York Giants (From SF): DJ Turner, CB, Michigan
A “Feldman’s Freak,” Michigan CB DJ Turner is an explosive athlete with impressive speed and fluidity in coverage, plus the length to impact the catch point. His football intelligence ensures he’s a threat in both man and zone coverage.