Have you ever wondered what the fans would do if they had control of their favorite NFL team? Look no further than this 2023 NFL Mock Draft that has taken what the hundreds of thousands of users of Pro Football Network’s Mock Draft Simulator have done for their favorite teams and put them together into a first round for the ages.
2023 NFL Mock Draft | Round 1
The NFL draft order for this 2023 mock is taken from the current NFL standings as of November 1. We’ve added in the appropriate trades and subsequently removed the Miami Dolphins’ first-round selection. This order, like the order on the Pro Football Network Mock Draft Simulator, will change with the results of each week of action in the NFL.
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.
Here’s what you, the fans, have done with the first-round picks for every pick of the first round in the 2023 NFL Draft, as selected this past week in our Mock Draft Simulator.
1) Detroit Lions: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
C.J. Stroud continues shredding any defense in his way, and the Lions have made it clear that they’re building toward the future with the trade of tight end T.J. Hockenson. A good nucleus of players offensively makes for an exciting future, and Detroit gets their future star quarterback in Stroud.
2) Houston Texans: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
Houston kept Brandin Cooks on the roster, which allows Davis Mills to find a reliable target. In the future, though, they need an upgrade to replace Mills. Bryce Young and the Alabama Crimson Tide are out to prove that they can bounce back from their tough loss to Tennessee two weeks ago.
Young’s control of the offense gives fans hope for the remainder of the season, and he should get Texans fans excited, too. It’s not a good idea to count Alabama out, and the College Football Playoff Committee still believes in the Tide. Win and they’re in the playoff, which means Bryce Young will ball and become a coveted pick in any 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
3) Carolina Panthers: Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama
With the top two quarterbacks off the board, Panthers fans look to bolster their defense. After keeping Brian Burns through the trade deadline, they add Will Anderson Jr. in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. An absolute game-changer, Anderson could be an instant impact player for Carolina.
Anderson may not have as much of an impact as a quarterback, but he’s a player that can make offensive coordinators rethink their plan of attack. Like his teammate above, he’s most likely ready to prove that his team is still a playoff contender. I can only imagine how terrifying that will look.
4) Pittsburgh Steelers: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia
Jalen Carter embodies what most people think about the Pittsburgh Steelers. He’s a tough, physical player who wreaks havoc on the defensive line. If he can stay healthy the rest of the year, he’ll put on film that will keep him in the top five. This weekend is a good start.
A game against top-ranked Tennessee gives him an opportunity to showcase his speed and power. The Vols run a hyper-paced offense, and Carter will need to get in the backfield quickly if the Bulldogs want to slow down that attack.
5) Jacksonville Jaguars: Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
With the Jaguars acquiring Calvin Ridley at the trade deadline, wide receiver is slightly less of a need. I wouldn’t be surprised if they still try to add a weapon on the outside, but for now, their fans address another need.
Protecting Trevor Lawrence remains a high priority for Jacksonville. It won’t matter how many weapons they have if Lawrence doesn’t have time to throw, and Paris Johnson Jr. provides the offense a solid pass protector.
6) Las Vegas Raiders: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson
Some of my favorite fan picks are ones where they pair Myles Murphy with another explosive edge player. Maxx Crosby and Myles Murphy on the same team seem like a nightmare for the rest of the AFC West.
Murphy’s grown into his frame over the last couple of years, and now he’s showcasing how well-rounded of a player he’s become. Clemson’s defense remains the biggest reason why they’re still undefeated, and Murphy’s been a highlight of that talented group.
7) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson
Bucs fans apparently don’t trust the rest of the quarterbacks outside of Stroud and Young, so they add a linebacker to the squad in Trenton Simpson. A versatile weapon who can make plays all over the field, Simpson gives his new team some flexibility to move him around the field once he’s comfortable in that scheme.
8) Philadelphia Eagles (from NO): Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
It’s unfair that the Eagles are having this much success and get such a high pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft. Their fans are making the most of their fortune, adding a corner that will thrive with the veterans on the roster.
Kelee Ringo’s a speedster who’s becoming a more technically sound corner this year. Learning from Darius Slay is the perfect mentor for him too, and the Eagles won’t have to worry about the position once he learns all of Slay’s tricks.
9) Houston Texans (from CLE): Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
Jaxon Smith-Njigba remains a highly coveted player in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft despite his lack of production. Don’t get me wrong, the talent is there, but we need to see him stay healthy. Texans fans are more than happy to bet on a healthy Smith-Njigba. When healthy, he can carve up a defense at any position, so the upside is there.
10) Seattle Seahawks (from DEN): Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
Seahawks fans continue selling on Geno Smith, which long-term seems like the right move. Don’t get me wrong, the idea that Mr. Unlimited continues struggling in Denver while Smith is bringing back his West Virginia days makes me happy. But the future isn’t in Geno Smith’s hands.
Will Levis hasn’t had the season many wanted from him. His team just got walloped by Tennessee 44-6, but most of that wasn’t on Levis. The scheme doesn’t tailor to his skill set the best it could, and the options at the skill positions limit his effectiveness. The tools are there, but it will take the right team in the draft to take him.
11) Arizona Cardinals: Noah Sewell, LB, Oregon
Zaven Collins, Isaiah Simmons, and Noah Sewell all on the same defense. It’s like a college football fan’s dream group of linebackers. Sewell’s great instincts make him an attractive prospect. His ability to make a play before anyone else stands out, and it’s tough for opponents to fool him often.
12) Chicago Bears: Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU
This might change now that Chase Claypool joins the Bears’ offense, but adding another young receiver still wouldn’t hurt. Kayshon Boutte has a huge opportunity in front of him this weekend. A big-time matchup against Alabama presents him the chance to prove why he should still be a first-round pick.
A year that’s been underwhelming so far removed Boutte from the WR1 conversation for most of the year, but fans continue drafting him. Unless he balls out against the Tide, that will change quickly.
13) Green Bay Packers: Jordan Addison, WR, USC
I’m not saying the Packers didn’t try to add a receiver at the trade deadline, but their fans won’t keep waiting. They decided to take one in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft, and it’s good that they did, given that Green Bay didn’t make a move Tuesday.
Jordan Addison is the kind of player that Aaron Rodgers will love. He’s a master separator, making life easy for USC quarterback Caleb Williams. That should translate to the next level, and maybe the Packers quarterback will feel less irritated in 2023.
14) Detroit Lions (from LAR): Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson
Bryan Bresee is the closest thing to a grizzly bear that a human can get. He’s got a huge frame that is imposing on the matchups he faces. Still, his quickness and athleticism need to be respected, too. It’s unfair how a guy his size can move, and you’re better off sending help his way than leaving him one-on-one.
15) Indianapolis Colts: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
Quarterback might be the route Indianapolis goes if this continues, but adding more weapons downfield wouldn’t hurt either. Michael Mayer continues to be the big bright spot on a less-than-stellar Notre Dame offense, and he’d join a Colts offense with tremendous upside.
A great pass catcher who can block well, Mayer continues holding on to the top tight end spot. That shouldn’t change unless something drastic occurs, and the Colts’ offense has a bright future if they can add him.
16) Cincinnati Bengals: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
Amari Cooper torched Cincy’s secondary for 131 yards on just five catches, so Bengals fans decided they needed to address that issue. Drafting Cam Smith in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft is a good start.
Smith’s length and ball skills make him an intriguing option at corner, and he’s seen plenty of talented receivers that helped elevate his stock.
17) New England Patriots: Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
Quentin Johnston continues showcasing why he’s one of the more intriguing prospects in the draft, and I’m sure Mac Jones will love that his fans want to add another weapon to the offense. Johnston’s a big receiver who has the quickness of someone way smaller than him. Until someone emerges as a reliable deep threat for the Patriots, they’ll consider adding Johnston as long as he’s available.
18) Washington Commanders: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
The rumors about Anthony Richardson’s future have him declaring for the draft, and it’s easy to see why someone would take a chance on him. From the arm talent to the athleticism, Richardson has the tools to be an exceptional quarterback at the next level. It just comes down to consistency.
At this point, Richardson is still a project, even at the college level. Someone needs to find a way to hone his skill set to make him more reliable. The scary part comes when someone can do that. He’s a beast at his peak, and he just needs the right team to unleash his full potential.
19) Atlanta Falcons: BJ Ojulari, EDGE, LSU
LSU and BJ Ojulari continues proving people wrong, and it’s been a fun journey to watch. The Tigers’ star defensive end gets another chance to showcase his talent on a big stage when LSU faces Alabama this weekend. The Tide continues struggling to consistently protect Bryce Young, which could benefit Ojulari tremendously.
20) Denver Broncos (from MIA via SF): Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
The word “bully” gets thrown around when talking about Broderick Jones, and Georgia will love to see that on full display this weekend against Tennessee. Georgia’s offense must step up against the Volunteers, and Jones can help set the tone.
Denver can always use more help protecting Russell Wilson, and Jones gives them a player with the right mindset. He’s developed well this year, and it’s a big reason why he’s moved up on big boards.
21) Los Angeles Chargers: Brandon Joseph, S, Notre Dame
Brandon Joseph’s another player that might see his stock decrease in the eyes of fans, but the Chargers fan base still wants him. After a big game in which he produced a pick-six to upset Syracuse, the Fighting Irish safety reminded everyone what he’s capable of doing at a high level.
22) Seattle Seahawks: Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame
Seahawks fans are trying to reproduce the Bruce Irvin days here, and I don’t blame them. Isaiah Foskey is an EDGE with a linebacker background, but he’s become a force at defensive end for the Irish. From power to athleticism, he has it all. That should be a huge addition for Seattle’s defense.
23) New York Jets: Antonio Johnson, CB, Texas A&M
Antonio Johnson continues to be one of the most versatile players in college football, and he’ll be fun to watch if lined up opposite “Sauce” Gardner. Two big corners on a Jets defense already taking strides in the right direction would make life tough for the teams they face. Johnson’s experience at safety and linebacker gives New York plenty of options with their new pick in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
24) Baltimore Ravens: Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah
If you don’t take Clark Phillips III seriously, you’re in for a long day. He’s not the biggest corner in this draft class, but the man refuses to lose. He’s the ultimate competitor against anyone. Since he can’t rely on length to make plays, Phillips puts in the work on and off the field to ensure he can dominate his opponent.
That’s the perfect mindset to add to the Ravens. His fierce competitiveness will gain respect from the veterans already on the team, and it will put him in good situations to be successful. Even at the next level, his ability to fight through adversity and find ways to win will bode him well.
25) Kansas City Chiefs: Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
Teams quickly learned to avoid half of the field when facing Penn State this year thanks to the development of Joey Porter Jr. He’s proven to be tough to beat with good route running, and 50/50 balls don’t typically go against him. A player that started the season as a potential riser has quickly become a first-round prospect. Chiefs fans didn’t wait long to snatch him up in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
26) Dallas Cowboys: Jordan Battle, S, Alabama
We haven’t heard much about Jordan Battle this year, but that’s not a bad thing. He’s been a reliable player for the Tide’s defense. It’s just that there are other talking points surrounding the program right now.
When it comes to the draft, everyone will know his name. He’s a balanced player that can cover one play and impose his will the next. The defense has been full of issues this year outside a handful of players, so the focus remains on how to fix them. However, Battle is one of those pieces that shouldn’t be a concern for teams in the NFL.
27) New York Giants: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
When I first saw this pick, I had a wide range of thoughts. Drafting Bijan Robinson with Saquon Barkley on the team wouldn’t make sense. However, Barkley will be a free agent this offseason. So, the Giants will essentially go from one special college football running back to another, and there’s a chance that their new version is better than the old one.
Bijan Robinson can do it all. It’s weird to keep saying that, but he’s that talented. The team that drafts him gets an instant-impact player with huge potential. Given that running backs don’t get drafted high in the first round, Robinson’s a great candidate to exceed expectations for his draft position.
28) Tennessee Titans: Peter Skoronski, OL, Northwestern
Here’s the great thing about Peter Skoronski — it doesn’t matter what position he plays. Obviously, you want to put him in the best position to succeed, but he has the right mindset to do that. Whether Tennessee puts him at tackle or moves him to guard, he has the technique and consistency to thrive.
29) Minnesota Vikings: Henry To’oTo’o, LB, Alabama
A smart, instinctual player, Henry To’oTo’o would be a great addition to the Vikings’ defense. Already with Eric Kendricks on the roster, Minnesota’s linebackers would be so fun to watch if they add To’oTo’o. He’s elevated his draft stock since joining Alabama, and his improved athleticism is what attracts Vikings fans to him in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
30) Buffalo Bills: Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
Buffalo’s already nearly impossible to stop at times thanks to guys like Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis. But now imagine Josh Allen getting to throw to a 6’7″, 260-pound Darnell Washington. That terrifies me. This offense doesn’t need much help, but they certainly won’t mind adding more talent.
31) Philadelphia Eagles: Eli Ricks, CB, Alabama
Eagles fans double up on corners in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft and stick in the SEC for this pick. Ricks still needs to prove he’s worthy of a first-round pick, but it’s hard to ignore his length and potential. I don’t know if Philadelphia would actually take two corners in this draft, but it would be easy to see why they might.