2023 NFL Mock Draft: Baker Mayfield replaced by Carolina Panthers
By Randy Gurzi
Kayshon Boutte. 57. WR. LSU. 12. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis
12. Chicago Bears: Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU
This one might be a pipedream since the Chicago Bears seem to hate Justin Fields and have no intentions of helping him out. But if they do finally realize no quarterback can succeed by playing 1-on-11, they would do well to add LSU wideout Kayshon Boutte with their selection in Round 1.
Boutte is a player that hasn’t had his stats match up to his talent, which is a bit concerning. However, he’s shown an ability to make contested catches and did score nine touchdowns a year ago.
Fields has struggled mightily in his first two seasons but with the talent — or lack thereof — around him, it might not all be his fault. Of course, we won’t know that until he’s given a fair shot.
Nolan Smith. 13. player. 54. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. EDGE. Georgia
13. Philadelphia Eagles (via New Orleans Saints): Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia
In one of the weirdest pre-draft trades, the Philadelphia Eagles and New Orleans Saints swapped picks last season and the Saints sent this selection to Philly despite having no clue who would be on the board for them to target.
Now for the second season in a row, the Eagles have multiple picks in Round 1 and they start this one out by adding Nolan Smith from Georgia. They already brought in Jordan Davis and Nakobe Dean in 2022, and now they add another playmaker from the Bulldogs’ elite defense.