2023 NFL Mock Draft: Surprise quarterback enters Round 1
By Randy Gurzi
Another week of college football means another 2023 NFL Mock Draft and now, a new quarterback enters the first round thanks to a strong senior campaign
We’re in Week 6 of the 2022 season and there’s already been one coach let go as the Carolina Panthers fired Matt Rhule after a 1-4 start. Even before Rhule was out, the Panthers had become the favorites for the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft, and that’s where they start things out in our latest 2023 NFL Mock Draft after finishing 32nd in our latest power rankings.
The good news for Carolina, as well as many other quarterback-needy teams, is that this class is much better than it was a season ago. While just one signal-caller made it into the first round in 2022, there should be several off the board this year, including a new name who has had a sensational stretch the past two seasons.
2023 NFL Mock Draft
Ohio State. C.J. Stroud. 1. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. QB. 87
1. Carolina Panthers: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
With Matt Rhule now fired, it’s probably a safe bet to assume Baker Mayfield isn’t the answer for the Carolina Panthers, and Matt Corral likely won’t be either. Instead, a new coach is going to come in and want his own guy — and if the Carolina Panthers have the No. 1 pick, they’ll end up with a stud.
C.J. Stroud continues to shine for the Ohio State Buckeyes as he has 1,737 yards passing with 24 touchdowns against just three picks. He continues to prove he can push the ball downfield and makes the right decisions throughout the game.
Carolina is in need of some hope and Stroud brings them exactly that.