2023 NFL Mock Draft: Cowboys beef up their offense, Eagles add tank at tight end
By Randy Gurzi
Ohio State. Jaxon Smith-Njigba. 4. 10. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. WR. player
4. Houston Texans (via Cleveland Browns): Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
This feels very high for Jaxon Smith-Njigba because it is. However, the Houston Texans proved in the 2022 NFL Draft that they’ll reach for a player if they feel he’s the best at their position and it’s a need for them — and wide receiver is a need for them.
With this selection, courtesy of the Cleveland Browns, they add a top wideout that can be paired with Bryce Young, and it will be vital to add talent around him especially if they do decide to trade Brandin Cooks as rumored.
Without any wideouts, they could have the same problem Chicago is dealing with as Justin Fields has no one to pass to. Smith-Njigba has seen his stock drop due to injuries but when he’s healthy and reminds everyone how good he is, he’s going to climb again.
QB. player. Tennessee. Hendon Hooker. 5. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 87
5. Carolina Panthers: Hendon Hooker, QB, Tennessee
Speaking of climbing, no one has increased their stock more in 2022 than Hendon Hooker of Tennessee. His win over Alabama has him in first-round discussion and he lands with the Carolina Panthers at No. 5 in this mock.
We don’t know yet who will be the coach in Carolina but it’s a safe bet they’re not going to want to roll with Baker Mayfield or Sam Darnold. And while P.J. Walker beat Tom Brady, that doesn’t seem to mean as much over the past couple of weeks.