2023 NFL Mock Draft: Cowboys replace struggling defender

Dallas Cowboys: Joey Porter Jr. #9 of the Penn State Nittany Lions celebrates after a play against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first half at Beaver Stadium on October 22, 2022 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
Dallas Cowboys: Joey Porter Jr. #9 of the Penn State Nittany Lions celebrates after a play against the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the first half at Beaver Stadium on October 22, 2022 in State College, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /
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2023 NFL mock draft
2023 NFL mock draft; TCU Horned Frogs wide receiver Quentin Johnston (1) scores a touchdown against the Kansas State Wildcats in the third quarter at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /

28. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 10. player. LB. Clemson. Trenton Simpson

10. Las Vegas Raiders: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson

In Week 15, the Las Vegas Raiders were winners against New England, in what was one of the wildest finishes in recent memory. That win improved them to 6-8 on the year which is a far cry from what was expected of them this season.

In an effort to improve next season — and not have to count on the opponent throwing them the ball on accident — they start to beef up their defense. At No. 10, they bring in Clemson linebacker Trenton Simpson.

One of the more athletic players in this class, Simpson can deliver hits as well as any linebacker but also has a background as a safety, so he’s no slouch in coverage.

TCU. Quentin Johnston. 11. 10. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. WR. player

11. Houston Texans (via Cleveland Browns): Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

Bryce Young was added with the No. 1 pick, but he’s going to need a No. 1 wideout in order to succeed. Right now, the Texans have Brandin Cooks but he’s been upset with the front office. He wanted out at the trade deadline and it would be a surprise to see that relationship salvaged.

That’s why they use this selection — courtesy of the Cleveland Browns — on Quentin Johnston from TCU. Johnston is a huge target at 6-foot-4 and 193-pounds and can stretch the field with his long strides.

He’s also great at high-pointing the ball, making him an ideal weapon on the outside for a team that needs weapons everywhere.