2023 NFL Draft: Predicting the Top Five picks after Black Monday
2023 NFL Draft Pick #2 – Houston Texans: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
10. . QB. Houston Texans. Bryce Young. 2. player
Team Weakness: Quarterback
The Texans are starting from scratch – again. Fans were optimistic about a season riddled with questions. Dameon Piece’s production was a bright side to a dim season, but it was not enough to advance to the next stage. Houston finished at the bottom of the AFC South – resulting in the firing of Lovie Smith.
A fresh start will help the Texans establish a culture and the start at quarterback. David Sills shined when the Texans needed him to, but not enough to win the starting job. His turnovers cost Houston in pivotal moments. He was eventually benched – opening the position for a rookie.
Bryce Young is the best quarterback in his class. An impressive career at the University of Alabama was a perfect highlight tape for recruiters looking for their next franchise quarterback. In 2022, Young accumulated 3,328 yards passing and 32 touchdowns. He threw five interceptions – an improvement from the previous season.
32. . RB. Arizona Cardinals. Bijan Robinson. 3. player
Draft Pick #3. Arizona Cardinals: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
Team Weakness: Dual-Threat Running Back
Watching the Cardinals self-destruct was tough for a fanbase that hoped for the best. Disagreements between Kliff Kingsbury and the franchise quarterback aired weekly so the masses could watch. Arizona’s front office fired Kingsbury after four seasons. While the franchise searches for another Head Coach, they must also keep an eye out for prospects that Murray can use on the field next season.
There are multiple ways to help Kyler Murray, but which is worth the third pick overall? Drafting a wide receiver looks enticing – especially if DeAndre Hopkins can return to form. Rushing the football was an issue for the Cardinals this season and could reflect in their next pick.
Adding a dual-threat rusher in the backfield will improve Arizona’s offense tremendously. Bijan Robinson impressed NFL scouts enough to crack first-round projections. In 2022, Robinson ranked first in the Big 12 in rushing (1580) and touchdowns from scrimmage (20). His ability to break tackles is unbelievable and can change the game.