2023 NFL Mock Draft: Aaron Rodgers part of blockbuster trade in Round 1
By Randy Gurzi
Christian Gonzalez. 16. Pick Analysis. CB. Oregon. player. 58. Scouting Report
16. Washington Commanders: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
There’s a chance the Washington Commanders enter 2023 with Sam Howell at the helm. He played well in his lone start and helped them knock off the Dallas Cowboys. If it turns out that was a fluke, they’ll be in rebuild mode — again. If it does work, they’ll be a team to watch for since they were still competitive even with the carousel they had going on last year.
With this pick, they make sure they stay that way as they add one of the better cover corners in this class. Christian Gonzalez was solid while playing for Colorado but then transferred to Oregon, which was a great move.
He had the best season of his career and all but guaranteed he will be a day-one pick.
17. OT. Ohio State. Paris Johnson. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. 55
17. Pittsburgh Steelers: Paris Johnson, OT, Ohio State
Kenny Pickett was impressive as a rookie, even if the stats aren’t great. He was able to lead the offense and made minimal mistakes. He then led a couple of game-winning drives back-to-back as he showed poise in crunch time.
Having said that, he still needs help. The Steelers’ offensive line isn’t what it once was. Ben Roethlisberger masked a lot of that by throwing the ball nearly as quickly as it was snapped. But with Pickett still relatively inexperienced, they need to give him more time.
That’s why Paris Johnson from Ohio State is the choice here. Johnson can start from the first day and will be able to protect the blindside for Pickett throughout his career.