The Dallas Cowboys replace Tony Pollard, and possibly Ezekiel Elliott, with their selection in Round 1 of our latest 2023 NFL Mock Draft
With Super Bowl LVII now officially in the rearview, all 32 NFL teams are in offseason mode. The World Champion Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles were the last to join the party because we’ve been digging into the offseason for a while now — as have 30 other franchises.
We’ve also got one eye on what’s coming up as we offer you our latest 2023 NFL Mock Draft — which again starts with a trade.
2023 NFL Mock Draft
1. Indianapolis Colts (via Chicago Bears): C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
Right now, the Chicago Bears are in a great situation. They have the No. 1 overall pick in a draft where there are a couple of good options at quarterback — and they don’t need one. There are also several teams that need an upgrade at the position, so they can use that to their advantage.
That’s what happens here as they get the Indianapolis Colts to surrender two first-round picks and a very early second-rounder in order to move from No. 4 to No. 1. Chicago will still have a great player to choose from and the Colts get their man.
For the past three seasons, Indianapolis has cycled through veteran quarterbacks. They went from Philip Rivers to Carson Wentz to Matt Ryan. Before that, they had Peyton Manning and Andrew Luck from 1998 through 2019. Clearly, the No. 1 overall pick has been the better move for them.
That’s why they sell out for C.J. Stroud, who edges out Bryce Young. There continues to be hype around Young but his stature is apparently a concern. That’s not the case for Stroud who also went off against Georgia, showing he can get it done on the biggest of stages.
2. Houston Texans: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
The Houston Texans stay put at No. 2 and they’re able to land a quarterback of their own in Bryce Young. Lately, concerns have started to come out about Young as teams are a little worried about his size. He’s just under 6 feet tall and less than 200 pounds.
Young held up pretty well in the NCAA but his slight frame could be a problem when it comes to taking a beating from NFL defensive linemen.
Having said that, he has the talent to take any team to the next level which is why someone will still give him a shot. The Texans are in desperate need of a new signal caller and could wind up looking brilliant if it works.
3. Las Vegas Raiders (via Arizona Cardinals): Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida
Another trade happens as the Las Vegas Raiders leap from No. 7 to No. 3 and make sure they get a replacement for Derek Carr. They end up grabbing Anthony Richardson from Florida, who is easily the most athletic quarterback in this class.
The problem is, he’s not the most refined. Still, he has a higher ceiling than Will Levis and to be honest, probably a higher floor as well.
Vegas also has a strong offensive mind in Josh McDaniels and a No. 1 wide receiver in Davante Adams. They could end up doing very well if Richardson ends up being their starter.
4. Chicago Bears (via Indianapolis Colts): Will Anderson, Jr., EDGE, Alabama
The Chicago Bears added more draft capital in their trade with the Indianapolis Colts and still wound up in the top-5, which is a huge win for them. Now, they capitalize on this selection as they bring in Will Anderson, Jr. from Alabama.
Anderson is the top pass-rusher in this class and after Chicago traded Khalil Mack and Robert Quinn last season, they can definitely use someone of his caliber. Anderson recorded 34.5 sacks over the past three seasons, proving to be a nightmare for opposing offenses.
Chicago will still need to build the roster up around Justin Fields but this is too good of a fit for them to pass on.
5. Seattle Seahawks (via Denver Broncos): Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech
One of the huge winners of the 2022 offseason was the Seattle Seahawks, who traded away Russell Wilson and ended up watching Geno Smith outperform expectations. Smith led Seattle to the playoffs while Wilson and the Broncos floundered all year.
Now, they get the fifth overall pick from Denver, which they use to bolster their defensive line. Their selection is Tyree Wilson, a massive defensive end from Texas Tech. Wilson is a powerful player who can also slide inside on passing downs and offers Pete Carroll even more flexibility on defense.
6. Detroit Lions (via Los Angeles Rams): Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia
Following a Week 1 win, the Detroit Lions lost seven games in a row and it seemed as though things were going in the wrong direction for Dan Campbell and his squad. Then, they suddenly went 8-2 from that point and wound up with a 9-8 record.
Detroit nearly made the playoffs, which seemed impossible following the 1-7 start to the year. While they didn’t make it in, they were able to keep the hated Packers out — which was a win for them.
Now, they still get to bring in more elite talent thanks to the Los Angeles Rams falling apart. Here, the Lions cash in the second Round 1 pick from the Matthew Stafford trade as they bring in Jalen Carter from Georgia. Last year, they added Aidan Hutchinson, now putting Carter on the same line will help them take yet another step forward.
7. Arizona Cardinals (via Las Vegas Raiders): Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson
Last year, the Arizona Cardinals lost Chandler Jones and this year, it’s J.J. Watt who will be on the way out. In an effort to shore up their pass rush, while getting younger on the defensive line, the Cards add Myles Murphy from Clemson.
Listed at 6-foot-5 and 275 pounds making him capable of playing in whatever front their eventual new coach decides is best.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson
At 7-10, the Atlanta Falcons were actually better than expected in 2022. They might have finished with a losing record but they had four one-score losses in a row near the end of the season which derailed their chances of making a playoff run.
They’re still in the midst of a rebuild and will be trying to decide if Desmond Ridder is the answer under center. If so, they could make some big strides in a hurry, especially if they land someone such as Bryan Bresee to add youth and explosion to the interior of their defensive line.
9. Carolina Panthers: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky
After cycling through Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, and P.J. Walker in 2022, the Carolina Panthers are going to be desperate for a new quarterback. Unfortunately, Matt Corral was injured and never got a chance to show what he can do, and that’s why they use this pick on Will Levis from Kentucky.
He’s far from a refined product but again, desperation at the most important position is what’s leading to this move.
The good news for Carolina is that they landed Frank Reich as their head coach who is not only a massive upgrade over Matt Rhule but is also a former quarterback who can help Levis get things figured out.
10. Philadelphia Eagles (via New Orleans Saints): Joey Porter, Jr., CB, Penn State
The Philadelphia Eagles are built to be successful for a long time. Howie Roseman has done a remarkable job filling out the roster and now with the No. 10 overall selection in the 2023 NFL Draft — thanks to a trade in 2022 with the New Orleans Saints — he stocks up more secondary help.
Penn State’s Joey Porter, Jr. is the choice as they land one of the most intriguing prospects in the class. Porter has length to spare and is still learning the position. He’s strong, physical, and insanely confident. Throw him across from Darius Slay, Jr. and the Eagles will arguably be the toughest team to pass against in the league.
11. Tennessee Titans: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
With Taylor Lewan likely out, the Tennessee Titans are going to need a new left tackle. They land that in Broderick Jones from Georgia.
Jones was the starter on the left side for both NCAA Championship runs for the Bulldogs. A former basketball player, he has very quick feet and has room to grow. He started just 19 games in his career and already looks the part. With a little seasoning in the NFL, he could turn into a star on the edge of the offensive line.
12. Houston Texans (via Cleveland Browns): Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
Taking Bryce Young at No. 2 overall will be the key move for the Houston Texans but it still won’t be enough for their offense to develop into a legitimate threat. They’re still going to need a No. 1 wide receiver, especially with Brandin Cooks doing all he can to leave.
That’s why they use the No. 12 overall selection, obtained in the Deshaun Watson trade with Cleveland, to bring in Quentin Johnston from TCU. Johnston was unstoppable against Michigan as he helped the Horned Frogs make it into the NCAA Championship Game.
Their offense then looked anemic when he was out against Georgia.
He’s a big-bodied receiver that commands double teams. That’s exactly what this offense needs and he would be a huge help for Young as he develops his game at the next level.
13. New York Jets: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern
There are rumors that the New York Jets could go after Aaron Rodgers but with his age, it would be better to look elsewhere. They proved they can win with decent quarterback play and there are a couple of options, including Derek Carr, who would be much more affordable than Rodgers.
Whatever they decide, the Jets need more help on the offensive line. That’s why Peter Skoronski is the selection here. Skoronski played all over the line for Northwestern and can fill in wherever New York believes he’s most needed.
14. New England Patriots: Paris Johnson, OT, Ohio State
The New England Patriots have several needs on offense and while wide receiver might be No. 1, they’ve had issues scouting wideouts early in the draft. That’s why they go a different route here and bring in Paris Johnson from Ohio State.
Johnson should be a plug-and-play left tackle and if Bill Belichick is picking in the top-15, that’s what he’s going to want — an instant starter.
15. Green Bay Packers: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
Finding a sure thing in the NFL Draft is never easy but most scouts seem to agree that Michael Mayer is that. The Notre Dame tight end might not be incredibly dynamic but he’s going to do the job the right way, and will for many years according to Kyle Crabbs of The Draft Network.
"“Expectations for Mayer are exactly what you’d expect for a tight end discussed as a potential top half of the first round player at the position: he’s going to win both as a blocker and as a receiver and should quickly become a trusted target for his quarterback. Mayer should be a staple on the roster across multiple contracts for the team that drafts him.”"
At No. 15, the Green Bay Packers bring in Mayer who might end up becoming the trusted safety valve for Jordan Love, assuming Aaron Rodgers leaves his dark cabin wanting a new home.
16. Washington Commanders: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon
Perhaps the Washington Commanders will be one of the teams looking to make a move for a quarterback during the draft. They nearly made it into the playoffs even with Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke unable to do enough to lock the job down.
They did secure a Week 18 win with Sam Howell but the jury will still be out on him. Whatever they do, they know they’re not that far away.
With that in mind, they bolster their defense more with the addition of Christian Gonzalez from Oregon. A potential shutdown corner, Gonzalez will be put to the test in a division that includes A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and CeeDee Lamb.
17. Pittsburgh Steelers: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma
Anton Harrison doesn’t get the same love as some of the other offensive line prospects in this class but he’s still just as talented. He’s also more experienced, having played regularly since his freshman days.
The Oklahoma product winds up with the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 17 in this mock which might feel high for him but he’s exactly what they need. Harrison will come in and start right away and isn’t going to have a lot of mistakes.
Pittsburgh believes they have their quarterback in Kenny Pickett and now it’s time to build up the line in front of him.
18. Detroit Lions: Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina
The Detroit Lions are back on the clock with their own selection in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft and they again stick with the defensive side of the ball. This time, they add Cam Smith from South Carolina, who is one of the top corners in this class.
There will be the temptation to go for more offense but the Lions actually put up plenty of points in 2022 with Jared Goff leading the way. Throw in Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams at wideout and the emergence of Jamaal Williams at running back and they could be good enough to win the NFC North with an elite defense — especially if Aaron Rodgers is out of Green Bay.
Adding Smith could help them trend in that direction.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: O’Cyrus Torrence, OG, Florida
At least the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have an answer quickly this offseason as Tom Brady again announced his retirement, but this time, turned in his paperwork with the NFL. Even with the team struggling for much of 2022, replacing Brady is going to be tough.
Whoever they end up with will at least have a little more protection as they add O’Cyrus Torrence at No. 19. Torrence is a high-IQ player that sits atop the class at his position. He followed his coach from Louisiana to Florida and was fantastic for the Gators, leading to his selection in Round 1.
20. Seattle Seahawks: Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia
When the Seattle Seahawks were a dominant team, they had the Legion of Boom to thank. Their secondary was among the best in the NFL and opposing offenses were constantly shut down against them.
That hasn’t been the case lately which is why Pete Carroll goes after Kelee Ringo with this selection. After adding Tyree Wilson with the pick they added from the Rams earlier, Seattle’s defense could look much better in 2023.
21. Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan Addison, WR, USC
With Keenan Allen likely on the way out, the Los Angeles Chargers will need more help at wide receiver. Things work out well for them as Jordan Addison is still on the board at No. 21.
Jonathan Lurensky of NFL Mocks says that Addison is a perfect receiver on paper and believes he will get a lot of love for his technical ability at the position.
"“On paper, Jordan Addison is a perfect wide receiver in terms of measurables. This player has fantastic athletic ability. Addison’s speed is more impressive than given credit for, and that will make some headlines when he tests at the combine. I really would not be surprised if he gets talked about a lot in the media just cause he is a great prospect from a technical standpoint.”"
What made Allen so good for so many years was his precise route running. Replacing him with Addison would be a huge win for the Chargers as Justin Herbert would have another great weapon to work with.
22. Baltimore Ravens: Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee
In need of wide receiver help, the Baltimore Ravens are going to have a tough decision to make. On the clock at No. 22, there are two solid options: Jalin Hyatt from Tennessee and Jaxon Smith-Njigba from Ohio State.
Smith-Njigba is the better overall prospect and route runner whereas Hyatt is a burner that can stretch the defense. But the real concern has to be health.
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JSN missed most of the 2022 season and with Rashod Bateman already dealing with injury concerns, the Ravens decide to go for Hyatt — but at least he’s no consolation prize. He needs to work on his technique but this kid could turn into a star with the right coaching.
23. Minnesota Vikings: Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame
Both Danielle Hunter and Za’Darius Smith are very talented pass rushers but they’re also both short-term answers for the Minnesota Vikings. Hunter will be in the final year of his deal and has had some serious injuries to deal with. Smith is over 30 and is under contract through just 2024.
Enter Isaiah Foskey from Notre Dame. He can work as a third pass rusher during his rookie season and then allow Minnesota to move on from Hunter in 2024. By the time Smith leaves in 2025, he’ll be entering his prime.
24. Jacksonville Jaguars: Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M
The Jacksonville Jaguars struck gold with Doug Pederson who helped Trevor Lawrence turn back into the player we thought he would be coming out of Clemson. They were also able to generate enough offense with Christian Kirk and Zay Jones as the top receivers. Now in 2023, they’ll be getting Calvin Ridley back as well, meaning the offense should continue to grow.
As for their defense, they have several weapons in the front seven including Travon Walker and Josh Allen. What they need, is some talent on the back end. With the star corners off the board, they elect to add that with a safety, bringing in Antonio Johnson from Texas A&M.
Jacksonville is poised to dominate the AFC South for several years and this move will only help them in that endeavor.
25. New York Giants: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State
Brian Daboll was the 2022 NFL Coach of the Year and no one deserved it more. He turned the New York Giants around in a hurry and they suddenly have a bright future. What’s most impressive is how much he did without star players.
Now with more time to build his roster, he can become even more dangerous. Here, he adds Jaxon Smith-Njigba, giving the Giants’ passing attack a top option. In 2022, they made it work with Darius Slayton and Richie James. Now add in a slot threat like Smith-Njigba and they’re going to be tough to deal with.
26. Dallas Cowboys: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas
Another year, another finish short of the goal for the Dallas Cowboys.
Now, they head into the 2023 offseason with several big-names hitting the open market. Dalton Schultz and Tony Pollard headline the group but they also need to decide what to do with Ezekiel Elliott. The former No. 4 overall pick has declined in a huge way and they can finally get out of his albatross of a contract this offseason.
With all that being said, the smart move would be to lock up Schultz — who is one of Dak Prescott’s favorite targets — and see what Pollard would take on a one-year deal after breaking his leg in the playoffs. Set a price for Pollard, and don’t go over it. He’s great but no running back is worth top dollar.
For Zeke, it’s easy, he needs to be released.
In this scenario, they likely lose both backs but can still improve the ground game since they land Bijan Robinson from Texas. He’s a dynamic star that can carry the load on his own and is a threat out of the backfield.
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He would take a ton of pressure off of Prescott’s shoulders and would be the type of game-changer we saw from Zeke back in 2016 through 2018.
27. Buffalo Bills: Tyrique Stevenson, CB, Miami
It’s tempting to go after a running back here for Buffalo and make it two in a row. And Jahmyr Gibbs would be an excellent fit for their offense.
However, they also need more depth in the secondary and have shown they believe they can find running backs after Round 1. For that reason, they add Tyrique Stevenson from Miami. Listed at 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, Stevenson is a physical presence at corner and could be exactly what this secondary needs.
28. Cincinnati Bengals: Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State
They added La’el Collins, Alex Cappa, and Ted Karras this offseason and it wasn’t enough as the Cincinnati Bengals offensive line remained a nightmare. Joe Burrow spent the entire season feeling the pressure and that continued in the playoffs.
This is why they continue to add pieces, bringing in Dawand Jones at No. 28. Listed at 6-foot-8 and 350-pounds, Jones is a massive player but he’s no statue either. He’s a former basketball player who is very light on his feet and could potentially move to the left side.
Of course, he would be best as a right tackle and it’s not as if Collins did anything to guarantee he should have that job in 2023. Whatever they decide, Jones gives them options — and they need that.
29. New Orleans Saints: (via San Francisco 49ers through Miami Dolphins and Denver Broncos): Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor
It’s not every day a nose tackle lands in the first round but Siaki Ika is far from a regular 1-tech. The 6-foot-3, 350-pounder is arguably the most powerful defensive lineman in this class. He’s also got plenty of burst, meaning he could have some value beyond first and second down.
The New Orleans Saints end up bringing him in with this pick earned in the Sean Payton trade. Ika will replace their outgoing defensive tackles, as it seems their entire line is hitting free agency this offseason.
30. Philadelphia Eagles: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa
One of the reasons the Philadelphia Eagles have been so good is the way Howie Roseman always has an eye on the future. He doesn’t care if a position is solid right now, he will still use an early pick on someone who can start in a couple of years.
That’s what happens here as their second pick in Round 1 is used on Iowa defensive end Lukas Van Ness. A pure projection player, Van Ness wasn’t a full-time starter for much of his career with the Hawkeyes but the 6-foot-5, 265-pounder can take over the role Brandon Graham has played for years.
He’s a powerful player that also has a lot of burst off the snap. Putting him on the same roster as Haasan Reddick would really round out their front seven.
31. Kansas City Chiefs: Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson
Nick Bolton was a huge addition to the Kansas City Chiefs and even scored a touchdown in the Super Bowl — and he nearly had two. Clearly, a play-making linebacker can change a game and the Chiefs add another here with Trenton Simpson from Clemson.
Simpson fits perfectly in a pass-happy NFL since he used to play safety and can cover tight end and running backs. He’s still able to disrupt the running game as well with his ability to diagnose plays and get after the ball carrier.
Simpson is an absolute steal at this point and it almost feels unfair that the Chiefs wind up with him.