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2023 NFL Draft: Top 10 Noteworthy Picks from an impressive first round

By Loyal Ricks Jr

Detroit Lions: Anthony Richardson #15 of the Florida Gators celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of a game against the Georgia Bulldogs at TIAA Bank Field on October 29, 2022 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images)
Detroit Lions: Anthony Richardson #15 of the Florida Gators celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of a game against the Georgia Bulldogs at TIAA Bank Field on October 29, 2022 in Jacksonville, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images) /
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CHESTNUT HILL, MA – NOVEMBER 04: Zay Flowers #4 of the Boston College Eagles scores a touchdown during the first half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils at Alumni Stadium on November 4, 2022 in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images)
CHESTNUT HILL, MA – NOVEMBER 04: Zay Flowers #4 of the Boston College Eagles scores a touchdown during the first half of a game against the Duke Blue Devils at Alumni Stadium on November 4, 2022 in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Malhotra/Getty Images) /

NFL Draft Pick #5 Zay Flowers WR Baltimore Ravens

It’s been an eventful off-season for the Ravens leading up to the NFL Draft. Contract negotiations between Lamar Jackson and the front office dominated local headlines – leading to speculation of a possible divorce. While negotiating parties worked to finalize a deal, Baltimore signed Odell Beckham Jr. to a one-year deal worth up to $18 million. An extra weapon on the outside was the motivation Jackson and Baltimore’s front office needed to get the deal done. On Thursday, No. 8 hit social media to announce his new agreement. The good news did not stop there for Ravens fans. Baltimore used the 23rd pick to draft to add more depth to their receiving core. Zay Flowers (WR) became the newest addition – an impressive route runner with enough speed to earn yards after the catch.

NFL Draft Pick #4: Jalen Carter DT Philadelphia Eagles

Returning to the Super Bowl is a realistic goal for Nick Sirianni’s squad. His roster has weapons that will keep opponents on their toes. Replacing Javon Hargrave was vital for Philadelphia during the draft. In 2022, Hargrave ranked fifth on the team in tackles (60) and second in sacks (11). The Eagles needed to maintain dominance on the line of scrimmage – resulting in a trade with the Panthers for the ninth pick in the draft. Jalen Carter (DT) was worth the transaction. His ability to control the line of scrimmage will help Philadelphia remain a balanced team.

NFL Draft Pick #3: Will Anderson Jr. OLB Houston Texans

Head Coach DeMeco Ryans is known for developing stout defensive units. His new position in Houston has come with its share of difficulties. The main goal is to reconstruct the franchise – beginning with adding depth to the roster. A trade with the Cardinals resulted in an additional top-five pick in Thursday’s draft – presenting Houston with a chance to draft a defensive game-changer. Will Anderson Jr. was selected to fill the role. He is an elite pass rusher and will become a foundational player in a developing scheme.

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