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

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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2023 NFL Draft
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI – APRIL 27: (L-R) C.J. Stroud poses NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected second overall by the Houston Texans during the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft at Union Station on April 27, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by David Eulitt/Getty Images) /

NFL Draft Pick #2: Anthony Richardson QB Indianapolis Colts

Quarterback troubles hindered the Colts in 2022. A trade for Matt Ryan backfired, forcing Indianapolis to search for a gunslinger that could re-establish winning traditions. The third pick in the NFL draft allowed time to evaluate the board. Bryce Young and C.J. Stroud were gone within the first two picks, leaving the Colts with first dibs on the next-best prospect. Anthony Richardson’s (QB) path to the draft impressed scouts. His size (6’3 1/2″, 253 pounds) is similar to Cam Newton’s, and his athleticism is an X-Factor. He is a talented passer with room for improvement and will develop well in Indianapolis.

NFL Draft Pick #1: C.J. Stroud QB Houston Texans

Rumors concerning the Texans’ intentions with the second overall pick were worrisome. Eagerness to improve opened the door to trading the position away for additional picks or essential role players. Acquiring a quarterback was a top priority, leading Houston to their final decision. They invested in C.J. Stroud (QB) from the University of Ohio. He’s shown glimpses of greatness throughout his college career, leading his team to victory week after week. Stroud is a gifted passer with pocket awareness. His presence in Houston should result in success in the future.

The first round of the draft kept fans entertained. Carolina’s decision to draft Bryce Young did not surprise many but was also a good move for the franchise.

It will not take long for first-rounders to acclimate themselves to their new environments. Their coaching staff will greet them with high expectations but understand development requires time. Keeping a childhood dream alive will motivate the next wave of the NFL’s household names.