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

Childhood dreams became a reality for numerous prospects Thursday night. On April 27, the community of Kansas City hosted the 2023 NFL Draft – the unofficial start to the new season. The night was full of intrigue. Front offices scrambled to position their franchises perfectly on the draft board. There were numerous trades, and rosters received improvements.

At the end of a busy night, which picks stood out to the fans and analysts watching at home?

NFL Draft Pick #10: Bijan Robinson RB, Atlanta Falcons

Many believed Bijan Robinson was the best prospect in his draft class. His elusiveness and big-play ability presented problems for incoming defenders. Robinson is also effective in the passing game – capable of earning extra yards after the catch. In 2022, Atlanta ranked third in total rushing yards (2,718) – averaging 159.9 yards a game. They’ve proved they can run the football and will continue to improve with a rookie workhorse.

NFL Draft Pick #9: Anton Harrison OT Jacksonville Jaguars

Protecting the quarterback is a priority for front offices. They are an investment and require a talented line to create a winning culture. Trevor Lawrence is the quarterback of the future for the Jaguars. His performances on the field last season led Jacksonville to a playoff berth, giving the front office a taste of success to come. Lawrence’s health is a priority for the Jaguars, so they searched for more protection. The 28th pick was exchanged for Anton Harrison, a smooth, powerful tackle from the University of Oklahoma. Harrison is an asset in the running and passing game and will help the Jaguars elevate their offense.

NFL Draft Pick #8: Broderick Jones OT Pittsburgh Steelers

An impressive showing from Kenny Pickett showed glimpses of a promising future for the Steelers. He led Pittsburgh to a winning record after a disastrous start to the season. Pickett demonstrated growth and mental toughness, causing analysts to endorse him as the franchise quarterback. George Pickens, Pat Freiermuth, Najee Harris, and Allen Robinson will help the sophomore quarterback develop, allowing the Steelers to invest in protection.

A trade with the New England Patriots placed Pittsburgh in a position to draft Broderick Jones (OT) with the 14th pick. His 4.97 40-yard dash time was the fastest of any offensive tackle and is an effective pass protector. Jones will help create more running lanes for Najee Harris and will keep Kenny Pickett clean in the pocket.

NFL Draft Pick #7: Jordan Addison WR Minnesota Vikings

A trade with the New York Jets sent Aaron Rodgers to New York – shifting the NFC North food chain. The division is up for grabs, and the franchise with the most improvements will take the crown. The Vikings expect to take over the throne in 2023. They have experience in key positions, leaving few holes to fill on the roster. On Thursday, Minnesota used their 23rd pick to strengthen their receiving core. They drafted Jordan Addison (USC) – an elusive route runner with enough speed to burn defensive backs. Defending Addison and Justin Jefferson will be hard to scheme for, giving Minnesota an advantage heading into the new season.

NFL Draft Pick #6: Nolan Smith OLB Philadelphia Eagles

A loss in Super Bowl LVII created a sense of urgency for Philadelphia’s front office. A busy free-agency market caused the Birds to lose role players like Javon Hargrave (DT), C.J Gardner- Johnson (S), and Marcus Epps (S) – creating small holes on the roster. A chance to draft one of the best outside linebackers in the class presented itself at the end of the first round. With the 30th pick in the first round, the Eagles selected Nolan Smith (Georgia) – the second-ranked linebacker in his class. His speed off the edge will give quarterbacks nightmares as the Eagles work to maintain their defensive prowess.

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.

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.