2023 NFL Mock Draft Prospects and Projections

Examining the 2023 NFL Mock Draft

As the 2022 NFL season winds down, attention is already beginning to turn towards the 2023 NFL Draft. The draft represents hope for struggling franchises looking to land potential franchise-altering talent. Teams will spend the college football season closely evaluating top prospects, as draft position can often influence which players a team may realistically land. Let's take a look at some of the early projections for the 2023 first round.

Top Quarterback Prospects

Most mock drafts have two quarterbacks going early in round one - Will Levis from Kentucky and C.J. Stroud from Ohio State. Both possess prototypical size and arm talent that NFL scouts look for in potential franchise passers. Stroud finished top four in 2021 and 2022 Heisman voting, displaying his accuracy and playmaking abilities. Levis has skyrocketed up draft boards this season, impressing with both his powerful arm and underrated athleticism. Teams like the Texans, Colts, and Raiders could be in the QB market come April.

Intriguing Offensive Playmakers

The 2023 receiver class looks stacked, led by USC's Jordan Addison and TCU's Quentin Johnston. Addison is an elite route runner who put up big numbers for Pitt before transferring to USC, while the 6'4" Johnston dominates with size and physicality. Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba entered 2022 with sky-high expectations but has been limited by injury. NFL front offices know his top tier talent remains. Running back Bijan Robinson from Texas turns heads with rare explosiveness for his size, warranting top 5 consideration.

Defensive Studs on the Rise

Alabama pass rusher Will Anderson Jr. will challenge to be 2023's first overall selection, bringing a polished all-around game off the edge reminiscent of the Bosa brothers. Georgia defensive tackle Jalen Carter routinely blows up the interior with unbelievable strength and disruption skills. Cornerback Kelee Ringo won defensive MVP in last year's national championship game for Georgia; his length and speed give him lockdown cover ability. Linebackers Trenton Simpson from Clemson and Noah Sewell from Oregon round out a highly athletic group of versatile second level defenders.

Mock Draft Selection Strategies

Teams drafting early like the Texans or Raiders should weigh taking a potential franchise quarterback versus premier defensive talent like Anderson. Teams in the back half of round one may find better value targeting skill positions like Addison or Johnston over this year's polarizing QB class. Many projections have the Bears trading out of the second overall pick to acquire more selections. With still over three months until draft day, much can change as prospects boost their stock during combine testing and individual workouts.

Unpredictability Makes Mock Drafts Challenging

Injuries, prospect evaluations, team needs, and trades all significantly impact final draft boards. Last year at this time few predicted Travon Walker going first overall or wide receivers Drake London and Chris Olave cracking the top 15. Smokescreen rumors also run rampant regarding team interests, making accurate mock drafts difficult. Retired All-Pro tackle Joe Thomas emphasizes focusing on individual prospect grades rather than unreliable team projections.

The 2023 Draft Class Shows Great Promise

This upcoming draft class receives high praise for its depth on both sides of the ball. While QBs Levis and Stroud headline a weaker quarterback group, elite playmaking talent exists at wide receiver, tackle, defensive end, and cornerback. Teams selecting later in round one should still land starting caliber contributors. Overall, the 2023 draft looks well equipped to replenish rosters across the league with versatile, scheme-diverse athletes. It promises an exciting influx of new talent ready to make their NFL mark.

FAQs

Who are the top quarterback prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft?

The two quarterbacks most frequently mocked in the first round are Will Levis from Kentucky and C.J. Stroud from Ohio State. Both have ideal size and arm strength that NFL teams desire in a franchise QB.

What makes Will Anderson Jr. such a coveted prospect?

Anderson is considered by many draft experts to be the best overall player in the 2023 class. The Alabama pass rusher possesses advanced technique as both a speed and power rusher, reminding scouts of a young Nick Bosa. His high motor and football character add to his appeal.

How reliable are mock draft projections before the draft?

Mock drafts this early, while fun, are very unreliable and likely to change significantly before April. Injuries, updated team needs, prospect evaluations, trades, and misdirection all greatly alter final draft boards. Retired tackle Joe Thomas downplays early mocks.

What positions stand out as strong in this draft class?

The 2023 class has good depth on both sides of the ball, with receiver, offensive tackle, edge rusher, and cornerback looking particularly deep. Teams in the back half of the first round should still be able to land starter-quality players at positions of need.