With the 2023 NFL Draft just around the corner, speculation is rampant about which teams will make bold moves, surprise picks, and game-changing trades. In this mock draft, we’ll explore some of the most exciting possibilities for the first round of the draft, including unexpected trades and strategic picks that could set teams up for success in the years to come.
Houston Texans – QB Malik Willis, Liberty
The Texans have a lot of work to do after a disappointing season, and their biggest need is a quarterback. Malik Willis has shown incredible athleticism and arm strength in his college career, and he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback in the NFL.
Detroit Lions – OT Evan Neal, Alabama
The Lions need to protect their new quarterback, and Evan Neal is one of the best offensive tackles in the draft. At 6’7″ and 360 pounds, he has the size and strength to dominate in the NFL.
New York Jets – EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon
The Jets have a lot of needs, but they can’t pass up on the opportunity to draft Kayvon Thibodeaux. He’s one of the most talented pass rushers in the draft and could be a game-changer for the Jets’ defense.
Carolina Panthers – QB Spencer Rattler, Oklahoma
The Panthers need a quarterback to build their offense around, and Spencer Rattler has the potential to be a star in the NFL. He has a strong arm and impressive accuracy, and he’s shown the ability to make plays with his feet as well.
New York Giants – WR Garrett Wilson, Ohio State
The Giants need weapons for their quarterback, and Garrett Wilson is one of the best wide receivers in the draft. He’s a dynamic playmaker who can make catches in traffic and break tackles after the catch.
Jacksonville Jaguars – CB Derek Stingley Jr., LSU
The Jaguars need help in the secondary, and Derek Stingley Jr. is the best cornerback in the draft. He’s a lockdown corner who can shut down the opposing team’s top receiver.
Las Vegas Raiders – LB Nicobe Dean, Georgia
The Raiders need to improve their defense, and Nicobe Dean is one of the most talented linebackers in the draft. He’s a physical player who can make tackles all over the field and has the speed to cover tight ends and running backs.
Philadelphia Eagles (from Chicago Bears) – RB Bijan Robinson, Texas
The Eagles traded back and landed the top running back in the draft in Bijan Robinson. He’s a complete back who can run between the tackles and catch passes out of the backfield, and he could be the centerpiece of the Eagles’ offense for years to come.
Los Angeles Chargers – CB Ahmad Gardner, Cincinnati
The Chargers need to improve their secondary, and Ahmad Gardner is one of the most promising cornerbacks in the draft. He’s a ball hawk who can make plays on the ball and has the size and speed to match up with any receiver.
Atlanta Falcons – EDGE George Karlaftis, Purdue
The Falcons need to add pass rushers, and George Karlaftis is one of the most talented edge rushers in the draft. He’s a physical player who can get to the quarterback and disrupt the opposing team’s game plan.
Washington Football Team – WR Chris Olave, Ohio State
Washington needs to improve its receiving corps, and Chris Olave is one of the most consistent and reliable receivers in the draft. He’s a polished route runner who can make contested catches and is a threat after the catch.
Minnesota Vikings – DT Jordan Davis, Georgia
The Vikings need to improve their run defense, and Jordan Davis is one