The NFL Draft is a highly anticipated event each year, with millions of fans tuning in to see which players their favorite teams will select. While many of the top prospects are well-known and expected to be drafted early in the first round, there are always surprises and dark horse picks that shake things up.

This year is no exception, as there are a handful of players who have been flying under the radar but could make a big impact in the NFL. One position that always draws a lot of attention is quarterback, and there’s a chance that a new name could emerge as a surprise first-round pick.

Here are five potential surprise first-round picks to keep an eye on in the 2023 NFL Draft:

1. Malik Willis, QB, Liberty – Willis is a dynamic quarterback who put up impressive numbers in college, including over 6,000 passing yards and 60 touchdowns in two seasons as a starter. He has a strong arm and excellent mobility, making him a dual threat on the field. While he’s not as well-known as some of the other quarterbacks in this year’s draft class, Willis has been rising up draft boards in recent weeks and could be a first-round pick.
2. George Karlaftis, DE, Purdue – Karlaftis is a dominant pass rusher who has the potential to be a game-changer at the next level. He had 7.5 sacks and 17 tackles for loss in just six games last season, and has drawn comparisons to former NFL defensive end J.J. Watt. While defensive end may not be the most glamorous position, Karlaftis could be too good for teams to pass up in the first round.
3. Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State – Dotson is a dynamic playmaker who can stretch the field and make tough catches in traffic. He had over 1,000 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns last season, despite playing with inconsistent quarterback play. Dotson may not have the size or speed of some of the other top wide receiver prospects, but his route-running and hands are among the best in the draft.
4. David Ojabo, DE, Michigan – Ojabo is a raw but talented pass rusher who has the size and athleticism to be a disruptive force in the NFL. He had 6.5 sacks and 11 tackles for loss last season, despite playing in just seven games. While he still has a lot of room to grow as a player, Ojabo’s potential could be too enticing for teams to pass up in the first round.
5. Breece Hall, RB, Iowa State – Hall is a powerful and explosive running back who rushed for over 1,500 yards and 21 touchdowns last season. He has excellent vision and balance, and is a threat to break a big play every time he touches the ball. While running back is not typically a position that is valued in the first round, Hall’s production and talent could make him a surprise pick on draft day.

While these players may not be household names yet, they have the potential to make a big impact in the NFL. With the draft just around the corner, it will be interesting to see which teams decide to take a chance on these potential first-round surprises.