2023 NFL Mock Draft: Fifth Edition

Here is the fifth edition of my 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

1. Carolina Panthers (from Chicago Bears)- Bryce Young, Quarterback, Alabama: It felt obvious that the Bears were going to trade down and they took advantage of a god father offer the Panthers presented them. Now the pressure is on the Panthers to nail this pick and select the quarterback they feel will put them over the top. Young is the most polished quarterback prospect in the draft due to his upside and stability sans his height.

2. Houston Texans- CJ Stroud, Quarterback, Ohio State: The Texans get the second best option in terms of quarterback prospects. Stroud is super intriguing as a prospect and actually would be a solid fit for new Texans OC Bobby Slowik due to his great accuracy and how he can layer the ball around defenders. Stroud was terrific in his Pro Day and there is some talk that the Panthers can take him at one.

3. Arizona Cardinals- Will Anderson, Edge, Alabama: The Cardinals get a slam dunk here with landing perhaps the best player in the draft with Anderson. With JJ Watt retired, the Cards have a need in their pass rush and they get themselves a stud that will give them stability at that position.

4. Indianapolis Colts- Anthony Richardson, Quarterback, Florida: Richardson has been heavily linked to the Colts and it's no secret that the Colts are looking for yet another quarterback. Richardson showed flashes this past year at Florida and sans a strong Pro Day, I'm not sold that he will have the success as Young or Stroud at the next level.

5. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver Broncos)- Tyree Wilson, Edge, Texas Tech: Wilson is someone who's stock is rising with the draft coming in two weeks. The Seahawks go with Wilson over Jalen Carter due to Wilson's explosiveness on the edge, which the team has lacked and Carter's off field issues.

6. Detroit Lions (from Los Angeles Rams)- Jalen Carter, Defensive Tackle, Georgia: A player that was thought of for the first overall pick in the winter falling to six would be a massive deal and a steal for the Lions. Carter has drawn comps to Aaron Donald do to being a dominant disruptor up front.

7. Las Vegas Raiders- Devon Witherspoon, Cornerback, Illinois: There were rumors about the Raiders going with a quarterback or even trading back, but here I have them addressing a need in corner. Witherspoon is super polished and super tough, but there are questions about his frame.

8. Atlanta Hawks- Nolan Smith, Edge, Georgia: Smith has been getting a lot of buzz in terms of possible selections here. Smith is an absolute athletic freak and he dominated the combine, which is sky-rocketing his stock.

9. Chicago Bears (from Carolina Panthers)- Paris Johnson, Offensive Tackle, Ohio State: The Bears trading down will benefit the franchise from an assets standpoint in the long run. Here, they address an important need on the line with Johnson, who is arguably the best left tackle in this class due to his ability to block and the power he provides.

10. Philadelphia Eagles (from New Orleans Saints)- Lukas Van Ness, Edge, Iowa: It's rare to see a Super Bowl team pick in the top ten in the draft, but here we are! Van Ness in the top ten seems like a reach, but his stock is rising with a week and a half to go until the draft. Van Ness is a raw prospect who never started in college and coming to the Eagles would benefit him due to the veterans that can mentor him.

11. Tennessee Titans- Will Levis, Quarterback, Kentucky: The Titans are a complete unknown when it comes to the draft as they are front and center of rumors in terms of teams likely to trade up. Say they stay at 11, maybe they take a swing at Levis, who didn't have a strong season, but many teams like.

12. Houston Texans (from Cleveland Browns)- Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Wide Receiver, Ohio State: The Texans did a great job in the DeShaun Watson trade and it could change their franchise for the better. The Texans need youth everywhere and it would be fun for Stroud and Smith-Njigba to be reunited in the pros.

13. New York Jets- Broderick Jones, Offensive Tackle, Georgia: It would be surprising if a tackle isn't the pick here, unless the pick is moved for Aaron Rodgers. Jones has a great history against strong SEC offensive lines, which bolds well for the Jets, who badly need a tackle.

14. New England Patriots- Christian Gonzalez, Cornerback, Oregon: If Gonzalez falls this far, I do not see Bill Belichick passing up the opportinuty to get a future CB1. Gonzalez has the size and strength to be successful, but his run support needs improvement.

15. Green Bay Packers- Peter Skoronski, Offensive Tackle, Northwestern: This would be a great selection for a Packers team that is starting a rebuild. Skoronski is a perfect plug-and-play player who will help protect Jordan Love.

16. Washington Commanders- Joey Porter, Cornerback, Penn State: The Commanders are a possible dark horse candidate to possibly trade up to grab a quarterback, but I don't see it. Porter is a very physical player and would fit nicely in today's league, but does get too handsy at times.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers- Deonte Banks, Cornerback, Maryland: It would be somewhat surprising if the Steelers pick isn't a tackle or a corner. Banks put together a really good season in college and is big and physical who can match up with NFL receivers.

18. Detroit Lions- Bijan Robinson, Running Back, Texas: This would be some selection for a Lions team that is poised to make a jump in the NFC North. Robinson is probably the best first round running back since Saquon Barkley and he would be a complete game changer for the Lions.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Darnell Wright, Offensive Tackle, Tennessee: The Buccaneers are another team that is suddenly in a rebuild too. Wright's stock rose after a strong Senior Bowl and a great season in Tennessee as he can be picked in the first half of the first round.

20. Seattle Seahawks- Myles Murphy, Edge, Clemson: Murphy falling all the way down here would be a steal for the Seahawks. A hamstring injury is what can cause a fall for Murphy, but he is fast and has the size to be an impactful pass rusher.

21. Los Angeles Chargers- Zay Flowers, Wide Receiver, Boston College: It seems likely that the Chargers will take an offensive skill player of some sort here. Flowers had excellent production this past season and is an electric player to watch.

22. Baltimore Ravens- Quentin Johnston, Wide Receiver, TCU: Whether Lamar Jackson is back or not, receiver is a major need for the Ravens and that is with the addition of Odell Beckham Jr, who has not been healthy for a full season in over five years. Johnston had a big season which increased his stock and his hands and routes are excellent.

23. Minnesota Vikings- Jordan Addison, Wide Receiver, USC: The Vikings should really go with a defensive player here, but Addison would be a big add to their offense. They do have a need at the position with Adam Thielen being released and Addison can play both outside and in the slot.

24. Jacksonville Jaguars- Bryan Breese, Defensive Tackle, Clemson: I personally feel that the Jaguars need to nail this pick because they are very close to contending. Breese had a tough few years on and off the field but he is excellent at stopping the run and his game can be improved on.

25. New York Giants- Emmanuel Forbes, Cornerback, Mississippi State: With arguably the three best receivers off the board, the Giants go with a corner in Forbes. He is excellent in coverage and is super fast, which bolds well for a team that has to defend good offenses in its own division.

26. Dallas Cowboys- Michael Mayer, Tight End, Notre Dame: This would be Jerry Jones & Company's absolute dream scenario. Mayer is an absolute stud and has the ability to stretch the field. The thought of Mayer in this Cowboys offense is scary.

27.  Buffalo Bills- Drew Sanders, Linebacker, Arkansas: The Bills do not have any obvious needs, but linebacker here would be wise with the loss of Tremaine Edmunds. Sanders is coming off a big season in college and his versatility is what can get him drafted in the first round.

28. Cincinnati Bengals- Darnell Washington, Tight End, Georgia: The Bengals can go in any direction they'd like to and Washington here does make some sense. The team did sign Irv Smith Jr, but he's coming off a big injury and Washington here would be fun as he's a good blocker too.

29. New Orleans Saints (from San Francisco 49ers via Miami Dolphins/Denver Broncos)- Calijah Kancey, Defensive Tackle, Pittsburgh: It would be surprising if the Saints didn't go with a pass rusher here. Kancey is undersized, but he has a high motor and has shown to be consistent at pressuring.

30. Philadelphia Eagles- Brian Branch, Safety, Alabama: The Eagles with their second first rounder I have going with the drafts best safety in Branch. He excels off the edge, tackles well, and is solid in coverage.

31. Kansas City Chiefs- Will McDonald IV, Edge, Iowa State: McDonald is a hot name that could end up going late in the first round. He is a super explosive player with a high ceiling and the Chiefs can use a player like him in their pass rush.

2023 NFL Mock Draft: Fourth Edition

 Here is the fourth edition of my 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

1. Carolina Panthers (from Chicago Bears)- Bryce Young, Quarterback, Alabama: It felt obvious that the Bears were going to trade down and they took advantage of a god father offer the Panthers presented them. Now the pressure is on the Panthers to nail this pick and select the quarterback they feel will put them over the top. Young is the most polished quarterback prospect in the draft due to his upside and stability sans his height.

2. Houston Texans- CJ Stroud, Quarterback, Ohio State: The Texans get the second best option in terms of quarterback prospects. Stroud is super intriguing as a prospect and actually would be a solid fit for new Texans OC Bobby Slowik due to his great accuracy and how he can layer the ball around defenders. Stroud was terrific in his Pro Day and there is some talk that the Panthers can take him at one.

3. Arizona Cardinals- Will Anderson, Edge Rusher, Alabama: The Cardinals get a slam dunk here with landing perhaps the best player in the draft with Anderson. With JJ Watt retired, the Cards have a need in their pass rush and they get themselves a stud that will give them stability at that position.

4. Indianapolis Colts- Anthony Richardson, Quarterback, Florida: Richardson has been heavily linked to the Colts and it's no secret that the Colts are looking for yet another quarterback. Richardson showed flashes this past year at Florida and sans a strong Pro Day, I'm not sold that he will have the success as Young or Stroud at the next level.

5. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver Broncos)- Jalen Carter, Defensive Tackle, Georgia: This would be an excellent pick for the Seahawks, but you can make a case for a quarterback or even a trade here. Carter you can make a case is one of the best three players in this entire draft, but his off field issues can hurt his stock.

6. Detroit Lions (from Los Angeles Rams)- Christian Gonzalez, Cornerback, Oregon: The Lions are the early favorites to win the NFC North and they need to make the defensive side of the ball better to further that notion. Gonzalez has the size and strength to be successful, but his run support needs improvement.

7. Las Vegas Raiders- Tyree Wilson, Edge, Texas Tech: The Raiders have to be doing jumping jacks if this scenario presents itself, sans having a need in the secondary. Wilson is getting a lot of buzz to potentially be getting picked as high as fifth due to his speed, athleticism, and raw potential.

8. Atlanta Falcons- Myles Murphy, Edge, Clemson: Murphy being the selection here might be a little bit of a reach sans the position of need, but a trade down could be likely if the scenario presents itseld. Murphy is an explosive player with great speed and athleticism and also is versatile.

9. Chicago Bears (from Carolina Panthers)- Paris Johnson, Offensive Tackle, Ohio State: The Bears trading down will benefit the franchise from an assets standpoint in the long run. Here, they address an important need on the line with Johnson, who is arguably the best left tackle in this class due to his ability to block and the power he provides.

10. Philadelphia Eagles (from New Orleans Saints)- Lukas Van Ness, Edge, Iowa: It's rare to see a Super Bowl team pick in the top ten in the draft, but here we are! Van Ness in the top ten seems like a reach, but his stock is rising with a week and a half to go until the draft. Van Ness is a raw prospect who never started in college and coming to the Eagles would benefit him due to the veterans that can mentor him.

11. Tennessee Titans- Will Levis, Quarterback, Kentucky: The Titans are a complete unknown when it comes to the draft as they are front and center of rumors in terms of teams likely to trade up. Say they stay at 11, maybe they take a swing at Levis, who didn't have a strong season, but many teams like.

12. Houston Texans (from Cleveland Browns)- Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Wide Receiver, Ohio State: The Texans did a great job in the DeShaun Watson trade and it could change their franchise for the better. The Texans need youth everywhere and it would be fun for Stroud and Smith-Njigba to be reunited in the pros.

13. New York Jets- Peter Skoronski, Offensive Tackle, Northwestern: Let's say the Jets keep this pick and trade something else to get Aaron Rodgers. The team badly needs help on the offensive line and Skoronski is a perfect plug-and-play player who will help protect presumptively Rodgers.

14. New England Patriots- Devon Witherspoon, Cornerback, Illinois: Witherspoon falling to 14 would be a steal for the Pats, who should go with the best player available for their selection. Witherspoon has questions about his frame, but has great fluidity in his hips and has a good technical game.

15. Green Bay Packers- Michael Mayer, Tight End, Notre Dame: Personally, the Packers should go with a combination of need and best player available now that they are in somewhat of a rebuild since Aaron Rodgers is almost out the door. Mayer would be a great big target in Jordan Love's first full season starting due to his size and ability to stretch the field.

16. Washington Commanders- Joey Porter, Cornerback, Penn State: The Commanders are a possible dark horse candidate to possibly trade up to grab a quarterback, but I don't see it. Porter is a very physical player and would fit nicely in today's league, but does get too handsy at times.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers- Broderick Jones, Offensive Tackle, Georgia: The Steelers have an interesting choice here whether to go offensive line or cornerback, but getting Jones to fall to 17 is a steal. Jones has a great college history going against talented SEC defenses and he'll do that to help protect Kenny Pickett too.

18. Detroit Lions- Bryan Breese, Defensive Tackle, Clemson: The Lions should double down on defense with their two picks and here I have them going with Breese to beef their front seven. Breese had a rough two years on and off the field and when he's right, he's an excellent run stopper and has upside to improve his game in other areas.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Nolan Smith, Edge, Georgia: The Buccaneers are another team that is in a defacto rebuild too and can use youth everywhere. Smith is an absolute athletic freak and he dominated the combine, which helps his stock. He also would fit well in Todd Bowles's defense.

20. Seattle Seahawks- Deonte Banks, Cornerback, Maryland: There is some buzz that the Seahawks can go receiver here, but there are more pressing needs on this roster. Banks put together a really good season in college and is big and physical who can match up with NFL receivers.

21. Los Angeles Chargers- Jaylin Hyatt, Wide Receiver, Tennessee: This is the point of the draft I can see a big run on receivers. Hyatt's biggest strength is his ability to stretch the field and he just gives Justin Herbert yet another weapon to throw to and gives this offense needed space.

22. Baltimore Ravens- Quentin Johnston, Wide Receiver, TCU: Whether Lamar Jackson is back or not, receiver is a major need for the Ravens and that is with the addition of Odell Beckham Jr, who has not been healthy for a full season in over five years. Johnston had a big season which increased his stock and his hands and routes are excellent.

23. Minnesota Vikings- Cam Smith, Cornerback, South Carolina: The Vikings badly need help in their secondary, even with the addition of Byron Murphy so this selection makes a ton of sense. Smith brings explosiveness and physicality to Brian Flores's defense and has potential to be more well-rounded and polished.

24. Jacksonville Jaguars- Darnell Wright, Offensive Tackle, Tennessee: The Jaguars are close to contending and you can make a case that they have to nail this selection. Offensive line is an area of need with Jawaan Taylor gone to the Chiefs and Wright is someone that can go higher than this due to his raw power and good movement skills.

25. New York Giants- Zay Flowers, Wide Receiver, Boston College: With Daniel Jones now handsomely paid, the Giants need to keep giving talent around Jones to help him and the team succeed. Flowers had excellent production this past season and is an electric player to watch.

26. Dallas Cowboys- Darnell Washington, Tight End, Washington: Washington is getting a lot of late first round buzz of late and the Cowboys are a good match considering they lost Dalton Schultz to the in-state Texans. Washington has the size and athleticism to succeed and also is an excellent blocker.

27. Buffalo Bills- Drew Sanders, Linebacker, Arkansas: The Bills do not have any obvious needs, but linebacker here would be wise with the loss of Tremaine Edmunds. Sanders is coming off a big season in college and his versatility is what can get him drafted in the first round.

28. Cincinnati Bengals- Bijan Robinson, Running Back, Alabama: This pick would make a ton of sense considering the future of Joe Mixon being up in the air. Robinson is a top ten talent in this entire draft and he would be a game changer offensively for Joe Burrow and that Bengals offense.

29. New Orleans Saints (from San Francisco 49ers via Miami Dolphins/Denver Broncos)- Keion White, Edge, Georgia Tech: It feels like the Saints most likely will go with pass rush here, which is a need. White is someone that could be picked at the end of this round or early second as he can play on the inside on downs too.

30. Philadelphia Eagles- O'Cyrus Torrence, Guard, Florida: The Eagles can go a numerous different directions here, including a trade down. Torrence would be a decent selection for the Birds as he's NFL ready with his size and power and he'll slide in the spot vacated by Issac Seumalo.

31. Kansas City Chiefs- Dawand Jones, Offensive Tackle, Ohio State: Jones is somebody who's a fast riser with a week and a half left until the draft. Jones has drawn comparisons to former Chief Orlando Brown due to his size and athleticism. He also improved as a blocker this past season and he would fit nicely on the right side.

2023 NFL Mock Draft: Third Edition

Here is the second edition of my 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

1. Carolina Panthers (from Chicago Bears)- CJ Stroud, Quarterback, Ohio State: A lot of possible smokescreens are rumors about the Panthers taking Stroud over Bryce Young. A ton of Panthers employees favor Stroud, who would fit Frank Reich's offense with his athleticism and good pocket passing.

2. Houston Texans- Bryce Young, Quarterback, Alabama: A lot of people had this selection mocked before the Bears traded the first pick away, but they'll pick the top quarterback that the Panthers do not pick. Young falling to the Texans would be a dream scenario as he's the most polished quarterback of the draft, sans size issues.

3. Arizona Cardinals- Will Anderson, Edge Rusher, Alabama: The Cardinals get a slam dunk here with landing perhaps the best player in the draft with Anderson. With JJ Watt retired, the Cards have a need in their pass rush and they get themselves a stud that will give them stability at that position.

4. Indianapolis Colts- Anthony Richardson, Quarterback, Florida: Richardson has been heavily linked to the Colts and it's no secret that the Colts are looking for yet another quarterback. Richardson showed flashes this past year at Florida and sans a strong Pro Day, I'm not sold that he will have the success as Young or Stroud at the next level.

5. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver Broncos)- Tyree Wilson, Edge Rush, Texas Tech: Wilson is someone who's stock is rising with the draft coming in two weeks. The Seahawks go with Wilson over Jalen Carter due to Wilson's explosiveness on the edge, which the team has lacked and Carter's off field issues.

6. Detroit Lions (from Los Angeles Rams)- Jalen Carter, Defensive Tackle, Georgia: A player that was thought of for the first overall pick in the winter falling to six would be a massive deal and a steal for the Lions. Carter has drawn comps to Aaron Donald do to being a dominant disruptor up front.

7. Las Vegas Raiders- Devon Witherspoon, Cornerback, Illinois: There are rumors about the Raiders going with a quarterback, but here I have them addressing a need in corner. Witherspoon is super polished and super tough, but there are questions about his frame.

8. Atlanta Falcons- Myles Murphy, Edge Rush, Clemson: The Falcons have holes all over their roster, especially on defense. Murphy's stock is rising (sans a hamstring injury that kept him out of the combine) as he has the quickness, speed, and size to be an impactful pass rusher.

9. Chicago Bears (from Carolina Panthers)- Peter Skoronski, Offensive Tackle, Northwestern: The Bears trading down will benefit the franchise from an assets standpoint in the long run. Here, they address an important need on the line with Skoronski, who is a plug-and-play prospect who will help protect Justin Fields right away.

10. Philadelphia Eagles (from New Orleans Saints)- Paris Johnson, Offensive Tackle, Ohio State: The Eagles can go in any direction here. Johnson does make sense with their suddenly aging offensive line as Johnson brings more youth and power to a line that needs it long term.

11. Tennessee Titans- Will Levis, Quarterback, Kentucky: The Titans are a complete unknown when it comes to the draft as they are front and center of rumors in terms of teams likely to trade up. Say they stay at 11, maybe they take a swing at Levis, who didn't have a strong season, but many teams like.

12. Houston Texans (from Cleveland Browns)- Jordan Addison, Wide Receiver, USC: This would be an excellent pick for the Texans as they land the draft's best receiver in this mock. Addison has the speed and the ability to stretch the field and he and Bryce Young would be a dream haul for the Texans.

13. New York Jets- Bryan Breese, Defensive Tackle, Clemson: All the talk in Jets land is when will the Aaron Rodgers trade become official. Let's say they keep this pick, Breese would be a nice pick considering they have a need at the position alongside Quinnen Williams as Breese has a lot of potential sans a rough few years on and off the field.

14. New England Patriots- Christian Gonzalez, Cornerback, Oregon: Gonzalez falling all the way down to 14 would be a steal for the Pats, who have needs in a lot of roster areas. Gonzalez has the size and strength to be successful, but his run support needs improvement.

15. Green Bay Packers- Broderick Jones, Offensive Tackle, Georgia: Now that Aaron Rodgers is almost out the door, the Packers are now rebuilding. Jones would be a solid pick here with having a good college history, to help protect Jordan Love, who is in his first full season as a starting quarterback.

16. Washignton Commanders- Joey Porter, Cornerback, Penn State: The Commanders are a possible dark horse candidate to possibly trade up to grab a quarterback, but I don't see it. Porter is a very physical player and would fit nicely in today's league, but does get too handsy at times.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers- Darnell Wright, Offensive Tackle, Tennessee: The Steelers have an interesting choice here whether to go offensive line or cornerback. Wright's stock rose after a strong Senior Bowl and a great season in Tennessee as he can be picked in the first half of the first round.

18. Detroit Lions- Dalton Kincaid, Tight End, Utah: The Lions should go defense here, but tight end does make some sense as they have to replace the production they lost from TJ Hockenson. Kincaid here would be a reach as Michael Mayer would have been a better choice, but Kincaid would be a super, physical target in this offense.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Nolan Smith, Edge Rush, Georgia: The Buccaneers are another team that is now suddenly rebuilding and I have them going pass rush to bring them some needed youth at the position. Smith is an absolute freak and he dominated the combine, which helps his stock.

20. Seattle Seahawks- Quentin Johnston, Wide Receiver, TCU: The Seahawks taking a receiver here would be somewhat surprising, but it's becoming more likely. Johnston had a big season which increased his stock and his hands and routes are excellent.

21. Los Angeles Chargers- Michael Mayer, Tight End, Notre Dame: This pick would make sense for the Chargers as they could use an upgrade at the position. Mayer is also an excellent blocker and he has drown lofty comparisons to Rob Gronkowski and Travis Kelce.

22. Baltimore Ravens- Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Wide Receiver, Ohio State: Whether Lamar Jackson returns or not, wide receiver is a need for this Ravens squad sans signing Odell Beckham Jr. Smith-Njigba could end up the most talented receiver in this draft sans sitting out pretty much the entire season.

23. Minnesota Vikings- Lukas Van Ness, Edge Rush, Iowa: The Vikings are a little bit of a Wild Card here as they can go in any direction they'd like. Van Ness fills a need on the edge with that unit getting older and has the upside to develop into a three-down defender.

24. Jacksonville Jaguars- Deonte Banks, Cornerback, Maryland: The Jaguars are close to contending and you can make a case that they have to nail this selection. Banks put together a really good season in college and is big and physical who can match up with NFL receivers.

25. New York Giants- John Michael Schmitz, Center, Minnesota: Schmitz is getting a lot of buzz heading into the draft as he's one of the top interior line prospects. Nick Gates was a remarkable story coming back from that injury he sustained two seasons ago, but the position you can argue should be upgraded.

26. Dallas Cowboys- Zay Flowers, Wide Receiver, Boston College: Flowers is getting a ton of first round buzz and many are linking him to the Giants with the pick prior. Flowers had excellent production this past season and is an electric player to watch.

27. Buffalo Bills- Bijan Robinson, Running Back, Texas: This would be among the sexier selections of the first round. Robinson would probably the best first round running back since Saquon Barkley as he would be an upgrade at the position and change the Bills offense.

28. Cincinnati Bengals- Anton Harrison, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma: The Bengals offensive line was exposed at times throughout the season and in the playoffs (some due to injuries) which makes this pick one that makes sense. Harrison almost went back to school on a big NIL deal, but he will be highly touted in this draft for needy offensive line teams.

29. New Orleans Saints (from San Francisco 49ers via Miami Dolphins/Denver Broncos)- Keion White, Edge Rush, Georgia Tech: It feels like the Saints most likely will go with pass rush here, which is a need. White is someone that could be picked at the end of this round or early second as he can play on the inside on downs too.

30. Philadelphia Eagles- Adetomiwa Adebawore, Defensive Tackle, Northwestern: Taking Adebawore here would be a reach, but it does fill a need with the loss of Javon Hargrave. He can also play on the edge as the Eagles may see a poor mans Brandon Graham here with his athleticism and quickness.

31. Kansas City Chiefs- Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Edge Rusher, Kansas State: The Chiefs really nailed their draft last season and that is apart of the recipe for still being in contention in the Patrick Mahomes era. Anudike-Uzomah is a fast riser who was super productive in college sans questions about his availability and development.

2023 NFL Mock Draft: Second Edition

 Here is the second edition of my 2023 NFL Mock Draft.

1. Carolina Panthers (from Chicago Bears)- Bryce Young, Quarterback, Alabama: It felt obvious that the Bears were going to trade down and they took advantage of a god father offer the Panthers presented them. Now the pressure is on the Panthers to nail this pick and select the quarterback they feel will put them over the top. Young is the most polished quarterback prospect in the draft due to his upside and stability sans his height.

2. Houston Texans- CJ Stroud, Quarterback, Ohio State: The Texans get the second best option in terms of quarterback prospects. Stroud is super intriguing as a prospect as he was terrific in his Pro Day and there is some talk that the Panthers can take him at one.

3. Arizona Cardinals- Will Anderson, Edge Rusher, Alabama: The Cardinals get a slam dunk here with landing perhaps the best player in the draft with Anderson. With JJ Watt retired, the Cards have a need in their pass rush and they get themselves a stud that will give them stability at that position.

4. Indianapolis Colts- Anthony Richardson, Quarterback, Florida: Richardson has been heavily linked to the Colts and it's no secret that the Colts are looking for yet another quarterback. Richardson showed flashes this past year at Florida and sans a strong Pro Day, I'm not sold that he will have the success as Young or Stroud at the next level.

5. Seattle Seahawks (from Denver Broncos)- Jalen Carter, Defensive Tackle, Georgia: This would be an excellent pick for the Seahawks, but you can make a case for a quarterback or even a trade here. Carter you can make a case is one of the best three players in this entire draft, but his off field issues can hurt his stock.

6. Detroit Lions (from Los Angeles Rams)- Tyree Wilson, Edge Rusher, Texas Tech: The Lions absolutely need to go defense with one of their two picks and rushing the passer is something they lacked last season. Wilson is raw prospect that may need some time to put it all together.

7. Las Vegas Raiders- Paris Johnson, Offensive Tackle, Ohio State: It's no secret that the Raiders need help badly on their offensive line to protect new quarterback Jimmy Garappolo, who doesn't consistently stays healthy. Johnson is a plug-and-play prospect who would make an impact immediately.

8. Atlanta Falcons- Christian Gonzalez, Cornerback, Oregon: The Falcons have several holes all around their roster, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Gonzalez has the size and strength to be successful, but his run support needs improvement.

9. Chicago Bears (from Carolina Panthers)- Broderick Jones, Offensive Tackle, Georgia: The Bears trading down will benefit the franchise from an assets standpoint in the long run. Here, they address an important need on the line with Jones, who excelled against tough SEC competition while in college.

10. Philadelphia Eagles (from New Orleans Saints)- Devon Witherspoon, Cornerback, Illinois: You don't see a Super Bowl representative with a top ten pick in the draft often, but here we are. An area the Eagles can upgrade is their secondary and Witherspoon is somebody who's stock is rising, sans questions about the slight frame.

11. Tennessee Titans- Will Levis, Quarterback, Kentucky: The Titans are a complete unknown when it comes to the draft as they are front and center of rumors in terms of teams likely to trade up. Say they stay at 11, maybe they take a swing at Levis, who didn't have a strong season, but many teams like.

12. Houston Texans (from Cleveland Browns)- Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Wide Receiver, Ohio State: The Texans did a great job in the DeShaun Watson trade and it could change their franchise for the better. The Texans need youth everywhere and it would be fun for Stroud and Smith-Njigba to be reunited in the pros.

13. New York Jets- Peter Skoronski, Offensive Tackle, Northwestern: Let's say the Jets keep this pick and trade something else to get Aaron Rodgers. The team badly needs help on the offensive line and Skoronski is a perfect plug-and-play player who will help protect presumptively Rodgers.

14. New England Patriots- Darnell Wright, Offensive Tackle, Tennessee: The Patriots have a lot of holes on their roster and that's something that usually hasn't been said over the past quarter century. Wright's stock is heavily rising to the point he can be taken in the first half of the first round due to his strong Senior Bowl.

15. Green Bay Packers- Myles Murphy, Edge Rusher, Clemson: Now that Aaron Rodgers is almost out the door, the team is now rebuilding. The Packers must go with the best available player strategy here and Murphy is an explosive player and he would be fun alongside Rashan Gary.

16. Washington Commanders- Joey Porter, Cornerback, Penn State: The Commanders are a possible dark horse candidate to possibly trade up to grab a quarterback, but I don't see it. Porter is a very physical player and would fit nicely in today's league, but does get too handsy at times.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers- Cam Smith, Cornerback, South Carolina: The Steelers have an obvious need at cornerback and they have quite a few to choose from. Smith brings explosiveness and physicality and has potential to be more well-rounded and polished.

18. Detroit Lions- Bryan Breese, Defensive Tackle, Clemson: The Lions are a dark horse to possibly deal both (or one of these picks plus another) and Jared Goff for Lamar Jackson, but let's say they keep this pick. The Lions need help all over their defense and Breese has so much potential sans not having an easy last two seasons on and off the field.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- O'Cyrus Torrence, Guard, Florida: The Bucs are another team that is now somewhat in a rebuild and they need youth in a lot of areas. Torrence makes sense here with a need at the position and even better is that he was dominant all season, in workouts, the Senior Bowl, and his Pro Day.

20. Seattle Seahawks- Nolan Smith, Defensive End, Georgia: This mock I have the Seahawks doubling down on their pass rush, which was their biggest weakness last season. Smith is an absolute freak and the thought of him and his UGA teammate Carter on the same pass rush in the pros is intimidating.

21. Los Angeles Chargers- Bijan Robinson, Running Back, Texas: This is a popular mock draft pick due to Austin Eckler's trade request. Robinson is a top ten talent in this entire draft and he is a game changer offensively for a lot of teams.

22. Baltimore Ravens- Quentin Johnston, Wide Receiver, TCU: Whether Lamar Jackson is back or not, receiver is a major need for the Ravens. Johnston had a big season which increased his stock and his hands and routes are excellent.

23. Minnesota Vikings- Deonte Banks, Cornerback, Maryland: The Vikings biggest need is in their secondary and they land someone who can go in the late teens. Banks put together a really good season in college and is big and physical who can match up with NFL receivers.

24. Jacksonville Jaguars- Brian Branch, Safety, Alabama: The Jags are a team that's close to Super Bowl contention and they should go with some combination of need and best player available. Branch is the best safety in this draft class and is a great off the edge, can tackle, and is solid in coverage.

25. New York Giants- Jordan Addison, Wide Receiver, USC: Now that Daniel Jones is handsomely paid, the Giants must put around the proper talent around him to ensure he's worth the money. Addison has the speed and the ability to stretch the field and would instantly become the WR1 0n this roster.

26. Dallas Cowboys- Sam LaPorta, Tight End, Iowa: The Hawkeyes produce tight ends at a high rate and the Cowboys have a need at the position with Dalton Schultz bolting to Houston. LaPorta had an excellent Pro Day and his tape was impressive considering how anemic Iowa's offense was last season.

27. Buffalo Bills- Jack Campbell, Linebacker, Iowa: The Bills do not have any obvious needs, but linebacker here would be wise with the loss of Tremaine Edmunds. Campbell is strong against the run, but needs to improve against the pass, which the Bills helped Edmunds do.

28. Cincinnati Bengals- Anton Harrison, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma: The Bengals offensive line was exposed at times throughout the season and in the playoffs (some due to injuries) which makes this pick one that makes sense. Harrison almost went back to school on a big NIL deal, but he will be highly touted in this draft for needy offensive line teams.

29. New Orleans Saints (from San Francisco 49ers via Miami Dolphins/Denver Broncos)- Felix Anudike-Uzomah, Edge Rusher, Kansas State: The consensus is that the Saints will go with pass rush with this selection. Anudike-Uzomah is a fast riser who was super productive in college sans questions about his availability and development.

30. Philadelphia Eagles- Calijah Kancey, Defensive Tackle, Pittsburgh: This pick makes a lot of sense for the Eagles because of the loss of Javon Hargrave. Kancey is under sized, but he has a high motor and has shown to be consistent at pressuring.

31. Kansas City Chiefs- Dalton Kincaid, Tight End, Utah: I don't love the idea of the Chiefs drafting a tight end in the first round due areas on their roster that I believe could be more useful sans being Super Bowl Champs. Kincaid was a solid player in college and would add another weapon for Patrick Mahomes and that offense.