This comprehensive analysis delves into the intricacies of the NFL mock draft phenomenon. We explore the art of predicting team selections, the rising prospects capturing the attention of scouts, and the myriad factors that influence the draft order.
From highly touted quarterbacks to explosive playmakers on both sides of the ball, this article aims to shed light on the upcoming NFL Draft and its potential impact on the league.
As the excitement builds up and anticipation reaches a crescendo, the annual NFL Draft looms on the horizon, offering fans a glimpse into the future of professional football. With each passing year, the draft process becomes more enthralling as teams strategically position themselves to secure the most promising young talents in the sport.
Enter the realm of the NFL mock draft—a captivating exercise that fuels speculation, ignites debates, and captivates football enthusiasts. While it may not possess the certainty of the actual draft, the mock draft serves as a captivating forecast, giving fans a chance to envision potential scenarios and how their favourite teams might fare.
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What is NFL Mock Draft
The 2023 NFL Draft has arrived, and Thursday’s first round promises to be wild and unpredictable in several ways.
That is, once the Carolina Panthers presumably acquire Alabama quarterback Bryce Young as their new franchise quarterback. Young stands as the overwhelming favourite in betting odds to be the first overall pick. Beyond that, the following picks are shrouded in uncertainty.
Over the past week, Kentucky quarterback Will Levis dominated discussions surrounding the NFL Draft, as he surprisingly emerged as the betting favourite to be selected second by the Houston Texans. However, that hype has waned, with Will Anderson, C.J. Stroud, and Tyree Wilson surpassing him in the betting market for the second pick.
Apart from the Texans’ decision, there remains uncertainty as to whether the Arizona Cardinals will retain their third overall pick or trade it.
With so much at stake, our Director of Predictive Analytics, Sean Koerner, has meticulously analyzed the variables to create his final mock for the 2023 NFL Draft.
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Why is the NFL Mock Draft Crucial
The NFL mock draft holds significant importance for several reasons.
Firstly, it serves as a valuable tool for teams and their decision-makers. Mock drafts allow them to simulate different scenarios and evaluate potential outcomes based on their team needs, available talent, and draft positioning. It helps them strategize and make informed decisions when it comes to selecting players who can contribute to the team’s success.
Secondly, mock drafts generate excitement and anticipation among fans. It gives them a glimpse into the potential future of their favourite team and sparks discussions and debates about the best picks and overall draft strategies. Mock drafts fuel the passion and engagement of fans leading up to the actual draft.
Furthermore, mock drafts allow media outlets and analysts to share their expertise and insights. They offer a platform for discussion, predictions, and analysis, enhancing the overall coverage and understanding of the draft process.
Mock drafts create a buzz in the media and generate interest among fans who eagerly follow the predictions and projections.
Additionally, mock drafts have become a popular form of entertainment and competition. Fans and experts alike create their own mock drafts, participate in prediction contests, and engage in friendly debates about the accuracy of their selections. It adds an extra layer of excitement and engagement to the pre-draft period.
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Lastly, the NFL mock draft serves as a historical record and reference point. It allows us to look back and evaluate the accuracy of previous predictions, showcasing the successes and misses of draft experts. It provides valuable insights into the draft process’s evolution and players’ development over time.
In summary, the NFL mock draft is crucial because it aids teams in their decision-making, generates excitement among fans, provides a platform for media analysis, offers entertainment value, and serves as a reference point for evaluating predictions.
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Some of the NFL Draft
1. Pittsburgh Steelers (from Bears)
Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State (6-2, 198 pounds)
The Steelers have a need for a corner opposite newcomer Patrick Peterson. They’ll find it hard to resist meeting that needs with the son of their legendary edge pass rusher from their favourite in-state program. Porter is part of a wave of big, playmaking corners.
2. Arizona Cardinals (from Texans)
Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia (6-2, 207 pounds)
The Cardinals can take this former Scottsdale high school star to help them replace Byron Murphy. His agility and physicality make for a good fit on the back end of Jonathan Gannon’s defence.
3. Detroit Lions (from Cardinals)
Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah (5-9, 184 pounds)
The Lions surprised many by passing on the corner with their two first-round picks after trading Jeff Okudah, so they should prioritise getting an active ball-hawking playmaker here to help complement newcomers Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley.
4. Indianapolis Colts
Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina (6-1, 180 pounds)
The Colts moved on from former Gamecocks standout Stephon Gilmore; they should prioritise a corner after taking a quarterback. Smith is a great value here; he’s another big, physical, aggressive cover corner in this class.
5. Los Angeles Rams
Will Levis, QB, Kentucky (6-3, 229 pounds)
The Rams can also think about more immediate needs, including cornerback after trading Jalen Ramsey, but Levis, with his cannon for an arm and appealing heady traits, seems like the ideal option for Sean McVay to groom behind Matthew Stafford, who could retire in 2024.
6. Pittsburgh Steelers (from Bears)
Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State (6-2, 198 pounds)
The Steelers need an opposite corner newcomer Patrick Peterson, and they will find it hard to resist addressing that need with the son of their legendary edge pass rusher from their favourite in-state program. Porter Jr. belongs to a wave of big, playmaking corners.
7. Arizona Cardinals (from Texans)
Kelee Ringo, CB, Georgia (6-2, 207 pounds)
The Cardinals can select this former Scottsdale high school star to help them replace Byron Murphy. Ringo’s agility and physicality make him a good fit for the back end of Jonathan Gannon’s defence.
8. Detroit Lions (from Cardinals)
Clark Phillips III, CB, Utah (5-9, 184 pounds)
The Lions surprised many by passing on a cornerback with their two first-round picks after trading Jeff Okudah, so they should prioritize adding an active ball-hawking playmaker here to complement newcomers Cameron Sutton and Emmanuel Moseley.
9. Indianapolis Colts
Cam Smith, CB, South Carolina (6-1, 180 pounds)
The Colts moved on from former Gamecocks standout Stephon Gilmore, making a cornerback a high priority after selecting a quarterback. Smith represents great value at this spot and adds another big, physical, aggressive cover corner to this class.
10. Los Angeles Rams
Will Levis, QB, Kentucky (6-3, 229 pounds)
The Rams can also consider their more immediate needs, including cornerback after trading Jalen Ramsey, but Levis, with his cannon for an arm and appealing heady traits, seems like the ideal option for Sean McVay to develop behind Matthew Stafford, who could retire in 2024.
11. Seattle Seahawks (from Broncos)
John Michael Schmitz, C, Minnesota (6-4, 320 pounds)
The Seahawks successfully acquired offensive tackles Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas in last year’s draft. However, they can now address their long-standing void in the middle by actively selecting the best pure centre prospect.
12. Las Vegas Raiders
Drew Sanders, LB, Arkansas (6-4, 235 pounds)
The Raiders bolstered their pass rush with exceptional talent in the first round, and now they can add a different type of player to their front-seven rebuild. Sanders, a special and versatile athlete who excels against the run and can reach the quarterback from the second level, fits the bill perfectly.
13. Carolina Panthers
Jalin Hyatt, WR, Tennessee (6-0, 176 pounds)
The Panthers have acquired Adam Thielen and D.J. Chark to compensate for the departure of D.J. Moore, preceding the selection of Bryce Young. However, they still require a field-stretching vertical deep threat with exceptional speed. The reunion of Hyatt and Young from the SEC would be an ideal match.
14. New Orleans Saints
Brian Branch, S, Alabama (6-0, 190 pounds)
The Saints would benefit from addressing the safety position behind Marcus Maye and Tyrann Mathieu. Branch, a well-rounded defender who stands out with his coverage skills, particularly in the interior, would be an excellent addition.
15.Tennessee Titans
Trenton Simpson, LB, Clemson (6-3, 235 pounds)
The Titans are in need of an active second-level linebacker who can fly around and make plays all over the field. Simpson, another value pick from Clemson’s impressive defence, would fit the bill perfectly.
Green Bay Packers (from Browns through Jets)
Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame (6-5, 249 pounds)
There were rumours of the Packers selecting Mayer in the first round to address their significant need at tight end. However, now they can circle back and actively secure the draft’s most complete tight end as a second-round steal.
New York Jets
Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina (5-9, 171 pounds)
To appease Aaron Rodgers with a new version of Randall Cobb, the Jets actively seek a player who can excel in open-field after-the-catch situations. With his big-play flair and ability to replace Elijah Moore while complementing Garrett Wilson, Downs fits the bill perfectly.
Atlanta Falcons
Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame (6-5, 264 pounds)
After making the luxury pick of running back Bijan Robinson in the first round, the Falcons now turn their attention to rebuilding their defence in a more serious manner. Foskey, a sound and productive pass-rusher, becomes a valuable addition to their roster.
Green Bay Packers
Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M (6-2, 188 pounds)
The Packers recognize the need for complete safety to partner with Darnell Savage. Acquiring Johnson would provide a significant upgrade with his combined skills in run support and coverage.
New England Patriots
Dawand Jones, OT, Ohio State (6-8, 374 pounds)
Having addressed the cornerback need successfully with Christian Gonzalez in the first round, the Patriots actively target Jones as an ideal solution for their significant offensive requirement.
With left tackle Trent Brown approaching 30 and coming off a challenging season, and right tackle Riley Reiff, at 34, being a questionable free-agent addition, Jones brings stability to the offensive line.
Washington Commanders
Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia (6-7, 264 pounds)
Considering Logan Thomas’s uncertainty, the Commanders prioritize the tight-end position to support Sam Howell. Washington’s strength as a run blocker, combined with his potential as a dangerous receiver, make him an ideal addition to their offence.
Detroit Lions
Adetomiwa Adebawore, DT, Northwestern (6-2, 282 pounds)
After selecting a running back and a linebacker in the first round, the Lions actively seek to address their defensive front four in order to provide support for Aidan Hutchinson. Adebawore, a super-athletic inside-outside pass-rusher, becomes crucial in this regard.
Pittsburgh Steelers
O’Cyrus Torrence, G, Florida (6-5, 330 pounds)
Having already upgraded their offensive tackle position with Broderick Jones in the first round, the Steelers continue to strengthen their offensive line to protect Kenny Pickett and create running lanes for Najee Harris. Torrence, who can start opposite newcomer Isaac Seumalo and improve upon the underwhelming James Danels, fits the bill perfectly.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Cody Mauch, OT, North Dakota State (6-5, 302 pounds)
With the release of Donovan Smith, the Buccaneers need a tackle to pair with Tristan Wirfs. Mauch’s toughness and quickness make him an ideal fit for the right side, allowing the Bucs to potentially shift Wirfs to the left side.
Miami Dolphins
Luke Musgrave, TE, Oregon State (6-6, 253 pounds)
Under Mike McDaniel’s offensive scheme, the Dolphins have not prioritized the tight end position. However, Musgrave has the speed, quickness, and route-running ability to change that dynamic. He would complement Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle well, potentially stepping in as a replacement for Mike Gesicki.
Seattle Seahawks
B.J. Ojulari, EDGE, LSU (6-3, 248 pounds)
Having already secured cornerback Devon Witherspoon in the first round, the Seahawks shift their focus to addressing another crucial defensive need: improving their ability to pressure the quarterback. Ojulari, who has been closely evaluated by the Seahawks, becomes a logical choice to enhance their pass rush.
Chicago Bears (from Ravens)
Derick Hall, EDGE, Auburn (6-3, 254 pounds)
With a primary goal of bolstering their pass rush along the defensive front, the Bears actively target Hall after addressing their pass protection needs earlier. Hall’s suddenness and quickness align well with the Bears’ objectives.
Los Angeles Chargers
Tuli Tuipulotu, DT, USC (6-3, 266 pounds)
Tuipulotu’s impressive combination of speed, power, and agility presents an intriguing option as an inside pass-rushing threat for Brandon Staley’s defence. The Chargers see the potential in Tuipulotu to make an impact in disrupting opposing quarterbacks.
Detroit Lions (from Vikings)
Andre Carter II, EDGE, Army (6-7, 256 pounds)
To further bolster their defensive line, the Lions actively seek additional help on the outside. Carter’s production, intelligence, imposing size, and explosive abilities make him an enticing prospect.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Julius Brents, CB, Kansas State (6-3, 198 pounds)
The Jaguars can benefit from upgrading their perimeter coverage. Brents, an impressive-sized physical corner, brings flashes of explosiveness to this class.
New York Giants
Daiyan Henley, LB, Washington State (6-1, 225 pounds)
The Giants have a pressing need for a versatile inside linebacker. Henley emerges as a popular choice due to his speed in stopping the run and his potential to excel in coverage.
Dallas Cowboys
Wanya Morris, OT, Oklahoma (6-5, 307 pounds)
With the desire to reshape their offensive line, the Cowboys set their sights on Morris. His addition provides flexibility and options, especially with rising star Tyler Smith and the ageing Tyron Smith.
Buffalo Bills
Joe Tippmann, G, Wisconsin (6-6, 313 pounds)
Tippmann, Wisconsin’s latest interior offensive line prospect, continues to rise in prominence. He has the potential to eventually replace Mitch Morse at the centre, but in the meantime, he can immediately upgrade the left guard position for the Bills.
Cincinnati Bengals
Jordan Battle, S, Alabama (6-1, 209 pounds)
Following the departure of starting safeties Jessie Bates III (to the Falcons) and Vonn Bell (to the Panthers) in free agency, the Bengals actively seek a well-rounded safety who can make plays in coverage with his speed and quickness. Battle fits the bill perfectly.
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Chicago Bears (from 49ers through Panthers)
Siaki Ika, DT, Baylor (6-3, 335 pounds)
The Bears can further strengthen their defensive front by acquiring a run-stopping nose tackle. Ika’s presence adds size and solidity to their interior defensive line.
the NFL mock draft has provided us with a glimpse into the potential future of the league. It has been a wild and unpredictable journey, with teams making strategic moves to address their needs and secure top talent.
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Throughout the draft, we have seen a mix of exciting prospects from various positions showcasing their skills and potential to impact professionally. From quarterbacks to defensive ends, wide receivers to offensive linemen, each team has carefully considered their choices to build a winning roster.
While this mock draft provides insights and projections, it is important to remember that the actual draft may unfold differently due to trades, last-minute changes, and surprise selections. The beauty of the NFL draft lies in its unpredictability, keeping fans and experts alike on the edge of their seats.
FAQs for NFL Mock Draft
Does the NFL do mock drafts?
Although mock drafts are created for nearly every sport that uses drafts, they are most commonplace for the National Football League.
How does NFL mock draft work?
Mock drafts are essentially live practice. A user can select to enter a draft with anywhere from 8 to 20 users. Once the draft begins, users draft a team. This team only exists until the draft is complete.
What type is the NFL Draft?
The National Football League Draft, also called the NFL Draft or (officially) the Player Selection Meeting, is an annual event which serves as the league’s most common source of player recruitment.
What happens if you don’t make NFL Draft?
Many players who don’t get drafted are still offered opportunities to try out for teams as undrafted free agents. These players attend rookie mini-camps, where they can showcase their skills and potentially earn a spot on a team’s roster.
Does it cost to go to NFL Draft?
The NFL Draft is, somewhat shockingly, free. All fans need to do to attend the event is to register ahead of time, something fans can do here. That’s great for fans because they can spend their budget on travel, lodging, food, and peripheral entertainment while in town.
How many rounds are in the NFL draft?
seven rounds
The draft structure features seven rounds, but that has been the norm for only 30 years. There have been many changes to the draft over the decades. According to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the first draft 1936 had nine rounds, which increased to 10 in 1937.
How do NFL teams draw?
In the National Football League (NFL), a tied game occurs when a regular season game ends with both teams having an equal score after one ten-minute overtime period. Ties have counted as a half-win and half-loss in league standings since 1972; before that, ties were not counted at all.
