2023 NFL mock draft: Chicago Bears trade down multiple times, QBs fill top 10

By Andrew Buller-Russ

·Updated: March 5, 2023

Credit: Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

In the past week, we’ve seen draft stocks rising and falling in the aftermath of the NFL Scouting Combine. For some, they’ve catapulted into the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, while others simply re-established their status as top-rated prospects in this year’s class. Naturally, these events have had an impact on our latest iteration of Sportsnaut’s 2023 NFL mock draft.

While many scouts and draft evaluators will admit that they don’t put muck stock into drills like the 40-yard dash, others will tell you many aspects of the combine are extremely valuable. Whether it’s impressing with your measurables, off-the-charts athleticism, or even crushing the interview process behind the scenes, draft boards are starting to take shape.

The next big phase will be individual Pro Days, with athletes putting on a show for NFL scouts and draft experts as they undergo more physical evaluations. But before we get to that point, it’s time to offer up a fresh mock draft, applying what we learned from this year’s NFL Combine.

2023 NFL mock draft: Colts, Raiders move up for QBs

1. Indianapolis Colts*: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

TRADE: Indianapolis Colts trade 4th, 35th, 79th picks and 2024 1st and 2nd for 1st, 150th and 220th overall picks from Chicago Bears

Bryce Young added all the weight he needed to temporarily erase some of the concerns with his frame. The Indianapolis Colts love him and every trait that Shane Steichen is looking for in a quarterback defines Young. Indianapolis can avoid trading three first-round picks to move up In this scenario, but the cost for acquiring a franchise quarterback will always be high. – MJ

2. Houston Texans: C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State

While Anthony Richardson proved he is the most athletic quarterback at the NFL Combine, C.J. Stroud threw the football better than anyone. In one of the best combine passing performances in years, Stroud demonstrated why he is a high-end prospect. The Houston Texans will need to put great weapons around him, but this is the quarterback you want in Bobby Slowik’s system. – MJ

Related: 2023 NFL Draft QB rankings

3. Arizona Cardinals: Jalen Carter, DL, Georgia

Jalen Carter is the best player in the 2023 NFL Draft, someone teams would even consider trading up to the No. 1 pick to land. Based on the early reporting following his arrest, he’ll still likely be a top-five pick. Making it to No. 3 in our 2023 NFL mock draft, the Arizona Cardinals land a generational talent inside who will be the disruptor Jonathan Gannon needs in the trenches. – MJ

4. Las Vegas Raiders*: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida

TRADE: Las Vegas Raiders trade 7th, 38th overall picks, 2024 2nd and 2025 4th to Chicago Bears for 4th overall and 137th overall picks along with 2024 5th

If the Las Vegas Raiders want their choice of the high-upside quarterbacks, it requires trading up. Anthony Richardson offered the highest upside of any 2023 NFL Draft prospect, a ceiling that might even surpass Josh Allen. This move would be a massive gamble, but Richardson could learn from Josh McDaniels for a year while a veteran like Jimmy Garoppolo runs the offense in 2023. – MJ

5. Seattle Seahawks (via DEN): Will Anderson Jr, EDGE, Alabama

Speaking of ideal outcomes for teams, this is a dream scenario for the Seattle Seahawks. Will Anderson Jr. was the most dominant pass rusher in college football over the last two seasons. He racked up 207 pressures in three seasons at Alabama (PFF). Anderson solves the Seahawks’ pass-rushing issues and his presence would make life even easier for a great cornerback tandem. – MJ

6. Carolina Panthers*: Will Levis, QB, Kentucky

TRADE: Carolina Panthers trade 9th, 39th and 61st picks to Detroit Lions for 6th and 48th overall selections

The Carolina Panthers could take their chances and hope Will Levis falls to them, but it’s never wise to hope a quarterback makes it to you by chance. Levis boasts the strongest arm in the 2023 NFL Draft and he looked accurate during combine drills. While there’s an undeniable risk with him, the Panthers’ offensive line and the presence of Frank Reich and Josh McCown is an ideal fit. – MJ

7. Chicago Bears*: Tyree Wilson, EDGE, Texas Tech

The Chicago Bears want to trade down and it truly might happen twice. In this 2023 NFL mock draft, the board falls perfectly to allow Ryan Poles to move from No. 1 to No. 4 and finally No. 7. In the process, he picks up the 35th, 38th, and 79th in addition to first- and second-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft. After two moves down, Chicago lands a top edge rusher who some even believe could be better than Will Anderson. – MJ

Related: Top NFL free agents 2023

8. Atlanta Falcons: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon

It’s not out of the question that the Atlanta Falcons could package the 8th overall pick and a 2014 first-round selection to land Lamar Jackson. For now, the franchise addresses its secondary with arguably the best cornerback in the draft class. Christian Gonzalez’s athleticism, length and demeanor will pair nicely working opposite of A.J. Terrell. – MJ

Related: NFL defense rankings

9. Detroit Lions*: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois

The Detroit Lions would be wise to move down with so many promising defensive prospects still available on the 2023 NFL Draft big board. Devon Witherspoon shined at Illinois and operating as the No. 1 cornerback in Aaron Glenn’s defense, this team would be good enough to win the NFC North in 2023. – MJ

Related: 2023 NFL Draft rumors

10. Philadelphia Eagles (via NO): Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia

Nolan Smith lit Lucas Oil Stadium on fire with one of the best NFL Combine performances ever. The former Georgia Bulldogs edge rusher is now healthy and his athleticism demonstrates why he was a projected top-10 pick before suffering a torn pec. With the Philadelphia Eagles potentially losing Brandon Graham and Javon Hargrave this offseason, they need a dominant pass rusher. – MJ

Related: NFL salary cap tracker

2023 NFL mock draft: Round 1 projections after combine

11. Tennessee Titans: Paris Johnson Jr, OT, Ohio State

The Tennessee Titans must rebuild their offense and the best way to take the first step, when a quarterback isn’t available, is by adding a left tackle. Taylor Lewan is gone, so the Titans replace him with a standout in pass protection, who will address a weakness that hurt Tennessee for years. Plus, Johnson is a step toward this team getting younger. – MJ

12. Houston Texans (via CLE): Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU

As mentioned above, the Texans need to surround Stroud with high-end weapons. There’s a temptation to pair Stroud with Jaxon Smith-Njigba, but the playmaking ability offered by Quentin Johnston is too hard to pass up. Whether it’s deep routes or short throws that Johnston’s YAC ability turns into big plays, he can thrive in Houston. – MJ

Also Read:
2023 NFL Draft wide receiver rankings: Quentin Johnston headlines top WR prospects

13. New York Jets: Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern

No matter who the New York Jets quarterback is in 2023, the front office must take the final step to create a great supporting cast around them. While there’s plenty of debate over whether Peter Skoronski is a guard or tackle, there’s no denying he is an excellent blocker who can start immediately and fill the final void on the Jets’ offensive line. – MJ

Related: NFL stadium rankings 2023

14. New England Patriots: Lukas Van Ness, EDGE, Iowa

The New England Patriots received outstanding production from Matthew Judon in 2023, but he’ll be 31 this upcoming season and there are no guarantees he sticks on the roster through 2024. Besides, great defenses have at least a trio of versatile and explosive edge rushers. Lukas Van Ness would be the perfect third rusher in New England and he could blossom into so much more. – MJ

Also Read:
2023 NFL defense rankings: Offseason outlook for all 32 teams, key free agents

15. Green Bay Packers: Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia

The Green Bay Packers could go a variety of directions here, including receiver Jaxon Smith-Njiogba, tight end Michael Mayer or safety Brian Branch. Ultimately, the Packers select Broderick Jones. With David Bakhtiari likely in his final year, Jones would be the future at left tackle and he can provide outstanding depth to the offensive line in 2023. – MJ

16. Washington Commanders: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas

If the Washington Commanders’ offense is going to work with Sam Howell, they need a star at running back. Quite simply, Brian Robinson Jr (3.9 ypc) and Antonio Gibson aren’t anything close to that. Bijan Robinson is a three-down weapon that many in the NFL view as an elite talent. Eric Bieniemy can easily build his offense around Robinson. – MJ

Related: 2023 NFL Draft RB rankings

17. Pittsburgh Steelers: Calijah Kancey, DT, Pitt

For the second year in a row, the Steelers find themselves plucking a local Pitt Panthers product in the first round. While Calijah Kancey may not have as big of an impact as Kenny Pickett simply due to playing defensive tackle instead of quarterback, the type of nightmares he can cause can be just as troubling. Fresh off setting a new combine 40-yard dash record for DTs, Kancey’s pass-rush potential is tantalizing. – ABR

18. Detroit Lions: Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson

Aidan Hutchinson can be a game-wrecker, but he needs a partner in crime. Clemson’s Bryan Bresee may just be the solution who can play anywhere on the defensive line. His pass-rush ability should immediately translate to NFL production, and if he can continue refining his run-stopping technique, the Lions could have a special player on their hands. – ABR

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Ohio State

Upon first glance, the Buccaneers really don’t need another playmaking receiver, but Mike Evans is heading into a contract year, and Chris Godwin’s expires in 2024. The opportunity to add a shifty weapon like Ohio State’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba doesn’t come around often, and the fact that he could still be available at 19 seems like an opportunity too good to pass up, despite overlooking other needs. – ABR

20. Seattle Seahawks: Brian Branch, S, Alabama

We already addressed the pass rush with the fifth pick, now it’s time to continue improving the secondary. Alabama’s Brian Branch can help step into a leadership role in the back end, where he’s become quite comfortable covering the slot. But Branch is also a sound tackler with a true nose for the football. He’d be a Day 1 starter in Seattle. – ABR

21. Los Angeles Chargers: Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame

Many would like a receiver here if it makes sense. But how about the next best thing, adding a pass-catching tight end? If so, Notre Dame’s Michael Mayer is certainly the cream of the crop. Mayer isn’t just a pass-catcher, he can also move defenders as a blocker, creating holes for Austin Ekeler for years to come. – ABR

22. Baltimore Ravens: Zay Flowers, WR, Boston College

To no surprise, a year after trading Marquise Brown, one of the Ravens’ biggest needs is at receiver. There are several directions the Ravens could go, but adding a dynamic athlete like Zay Flowers is just what this offense needs to take the next step. Flowers can do it all, from making defenders miss in the open field, leading to long gains, or getting behind the defense, accomplishing the same goal. – ABR

23. Minnesota Vikings: Myles Murphy, EDGE, Clemson

Danielle Hunter and Za’Darius Smith get their jobs done, but they need more help in Minnesota. It would be tough to keep Myles Murphy off the field as his pass-rush ability is already impressive, but he needs to become more consistent. Perhaps starting out as a sub-package rusher while he continues to improve would be best until Murphy has proven too good to take off the field. – ABR

24. Jacksonville Jaguars: Joey Porter Jr, CB, Penn State

With the Jaguars set to move on from Shaquill Griffin, their need at cornerback continues to grow. Porter Jr. is the type of physical boundary corner who takes advantage of his lengthy 6-foot-2 frame to break up passes, having done so 11 times in his final season in college. Just like his dad, he’s also not one to shy away from contact. He’d be a great fit in Duval. – ABR

25. New York Giants: Jordan Addison, WR, USC

His stock may have slipped a bit after running a 4.55 40 time, but what Jordan Addison has put on tape should be enough to land him in the first round still. In this case, it’s the G-Men who are looking to provide Daniel Jones with more weapons. Addison routinely proved he could separate and is extremely smooth when running routes at Pitt and USC, now, he’ll look to do the same in the pros. – ABR

26. Dallas Cowboys: Dalton Kinkaid, TE, Utah

Possibly set to lose Dalton Schultz to free agency, the Cowboys could look to replace him with one of the top pass-catching tight ends in this year’s draft class. Kinkaid is extremely polished as a receiver, and he’s an underrated blocker. At 6-foot-4, 246 pounds, you’d like him to be a bit bigger, but Kinkaid’s production speaks for itself. – ABR

27. Buffalo Bills: Deonte Banks, CB, Maryland

On paper, Deonte Banks has everything NFL scouts seek in a starting corner. He’s 6 feet tall, 197 pounds, and ran a 4.35 40-yard dash. Banks also posted an incredible 42″ vertical leap, showing he’s plenty explosive. Yet, Banks still needs to improve his awareness when it comes to playing the ball. Still, his platform gives teams plenty to be excited about. – ABR

28. Cincinnati Bengals: Anton Harrison, OT, Oklahoma

Still needing to improve in the trenches, don’t be surprised if the Bengals select another offensive tackle in the first round. If so, Oklahoma’s Anton Harrison could be intriguing for the pass-heavy Cincinnati offense. Likely a Day 1 starter, Harrison’s best skillset is as a pass protector, allowing just one sack in his final season at OU. – ABR

29. New Orleans Saints: Andre Carter II, EDGE, Army

We don’t want to think about it either, but Cameron Jordan can’t play for the Saints forever. Marcus Davenport and Payton Turner haven’t developed into ideal long-term replacements or pass-rush partners. But Army’s Andre Carter is a bit of a different breed. At 6-foot-7, he’s an intimidating presence who also produced a total of 20 sacks in his college career. He’s the perfect high-upside player to take a chance on here. – ABR

30. Philadelphia Eagles: Antonio Johnson, S, Texas A&M

With Chauncey Gardner-Johnson set for free agency, along with several other key defenders, the Eagles will likely take to the draft to fill some of these needs. One versatile player GM Howie Roseman could have his eye on is Antonio Johnson. In addition to playing safety, Johnson is also adept at covering the slot, but he’s more of a box safety who’s best running downhill helping defend the ground game. – ABR

31. Kansas City Chiefs: Will McDonald IV, EDGE, Iowa State

A team can never have too many pass rushers, especially when a freak like Will McDonald is available. McDonald racked up a whopping 28 sacks in college, using his excellent speed rush to get to quarterbacks. After winning the Super Bowl, the Chiefs can afford to take the best pick available route, and that may very well be McDonald. – ABR

The Miami Dolphins forfeited their first-round pick due to tampering violations.