The 2023 NFL Draft is quickly approaching, creating additional intrigue and speculation. Both the NFL Scouting Combine and Pro Days have concluded, which adjusted the draft stock of prospects in this year’s class. The dust has settled from the free agency craze, providing clarity on draft boards for all 32 teams.
Trades: The Bears-Panthers trade sent a shockwave through the NFL and next (explained below), the Lions trade up from Pick Six to third with the Cardinals to take the top edge rusher of the class – costing them a third this year and a fourth in 2024.
On to the first-round selections:
1) Carolina Panthers (from Chicago): QB C.J. Stroud, Ohio State
The Panthers sent the Bears the ninth overall pick in this year’s draft, the second-rounder acquired from the 49ers (61st overall), along with next year’s first-round pick, a 2025 second-rounder, and wide receiver DJ Moore in exchange for the No. 1 overall choice in this year’s draft. With the top slot, the Panthers select C.J. Stroud, who produced arguably the most impressive throwing session at the Combine. Stroud layers the football with precision to all areas of the field and places the ball away from defenders. He identifies coverages well pre-snap and although he did not consistently attack defenses by using his legs, Stroud showcased improved improvisation skills against Georgia in the College Football Playoff semifinal, extending plays outside of the pocket. Stroud can carve up defenses with outstanding touch, rhythm and poise from the pocket as a passer.
2) Houston Texans: QB Bryce Young, Alabama
The Texans are in a rebuild phase entering the 2023 season and take Bryce Young, the most heralded signal-caller of this year’s class. Although his 5’10 stature has generated concerns regarding his long-term durability at the NFL level, he has the processing skills and intangibles to be an impactful starter. Young has experience playing in a pro-style system at Alabama and possesses rare vision and a compact release, along with the ability to create outside of structure. He is accurate from any arm angle and is adept at identifying pre-snap blitzers and eluding rushers with savvy moves. Young has the improvisation skills and instinctive pocket presence to make him a special player in the NFL.
3) Detroit Lions (from Arizona): Edge Will Anderson Jr., Alabama
The Lions need to bolster their defensive front after addressing the cornerback position by signing Cam Sutton and they move up to take the best edge…
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