As the 2023 NFL Draft approaches, football fans are eagerly anticipating which players their teams will select. Every year, there are surprise picks and shocking trades that shake up the draft board. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most intriguing picks and trades that could happen in the 2023 NFL Mock Draft.
The Quarterback Shuffle
The 2023 NFL Draft is expected to be loaded with talented quarterbacks, and there could be some surprising moves at the top of the draft board. Oklahoma quarterback Spencer Rattler is widely considered the top quarterback prospect in the draft, but there are a few teams that might pass on him.
The Detroit Lions, who hold the first overall pick, are in desperate need of a franchise quarterback. However, new head coach Dan Campbell is known for his love of physical, tough football players. This could lead the Lions to pass on Rattler and instead select Oregon offensive tackle Penei Sewell, who would immediately upgrade the team’s offensive line.
Meanwhile, the Miami Dolphins, who hold the fifth overall pick, could make a surprising move up the draft board to select North Carolina quarterback Sam Howell. Despite being overshadowed by Rattler and other top quarterback prospects, Howell has impressed scouts with his accuracy and decision-making. The Dolphins could see him as the long-term solution at quarterback and make a bold move to secure him.
The Rise of the Defensive Linemen
While quarterbacks often dominate the top of the draft board, there are a few defensive linemen in the 2023 NFL Draft who could make a big impact. One of those players is Texas A&M defensive end DeMarvin Leal, who has been compared to former NFL All-Pro Calais Campbell. Leal is a versatile lineman who can play both inside and outside and has the potential to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.
Another defensive lineman to watch is Oregon defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux. Thibodeaux is an explosive pass rusher who could be a game-changer for whichever team selects him. He has drawn comparisons to current NFL star Joey Bosa and could be a top-five pick in the draft.
Trade Mania
The 2023 NFL Draft could be a wild one when it comes to trades. One team that could be particularly active is the New York Jets, who hold two first-round picks (the eighth and 16th overall). With a new head coach in place and plenty of needs to address, the Jets could look to package those picks to move up in the draft.
One potential trade partner for the Jets could be the Philadelphia Eagles, who hold the sixth overall pick. The Eagles are in need of a wide receiver and could look to move down in the draft to accumulate more picks. The Jets could use their two first-round picks to move up and select a top-tier wide receiver like Ohio State’s Chris Olave or USC’s Drake London.
Another team that could make a bold move in the draft is the Chicago Bears. The Bears have been searching for a franchise quarterback for years and could look to make a move up the draft board to select one. They could target a quarterback like Liberty’s Malik Willis or Pittsburgh’s Kenny Pickett and use their draft capital to make a move.
Surprise Picks
Finally, there are always a few surprise picks in the NFL Draft, and the 2023 edition should be no exception. One player who could be a surprise pick is Clemson safety Nolan Turner. Turner isn’t a household name like some of the other top defensive prospects, but he has impressed scouts with his instincts and ball skills. He could be a steal for a team that selects him in the middle rounds of the draft.
Another player who could be a surprise pick is Louisiana Tech defensive tackle Milton Williams. Williams is a bit undersized for a defensive tackle, but he has shown the ability to disrupt opposing offensive lines with his quickness and strength. He could be a great fit for a team in need of a disruptive interior presence.
Meanwhile, Kentucky cornerback Kelvin Joseph could be another surprise pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Joseph is a bit of a wild card due to off-field concerns, but he has shown tremendous talent on the field. He has excellent size and athleticism for the cornerback position and could be a steal for a team willing to take a chance on him.
Conclusion
The 2023 NFL Draft is sure to be filled with surprises, as teams look to build for the future by selecting the best young talent available. From surprise picks to shocking trades, there will be plenty of intrigue throughout the draft. Will the Lions select Rattler or Sewell? Will the Jets trade up for a top wide receiver? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the 2023 NFL Draft will be a must-watch event for football fans.
