Schuyler Callihan's 2023 First Round NFL Mock Draft 4.15

Predictions for all 31 picks in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.

NOTE: No trade projections in this mock draft.

1. Carolina Panthers: QB Bryce Young (Alabama)

It feels like all momentum has shifted to Bryce Young over the past couple of weeks. Personally, I would take Stroud and avoid the concern of Young's slender frame but this is the direction they appear to be heading in.

Last projection: QB C.J. Stroud (Ohio State)

2. Houston Texans: QB C.J. Stroud (Ohio State)

I'm not quite sure how the Texans view Stroud, but I would assume that they will take whichever QB the Panthers don't take between him and Young. The Texans need a lot of help, though. Could they potentially go with the best player available and wait on a quarterback? Maybe, but unlikely. 

Last projection: QB Bryce Young (Alabama)

3. Arizona Cardinals: DE Will Anderson Jr. (Alabama)

Maybe Shane Steichen calls up his good buddy Jonathan Gannon and tells him, "Just make the darn pick," to do him a favor. The Cardinals would love to have Anderson but if they fall to the 7th or 8th spot on the board, they won't get the best pass rusher in the draft.

Last projection: Same pick.

4. Indianapolis Colts: QB Will Levis (Kentucky)

As talented as Richardson is, he's too big of a risk for an organization that needs a quarterback now. Levis will need to sit at first also but will be ready for game action a bit sooner.

Last projection: QB Anthony Richardson (Florida)

5. Seattle Seahawks: QB Anthony Richardson (Florida)

One pick later, Richardson is off the board. This is the most ideal spot for him and it works out for both parties. The Seahawks can continue to build with Geno Smith and in the meantime, they have their future QB waiting in the wings. Seattle won't be picking this high again anytime soon and with another first-round pick later down the board, they are one of the few teams that can afford to roll the dice on Richardson.

Last projection: DT Jalen Carter (Georgia)

6. Detroit Lions: DT Jalen Carter (Georgia)

The Lions are building this thing through the trenches and with Carter sliding to six, they get arguably the most talented prospect in the draft. I don't see how Carter falls past Detroit. 

Last projection: DE Tyree Wilson (Texas Tech)

7. Las Vegas Raiders: OL Peter Skoronski (Northwestern)

Don't overthink this, Vegas. You need offensive line help in the worst way and you have a chance to take the best lineman in the draft here at No. 7. Personally, I don't care if he's a tackle or guard, if he dramatically improves your unit, take him. Here's a hint: He will.

Last projection: QB Will Levis (Kentucky)

8. Atlanta Falcons: WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Ohio State)

Drake London, Kyle Pitts, Jonnu Smith, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba? That's how you surround a young quarterback. Give Desmond Ridder everything he needs to be successful and if it doesn't work out, you can take a quarterback next year.

Last projection: CB Christian Gonzalez (Oregon)

9. Chicago Bears: OT Paris Johnson Jr. (Ohio State)

Chicago landed a No. 1 WR for Justin Fields, now they need to focus on protecting him. The o-line needs a lot of work and Johnson makes way too much sense here. 

Last projection: OL Peter Skoronski (Northwestern)

10. Philadelphia Eagles: DE/LB Nolan Smith (Georgia)

The Eagles don't have many holes on their roster, but they could use another versatile linebacker that can get after the passer. A freakish athlete that could end up being the best defensive player in this draft.

Last projection: Same pick.

The rest of the picks

11. Tennessee Titans: DE Tyree Wilson (Texas Tech)

12. Houston Texans: WR Quentin Johnston (TCU)

13. New York Jets: OT Darnell Wright (Tennessee)

14. New England Patriots: CB Christian Gonzalez (Oregon)

15. Green Bay Packers: TE Dalton Kincaid (Utah)

16. Washington Commanders: CB Devon Witherspoon (Illinois)

17. Pittsburgh Steelers: OT Broderick Jones (Georgia)

18. Detroit Lions: TE Michael Mayer (Notre Dame)

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: OG O'Cyrus Torrence

20. Seattle Seahawks: DE Myles Murphy (Clemson)

21. Los Angeles Chargers: RB Bijan Robinson (Texas)

22. Baltimore Ravens: CB Deonte Banks (Maryland)

23. Minnesota Vikings: DE Bryan Bresee (Clemson)

24. Jacksonville Jaguars: S Brian Branch (Alabama)

25. New York Giants: WR Jordan Addison (USC)

26. Dallas Cowboys: TE Darnell Washington (Georgia)

27. Buffalo Bills: LB Drew Sanders (Arkansas)

28. Cincinnati Bengals: DL Calijah Kancey (Pitt)

29. New Orleans Saints: DL Mazi Smith (Michigan)

30. Philadelphia Eagles: CB Joey Porter Jr. (Penn State)

31. Kansas City Chiefs: DE Will McDonald IV (Iowa State)

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