The NFL draft is one of the most important events for any football team, as it gives them the opportunity to acquire young talent to help shape their future. The 2023 NFL Draft will be no different, and teams have already begun analyzing potential prospects. This article looks at some of these prospects and examines factors that teams need to consider when evaluating their talent and depth heading into this year’s draft.
Which Teams Will Have the Most Selections?
Heading into the 2023 NFL Draft, one team stands out for having the most selections – the Houston Texans. With 12 picks, including two in the first round, Houston has a great opportunity to add multiple quality players throughout the draft. The team also owns Cleveland’s first-rounder, which currently sits at No. 12 overall. This could be an ideal spot to address an area of need or take advantage of a potential steal in the draft.
Which Teams Will Have the Fewest Selections?
On the flip side, there are a few teams that will have limited options in terms of draft selections. The Broncos, Saints, Carolina Panthers, and Minnesota Vikings all currently have just five picks heading into the 2023 NFL Draft. Given their limited resources, these teams will need to get creative to make the most out of this year’s draft. They may be forced to look for value late in the draft or trade up for specific players they covet.
Top Prospects
1. Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia (6-3, 310)
Carter finished 2022 with a Power-Five-leading 92.3 overall grade and is considered the top defensive tackle in the draft class. He’s an explosive interior pass rusher, showing elite burst off the line and generating quick pressure up the middle. Carter is also a stout run defender, using his strength and power to plug gaps in the defense. With his size and athleticism, he should be a top pick come April 2023.
2. Will Anderson Jr., Edge, Alabama (6-4, 245)
Anderson is an explosive and fluid edge defender prospect with a great combination of size and athleticism. He’s the first player in Alabama history to be named a unanimous All-American twice, finishing his college career with 62 tackles for loss in 41 games. In addition, Anderson has violent hands to win at the point of attack and great lateral agility that allows him to flow around blockers.
3. Bryce Young, QB, Alabama (5-10, 192)
Young is the top quarterback in this class and one of the most talented passers in recent years to come through college football. He earned a 92.2 grade in 2021 when he won the Heisman and followed it up with a 91.5 mark in 2022. His combination of arm strength, accuracy, and athleticism make him dangerous inside and outside the pocket. While he will need some time to adjust to the pro game, his natural talent could make an immediate impact at the next level.
4. Will Levis, QB, Kentucky (6-3, 231)
After suffering from turf toe for most of the 2022 season, Levis still managed to get a 90.6 rating when fully healthy while playing for the Los Angeles Rams and former offensive coordinator Liam Coen. He’s an efficient pocket passer with great touch and accuracy on short and intermediate routes, as well as plus arm strength to make deep throws down the field. Levis also has good mobility and can extend plays with his feet if needed. In addition, his experience in a pro-style offense could make him an attractive option in this draft class.
5. C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State (6-3, 218)
Stroud is a dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with his arm and legs. He earned an 88.9 overall grade in 2022, showing off his ability to throw accurate deep balls while also being a dangerous runner in the open field. Stroud finished his college career with ten rushing touchdowns and averaged 8 yards per carry in 2020. His athleticism and arm talent could make him a valuable asset for any NFL team’s offense.
