To be 100% clear, this is still way too early for an accurate mock draft. While the order for non-playoff teams is officially set, the back 14 picks in the first round have yet to be set in stone. Some of the highest-mocked players in this class haven’t even officially declared for the 2023 NFL Draft. And we’re predicting trades that may or may not happen before or on the day of the draft, but nonetheless, here is the first round of the “Way Too Early Mock Draft 1.0”:
Chicago Bears get a massive haul in a trade back, followed by a QB run
1) IND (via CHI): Bryce Young, QB – Alabama
After years of plugging in veteran quarterbacks with underwhelming results, the Colts package a bundle of picks with a veteran defensive player in Buckner to jump past their division rival and select the QB1 of this draft class. Bryce Young enters the league as an immediate starter for Indy, and behind a talented offensive line with decent receivers and a powerful running back, he should be set up for success early in a weaker division.
2) HOU: C.J. Stroud, QB – Ohio State
Staying put at number two, the Texans snag C.J. Stroud, and can allow him to sit, at least right away, behind former third-round pick Davis Mills. Stroud is an accurate passer with a strong arm, and in the right system, could end up as the best quarterback in this class. At 6’3″ and 220 lbs, Stroud possesses the size and physical intangibles of a prototypical quarterback in 2023.
3) LV (via ARI): Will Levis, QB – Kentucky
ARI receives #7, #38, R1 2024
LV receives #3, #96
The Raiders move up four spots to snag Levis, the best quarterback remaining, after moving on from Derek Carr over the offseason. Will Levis is a big-arm quarterback with a quick release but is the least NFL-ready quarterback in the top three. With a talented offensive line and weapons in Davante Adams and Darren Waller, Levis is in a good position to develop under head coach Josh McDaniels, but should not be rushed onto the field before he is ready.