Introduction
As the NFL season rolls on, it’s never too early to start looking ahead to the future. The 2023 NFL Mock Draft is already generating buzz, with fans and analysts alike eager to see which players will go where. And no one is more synonymous with mock drafts than Mel Kiper, Jr. So let’s take a look at Kiper’s latest predictions for the 2023 NFL Draft.
Quarterbacks
As always, quarterbacks are the talk of the draft. Kiper’s top pick for the 2023 draft is quarterback Sam Howell out of North Carolina. Howell has impressed scouts with his arm strength and accuracy, and he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback for years to come. Behind Howell, Kiper has Spencer Rattler out of Oklahoma and JT Daniels out of Georgia as his second and third-ranked quarterbacks, respectively.
Running Backs
The 2023 draft class is loaded with talented running backs, with Kiper’s top pick being Bijan Robinson out of Texas. Robinson is a dynamic runner with excellent speed and agility, and he has the skills to be a three-down back in the NFL. Other running backs to watch in the 2023 draft include Isaiah Spiller out of Texas A&M and Tank Bigsby out of Auburn.
Wide Receivers
The wide receiver position is always filled with talent, and the 2023 draft is no exception. Kiper’s top pick is Kayshon Boutte out of LSU. Boutte is a dynamic playmaker with fantastic speed and excellent route-running ability. Other wide receivers to keep an eye on include Garrett Wilson out of Ohio State and John Metchie III out of Alabama.
Tight Ends
The tight end position has become increasingly important in the modern NFL, and the 2023 draft has several talented prospects. Kiper’s top pick is Jalen Wydermyer out of Texas A&M. Wydermyer is an excellent blocker with reliable hands and the ability to stretch the field. Other tight ends to watch include Jeremy Ruckert out of Ohio State and Charlie Kolar out of Iowa State.
Offensive Line
The offensive line is the backbone of any successful offense, and the 2023 draft has several potential franchise linemen. Kiper’s top pick is Evan Neal out of Alabama. Neal is a massive tackle with excellent footwork and the strength to dominate in the run game. Other offensive linemen to watch include Zion Nelson out of Miami and Darian Kinnard out of Kentucky.
Defensive Line
The defensive line may not get as much attention as the offensive skill positions, but it’s just as crucial to a team’s success. Kiper’s top pick for the 2023 draft is Kayvon Thibodeaux out of Oregon. Thibodeaux is a dominant edge rusher with excellent speed and athleticism. Other defensive linemen to watch include DeMarvin Leal out of Texas A&M and George Karlaftis out of Purdue.
Linebackers
Linebackers are the heart and soul of any defense, and the 2023 draft has several talented prospects. Kiper’s top pick is Christian Harris out of Alabama. Harris is a versatile linebacker with excellent instincts and tackling ability. Other linebackers to keep an eye on include Adam Anderson out of Georgia and Will Anderson Jr. out of Alabama.
Cornerbacks
The cornerback position is one of the most important in today’s pass-heavy NFL, and the 2023 draft has several top prospects. Kiper’s top pick is Derek Stingley Jr. out of LSU. Stingley is a shutdown corner with excellent ball skills and the ability to play both man and zone coverage. Other cornerbacks to watch include Kaiir Elam out of Florida and Andrew Booth Jr. out of Clemson.
Safeties
Safeties are the last line of defense and can make a huge impact on any game. Kiper’s top pick for the 2023 draft is Kyle Hamilton out of Notre Dame. Hamilton is a rangy safety with excellent instincts and ball skills. Other safeties to watch include Bubba Bolden out of Miami and Jalen Catalon out of Arkansas.
Conclusion
The 2023 NFL Mock Draft is sure to be an exciting event, and Mel Kiper Jr. has already given us a glimpse into the future. While these predictions may change over time, it’s always fun to speculate about which players will become stars in the NFL. So keep an eye on these prospects over the next few years, and who knows, maybe one of them will be the next great NFL player.