The 2023 NFL Draft was a watershed moment for the league, with several rookies making an immediate impact and others failing to live up to expectations. If teams had the chance to do it all over again, which players would they select? And where would those that fell short of expectations end up? Here’s a hypothetical redo of the first round, taking into account the lessons learned from their rookie campaigns:
1.
Houston Texans
: Bryce Young (QB, Alabama) – While the Panthers could reconsider their original pick of Young in hopes of a bounce-back, it’s wiser to go with the proven Stroud, who has already established himself as a superstar.2.
Carolina Panthers
: C.J. Stroud (QB, Ohio State) – With Stroud no longer available, the Texans have a tough decision. But Bryce Young, despite his struggles, fits their scheme and has the potential to succeed with better supporting cast.3.
Philadelphia Eagles
: Will Anderson Jr. (EDGE, Alabama) – Despite a disappointing rookie campaign, Anderson Jr. remains the right pick moving forward, especially with the Eagles in need of a dominant defensive tackle.4.
Indianapolis Colts
: Anthony Richardson (QB, Florida) – Richardson’s potential as a franchise quarterback is undeniable, and the Colts should have no reason to abandon him.5.
Detroit Lions
: Puka Nacua (WR, BYU) – Nacua’s rookie season was nothing short of historic, and he would provide an immediate impact for the Lions, who desperately need a game-changing receiver.6.
Arizona Cardinals
: Paris Johnson Jr. (OT, Ohio State) – With Kyler Murray requesting Johnson, the Cardinals are better off beefing up their protection up front.7.
Las Vegas Raiders
: Jalen Carter (DT, Georgia) – Carter would add a much-needed dominant presence to the Raiders’ defense, which is already finding its footing under Antonio Pierce.8.
Atlanta Falcons
: Will Levis (QB, Kentucky) – The Falcons need to find a long-term answer at quarterback, and Levis, with his flashes of promise, could be that guy.9.
Chicago Bears
: Darnell Wright (OT, Tennessee) – Wright has the potential to be a solid right tackle, and the Bears, with two first-round picks in 2024, can afford to let him develop.10.
Tennessee Titans
: Zay Flowers (WR, Boston College) – Flowers emerged as a reliable target last season, and he would provide a much-needed weapon for the Titans’ offense.11.
Detroit Lions
: Sam LaPorta (TE, Penn State) – LaPorta has already established himself as one of the top tight ends in the league, and the Lions can’t risk losing him.12.
Cleveland Browns
: Christian Gonzalez (CB, Oregon) – Gonzalez’s talent is undeniable, and despite playing in only four games last season, he showcased his potential as a dominant boundary corner.13.
Pittsburgh Steelers
: Tyrique Stevenson (CB, Georgia) – The Steelers’ secondary is in dire need of playmakers, and Stevenson, with his impressive interceptions and pass deflections, would be a welcome addition.14.
New York Jets
: Jordan Addison (WR, USC) – Addison’s production as a rookie with the Vikings makes him a no-brainer pick for the Jets, who desperately need a secondary weapon for Garrett Wilson.15.
Green Bay Packers
: Emmanuel Forbes (CB, Mississippi State) – The Packers’ defense needs playmakers, and Forbes, with his impressive flashes, could blossom into a top cornerback in the league.16.
Washington Commanders
: Deonte Banks (CB, Maryland) – The Commanders’ defense allowed the most passing yards in the NFL last season, and Banks, with his two interceptions and 11 pass deflections as a rookie, could help turn things around.17.
New England Patriots
: Tank Dell (WR, Houston) – The Patriots’ passing offense was abysmal in 2023, and Dell, with his impressive stats in limited reps for the Texans, could be a game-changer.18.
Detroit Lions
: Jahmyr Gibbs (RB, Alabama) – Gibbs’ versatility and impact in the second half of the season make him a valuable asset for the Lions.19.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
: Brian Branch (S, Alabama) – The Buccaneers’ secondary struggled last season, and Branch, with his versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways, would be a valuable addition.20.
