Top 10 Picks from the 2023 NFL Draft: Analyzing Value and Team Need
The 2023 NFL draft is now in the books, and as always, there were some great picks and some head-scratchers. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 picks from the draft, analyzing the value they bring to their respective teams and how they fill team needs.
Tyree Wilson (EDGE – LV)
The Raiders drafted Wilson 7th overall, and he’s an excellent pick for them. At 6’6 and 275 pounds, Wilson possesses elite size and pass-rush skills. He has the potential to be a dominant force on the Raiders’ defensive line and wreak havoc on opposing quarterbacks.
Devon Witherspoon (CB – SEA)
Witherspoon was drafted 5th overall by the Seahawks, and he’s a great addition to their defense. Witherspoon has great route recognition and ball instincts and allowed only a 34.9% completion rate in 2022. He’ll be a lockdown corner for the Seahawks and give their defense a boost.
Josh Downs (WR – IND)
The Colts picked Downs in the second round, and he’s a sneaky good pick for them. Downs is a bit undersized for a receiver, but he’s quick and has great hands. He’ll add value and team need to their wide receiver position and provides a solid option in the slot.
Broderick Jones (OT – PIT) & O’Cyrus Torrence (OL – BUF)
In addition to the Colts, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Buffalo Bills both addressed key needs in the draft. The Steelers traded up to draft offensive tackle Broderick Jones, filling a glaring need on their offensive line. The Bills, on the other hand, selected O’Cyrus Torrence, a 6’5, 330-pound guard from Florida with great instincts and hand control. Torrence fills a big hole on the Bills’ offensive line to protect Josh Allen and open up lanes for their running backs.
Brian Branch (S – DET)
The Lions selected Branch in the second round, and he’s a safe pick for them. Branch has no weaknesses in his game and is quick and strong. He was a first-team All-American and a much-needed addition to the Lions’ secondary.
Jalen Carter (DT – PHI)
The Eagles selected Carter in the first round, and he has impressive accolades and potential. He’ll be a force on their defensive line and help them stop the run.
Christian Gonzalez (CB – NE)
The Patriots selected Gonzalez in the second round, and he’s a versatile and athletic cornerback with the potential to be a lockdown player in the NFL. He’ll be a great addition to the Patriots’ defense and give them more depth in the secondary.
Nolan Smith (EDGE – PHI)
The Eagles drafted Smith in the first round, and he was the 13th-best player on Daniel Jeremiah’s big board. Smith is a high-motor player who will be a great fit for the Eagles’ defense. The Eagles have drafted four of Georgia’s vast defensive players in the last two years, so they clearly have a lot of faith in the Bulldogs’ program.
Overall, the 2023 NFL draft was full of great picks, and these 10 players are some of the best. Teams addressed key needs and added value to their rosters, setting themselves up for success in the upcoming season. It’ll be exciting to see how these players develop and contribute to their respective teams.