“The Party told you to reject the evidence of your eyes and ears. It was their final, most essential command.” ~ George Orwell, 1984
Before I give my projected top ten picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, please let me scoff at the rumors surrounding now-former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud as he prepares for his NFL career. I freely admit that I am biased as it relates to Ohio State football, as I write and podcast about it. I have been a fan of Ohio State football throughout my entire life.
I cannot understand how someone could watch C.J. Stroud play these past two seasons, and then determine that they would prefer to place greater stock and emphasis on a supposed cognition test. At least I am not the only person incredulous at these ideas that C.J. Stroud is not among the best quarterbacks in the 2023 NFL Draft. ðŸ˜
A Projected Top Ten
1. Carolina: Bryce Young, QB, Alabama - I would be nervous about this pick, as Young is barely 200 pounds and is only 5'10". I am not doubting his talent, but I am skeptical of his durability in the NFL.
2. Houston: Will Anderson, LB, Alabama - Here's where Houston is making a solid pick in Anderson, but could wind up regretting their decision by bypassing Stroud.
3. Projected Trade by Arizona to Tennessee: The Titans move up to take C.J. Stroud before he falls to Indianapolis.
4. Indianapolis: Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida ~ I would be tremendously nervous about taking this kid high, based on his lack of experience, but the physical talent and potential may convince them to take the plunge. Could be Will Levis of Kentucky instead, but I'd be nervous about him also.
5. Seattle: Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia ~ If Carter is on the board at this point, I do not believe Pete Carroll and Seattle will hesitate to take a tremendously talented defensive lineman.
6. Detroit: Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois ~ Something about this kid's style of play just seems like the kind of player that Dan Campbell wants on his defense.
7. Las Vegas: Christian Gonzalez, CB, Oregon ~ Was tempted to go with Paris Johnson, Jr. of Ohio State here, but went with the other top-rated cornerback instead.
8. Atlanta: Bijan Robinson, RB, Texas ~ Robinson has been described as a Saquon Barkley-type back, just the kind of player who can help Desmond Ridder as Ridder will be going through the growing pains of life as a NFL quarterback.
9. Chicago: Paris Johnson, Jr., OT, Ohio State ~ Rumors are that Johnson could be Arizona's pick at the number three spot.
10. Philadelphia: Peter Skoronski, G, Northwestern ~ Skoronski is not flashy, but can play at either guard or right tackle for the next ten years, barring injury.
