The 2023 NFL season has come to a close, but that doesn’t mean there’s a shortage of excitement in the football world. As we reflect on the season and all the talent that emerged, it’s time to reimagine the 2023 NFL Draft. While careers aren’t defined by one season alone, we can factor in rookie performances and project forward to create a redraft for the 2023 class.
In this redraft, all rookies from the 2023 class, including undrafted free agents, have been removed from their respective NFL rosters. This allows us to select them freely and reconsider their potential. However, if a rookie is not included in the top 32 selections, they would revert back to the round in which they were originally drafted and return to their original team. First-round picks who are not included in this redraft would also remain with their current teams.
To determine the draft order, we will use the real order from April 27, 2023, before the draft began. This ensures that we maintain some semblance of realism in our redraft. Now, let’s dive into the selections I would make as the general manager of each team, taking into account coaches’ schemes and other factors.
1. Jacksonville Jaguars: C.J. Stroud, Quarterback
With the first overall pick, I would select C.J. Stroud as the future franchise quarterback for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Stroud had an impressive rookie season, showcasing his arm talent and ability to lead an offense. He has the potential to be a game-changer for the Jaguars and elevate their offense to new heights.
2. New York Jets: Jahmyr Gibbs, Running Back
The New York Jets are in need of a dynamic playmaker in their backfield, and Jahmyr Gibbs fits the bill perfectly. Gibbs displayed his explosiveness and versatility during his rookie year, making him an ideal choice for the Jets. He has the potential to be a game-changer in both the running and passing game, providing a much-needed spark for the Jets’ offense.
3. San Francisco 49ers: Evan Neal, Offensive Tackle
Protecting the quarterback is crucial, and the San Francisco 49ers would be wise to select Evan Neal with the third overall pick. Neal is a dominant offensive tackle who can anchor the offensive line and provide solid protection for the quarterback. His size and strength make him a force to be reckoned with, and he would be a valuable addition to the 49ers’ roster.
4. Atlanta Falcons: Kyle Hamilton, Safety
The Atlanta Falcons need help in their secondary, and Kyle Hamilton is the perfect solution. Hamilton is an exceptional safety who possesses great instincts and ball skills. He has the ability to make game-changing plays and would provide a much-needed boost to the Falcons’ defense.
5. Cincinnati Bengals: Derek Stingley Jr., Cornerback
Derek Stingley Jr. is a lockdown cornerback who would be a fantastic addition to the Cincinnati Bengals’ defense. Stingley has the speed, agility, and coverage skills to shut down opposing receivers. His presence would greatly improve the Bengals’ pass defense and give them a reliable option in their secondary.
6. Miami Dolphins: George Karlaftis, Edge Rusher
The Miami Dolphins are in need of a dominant edge rusher, and George Karlaftis fits the bill perfectly. Karlaftis is a disruptive force off the edge, with the ability to wreak havoc in opposing backfields. He would provide a much-needed boost to the Dolphins’ pass rush and give them a formidable presence on defense.
7. Detroit Lions: Aidan Hutchinson, Defensive End
Aidan Hutchinson had a breakout rookie season, showcasing his pass-rushing prowess and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. The Detroit Lions would be wise to select him with the seventh overall pick, as he has the potential to be a game-changer on defense. Hutchinson’s motor and relentless pursuit of the quarterback make him an ideal fit for the Lions’ defense.
8. Carolina Panthers: Drake London, Wide Receiver
The Carolina Panthers are in need of a reliable wide receiver, and Drake London fits the bill perfectly. London had a stellar rookie season, showcasing his size, hands, and ability to make contested catches. He would provide a much-needed weapon for the Panthers’ offense and give their quarterback a reliable target.
9. Denver Broncos: Matt Corral, Quarterback
With uncertainty at the quarterback position, the Denver Broncos would be wise to select Matt Corral with the ninth overall pick. Corral had an impressive rookie season, displaying his arm talent, mobility, and ability to make plays under pressure. He has the potential to be a franchise quarterback and could be the missing piece for the Broncos’ offense.
10. Philadelphia Eagles: Chris Olave, Wide Receiver
The Philadelphia Eagles are in need of a playmaking wide receiver, and Chris Olave fits the bill perfectly
