In case you haven’t been paying attention, Patrick Conn over at College Sports Wire is doing God’s work and trying to figure out this whole 2023 NFL draft that’s quickly approaching.
He’s released several iterations of his mock drafts and just dropped another one after the NFL combine. He has previously had Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud at the top — even No. 1 — but we know these things are more variable than the weather this time of year in the Midwest.
So what about this latest one? Where does he have Stroud now after peering into the crystal ball and having him off the board before any other player previously? What about other Ohio State players that might go in the first round?
Here’s what Conn says about Stroud and other Ohio State players he believes will hear their names called on the first day of the draft.
C.J. Stroud, Quarterback
Mock Draft Details
No. 2 overall to the Houston Texans
What Conn Says
“Bryce Young goes No. 1 but the Houston Texans still land a top quarterback in C.J. Stroud from Ohio State. He gives them a building block for the new-look team under first-year head coach DeMeco Ryans. They also have another pick in the first round as they look to infuse the team with top talent.”
Paris Johnson Jr., Offensive Tackle
Mock Draft Details
No. 14 overall to the New England Patriots
What Conn Says
“The Patriots could use an offensive playmaker and some help on the offensive line. We project Johnson to fill the potential void left by free agent Isaiah Wynn, provided that he doesn’t re-sign with New England.”
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Wide Receiver
Mock Draft Details
No. 27 overall to the Buffalo Bills
What Conn Says
“The Bills benefit from the Cowboys passing on Smith-Njigba for a tight end. Buffalo adds a weapon to help out their quarterback Josh Allen.”
