2023 NFL Mock Draft: Huge names fall out of first round

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 17: Anthony Richardson #15 of the Florida Gators throws a pass in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images)
GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 17: Anthony Richardson #15 of the Florida Gators throws a pass in Gainesville, Florida. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images) /
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Jalen Carter falls out of the top 5 selections in this 2023 NFL mock draft
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – DECEMBER 03: Jalen Carter #88 of the Georgia Bulldogs in action against the LSU Tigers during the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 03, 2022 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

Jalen Carter just clings to the top 10 in this 2023 NFL Mock Draft

6. player. 50. . Edge. Detroit Lions. Tyree Wilson

Tyree Wilson could be a consideration at third overall to Arizona, as he fits what the Cardinals are likely to do on defense under Jonathan Gannon, but he is snapped up by Detroit here as a running mate to play opposite Aidan Hutchinson.

Wilson flashes on tape but will be served better playing as a complimentary piece to Hutchinson. He has excellent length and power, but question marks remain about his quickness and true agility.

It is a shame that he has been suffering from a foot injury and has not been able to test in the lead up to the draft because it would have given him the chance to show that he could become a true lead pass rusher at the next level.

For now, doubts remain and Detroit will be the perfect landing spot for him to assume duties as a piece within an emerging unit.

28. . Cornerback. Las Vegas Raiders. Devon Witherspoon. 7. player

With no quarterback on the board here, the Raiders will venture into 2023 with Jimmy Garoppolo as its unquestioned leader.

The team has holes at numerous spots on the roster including defensive tackle, but need not court controversy by selecting Jalen Carter at this juncture. It would be an unnecessary risk when there are still so many players available at premium positions of need for the team.

Witherspoon will give the team an ultra-competitive player for a secondary that needs an injection of talent. A true number one corner to face off against the multiple high caliber gunslingers that litter the AFC.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba. 8. player. 44. . Wide Receiver. Atlanta Falcons

The Ohio State pro day reminded everyone of why JSN is the number one wideout in this draft. His ability to glide through his breaks and run with efficient footwork, purpose, and contact balance enables him to create easy separation and produce after the catch.

Atlanta is currently set to enter 2023 with Mack Hollins, Jared Bernhardt, and Frank Darby as their only options at wideout after Drake London. That is not tenable.

When combined with London and tight end Kyle Pitts, Smith-Njigba will complete a trio of impressive young weapons that will allow Arthur Smith and Terry Fontenot the opportunity to fully assess what they have in the sophomore signal caller, Desmond Ridder.

. Offensive Tackle. Chicago Bears. Darnell Wright. 9. player. 57

Both lines need work in Chicago, Justin Fields needs weapons, and there are holes in the secondary.

Wright handled Will Anderson during an underappreciated collegiate career and will slot straight in on the right side of the offensive line. The nimble-footed tackle from the Tennessee Volunteers will operate to the outside of the returning Teven Jenkins, who has found a home at right guard.

The ex-Volunteer is an explosive tackle prospect who looked great during combine drills. Do not be surprised if he is the first true tackle off the board.

Interior Defensive Line. Philadelphia Eagles. Jalen Carter. 10. player. 54.

The “fall” ends here as Carter finds a realistic home on a team that can afford to take a gamble on the embattled defender.

Some say Carter is the best player, regardless of position, but falls in this 2023 NFL mock draft. Conditioning concerns have me skeptical of his status as the best overall player, but he probably is the top prospect available here at ten and could be a monumental bargain for the Eagles when all is said and done.