A Closer Look at The First Overall Pick Contenders At the 2023 NFL Draft

Being the first overall pick in the NFL Draft is an honor that goes the way of just one player each year from those who are eligible for selection. It suggests they have the best chance of having a big career in the NFL

Here is a look at those in contention for that spot in 2023 and why they would be a good selection, regardless of the team.

CJ Stroud

There could be as many as eight teams looking for a quarterback in the 2023 NFL Draft, which many more in the market for a backup or a player who could be heir to the throne in the future.

CJ Stroud is likely to be at the top of most franchise’s wishlists as he looks to have the talent to be a huge success in the NFL. The Ohio State player had a 23-3 record in college football. He lost just one game in 2022, scoring 37 touchdowns and accumulating 3,340 passing yards.

One of the teams who are likely to be looking closely at Stroud is the Washington Commanders. Taylor Heinicke currently holds that position, but his future may depend on whether the NFC East team reaches the playoffs at the end of the regular season. They are -145 with BetMGM to do so.

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How the final stages of ther 2022/23 season concludes is going to key towards determining Stroud’s destination in the opening season in the NFL.

Bryce Young

As a Heisman Trophy winner, Bryce Young looks certain to be taken as one of the leading picks in 2023, and he could even be the first overall. The Alabama quarterback had an outstanding year in 2021, winning 13 of the 15 matches he started. He recorded 50 touchdowns in total.

Young became the first sophomore player to win the Heisman Trophy since Lamar Jackson in 2016. There are lots of comparisons between the Crimson Tide QB and the Baltimore Ravens player, which makes him such a great prospect.

It is going to be very exciting to see CFP national champion in the NFL in 2023. Wherever he ends up, he is likely to be a starter in week one.

Will Anderson

Outside linebacker Will Anderson is thought to be the best defensive player eligible for selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. If the team who is on the clock first decides to pass on a quarterback, he will most likely be the player they choose.

Anderson recorded 34.5 sacks across his three years in college football. He won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy in 2021 and 2022, while in 2020, he was part of the Alabama team which won the national championship.

All three of the above players will give those at the top of the draft board a lot to think about from now until April.