Move the Sticks: Top 7 of NFL Draft + Deep Dive on Rookies & Second-Year Players
The NFL Draft is one of the most important events in the NFL calendar. It’s a chance for teams to add young talent to their rosters and build for the future. This year’s draft was particularly deep, with a number of talented players available at every position. Here’s a look at the top 7 players taken in the draft, as well as a deep dive on some of the most promising rookies and second-year players in the NFL.
Top 7 Players Taken in the 2023 NFL Draft
- C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State (Jacksonville Jaguars)
- Bryce Young, QB, Alabama (Houston Texans)
- Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia (Chicago Bears)
- Will Levis, QB, Kentucky (Indianapolis Colts)
- Anthony Richardson, QB, Florida (Carolina Panthers)
- Peter Skoronoski, OT, Northwestern (Philadelphia Eagles)
- Henry To’oTo’o, LB, Tennessee (Buffalo Bills)
Deep Dive on Rookies and Second-Year Players
In addition to the top 7 players taken in the draft, there are a number of other rookies and second-year players who could make a big impact in the NFL this season. Here’s a look at a few of the most promising players to watch:
Rookies
- Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Michigan (Detroit Lions): Hutchinson was one of the most dominant pass rushers in college football last season, and he’s expected to be a force for the Lions right away. He has a great combination of size, strength, and athleticism, and he’s already shown a knack for getting to the quarterback.
- Evan Neal, OT, Alabama (New York Giants): Neal is a massive offensive tackle who is considered to be one of the best prospects at his position in years. He’s incredibly strong and athletic, and he has the potential to be a franchise left tackle for the Giants.
- Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas (Tennessee Titans): Burks is a big, physical receiver who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He has great hands and body control, and he’s also a very good runner after the catch.
Second-Year Players
- Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars: Lawrence was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, and he showed flashes of his potential as a rookie. He’s a talented passer with a strong arm and good mobility. If he can take the next step in his development, he could be one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL.
- Justin Fields, QB, Chicago Bears: Fields is another young quarterback who showed a lot of promise as a rookie. He’s a dynamic playmaker who can make plays with his arm and his legs. If he can improve his accuracy and decision-making, he could be a star in the NFL.
- Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals: Chase was one of the most productive receivers in the NFL last season, and he’s only going to get better in his second year. He’s a great route runner with excellent hands, and he’s also a dangerous deep threat. He’s one of the most exciting young players in the NFL.
The NFL is a young man’s league, and the rookies and second-year players are the future of the game. These are just a few of the most promising young players to watch in the NFL this season. They have the potential to be stars, and they could help their teams make a run at the Super Bowl.