How the Top 10 NFL Draft Picks Have Fared This Season

Steve O Speak

The 2023 NFL Draft was brimming with talent, offering a range of players who promised to leave their mark on the league. As we navigate through the season it’s intriguing to see how these top 10 draft picks have adjusted to the professional level.

 

From quarterbacks who were thrust into the limelight to defensive stalwarts redefining their teams, each pick has had a unique journey.

 

Bryce Young: A Rough Start With Room to Grow

Bryce Young’s initiation into the NFL has been challenging. Drafted by the Carolina Panthers, Young has encountered the typical struggles of a first-overall quarterback, especially one in a team grappling with its own issues. In his first nine games, Young has recorded nine touchdowns and seven interceptions with a 62.1 percent completion rate, and a 1-8 record.

 

These stats are reminiscent of Trevor Lawrence’s early struggles, as he had eight touchdowns, seven interceptions, a 59.5 completion percentage, and a 2-6 record. Lawrence was questioned early but he bounced back over time. Young has the opportunity to do the same. North Carolina sportsbook promos will be a hot commodity as we enter the new year with the legalization of online sports betting in North Carolina.

 

C.J. Stroud: A Rookie Revelation

C.J. Stroud has been nothing short of a revelation for the Houston Texans. His exceptional performance is a rarity for a rookie quarterback, playing a pivotal role in the team’s transformation.

 

Under Stroud, the Texans have pivoted from a three-win season to a commendable 6-4 record so far, and they look like a real possibility to make the playoffs. Stroud’s impact is not just about his stats; it’s about the hope and direction he has provided for a franchise in dire need of a turnaround.

Will Anderson Jr.: Flashing Potential

 

Will Anderson Jr., drafted from Alabama, has shown promising flashes of his potential but is yet to fully harness his capabilities. With 33 tackles (22 solo, 11 assists), three sacks, and a blocked kick, Anderson is gradually adapting to the NFL’s demands. The shift from his college role to a more traditional lineman in the NFL has been significant. Despite this, he’s drawing attention and double-teams, a testament to his skill and a harbinger of his potential future success.

 

Anthony Richardson: Indianapolis Colts’ Injured Stud

Anthony Richardson’s promising start with the Indianapolis Colts was cut short by a shoulder injury. In his brief stint, Richardson displayed a versatile skill set, achieving a blend of passing and rushing success.

 

Before the injury, Richardson completed 59.5 percent of his passes for 577 yards and three touchdowns with one interception across four games.

 

He set an NFL record with a rushing touchdown in each of his first three games. Richardson’s injury is not just a setback for him but also a significant loss for the Colts, who were beginning to see the emergence of a dynamic talent.

 

Devon Witherspoon: Overcoming Injury to Shine

Despite a slow start due to a hamstring injury, Devon Witherspoon has demonstrated why he was the top defensive back in the draft. With an interception returned for a 97-yard touchdown, 13 passes defended, and three sacks in nine games, Witherspoon is a significant asset for the Seahawks. His presence alongside Riq Woolen creates a formidable challenge for opposing offenses, and his potential for the remainder of the season remains high.

 

Paris Johnson Jr.: Excelling in Transition

Paris Johnson Jr. has validated the Arizona Cardinals’ faith in him as the 6th pick. Transitioning from college to the NFL, and from guard to tackle, Johnson has shown impressive versatility and skill. His proficiency in run blocking and his ability to engage defenders in open space are highlights of his rookie season. His seamless adaptation to a new position and higher level of competition underscores his potential as a foundational piece for the Cardinals’ offensive line.

 

Tyree Wilson: Las Vegas Raiders’ Building Block

Tyree Wilson is still finding his footing as a pass rusher, but his improvements in the run game have been pivotal for the Raiders. With his physical attributes, Wilson is expected to evolve into a dominant run defender. The Raiders anticipate his growth in both run defense and pass rushing as critical to their future success, especially considering potential team rebuilds.

 

Bijan Robinson: Underutilized Talent

Bijan Robinson’s usage in the Atlanta Falcons’ offense has been a point of contention. Robinson has 125 carries for 612 yards and two touchdowns thus far, with the best statistical performance of his career coming in Week 2 when he had 19 carries for 124 yards in a 25-24 home victory over the Green Bay Packers on September 17.

 

While it’s obviously early in his career, the hype surrounding him as he entered the NFL is why the lack of usage has been so concerning.

 

He leads the Falcons in rushing yards but is tied for first in carries, as Tyler Allgeier has 125 carries as well despite only having 402 yards on the season. Allgeier also has three touchdowns and quarterback Desmond Ridder has contributed four scores on the ground, so Robinson just hasn’t been the main option when the Falcons get down near the goal line.

 

Jalen Carter: Philadelphia Eagles’ Defensive Pillar

Jalen Carter has been a standout performer for the Philadelphia Eagles. His impact on the field is undeniable, drawing comparisons to to the late, great Reggie White, who won the 1985 Defensive Player of The Year for the Eagles.

 

Carter’s work ethic and improvement under the mentorship of veterans like Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham have been instrumental in his rapid development. His ability to disrupt offensive plays has made him a key component of the Eagles’ defense and a significant reason for their successful season.

 

Darnell Wright: Chicago Bears’ Reliable Lineman

Darnell Wright is quickly becoming a notable presence on the Chicago offensive line. Though he might not be making the headline-grabbing plays like Jalen Carter, Wright’s impact has been significant. He’s shown a commendable blend of size, power, and agility, essential for a lineman in the high-paced NFL environment.

 

While Wright has had his share of rookie moments with occasional missteps, these are part of his learning curve and haven’t overshadowed his overall performance. His quick footwork and strong work ethic suggest he’s on track to be a reliable and enduring anchor for the Bears’ offensive line, a role they’ve been looking to fill for years. Wright’s growth and adaptability point towards a promising future, potentially as a long-term starter for Chicago.

 

This comprehensive examination of the top 10 NFL Draft picks reveals a diverse range of experiences and trajectories. From immediate impacts to gradual developments and unfortunate injuries, each player’s journey so far reflects the unpredictable nature of transitioning to the NFL. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to observe how these young talents continue to evolve and shape their careers in the league.


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