What teams could trade up in the 2023 NFL Draft?
It’s never too early to dive into the 2023 NFL Draft. Vendetta Sports Media will be hammering draft coverage for now until April 27.
One of the most exciting parts of the draft is teams moving up to get the guy they want, and this year we are almost guaranteed to see some moves. With Lovie Smith doing Chicago a solid and winning Houston’s last game, the Bears now sit at first overall. While it is enticing for the Bears to sit and take the pick, they would be foolish to not listen to trade offers.
Let’s look at the five teams who we could see trade up to No. 1 overall in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Las Vegas Raiders (No. 7)
I wrote before the 2022 season began that the Raiders would finish second in the AFC West. While I may have missed on that take, there is still pieces to this team to like.
With Derek Carr seemingly out in Vegas, they have a clear need for a quarterback. With perennial No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young sitting there, Vegas should at least be on the phones gauging what kind of package it would take to move ahead of Houston for the QB1 in the class.
Detroit Lions (No. 6 and 18)
The Detroit Lions surprised a lot of people (not this writer) with their play in 2022, finishing 9-8 and just missing the playoffs. The Detroit offense took a massive step forward this year behind Jared Goff, but we all know he isn’t the answer. Could a fresh, young signal caller be just what the doctor ordered for this Lions team to take the next step and make a run at a playoff spot next year?
Atlanta Falcons (No. 8)
Desmond Ridder isn’t it. Ridder started some games down the stretch and while they were winning, you can’t sustain long term success with his play. There are some nice young pieces on defense, and the offense needs an infusion of talent at the quarterback position. I’m sure nothing would make Kyle Pitts happier than to have someone competent throwing him the ball in 2023. Same with dynasty owners of Pitts.
Seattle Seahawks (No. 5 and 20)
The Seattle Seahawks are set up for success long term. After their utter fleece job of the Denver Broncos in the Russell Wilson trade last offseason, they went out and crushed the 2022 NFL Draft and now have a good, young defense with some offensive weapons.
Even with Geno Smith coming back to Seattle, he isn’t the long-term option. He can’t be. Seattle has the picks to move up and still acquire some good players this year.
Indianapolis Colts (No. 4)
The madness needs to stop. I know I speak for the Colts fans out there in saying stop renting bad quarterbacks and invest in a young one. There are some nice pieces on offense they just need someone to lead it. Trading down from one to four won’t be a huge hurt in terms of getting an elite talent in the class. If I’m Jim Irsay, enough being patient. Pull the trigger and restart.
***
18/365
