Last month, Alabama QB Bryce Young was the hottest brand going for the 2023 NFL Draft. Young was viewed as an impact player that could transform a franchise. Still, many NFL scouts see Young as that type of player. However, a new favorite has emerged with the NFL odds. Ohio State QB CJ Stroud has gained steam and esteem with NFL scouts and gamblers. Hence, he has become the new favorite to be the first player taken in the 2023 NFL Draft. But with over a month until Draft Night, the situation is fluid.
2023 NFL Draft First Player Taken Odds Update
| Date: | Thursday, April 27, 2023 |
|---|---|
| Location: | Kansas City, Missouri |
2023 NFL Draft First Player Taken Odds at SBG
| Player | Odds |
|---|---|
| CJ Stroud | -300 |
| Bryce Young | +300 |
| Anthony Richardson | +450 |
| Will Levis | +3000 |
| Will Anderson | +10000 |
| Jalen Carter | +10000 |
CJ Stroud Emerges as Top Pick Favorite
First pick in the 2023 NFL Draft goes to the Carolina Panthers Carolina got the pick in a trade with the Chicago Bears. And if a team desperately needs a quarterback, it is Carolina. QB has been a sportsbook liability for the Panthers. Thus, Carolina will likely choose between Bryce Young and CJ Stroud.
Overall, Stroud is a pure, natural thrower with outstanding production. He has the desired size, arm strength, and decision-making for a top NFL QB. Stroud isn’t a dynamic athlete in his setup. But he always throws off a firm/strong platform. Stroud has a smooth delivery and throws an impressive tight ball. He can layer the ball over linebackers and under safeties. He puts a nice loft on deep balls, making the game easy on his pass catchers.
On the other hand, Stroud’s weaknesses arise when he has to move/reset and deliver the ball. That is when his accuracy suffers. However, his impressive College Football Playoff performance against Georgia is a notable exception. He is a build-up speed runner when lanes open up for him to take off. Overall, CJ Stroud will have NFL betting odds success, provided the pieces are in place in front of him and on the perimeter.
Bryce Young Remains Atop Many Charts
It is true that Young was an ultra-productive passer for Alabama. The 2021 Heisman Trophy winner has quick feet in his setup and effectively sees the field. He remains on balance and delivers the ball accurately to all three levels. In sum, Young quickly works through progressions and throws with excellent anticipation. He can forcefully drive the ball when he has room to step up in the pocket.
However, Bryce Young has his flaws as well. When his foot space is limited, his ball can sometimes lack proper velocity. Young can avoid free rushers and extend plays, always keeping his eyes up to go down the field with his arm. Hence, he will take the free yards with his legs when necessary. Still, he is rarely in run-first mode. His lack of height isn’t a major issue.
Of great concern is that his narrow frame raises concerns about his durability at the NFL level. If Young can maintain his health, he is expected to emerge as a quality starting quarterback in the NFL quickly.
Second, to pick in the 2023 NFL Draft are the Houston Texans. In like manner to Carolina, the Texans are in desperate need of a quarterback. Thus, Young and Stroud are almost certain to go 1-2 on Draft Night.