The latest 2023 NFL mock draft from ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. has the Colts trading up for a QB

NFL free agency is mostly over, and that means we’re getting much closer to the 2023 draft in April.

So, yes, mock draft season is very much happening. In the latest NFL mock draft from our Christian D’Andrea, he had combine star Anthony Richardson taken first by the Carolina Panthers and the Indianapolis Colts trading up to No. 2 to snag Ohio State’s C.J. Stroud.

In the latest mock from ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., it’s Stroud to the Panthers, Alabama’s Bryce Young taken by the Houston Texans, and then the Arizona Cardinals — who have tons of leverage to trade with a QB-needy team — trading down and the Colts taking … Will Levis from Kentucky! Here’s what Kiper wrote:

Is it possible [Chris] Ballard likes either Levis or Anthony Richardson as his top passer in this class? Yes, absolutely. In that case, this could be a win-win deal for both teams. The bottom line is the Colts have a solid roster, but they’re not going to win without better quarterback play. Barring a dramatic trade for Lamar Jackson — which would cost two first-round picks — they should move up to ensure they get Levis.

Levis, a 6-foot-4 QB with a huge arm who played in a pro-style offense at Kentucky, had an inconsistent 2022 season. He didn’t play with elite talent, though, and he forced too many throws at times. Indianapolis has the playmakers to help him out as a rookie. New coach Shane Steichen helped Jalen Hurts take a massive leap for the Eagles, and he should be excited to coach up another high-ceiling player.

There you have it. And don’t forget to check out For The Win’s latest mock draft and all our coverage.