2023 NFL mock draft: Mike Tannenbaum's GM first-round picks

In a few weeks, all 32 franchises will be adding new playmakers in the 2023 NFL draft, although just 27 of them are set to pick in the first round. It's no easy process, and I know firsthand. It wasn't that long ago that I was making draft selections as a general manager and executive with the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets.

Well, I'm giving it another go with a twist on the traditional mock draft style. Draft analysts' mocks are true projections of what they believe will happen based on what they're hearing — my colleague Mel Kiper Jr. just unveiled his newest last week — but I'm going a different route with my third annual GM mock. I'm sliding into the general manager chair for each team with a first-rounder and making my own picks. This isn't what I'm expecting but rather how I'd personally approach each Day 1 selection. And what follows is based off my own evaluations, preferences and philosophies.

So here are my GM selections for the first 31 picks — Miami was stripped of its first-round selection this year — starting with a tough call for Panthers GM Scott Fitterer at No. 1. And be sure to check out my «SportsCenter» special.

coverage:Fits for teams without a first-rounderMcShay's QB pro day takeawaysKiper's newest Round 1 mock

Bryce Young, QB, Alabama

After several years of uncertainty and stop-gap options at the quarterback position, the Panthers have to find a long-term answer. And after trading up to No. 1, I'd be going all-in on Young. It was a tough call for me, and I just narrowly picked him over Ohio State's C.J. Stroud. But while Young's 5-foot-10, 204-pound size is a concern, his talent is unquestionable. He's the guy I'd lean on to turn the passing game around in Carolina. Since 2019, no Panthers QB