“He’s the best player in the NFL Draft” - Colin Cowherd names best incoming rookie in 2023 and it's not a QB

The 2023 NFL draft is in three weeks, starting on April 27, and as each day moves us closer to the event, we're getting a better idea of how it will shape up.

This year's draft class is deep at quarterback, tight end, linebacker and edge rusher. One interesting prospect is Alabama linebacker Will Anderson Jr. He is touted to go into the top 10, with some considering him the best defensive player in the draft.

Sports radio talk show host Colin Cowherd went the extra mile and dubbed Anderson as the best overall prospect in the entire draft on "The Herd" on Tuesday. He thinks Seattle will select him with the fifth pick.

"Seattle is going to take Will Anderson," Cowherd said. "(Seahawks coach) Pete Carroll's defensive culture will strongly consider Anthony Richardson. But Pete and John Schnieder are going to make a case that this kid led college football in sacks over the last two years, six more than any other player.

"And I believe Pete Carroll believes it's a position of need, and he may be the best player in the draft. I think he'd take Jalen Carter here if available, who may be the best player. But if Will Anderson's available at five – and I think there's a chance – I have a hard time believing in a position of need with a defensive coach (that) they could pass on arguably the best player in the draft.

"They've got (quarterback) Geno (Smith). They can get a quarterback later. I think Seattle goes Will Anderson."

Why Will Anderson is the best defensive prospect of the 2023 NFL draft

Will Anderson Jr. during 2023 NFL combine

Will Anderson Jr. had a stellar three seasons at the University of Alabama. He made a quick impact as a freshman, playing in 13 games and recording 52 tackles, 10.5 tackles for a loss, seven sacks and one forced fumble.

He had one of the best defensive seasons in college football in the last few years in 2021 with 101 tackles, 31 tackles for a loss, 17.5 sacks and three pass deflections.

As a junior this season, Anderson totaled 51 tackles, 17 tackles for a loss, 10 sacks, one interception, a defensive touchdown and two pass deflections.

He's one of the best edge rushers and plays the run game just as well.

Do you think Will Amderson Jr. will be the first defensive player off the board?

If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Colin Cowherd and "The Herd," with Colin Cowherd, and H/T Sportskeeda.