Las Vegas - 28th April - 30th April 2022
As the 2022 NFL Draft swiftly approaches, it is time for my 9th annual mock draft. Usual rules apply, this is a no trade mock draft which fixes the draft positions a week before the actual draft and releases a few days the first pick takes place. As usual, the most accurate prediction is that the mock will be wildly inaccurate come draft day, but hopefully runs through some of the thought processes each team will face as they come onto the clock.
The keyword of this years draft would appear to be depth. On the face of it there isn't outright superstars at the top of the class and indeed the QB class has unanswered questions on all the main candidates that will likely lead to a non-QB getting selected overall for only the 7th time in the last 25 years. Indeed there is a lot of debate ranking the top 5 amongst most of the position groups which makes this perhaps one of least predictable drafts in memory.
Without any more ado, let's get into the picks :
1 – Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars ended their 20 game losing streak (3rd longest in NFL history) in London but 9 games later were giving up on the controversial Urban Meyer Head Coaching experiment. They stumbled to a 3-14 record and having surprisingly never owned the #1 overall pick until 2021, find themselves in the exact same spot for the second successive season. The appointment of former Super Bowl winning Eagles HC Doug Pederson was made with the intent to help develop last years #1 pick Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars are at least in a good position to help surround the young QB with better talent here.
Off-Season Additions : OG Brandon Scherff (Washington), WR Christian Kirk (Arizona), WR Zay Jones (Las Vegas), LB Foye Oluokun (Atlanta), TE Evan Engram (NY Giants), DE Arden Key (San Francisco), DT Folorunso Fatukasi (NY Jets), CB Darious Williams (LA Rams)
Off-Season Losses : WR D.J Chark (Detroit), LB Myles Jack (Pittsburgh), OG A.J Cann (Houston), OG Andrew Norwell (Washington), DT Taven Bryan (Cleveland), LB Damien Wilson (Carolina), RB Dare Ogunbowale (Houston), TE Jacob Hollister (Las Vegas), S Ronnie Harrison (Cleveland), OC Brandon Linder (retired)
Team Needs : WR-TE-OL-DL-LB-DB
The strength at the top of this years draft class appears to be along both sides of the trenches. Prior to free agency the logical path was an assumption the Jags would take an O-lineman to improve protection for Trevor Lawrence in year 2. However, the big money free agency signing of Brandon Scherff and the franchise tag on Cam Robinson means that the Jags options are more flexible. The lack of a long term deal for Robinson (playing his second year under the franchise tag) keeps in play one of the premier tackles such as Ikem Ekonwu or Evan Neal but in Vegas the experts certainly think the pick is on the other side of the ball.
Aidan Hutchinson has generally been the highest graded player in the draft class. His breakout senior season (he broke his leg 2 games into his junior year) returned 14 sacks and 51 hurries, bouncing him from fringe first rounder into a top 5 certainty. He's a high character, high motor player with an explosive first step. An every down player, he's not a system specific pick by any means and his selection here would improve the Jags defense immediately. There is some late money on this pick shifting to Travon Walker but I'll stick pat on Hutchinson.
As a side note, despite the big money spending in free agency, the Jags still need more playmakers at the skill positions on offense. However, I don't see a viable pick within the top 10, certainly not first up.
The pick : EDGE Aidan Hutchinson (Michigan)
2 – Detroit Lions
The Lions overall record of 3-13-1 may have been a disappointment but the team played hard for 1st year HC Dan Campbell. There were optimistic signs as they closed the season 3-3 with 2 of those wins coming against playoff bound teams. In typical Lions fashion though, they spent the postseason at home whilst watching their former QB Matthew Stafford win a Super Bowl ring in his first season away from the Motor City.
Off-Season Additions : WR D.J Chark (Jacksonville), CB Mike Hughes (Minnesota), S DeShon Elliott (Baltimore), LB Chris Board (Baltimore), TE Garrett Griffin (New Orleans)
Off-Season Losses : LB Trey Flowers, LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin (Houston), S Dean Marlowe (Atlanta), CB Michael Ford (Atlanta)
Team Needs : QB-WR-EDGE-LB
I think that in an ideal world the Lions would hope that local boy Aidan Hutchinson makes it past Jacksonville. It does not seem likely to happen at this stage. In a typical year they'd maybe switch attention to QB, but I think the second pick would be a reach this year and Jared Goff has maybe earnt a second year as starter for his performance down the stretch once HC Dan Campbell took over play-calling duties. To get full value of a non-QB pick this high, they've got to look to fill one of the other positions that come at a premium.
The Lions O-line is both strong and has depth, the pass rush meanwhile has consistently ranked near the bottom of the league over the course of the last few years, so I'm fairly certain the pick will be an edge rusher. A few weeks ago I'd have said this is going to be Kayvon Thibodeaux but the momentum all seems to be with Georgia's Travon Walker right now.
At 6'5/275 Walker has the size, speed and strength to play inside or edge and indeed did for the National Champions Georgia. However his testing at the combine, including a 40 time of 4.51, was absolutely electric for a man of his size and has him leaping up the draft boards. The caveat here is that Walker isn't the finished article in terms of pass rush skills and play awareness. The team drafting Walker is putting their faith in his freaky athleticism and huge potential upside.
The pick : EDGE Travon Walker (Georgia)
3 – Houston Texans
Lovie Smith became the third Texans HC in as many seasons and will oversee a team minus their disgraced former franchise QB Deshaun Watson who was finally shipped out of town to Cleveland. The Texans do possess 11 picks in this years draft, with the Watson trade giving the Texans two of the first 13 selections. The roster needs help everywhere.
Off-Season Additions : CB Steven Nelson (Philadelphia), OG A.J Cann (Jacksonville), LB Jalen Reeves-Maybin (Detroit), RB Marlon Mack (Indianapolis), RB Dare Ogunbowale (Jacksonville), OC Scott Quessenberry (LA Chargers), CB M.J Stewart (Cleveland), CB Isaac Yiadom (Green Bay), QB Kyle Allen (Washington)
Off-Season Losses : QB Deshaun Watson (t-Cleveland), S Justin Reid (Kansas City), S A.J Moore (Tennessee), LB Jake Martin (NY Jets), QB Tyrod Taylor (NY Giants), CB Terrance Mitchell (New England), DT Jaleel Johnson (New Orleans), DT Vincent Taylor (Atlanta)
Team Needs : DL-LB-DB-WR-RB
The Texans are a franchise that's struggled to find a unified strategy in recent years. The appointment of Lovie Smith would seem to provide a focus on creating a tough defensive identity. The problem is that they don't have enough talent on the defensive side of the ball or indeed generally across the roster. The Texans therefore have a 'luxury' of taking the best players that fall into their lap. Typically a franchise would build from the trenches out and both the Houston O-Line and D-Line could be upgraded here.
Whilst I certainly feel an edge rusher is an option (I'd consider Kayvon Thibodeaux), I think the Texans will instead look to improve the leagues worst offense from 2021. The Texans have talked about improving the leagues worst rush attack to help Davis Mills and this would be a tone setting pick.
There was early talk of Ikem Ekwonu being the #1 overall pick. He's arguably the most dominant run blocking lineman in the draft class and will bring much needed physicality to the run game. This shouldn't take away from his ability in pass protection either, he's intelligent and has good footwork and won't be easily bull-rushed. Ekwonu may lack ideal length for Tackle and that's possibly my only concern that pick #3 might be too high for someone who may be better suited at OG in the NFL. I figure that he'd maybe play his rookie year inside then move out to Tackle. Should he struggle and that's not to say I think he will, he could stay inside and the Texans could have a legitimate All Pro Guard.
The pick : OT Ikem Ekwonu (North Carolina State)
4 – New York Jets
The Jets doubled their win total from 2020 under new HC Robert Saleh but a 4-13 record was nothing to get excited about. Second year passer Zach Wilson needs to be surrounded by more weapons but saw Jamison Crowder depart in free agency and a failed attempt to trade for Tyreek Hill. The O-line also conceded 53 sacks which ranked 29th in the league. The defense was even worse, ranking dead last in total yards conceded. On a positive note, the Jets own two of the first 10 picks of the draft.
Off-Season Additions : OG Laken Tomlinson (San Francisco), CB D.J Reed (Seattle), TE C.J Uzomah (Cincinnati), TE Tyler Conklin (Minnesota), DE Solomon Thomas (Las Vegas), S Jordan Whitehead (Tampa Bay), LB Jake Martin (Houston), OT Greg Senat (Indianapolis)
Off-Season Losses : S Marcus Maye (New Orleans), WR Jamison Crowder (Buffalo), DT Folorunso Fatukasi (Jacksonville), OT Morgan Moses (Baltimore)
The Jets will add talent in this draft to support Zach Wilson but unless it's an O-lineman at #4 I think it's too early to address the offense based on this years class. Instead I believe the value boils down to Kayvon Thibodeaux off the edge or the Jets preferred corner, either Sauce Gardner or Derek Stingley.
Based on the earlier selections there is a small run on the Edge and the Jets are aware of this at #4 knowing they're back up again in 6 picks. The Jets follow suit and take the best remaining Edge rusher available. Thibodeaux was muted as a potential #1 overall pick until he posted an impressive 40 yard run at the combine then everything seemed to change. I don't know what advice he took, but pulling out of all other activities started the character questions and saw him drop down draft boards. I think the potential is too great at a premium position to allow him to slide too far.
The pick : EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux (Oregon)
5 – New York Giants
The Giants are 61-100 since their last Superbowl victory and following a turgid 4-13 season, the Giants cleared house and start 2022 with a new GM (Joe Schoen) and HC (Brian Daboll). The Giants have plenty of needs having ranked 31st in total offense and 21st in total defense but it's been a relatively vanilla free agency for the Giants due to very limited cap space. They do own two of the top 7 picks of the draft right now, but it's possible one pick is traded, especially since the Giants would be over $9m shy of cap space to sign their rookie class based on picks at 5 & 7. It will be interesting to see how the new Front Office addresses the rebuild.
Off-Season Additions : OG Mark Glowinski (Indianapolis), OG Max Garcia (Arizona), IOL Jon Feliciano (Buffalo), OT Matt Gono (Atlanta), TE Ricky Seals-Jones (Washington), DT Justin Ellis (Baltimore), QB Tyrod Taylor (Houston), RB Matt Breida (Buffalo)
Off-Season Losses : OG Will Hernandez (Arizona), CB Keion Crossen (Miami), CB Logan Ryan (Tampa Bay), DT Austin Johnson (LA Chargers), TE Evan Engram (Jacksonville), OLB Lorenzo Carter (Atlanta), TE Kyle Rudolph,
I think the most likely selection here is the best O-lineman still on the draft board. Ekwonu would come into consideration if still available, but the other options would likely be Evan Neal or Charles Cross. I think the most obvious pick would be Neal. A three year starter at Alabama, Neal would be an immediate starter who could play either Tackle spot, A man mountain at 6'7/350 his game doesn't come without flaws but he's a relatively safe prospect as far as linemen come.
The pick : OT Evan Neal (Alabama)
6 – Carolina Panthers
Just 2 seasons into a 7 year $62m contract, Panthers HC Matt Rhule finds himself on the hot seat in Carolina after back-to-back 5 win seasons. The team isn't without talent boasting a strong defense and playmakers in Christian McCaffrey and D.J Moore, but they've consistently failed to address a porous offensive line and appear to have little to no strategy for the QB position. It's an important draft for Rhule and his hand picked GM Scott Fitterer
Off-Season Additions : S Xavier Woods (Minnesota), OG Austin Corbett (LA Rams), OC Bradley Bozeman (Baltimore), LB Cory Littleton (Las Vegas), DT Matt Ioannidis (Washington), RB D'Onta Foreman (Tennessee), WR Rashard Higgins (Cleveland), LB Damien Wilson (Jacksonville), CB Chris Westry (Baltimore), P Johnny Hekker (LA Rams)
Off-Season Losses : LB Haason Reddick (Philadelphia), DT DaQuan Jones (Buffalo), RB Ameer Abdullah (Las Vegas)
Here's the first barometer of how NFL teams view this years QB class. The Panthers have strengthened the roster during free agency but have hardly been mentioned whilst the likes of Russell Wilson, Matt Ryan, Deshaun Watson and Carson Wentz switched teams. Do the Panthers rate any of these QB's as a potential starter they'll spend a 1st round pick on? Are they OK with a QB room of only Sam Darnold and Philip Walker? We shall see....
My take is that they'll invest a pick in a QB, but not this one at #6. They've made moves over the offseason to upgrade what's been a weak O-line. I think they'll continue to invest via the draft. This may be a little higher than I saw Charles Cross going off the board, but it's a need pick on a team that simply must do better to save Matt Rhule's job.
The pick : OT Charles Cross (Mississippi State)
7 – New York Giants (via Chicago Bears)
The Giants second pick of the round comes via the Bears move up to select Ohio State QB Justin Fields last year
Whilst I think this pick is a strong trade candidate (maybe a QB needy team who wants to leapfrog Atlanta and Seattle) I have a no-trade mock rule. If the Giants stay at #7 then they're going to struggle to sign their draft class with very limited cap space. So I'm taking a leap and thinking that the Giants 'out' would be to trade or release CB James Bradberry to give them around $10m in cap relief. They'd then need this pick to find a starting corner and it just so happens there are two excellent corners in Sauce Gardner and Derek Stingley to choose from.
The pick : CB Ahmad 'Sauce' Gardner (Cincinnati)
8 – Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons ended 2021 at 7-10, as Arthur Smith delivered a 3 win improvement from Dan Quinn's last season in charge. The roster rebuild continued this offseason with Matt Ryan shipped to Indianapolis and key free agents Russell Gage and Foye Oluokun departing for more money elsewhere. The Falcons remain in cap purgatory and their free agency signings have subsequently been at the low cost end of the pool. The franchise won't mention 'rebuild' but make no mistake, the winds of change are blowing through Flowery Branch and whilst a challenging 2022 beckons, the salary cap issues are being largely absorbed in a single season to free up the franchise from 2023 and beyond.
Off-Season Additions : QB Marcus Mariota (Las Vegas), CB Casey Hayward (Las Vegas), HB Damian Williams (Chicago), WR Auden Tate (Cincinnati), WR Damiere Byrd (Chicago), TE Anthony Firkser (Tennessee), OLB Lorenzo Carter (NY Giants), LB Rashaan Evans (Tennessee), CB Teez Tabor (Chicago), OT Elijah Wilkinson (Chicago), OT Germain Ifedi (Chicago), WR Khadarel Hodge (Cleveland), S Dean Marlowe (Detroit), CB Michael Ford (Detroit), DT Vincent Taylor (Houston)
Off-Season Losses : QB Matt Ryan (t-Indianapolis), WR Russell Gage (Tampa Bay), LB Foye Oluokun (Jacksonville), DE Dante Fowler Jr (Dallas), TE Hayden Hurst (Cincinnati), LS Josh Harris (LA Chargers), S Duron Harmon (Las Vegas), P Thomas Morstead (Miami), TE Lee Smith (retired), OT Matt Gono (NY Giants)
The trade of Matt Ryan was the headline news, alongside the failed attempt to lure Deshaun Watson back home. The fallout offers an opportunity for Marcus Mariota to kickstart his career, though he's more likely a short-term bridge QB whilst the Falcons search for a QB here or in 2023. Whether the Falcons look for a passer at #8 remains to be seen. They've certainly kicked the tyres on their options at the candidates pro days.
The Falcons have a pretty weak roster but some young cornerstones to build around. What they have lacked for what seems an eternity is a pass-rush. To put last season in perspective, the Falcons as a team ranked dead last in the league with 18 sacks. The next worst team, Philadelphia, had 29. The Steelers T.J Watt (22.5) and the Rams Robert Quinn (18.5) had more individual sacks than the entire Falcons defense combined.
The Falcons Front Office has talked about best player available. I think in reality, they either fall in love with a QB pre-draft or take the highest ranked player on their draft board, which in reality the Falcons will hope will be a dynamic edge rusher.
The 'need' options open here at #8 would likely be Malik Willis at QB or Jermaine Johnson II as a pass rusher. They could possibly be looking at WR but I'd suggest they'll address this on Day Two. Instead, if the Falcons stick to the true BPA they keep referring to, then I think CB Derek Stingley becomes a consideration but instead I'm going to go for S Kyle Hamilton. Yes it's a high pick for a modern day safety, but the Falcons proved with the selection of Kyle Pitts last year that they're not afraid to buck the positional value trend when it comes to extraordinary talents.
The pick : S Kyle Hamilton (Notre Dame)
9 – Seattle Seahawks (via Denver Broncos)
The offseason saw the departure of two of the Seahawks locker room leaders in Russell Wilson and Bobby Wagner. 2021 was the first time either man experienced a losing season since both were drafted back in 2012. The Seahawks are now in flux, Pete Carroll won't want a rebuild at 70 years of age, but somehow has to find a franchise QB, and improve the 31st ranked pass defense from last year. The good news is that the Wilson trade sees the Seahawks pick the earliest in an NFL draft since 2010, coincidentally Carroll's first season with the team.
Off-Season Additions : LB Uchenna Nwosu (LA Chargers), TE Noah Fant (t-Denver), QB Drew Lock (t-Denver), DE Shelby Harris (t-Denver), CB Artie Burns (Chicago), OC Austin Blythe (Kansas City),
Off-Season Losses : QB Russell Wilson (t-Denver), LB Bobby Wagner (LA Rams), CB D.J Reed (NY Jets), CB Tre Flowers (Cincinnati), OG Ethan Pocic (Cleveland), OL Jamarco Jones (Tennessee)
Under the assumption that Carolina and Atlanta have both passed on a QB (pardon the pun), Seattle potentially have the pick of the QB class for Russell Wilson's successor. However, they did secure Drew Lock as part of the Wilson trade, so maybe Pete Carroll sees something there that we've failed to see in his first 3 seasons in the league. The highest upside QB is probably Malik Willis but he's not really ready to start as a rookie. Maybe Kenny Pickett would be but he doesn't have the potential upside of Willis, so a selection at #9 may be over-stretching. I don't think it's going to be a QB friendly first round even though recent history says otherwise and their are QB needy teams.
With this in mind, I'm going to have the Seahawks chasing an improvement to their 31st ranked pass defense. My considerations are edge rusher or cornerback and in this case I've narrowed the selection to LSU's Derek Stingley or Washington's Trent McDuffie. Obviously McDuffie played his football locally in Seattle, but I think Stingley is perhaps the higher rated of the two on paper.
The pick : CB Derek Stingley (LSU)
10 – New York Jets (via Seattle Seahawks)
The Jets second 1st round pick of the draft courtesy of the Jamal Adams trade from 2020
With the Jets grabbing a much needed edge rusher already at #4 it's now time to start providing weapons for Zach Wilson. I'm not sure who the Jets will rank the best WR in the class, it's such a tough call. With a host of WR's ranked around the same score, it's more about the player type they're looking for rather a standout #1 option. With the Jets selecting Elijah Moore last time out I'll have them taking a different WR opposite him. Drake London at 6'5/210 has a huge catch radius to offer something different from the speedy and elusive Moore.
The pick : WR Drake London (USC)
11 – Washington Commanders
It's been 5 seasons since the Wk1 starting QB in Washington completed a full regular season. Last year was no different with offseason signing Ryan Fitzpatrick gone for the year in his one and only start. Carson Wentz would appear to be the next in line in Washington, after the Commanders effectively gave up a 3rd round pick this year and a conditional 3rd rounder in 2023 to secure the QB. Wentz will be on his 3rd team in as many seasons and likely on his last chance as a starter.
Off-Season Additions : QB Carson Wentz (t-Indianapolis), OG Andrew Norwell (Jacksonville)
Off-Season Losses : OG Brandon Scherff (Jacksonville), DT Matt Ioannidis (Carolina), DT Tim Settle (Buffalo), TE Ricky Seals-Jones (NY Giants), DE Efe Obada (Buffalo), QB Kyle Allen (Houston), WR Deandre Carter (LA Chargers)
The Commanders most striking need is at WR where they've yet to get a serviceable foil opposite Terry McLaurin. They spent a lot of money on Curtis Samuel last offseason and he delivered only 6 catches. Behind McLaurin and Samuel there is even less. It's just too obvious a decision.
The pick : WR Garrett Wilson (Ohio State)
12 – Minnesota Vikings
It's all change in Minnesota as the combo of first year GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and first year HC Kevin O'Connell approach their first collegiate draft together. The Vikings will need to set about improving the 30th ranked NFL defense and will be hoping that O'Connell, fresh from a Super Bowl victory as the Rams OC, can help the Vikings already productive offense take the next step from good to great.
Off-Season Additions : LB Za'Darius Smith (Green Bay), LB Jordan Hicks (Arizona), DT Harrison Phillips (Buffalo), OG Chris Reed (Indianapolis), OG Austin Schlottman (Denver), TE Johnny Mundt (LA Rams), CB Chandon Sullivan (Philadelphia)
Off-Season Losses : S Xavier Woods (Carolina), TE Tyler Conklin (NY Jets), CB Mike Hughes (Detroit), OC Mason Cole (Pittsburgh), DT Michael Pierce (Baltimore), DT Jullian Taylor (Tennessee)
The majority of the teams focus is likely to be on the defensive side of the ball, as was witnessed in free agency, but don't rule out the option of OC Tyler Linderbaum here. The Vikes are settled at Tackle but could use an upgrade on the interior O-Line. Linderbaum carries the highest grade for any rated college center in the PFF era and would appear a really good fit.
The other wild card option could be a change at QB. Kirk Cousins will earn $40m this year, taking his career earnings over the $200m mark. Whilst he continues to post excellent statistical passing metrics, he's only posted one playoff win in 10 NFL seasons. A new regime can sometimes mean change at the top. I think it unlikely, but don't rule out a successor here if they're not sold on 2021 2nd rounder Kellen Mond, chosen by the previous regime.
In reality though I think it's hard to ignore the immediate necessity at corner or a pass rusher to complement Danielle Hunter. Since it's the pass rushers that tend to come at a premium, I'll have the Vikes taking Jermaine Johnson II. A Georgia transfer, Johnson had an excellent one season at Florida State finishing with 11.5 sacks demonstrating both good technique and power that should make him a constant threat in the pros.
The pick : EDGE Jermaine Johnson II (Florida State)
13 – Houston Texans (via Cleveland Browns)
Houston's second pick in the first round comes courtesy of the Deshaun Watson trade to Cleveland.
The Texans are up again and after going OT first up, should probably switch to the defensive side of the ball here.
The pick : CB Trent McDuffie (Washington)
14 – Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens are a tough team to place right now. They suffered an injury blighted season which ended with 19 players on IR. They finished with an 8-9 record that included a 6 game losing streak to end the season. Their once vaunted defense ranked 32nd against the pass. Whilst free agency and the return of starters will help, the Ravens are still searching for a pass rusher capable of double digit sacks, the like they've not seen since Terrell Suggs in 2017.
Off-Season Additions : S Marcus Williams (New Orleans), OT Morgan Moses (NY Jets), DT Michael Pierce (Minnesota)
Off-Season Losses : CB Anthony Averett (Las Vegas), CB Tavon Young (Chicago), CB Chris Westry (Carolina), DT Justin Ellis (NY Giants), OC Bradley Bozeman (Carolina), S DeShon Elliott (Detroit), WR Sammy Watkins (Green Bay), LB Chris Board (Detroit)
Ideally the Ravens would hope one of their preferred edge rushers remain on the board, particularly after Za'Darius Smith reneged on a 4-yr deal during free agency. The pass defense was pretty bad in 2021 but the Front Office will hope the signing of Marcus Williams improves the back-end but the real improvement should come via the return of a fully-fit Marcus Peters and Marlon Humphrey.
The other option for Baltimore could be an investment in the interior of the O-line. With Bradley Bozeman's departure the Ravens did not address the position in free agency. Tyler Linderbaum certainly comes into play here.
The pick : OC Tyler Linderbaum (Iowa)
15 – Philadelphia Eagles (via Miami Dolphins)
After a 2-5 start to Nick Sirianni's debut HC season, the Eagles surprised many by making a run into the playoffs before being unceremoniously despatched 31-15 by the Buccaneers at the first hurdle. Sirianni deserves some credit for the in-season adjustments but caution is advised as the Eagles also went 0-7 against playoff teams. The Eagles still boast one of the best O-lines in the league and a top 10 defense, but are they all-in on Jalen Hurts and can he develop as a passer? The trade with the Saints deferred one of their 1st round picks into next year, perhaps as insurance if Hurts cannot kick on. In the meantime the Eagles need to give him every opportunity to succeed and that likely means upgrades at receiver
Off-Season Additions : LB Haason Reddick (Carolina), WR Zach Pascal (Indianapolis), LB Kyzir White (LA Chargers)
Off-Season Losses : DT Hassan Ridgeway (San Francisco), CB Steven Nelson (Houston), CB Chandon Sullivan (Minnesota), S Rodney McLeod (Indianapolis), LB Alex Singleton (Denver)
The Eagles need provide more weapons to give Jalen Hurts the chance to succeed. I think WR is a strong possibility here at #15. The most intriguing and brave selection would be for the Eagles to pick Alabama's Jameson Williams. He has the deep speed reminiscent of former Eagle DeSean Jackson, and a good couple of inches extra height too. The one red flag is the ACL tear, but for the Eagles this is simply good fortune as otherwise he'd likely be off the board already.
The pick : WR Jameson Williams (Alabama)
16 – New Orleans Saints (via Philadephia Eagles via Indianapolis Colts)
The Saints have slowly transitioned from an offensive minded team under Sean Payton to one whose strengths are now firmly rooted on the defensive side of the ball. With Payton standing aside, the Saints opted for continuity with the promotion of long-time DC Dennis Allen into the HC role. The Saints pre-draft trade with Philadelphia has them currently scheduled to pick at #16 and #19. Are they collecting picks for an aggressive move up or sat in a sweet spot to address their main concerns - replacing All Pro Tackle Terron Armstead and providing an upgrade to the group at WR.
Off-Season Additions : S Marcus Maye (NY Jets), S Daniel Sorensen (Kansas City), QB Andy Dalton (Chicago), DT Jaleel Johnson (Houston), DE Taco Charlton (Pittsburgh)
Off-Season Losses : OT Terron Armstead (Miami), S Marcus Williams (Baltimore), WR/RB Ty Montgomery (New England), TE Garrett Griffin (Detroit), QB Trevor Siemian (Chicago), S Malcolm Jenkins (retired)
It's an overly obvious pick but the Saints have long relied on a strong O-line and now need replace the departed Terron Armstead who they simply couldn't afford to retain with salary cap constraints. Armstead is tough to replace but the Saints probably need throw a 1st round pick at the attempt.
The pick : OT Trevor Penning (Northern Iowa)
17 – Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers unfortunately became the second team in LA with the Rams winning Super Bowl LVI in their shared home. The Rams remain one of the favourites to repeat again in 2022 but the Chargers have the potential to push themselves out of the shadow of the Rams in 2022. A top 5 offense last year was held back by a porous defense, particularly against the run and on 3rd downs, but the Chargers aggressively took steps to address this during free agency. An impact player or two from this draft class could really push them into contention.
Off-Season Additions : OLB Khalil Mack (t-Chicago), CB J.C Jackson (New England), DT Sebastian Joseph-Day (LA Rams), DT Austin Johnson (NY Giants), TE Gerald Everett (Seattle), WR Deandre Carter (Washington), LS Josh Harris (Atlanta)
Off-Season Losses : LB Uchenna Nwosu (Seattle), DT Justin Jones (Chicago), OC Scott Quessenberry (Houston), LB Kyzir White (Philadelphia), TE Stephen Anderson (Arizona)
The Chargers are a tough team to call. I think the Saints go OT at #16 instead of #19 out of fear the Chargers will be looking OT here. They could also be looking interior defensive line too. A surprise could also be a pick at WR. The Chargers look well stocked but could use an upgrade at Right Tackle. I think either Tyler Smith or Bernard Raimann are possible candidates, but neither have experience playing anywhere aside from Left Tackle. Smith is probably a better fit on a run heavy team, so my leaning is more towards Raimann. An Austrian native, Raimann was playing Tight End only 2 years ago. His technique is surprisingly impressive considering he's only really played 18 college games at Tackle. He's only going to get better too.
The pick : OT Bernard Raimann (Central Michigan)
18 – Philadelphia Eagles (via New Orleans Saints)
The Eagles are back up for their second pick of the first round here
The Eagles are back up again and I don't know why but I just keep seeing Jordan Davis in an Eagles uniform (a very large one at that!). Davis ran 4.78 in the 40 at the combine, bearing in mind the man mountain is 6'6/340. The athleticism he shown in drills hints at a someone who could become a dominant force. The problem is that his snap count was limited in college and his pass rush pretty much non-existent. What he was though, was the most imposing presence in the middle of the Georgia D. No-one is moving Davis out of the way in the run game. If his game matures, the sky could be the limit. I just see him as a great fit in the Eagles rotation, but is #18 too high when there are no guarantees as to what he becomes?
The pick : DT Jordan Davis (Georgia)
19 – New Orleans Saints (via Philadelphia Eagles)
The Saints are back on the clock
With their LT now drafted, the Saints can start looking at other needs. With the status of Michael Thomas unclear for what seems like a long time now, the Saints still haven't added many other receiving weapons. It's time for that to change.
The pick : WR Traylon Burks (Arkansas)
There will be no Ben Roethlisberger on the Steelers roster for the first time since 2003. Mitchell Trubisky was signed in free agency but is a reclamation project who comes with no guarantees. GM Kevin Colbert also steps aside, but rather absurdly retires post draft. It's possible the Steelers are in the market for a rookie QB but surely this would be a decision for Colbert's successor? Look for the trenches to be addressed in the draft. The Steelers made some moves on the O-line during free agency but more is needed. The ground game on both sides of the ball struggled in 2021, especially so on defense, which ranked dead-last against the rush.
Off-Season Additions : QB Mitchell Trubisky (Buffalo), LB Myles Jack (Jacksonville), OG James Daniels (Chicago), OC Mason Cole (Minnesota), CB Levi Wallace (Buffalo), WR Gunner Olszewski (New England), DE Genard Avery (Cleveland)
Off-Season Losses : WR JuJu Smith-Schuster (Kansas City), WR James Washington (Dallas), WR Ray-Ray McCloud (San Francisco), DE Taco Charlton (New Orleans), QB Joshua Dobbs (Cleveland)
The Steelers may have acquired Mitchell Trubisky in the offseason to compete with Mason Rudolph but I wouldn't be surprised to see a QB pick here. If they go that route, is it local boy Kenny Pickett or high upside Malik Willis? Does GM Kevin Colbert leave his last mark on the franchise by selecting Roethlisberger's replacement 19 years after picking Big Ben?
The pick : QB Malik Willis (Liberty)
21 – New England Patriots
The Mac Jones era in New England began with an inauspicious 2-4 start but the Patriots rallied and won 8 of the last 11 to secure a wild card berth. Jones struggled during stretches but appears a solid fit for the Patriots timing-based pass attack. Jones continued progression will be vital so it's unfortunate that Josh McDaniels departed the coaching staff for the second time for the Raiders HC job. Former HC's Joe Judge and Matt Patricia will oversee Jones' sophomore year. The defense would appear the strength of the team, ranking 4th overall and 2nd against the pass, but the departure of standout corner J.C Jackson leaves a huge hole in the secondary.
Off-Season Additions : WR DeVante Parker (t-Miami), LB Mack Wilson (t-Cleveland), WR/RB Ty Montgomery (New Orleans), CB Terrance Mitchell (Houston), CB Malcolm Butler (Arizona), S Jabrill Peppers (Cleveland)
Off-Season Losses : CB J.C Jackson (LA Chargers), OC Ted Karras (Cincinnati), OG Shaq Mason (t-Tampa Bay), DE Chase Winovich (t-Cleveland), RB Brandon Bolden (Las Vegas), WR Gunner Olszewski (Pittsburgh), FB Jakob Johnson (Las Vegas)
Devin Lloyd is the most complete LB available in the draft. An every down player who can cover the whole field, I think he's one of the safest picks in the draft class. The modern LB doesn't tend to get drafted too high in the NFL these days but Bill Belichick is a master of taking advantage of these sorts of inefficiencies of the draft.
The pick : LB Devin Lloyd (Utah)
22 – Green Bay Packers (via Las Vegas Raiders)
The Packers first pick of the draft comes from the Davante Adams trade to Las Vegas (they also pick at #28).
It was very much groundhog day for Packers fans last year as they saw their team glide into the playoffs on the back of their 3rd consecutive 13 win season only to again fall short in the playoffs. Aaron Rodgers won his 2nd consecutive League MVP award but it's now been over a decade since he appeared in a Super Bowl. It's unlikely to get much easier for Rodgers and Green Bay as severe cap challenges contributed to the departure of Davante Adams and Za'Darius Smith this offseason.
Off-Season Additions : DT Jarran Reed (Kansas City), WR Sammy Watkins (Baltimore), P Pat O'Donnell (Chicago), CB Keisean Nixon (Las Vegas)
Off-Season Losses : WR Davante Adams (t-Las Vegas), OLB Za'Darius Smith (Minnesota), WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling (Kansas City), WR Equanimeous St Brown (Chicago), OG Lucas Patrick (Chicago), OG Billy Turner (Denver), LB Oren Burks (San Francisco), CB Isaac Yiadom (Houston), LB Whitney Mercilus (retired)
The Packers are in dire need of a WR and could be realistic trade up candidates if there's a run on receivers. Here I have the all-time receiving TD leader from Ohio State, Chris Olave, still available. This should be a real good fit with the Packers. Olave is one of the best route runners in the class and also had some deep speed too. It's about time the Packers took a WR in Round 1 - the last time they did so was Javon Walker, way back in 2002.
The pick : WR Chris Olave (Ohio State)
23 – Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals are an awkward franchise to figure. On the one hand, HC Kliff Kingsbury has improved his win total by 3 games in each season of his 3 year tenure to date, with the Cards posting an 11-6 record in 2021. However, they ended the season 1-5 including a playoff defeat to the Rams and the main news coming out of Arizona in the offseason is the potential holdout of star QB Kyler Murray set against the backdrop of a number of player departures in free agency.
Off-Season Additions : OG Will Hernandez (NY Giants), TE Stephen Anderson (LA Chargers)
Off-Season Losses : EDGE Chandler Jones (Las Vegas), WR Christina Kirk (Jacksonville), HB Chase Edmonds (Miami), LB Jordan Hicks (Minnesota), DT Jordan Phillips (Buffalo), CB Malcolm Butler (New England), OG Max Garcia (NY Giants)
With Christian Kirk snagging an unbelievable offer to move to Jacksonville in free agency, A.J Green getting no younger, and Nuke Hopkins injured for much of 2021 I can see a scenario where the Cardinals go WR here.
Moving up the draft boards rapidly after a real impressive combine, Christian Watson (6'4/208) posted some of the best athletic scores ever at the combine for a WR. His career stats at North Dakota State weren't earth shattering but are more a product of the team he was on rather than his own performance. He'd be a real interesting selection for the Cardinals here - especially if they can avoid a hold out from Kyler Murray.
The pick : WR Christian Watson (North Dakota State)
24 – Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys posted the league's #1 offense upon Dak Prescott's return from a serious ankle injury. The defense also took a leap from historically bad in 2020 to mid-table with Dan Quinn taking over play-calling duties. However, the Cowboys meekly stumbled out of the playoffs in the Wild Card round 23-17 to the 49ers. Can Mike McCarthy guide a talented Cowboys roster back to the Super Bowl for the first time since 1996 or is he one of the reasons why they keep falling short?
Off-Season Additions : DE Dante Fowler Jr (Atlanta), WR James Washington (Pittsburgh)
Off-Season Losses : WR Amari Cooper (t-Cleveland), WR Cedric Wilson (Miami), EDGE Randy Gregory (Denver), OT La'el Collins (Cincinnati), OG Connor Williams (Miami), S Keanu Neal (Tampa Bay)
The Cowboys need improvement in their O-line and Kenyon Green has 35 college starts on his resume across 4 different positions. He's probably limited to the interior in the pro's but has been muted as a potential 1st rounder since his freshman season.
If the Cowboys go elsewhere, it could be WR with the departures of Amari Cooper and Cedric Wilson.
The pick : OG Kenyon Green (Texas A&M)
25 – Buffalo Bills
A barnstorming 42-36 OT result against the Chiefs could easily be remembered as one of the greatest games in NFL history. Sadly for Buffalo it ended their tilt at the Super Bowl but they should again be one of the favourites on opening day. The Bills posted 483 regular season points, which was second most in team history, but gone is OC Brian Daboll who took the Giants HC job this offseason. As good as the offense was (ranked 5th overall), the Bills defense was better. Despite garbage time minutes in one-sided games, the Bills defense still ranked #1 in total yardage. Amazingly, the Bills seemed to get even stronger in free agency with the headline signing of Von Miller alongside many additional depth signings.
Off-Season Additions : EDGE Von Miller (LA Rams), OG Roger Saffold (Tennessee), WR Jamison Crowder (NY Jets), TE O.J Howard (Tampa Bay), DT Tim Settle (Washington), DT DaQuan Jones (Carolina), DT Jordan Phillips (Arizona), RB Duke Johnson (Miami), QB Case Keenum (t-Cleveland)
Off-Season Losses : CB Levi Wallace (Pittsburgh), DT Harrison Phillips (Minnesota), DE Efe Obada (Washington), QB Mitchell Trubisky (Pittsburgh), IOL Jon Feliciano (NY Giants), RB Matt Breida (NY Giants), WR Cole Beasley
A huge offseason and the Bills look likely to launch another serious challenge for the Lombardi Trophy. I'm not sure which direction they go, but I think they want immediate contributors. Gordon's versatility as an outside corner or in the slot gives him more opportunities for playing time on arguably the leagues best defense.
The pick : CB Kyler Gordon (Washington)
26 – Tennessee Titans
The Titans overcame so much adversity in 2021 posting a remarkable 12-5 regular season record despite smashing the previous record for players used in a season by suiting up 91 in 2021 (previous NFL record was 84). The defense took a leap up to the fringes of the top 10 thanks to stellar years from Jeffrey Simmons, Harold Landry and Kevin Byard. However, as players returned to health in time for the playoffs they were then unceremoniously dumped by the Super Bowl bound Bengals with Ryan Tannehill posting arguably his worst performance of the year. The Titans already addressed two of their biggest areas of need in free agency (WR/TE) and should challenge again in 2022.
Off-Season Additions : WR Robert Woods (t-LA Rams), TE Austin Hooper (Cleveland), OL Jamarco Jones (Seattle), S A.J Moore (Houston)
Off-Season Losses : RB D'Onta Foreman (Carolina), OG Roger Saffold (Buffalo), DT Kyle Peko (Las Vegas), TE Anthony Firkser (Atlanta), LB Rashaan Evans (Atlanta), DT Jullian Taylor (Minnesota), WR Julio Jones (free agent)
I have projected Zion Johnson to the Titans here. Johnson is one of my favourite players of this draft class. He's had experience at LT but played his final season at BC on the interior. I think this is where he fits for the Titans but it's entirely possible the team who picks him tries him at Tackle also. He's the perfect frame for Guard, powerful lower body and great game day intelligence. Johnson is a day one starter and should play in the league for a very long time.
The pick : OG Zion Johnson (Boston College)
The Bucs fell short in their efforts to repeat their 2020 Super Bowl victory and Tom Brady subsequently retired.... for 40 days. However, unlike 2021 Tampa won't be returning all their starters and HC Bruce Arians has also stood aside. The roster remains strong, if Brady continues to defy father time they should be able to challenge again. For one more season anyway.
Off-Season Additions : WR Russell Gage (Atlanta), OG Shaq Mason (t-New England), S Keanu Neal (Dallas), OG Fred Johnson (Cincinnati), CB Logan Ryan (NY Giants)
Off-Season Losses : S Jordan Whitehead (NY Jets), OG Alex Cappa (Cincinnati), OG Ali Marpet (retired), TE O.J Howard (Buffalo), RB Ronald Jones II (Kansas City)
What do you get the team who would appear to have it all? I think the Bucs just take the best player on the board at this stage and for me it's George Karlaftis. He's not got as much of the hype of some of the other edge rushers who tested exceptionally. Karlaftis may not post the explosive combine scores, but he's exceptionally powerful and can probably play inside or out with equal effectiveness. My only worry is that maybe he's more a 3-4 end so perhaps Tampa isn't the ideal situation, but he seems to be a real good pick to add to their rotation.
The pick : EDGE George Karlaftis (Purdue)
28 – Green Bay Packers
The Packers original first round pick becomes their second selection of the day.
This might be a reach pick, as I'm sure some teams will rule out Dean due to his size, but he's tough and fiery and a good fit as a modern LB who can play all 3 downs. Similar in size to Devin Bush who the Steelers picked #10 in 2019, Dean could play a similar role on the right team.
The pick : LB Nakobe Dean (Georgia)
29 – Kansas City Chiefs (via Miami Dolphins, via San Francisco 49ers)
The Chiefs first pick of the 2022 draft comes courtesy of the trade of Tyreek Hill to the Dolphins
In an offseason full of headlines and trades, none were more surprising than the swift exit of Tyreek Hill to the Dolphins. It's not often a team in Super Bowl contention parts with one of it's prized assets whilst they are still at the peek of their powers, but GM Brett Veach moved swiftly to gather draft capital for the 28 year old. Wide Receiver was already a need, it perhaps becomes a necessity now. The Chiefs have 4 picks in the first 62. They need to keep apace in AFC Arms Race.
Off-Season Additions : S Justin Reid (Houston), WR JuJu Smith-Schuster (Pittsburgh), WR Marquez Valdes-Scantling (Green Bay), S Deon Bush (Chicago), RB Ronald Jones II (Tampa Bay)
Off-Season Losses : WR Tyreek Hill (t-Miami), CB Charvarius Ward (San Francisco), DT Jarran Reed (Green Bay), OC Austin Blythe (Seattle), WR Byron Pringle (Chicago), WR Demarcus Robinson (Las Vegas), S Daniel Sorensen (New Orleans), S Tyrann Mathieu (free agent)
The Chiefs somehow have to replace the output of Tyreek Hill from somewhere. JuJu and MVS will bring some veteran options but Dotson brings the big play threat. They are tough shoes to fill for a rookie, but this pick makes a lot of sense.
The pick : WR Jahan Dotson (Penn State)
30 – Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs second consecutive pick
A bit of a longshot this one. The Chiefs probably want immediate impact but by owning 4 picks in the first 62 they can maybe take a gamble on one. Before David Ojabo went down with a torn achilles on his pro day, his upside was pushing him into top 10 consideration. A 1-yr starter opposite Aidan Hutchinson a lot of the pre-draft hype was based on what he could become. It's worth a gamble for a franchise such as the Chiefs.
The pick : EDGE David Ojabo (Michigan)
31 – Cincinnati Bengals
The Jets second 1st round pick of the draft courtesy of the Jamal Adams trade from 2020
Off-Season Additions : OG Alex Cappa (Tampa Bay), OC Ted Karras (New England), OT La'El Collins (Dallas), TE Hayden Hurst (Atlanta), CB Tre Flowers (Seattle)
Off-Season Losses : TE C.J Uzomah (NY Jets), CB Darius Phillips (Las Vegas), CB Trae Waynes, WR Auden Tate (Atlanta), OG Fred Johnson (Tampa Bay)
If Wyatt is still available here, some team is getting a bargain. While Jordan Davis gets a lot of the hype on the interior of the Georgia D-line, Wyatt has the explosiveness and versatility that could see him become a star in the NFL. He's got a real explosive first step and if he can add extra power to his game he could become a complete DT. He also shown versatility to play end for the Bulldogs and demonstrates bend that DT's just don't have usually.
The pick : DT Devonta Wyatt (Georgia)
32 – Detroit Lions (via Los Angeles Rams)
The Lions get a 1st round pick from the Matt Stafford trade and in typical Lions fashion it becomes the 32nd pick of the draft.
I'm not sure how the Lions feel about Jared Goff. I think he did OK at the back end of the year but he's still Jared Goff. The reason I'm going QB here is simply to take advantage of the 5th year option should the pick pan out.
The pick : QB Kenny Pickett (Pittsburgh)
Chicago Bears
The Bears sacrificed this years 1st round pick in trading up to secure QB Justin Fields at #11 last year. Their first pick in the 2022 draft is scheduled at #39
Cleveland Browns
The Browns sacrificed their 1st round selection as part of the deal to secure Deshaun Watson
Off-Season Additions : QB Deshaun Watson (t-Houston), QB Jacoby Brissett (Miami), QB Joshua Dobbs (Pittsburgh), WR Amari Cooper (t-Dallas), WR Jakeem Grant (Chicago), DE Chase Winovich (t-New England), DT Taven Bryan (Jacksonville), OG Ethan Pocic (Seattle), S Ronnie Harrison (Jacksonville)
Off-Season Losses : TE Austin Hooper (Tennessee), WR Rashard Higgins (Carolina), S Jabrill Peppers (New England), LB Mack Wilson (t-New England), LB M.J Stewart (Houston), QB Case Keenum (t-Buffalo), DE Genard Avery (Pittsburgh), WR Khadarel Hodge (Atlanta), QB Nick Mullens (Las Vegas)
The Raiders gave up their 1st round pick as part of the deal to secure Davante Adams
Off-Season Additions : WR Davante Adams (t-Green Bay), EDGE Chandler Jones (Arizona), CB Anthony Averett (Baltimore), CB Darius Phillips (Cincinnati), WR Demarcus Robinson (Kansas City), WR Mack Hollins (Miami), RB Ameer Abdullah (Carolina), RB Brandon Bolden (New England), TE Jacob Hollister (Jacksonville), FB Jakob Johnson (New England), DE Bilal Nichols (Chicago), DT Kyle Peko (Tennessee), S Duron Harmon (Atlanta), QB Nick Mullens (Cleveland)
Off-Season Losses : QB Marcus Mariota (Atlanta), WR Zay Jones (Jacksonville), LB Cory Littleton (Carolina), FB Alec Ingold (Miami), CB Keisean Nixon (Green Bay), DE Solomon Thomas (NY Jets)
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins gave up their 1st rounder as part of the deal to secure Tyreek Hill
Off-Season Additions : WR Tyreek Hill (t-Kansas City), OT Terron Armstead (New Orleans), RB Chase Edmonds (Arizona), RB Raheem Mostert (San Francisco), OG Connor Williams (Dallas), WR Cedric Wilson (Dallas), CB Keion Crossen (NY Giants), QB Teddy Bridgewater (Denver), FB Alec Ingold (Las Vegas), P Thomas Morstead (Atlanta)
Off-Season Losses : WR Mack Hollins (Las Vegas), QB Jacoby Brissett (Cleveland)
