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MOCK CENTRAL
Our final day of Mocks – for 2022 that is.
Dane Brugler of The Athletic. His first QB is KENNY PICKETT to the Steelers at 20:
Of course I want to get every pick correct in this final mock draft, especially because I currently have a pretty decent three-year run going. However, I’d also be okay going 0-for-32 in my final mock because that means it was a wild and unpredictable first round.
And there is a strong chance that is what we get Thursday night with the 2022 NFL Draft.
This mock draft isn’t based on my opinion of players from The Beast or what I think teams should do. This projection is based solely on what I hear and what other teams think might happen.
Let the chaos commence.
1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Travon Walker, Edge, Georgia
Regardless of what is said post-draft, there is absolutely split opinion within the building on who the Jaguars should select at No. 1. Aidan Hutchinson wouldn’t be a surprise here, and neither would an offensive lineman. But many around the league believe Jacksonville will bet on Walker’s rare package of traits.
2. Detroit Lions: Aidan Hutchinson, Edge, Michigan
If Hutchinson goes No. 1, the No. 2 pick becomes very interesting. But with Walker going No. 1 in this mock, Hutchinson should be the easy pick, right? Aside from the geographic connection, Hutchinson gives Detroit a foundational piece at a premium position.
3. Houston Texans: Derek Stingley, CB, LSU
Several positions are possible for Houston at this pick. There is plenty of noise around the league for offensive tackle here. But the Texans have done a lot of work on Cincinnati’s Sauce Gardner and LSU’s Derek Stingley, and Lovie Smith has been transparent about his desire to get better at the position.
4. New York Jets: Ickey Ekwonu, OT, NC State
General manager Joe Douglas is going to draft the best player available, which could be a wide receiver or a pass rusher. But Ekwonu is in the mix as well, especially with the left tackle position and Mekhi Becton’s future in doubt.
5. New York Giants: Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
With a first-year general manager and head coach, the Giants could go in multiple directions here. But offensive line makes the most sense, and Neal has the position flexibility to lock down the right tackle job as a rookie, keeping Andrew Thomas at left tackle.
6. Carolina Panthers: Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State
Not picking again until No. 137 overall, the Panthers will be looking to bail and recoup draft capital on Day 2. But if they stay put at No. 6, they will be “Cross”-ing their fingers that one of the top three tackles is still available.
7. New York Giants: Sauce Gardner, CB, Cincinnati
The Giants are another team eager to move back if the right trade offer comes in, but they will be just as comfortable staying put and drafting Gardner if the Cincinnati corner is still available. Not only is he an ideal fit for the Giants’ expected scheme, but he is the type of foundational piece on defense they are hoping to land.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama
Like other rebuilding teams in the top 10, there are several different directions the Falcons could go, including pass rusher (Kayvon Thibodeaux, Jermaine Johnson). Some around the league think this is where we see the first quarterback off the board. But this is also where we could see the first receiver drafted, and it could be Williams despite his ACL injury.
9. Seattle Seahawks: Kayvon Thibodeaux, Edge, Oregon
Thibodeaux is a not-for-everyone type of prospect who could go as early as No. 2 or slip out of the top 10 altogether. But Seattle at No. 9 is one of the viable landing spots, especially with its need for someone to protect the quarterback or someone to get after the quarterback.
10. New York Jets: Jermaine Johnson, Edge, Florida State
Some around the league believe Johnson is in play at No. 4 overall for the Jets if the board falls a certain way. It would be somewhat of a surprise if the Jets don’t draft a wide receiver in this year’s first round, but the organization is also looking to make upgrades at pass rusher.
11. Washington Commanders: Drake London, WR, USC
This pick would likely come down to London and Kyle Hamilton, and right now I’m leaning toward the big offensive playmaker who will help put points on the scoreboard.
12. Minnesota Vikings: Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
The Vikings are hoping Stingley falls this far, but they won’t be too upset if they end up with Hamilton. Not a bad way to kick off the new regime in Minnesota.
13. Houston Texans: Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
The Texans have done plenty of work on Wilson — so much so that I had one league source say they might consider him at No. 3 overall. That would be a surprise, but he would be a steal at No. 13.
14. Baltimore Ravens: Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa
There is a good chance this pick is a lineman, but offense or defense? Penning is a big, athletic blocker with the mentality that will appeal to the Ravens.
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia
Pound for pound, Davis is one of the best athletes in the draft. And Howie Roseman is always looking to upgrade on the defensive line with disruptive players.
16. New Orleans Saints: Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
The Saints feel they are ready to compete right now, and they draft the most NFL-ready receiver in the draft. Olave’s smooth and polished play style will be an immediate asset for whoever is under center.
17. Los Angeles Chargers: Zion Johnson, OG, Boston College
Wide receiver, right tackle and cornerback are the most mocked positions to the Chargers, but don’t count out Johnson, who is a plug-and-play interior blocker.
18. Philadelphia Eagles: Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington
After drafting a 6-6, 350 pounder earlier in this mock, the Eagles come back and draft one of the smaller players in the draft. But what he lacks in inches, McDuffie more than makes up with his intelligence and athleticism.
19. New Orleans Saints: Quay Walker, LB, Georgia
I still expect the Saints to make calls to move up for a tackle. But if they stay put at these picks, the first linebacker off the board could go to New Orleans, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if Walker is the guy.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh
No quarterbacks in the first 19 picks means the Steelers are able to draft their top guy here. Is it Pickett? Or Malik Willis? Or Desmond Ridder? I’ll lean Pickett right now.
21. New England Patriots: Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah
The Patriots value big, athletic linebackers with the versatility to play a variety of roles, and Lloyd is exactly that — a true four-down player with great football character.
22. Green Bay Packers: Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas
Some teams question if Burks will be an immediate starter or if he will require time, but the Packers value size and run-after-catch skills, and Burks offers both in a big way.
23. Arizona Cardinals: George Karlaftis, Edge, Purdue
The Cardinals love players you can wind up and let loose, and Karlaftis is that style of rusher. You wish he were longer and twitchier, but he will wear down blockers throughout all four quarters.
24. Dallas Cowboys: Kenyon Green, OG, Texas A&M
It feels like this pick will come down to the receiver or the plug-and-play left guard. With Treylon Burks and Zion Johnson off the board in this scenario, Green is the pick, despite any down-the-road injury concerns.
25. Buffalo Bills: Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida
Elam’s up-and-down tackling is why I had reservations with this projection, but he plays with size, speed and physicality in coverage, something Buffalo could use right now.
26. Tennessee Titans: Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State
Though he doesn’t have ideal size, Dotson has maybe the best ball skills and catch radius of any sub-5-11 receiver I’ve studied the last half-decade. He would be an immediate playmaker for Tennessee.
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Lewis Cine, S, Georgia
The Buccaneers drafted an immediate impact player at safety two years ago with Antoine Winfield and could do it again with Cine.
28. Green Bay Packers: Drake Jackson, Edge, USC
In the 2009 NFL Draft, the Packers selected an intriguing edge rusher out of USC in Clay Matthews. Maybe they go that route again with Jackson, who has a ton of ability.
29. Kansas City Chiefs: Christian Watson, WR, North Dakota State
A gazelle at wide receiver, Watson is 6-4, 210 pounds with 4.3 speed and is just scratching the surface. He needs to play up to his size more consistently and refine his routes, but the traits are undeniable.
30. Kansas City Chiefs: Boye Mafe, Edge, Minnesota
Mafe needs to continue to improve his run defense, but he is one of the best athletes at pass rusher in this draft and would add immediate energy to the Chiefs’ defensive line.
31. Cincinnati Bengals: Logan Hall, DL, Houston
There is a good chance that this pick is a defensive lineman or cornerback. Hall has inside-outside versatility to play the three technique or line up on the edge.
32. Detroit Lions: Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
I don’t think the Lions are necessarily targeting a quarterback, but if Willis is still available at No. 32, could they pass on him again? They know him better than most organizations after getting to coach him at the Senior Bowl.
And Daniel Jeremiah of NFL.com
Picks where he and Brugler are in sync are in blue (quite a few, 14 to be exact, if you count KEYVON THIBODEAUX and BOYE MAFE ending up with the same team with different numbered picks). Same landing spots for two QBs.
1 Jacksonville Jaguars
Travon Walker Georgia · Edge · Junior
I know Aidan Hutchinson could end up as the selection here, but signs are pointing to Walker being the pick. The Jaguars are willing to bet on his upside.
2 Detroit Lions
Aidan Hutchinson Michigan · Edge · Senior
If Hutchinson doesn’t go first, I can’t imagine he gets past the Lions with this selection.
3 Houston Texans
Ickey Ekwonu N.C. State · OT · Junior
The Texans are the mystery team in this draft. Ekwonu has the positional versatility to fit in right away on Houston’s O-line.
4 New York Jets
Sauce Gardner Cincinnati · CB · Junior
The Jets need difference-makers. Gardner has an elite mix of size, length and ball skills.
5 New York Giants
Evan Neal Alabama · OT · Junior
The Giants could go with Kayvon Thibodeaux here, but pairing Neal with Andrew Thomas gives them a solid, young tackle duo to better protect Daniel Jones.
6 Carolina Panthers
Charles Cross Mississippi State · OT · Sophomore (RS)
I could see the Panthers trading a future pick to move ahead of the Giants and select Evan Neal. If they stay at No. 6, Cross makes sense. Or they could attempt to trade down. There’s still a possibility Carolina looks for a QB here, as well.
7 New York Giants (from Chicago)
Garrett Wilson Ohio State · WR · Junior
The Giants’ WR corps is very average. Wilson reminds me a lot of Stefon Diggs, a player general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll worked with in Buffalo.
8 Atlanta Falcons
Jameson Williams Alabama · WR · Junior
The Falcons can afford to be patient with Williams as he works his way back from the ACL tear he suffered in the national championship game. He would form a dynamic combo with Kyle Pitts.
9 New York Jets (from Denver) PROJECTED TRADE WITH SEATTLE
Drake London USC · WR · Junior
This pick is likely to be traded to a team coming up for a wideout. The Jets could block that move by handing over a fourth-round pick to move up one spot and guarantee they get their guy.
10 Seattle Seahawks PROJECTED TRADE WITH NEW YORK JETS
Kayvon Thibodeaux Oregon · Edge · Junior
This was a tough one! I envision three players being in play in this scenario: Thibodeaux, Derek Stingley Jr. and Malik Willis. I can’t see Pete Carroll passing on a talented edge rusher after trading back into the pick that Seattle originally sent to the Jets in the Jamal Adams deal.
11 Washington Commanders
Chris Olave Ohio State · WR · Senior
The WR run continues with Washington adding yet another Ohio State product.
12 Minnesota Vikings
Derek Stingley Jr. LSU · CB · Junior
Stingley could go as high as No. 3 overall. I can’t see him falling beyond this selection.
13 Houston Texans (from Cleveland)
Jermaine Johnson II Florida State · Edge · Senior (RS)
Johnson is a perfect fit in head coach Lovie Smith’s scheme. He could rack up 8-to-10 sacks during his rookie campaign.
14 Baltimore Ravens
Jordan Davis Georgia · DT · Senior
I know this pick won’t fill one of the most pressing needs for the Ravens, but they always lean toward drafting the best player available. Davis or Trevor Penning would make sense here, but I’ll stick with the massive SEC DT prospect.
15 Philadelphia Eagles (from Miami)
Kyle Hamilton Notre Dame · S · Junior
Hamilton is my No. 5 player in the 2022 draft class. This would be an absolute steal for Howie Roseman and the Eagles.
16 New Orleans Saints (from IND thru PHI)
Trevor Penning Northern Iowa · OT · Senior (RS)
Penning would take over the left tackle position as a rookie for the Saints. He will need some time to adjust to the NFL level, but he has all of the raw tools necessary to succeed.
17 Los Angeles Chargers
Kaiir Elam Florida · CB · Junior
The Chargers have done an impressive job of remaking their defense this offseason. Elam has some ups and downs on tape, but he offers outstanding size, speed and upside.
18 Philadelphia Eagles (from New Orleans)
Trent McDuffie Washington · CB · Junior
McDuffie is one of my favorite players in the draft class. He’s smart, tough and instinctive. He’d fit in beautifully across from Darius Slay.
19 New Orleans Saints (from Philadelphia)
Devin Lloyd Utah · LB · Senior (RS)
Lloyd didn’t run as fast as evaluators hoped, but he plays with outstanding vision and aggression. The Saints could use the Utah product in a variety of ways as he learns on the job from Demario Davis.
20 Pittsburgh Steelers
Kenny Pickett Pittsburgh · QB · Senior (RS)
The Steelers should know everything there is to know about Pickett, the former Pitt star. He could come right in and compete with Mitchell Trubisky for the starting position this fall.
21 New England Patriots
Zion Johnson Boston College · IOL · Senior
Johnson just feels like a New England fit. He’s smart, versatile and tough.
22 Green Bay Packers (from Las Vegas)
Treylon Burks Arkansas · WR · Junior
Maybe this is the year Aaron Rodgers finally gets his first-round wideout. Burks has the size and run-after-catch skills they have always coveted in Green Bay.
23 Arizona Cardinals
George Karlaftis Purdue · Edge · Junior
The Cardinals need to address their pass rush in this draft. Karlaftis can win on the edge or inside.
24 Dallas Cowboys
Jahan Dotson Penn State · WR · Senior
Dotson has the best hands in the draft class and he’d help offset the team’s wide receiver departures from the offseason.
25 Buffalo Bills
Breece Hall Iowa State · RB · Junior
I can’t find another prospect capable of having a bigger impact for the Bills at this selection. Hall would be a nightmare for opposing defenses.
26 Tennessee Titans
Tyler Smith Tulsa · OT · Sophomore (RS)
The Titans have been mentioned as a sleeper to draft a QB in Round 1. I believe they are more likely to take an offensive lineman here or trade out of the first round.
27 Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Logan Hall Houston · DL · Senior
The Bucs are another team that could look to trade out of the first round. They don’t have any glaring needs, but Hall would be a fun interior pass rush addition.
28 Green Bay Packers
Quay Walker Georgia · LB · Senior
Walker could go much earlier than 28th overall on Thursday night. Defensive coaches are in love with his explosiveness and length.
29 Kansas City Chiefs (from SF thru MIA)
Boye Mafe Minnesota · Edge · Senior (RS)
The Chiefs could easily package picks to move up for a wideout. If they stay here, I expect one of their first-round selections to address the pass rush.
30 Kansas City Chiefs
George Pickens Georgia · WR · Junior
Pickens has tremendous raw talent, but he’s battled injuries and some questions about his maturity. Andy Reid and Brett Veach can afford to take a risk and gamble on his talent.
31 Cincinnati Bengals
David Ojabo Michigan · Edge · Sophomore (RS)
This just feels like a good fit. Ojabo, who suffered an Achilles tear at Michigan’s pro day, would likely be healthy in time to help Cincinnati into the postseason, and the Bengals have always had an affinity for Big Ten prospects.
32 Detroit Lions (from LA Rams)
Malik Willis Liberty · QB · Senior (RS)
I could see Willis going in the top 10 or he could land all the way down here at No. 32. His draft range is a great example of what we can be certain about in this draft: absolutely nothing.
Now, let’s add Mel Kiper, Jr. to the mix. All three spots the same in gold, Kiper matching Brugler in blue or Jeremiah in red.
1. Jacksonville Jaguars
Travon Walker, DE, Georgia
This pick has been leaning in this direction for the past week. The Jaguars must prefer what Walker could be over what Aidan Hutchinson already is (and I think Hutchinson will get even better). Walker is my ninth-ranked prospect. It would be extremely hard for me to take a guy at No. 1 who had 9.5 sacks, 13 tackles for loss and one forced fumble in his entire three-year college career.
2. Detroit Lions
Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Michigan
We’re going to be talking about Walker vs. Hutchinson for years to come. On my board, Hutchinson is the best prospect in this class. He dominated games in college, and he’s going to be a star for the Lions.
3. Houston Texans
Ikem Ekwonu, OT, NC State
I’ve heard the talk about the Texans liking cornerback Derek Stingley Jr., but this is just too high for him. Ekwonu is a safe pick, and he could move over to the right side with Laremy Tunsil playing left tackle.
4. New York Jets
Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner, CB, Cincinnati
In this scenario, the Jets are in a great spot, with both top cornerbacks on the board and all of the wide receivers still available. Could they go corner here and then wide receiver at No. 10? Gardner has the ability to shut down one side of the field.
5. New York Giants
Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State
With two of the next three picks, the Giants have to come away with a starting right tackle. They should go ahead and take one here. Cross didn’t get many chances to show off his run blocking because of the pass-heavy Mississippi State offense, but I love his potential. And he could play right tackle on the other side of Andrew Thomas.
6. Carolina Panthers
Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
The Panthers are likely going to try to trade down because they don’t have any Day 2 picks. Which team wants to trade up, though? That’s the issue — they have to find a partner in order to do so. This is too high for a quarterback, and they have a clear need at left tackle. Neal is a devastating run-blocker with quick feet as a pass protector.
7. New York Giants (via CHI)
Jermaine Johnson II, DE, Florida State
I have Kayvon Thibodeaux ranked higher than Johnson, but it’s close. Johnson had 12 sacks last season, showing great bend off the edge. He’d be a great fit in Don Martindale’s defense.
8. Atlanta Falcons
Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
I thought about Jordan Davis for the Falcons; he could be an immovable object in the middle of their defensive line. But their wide receiver depth chart is No. 32 in the league. They have to get better. Wilson can be their No. 1 immediately.
9. Seattle Seahawks (via DEN)
Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU
The Seahawks could go in a few different directions here, but Stingley just seems like a Seattle type of defensive player. He doesn’t have the super long arms that Pete Carroll normally likes for defensive backs, but he is a ball hawk with great physical traits. Stingley played in only 10 games over the past two seasons, but I’d bet on his talent.
10. New York Jets (via SEA)
Drake London, WR, USC
The Jets get their big red zone target for Zach Wilson in the 6-foot-4 London. This is the best-case scenario for general manager Joe Douglas, who adds a top corner and top receiver to an ascending roster.
11. Washington Commanders
Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
If Washington wants to put Carson Wentz in a position to succeed, it could take Olave and pair him with another Ohio State receiver in Terry McLaurin. The Commanders’ defense has a lot of young talent, but the offense is lacking. Olave is great after the catch.
12. Minnesota Vikings
Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon
This is a bit of a slide for Thibodeaux — my preseason No. 1 prospect — but he’d land in a great situation in Minnesota. And he wouldn’t have a ton of early pressure on him. He could play on the other side of Danielle Hunter.
13. Houston Texans (via CLE)
Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
Hamilton is my No. 4 prospect, but he’s likely to drop to this range because he ran a slower-than-expected 40-yard dash (4.59) and because teams just don’t value safeties as much as other positions. He’s a playmaker who could step in for Justin Reid, who left in free agency.
14. Baltimore Ravens
Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia
I thought about cornerback and offensive line here, but the Ravens have a real need in the middle of their defense. Davis is a 340-pound space eater with rare physical traits. Baltimore had success with a similar player in Haloti Ngata, who set the tone for some of the greatest defenses in NFL history.
15. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIA)
Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama
Williams would likely be the No. 1 receiver off the board if he didn’t tear the ACL in his left knee in the national title game in January. He’s explosive but might miss some time early in the season. This would mean back-to-back-to-back first-round receivers for the Eagles, who might just move on from Jalen Reagor.
16. New Orleans Saints (via PHI/IND)
Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa
New Orleans made an interesting trade with the Eagles to get ahead of the Chargers, and it has to be for a tackle, right? Penning could step in and start at left tackle to replace Terron Armstead. He’s a great player.
17. Los Angeles Chargers
Devin Lloyd, ILB, Utah
The Chargers would be extremely disappointed if the Saints took Penning; there’s not another tackle I’d take this high. Still, they have a need at off-ball linebacker, as 2020 first-rounder Kenneth Murray has disappointed. Lloyd is a playmaker who flies to the football.
18. Philadelphia Eagles (via NO)
Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington
This could be a defensive end, but the No. 2 corner spot on the other side of Darius Slay is a huge hole. McDuffie is a tough and physical corner with versatility.
19. New Orleans Saints (via PHI)
Kenny Pickett, QB, Pitt
Here we go — the first quarterback. There just aren’t many teams excited about the signal-callers in this draft. The Saints have a bigger need at tackle, which is why I went that way at No. 16, but this is good value for Pickett, who could compete with Jameis Winston for the starting job.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers
Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
The Steelers could get a quarterback and not have to trade up for him. I have Willis ranked just slightly over Pickett, and I think he has the highest ceiling of the guys in this class. He’s super talented with a huge arm. We know Mike Tomlin & Co. heavily scouted the passers last month.
21. New England Patriots
Daxton Hill, DB, Michigan
What does Bill Belichick want from his defenders? Versatility. Hall played mostly as a slot corner last season and could help there for the Patriots. He ran a 4.38 40 at the combine and has long arms. This is a great fit. I also thought about cornerback Kaiir Elam, who would be more of a straight replacement for J.C. Jackson.
22. Green Bay Packers (via LV)
Kenyon Green, G, Texas A&M
With Lucas Patrick gone to Chicago in free agency, the Packers could address their hole at guard here. Green played everything but center for the Aggies and is a really good all-around player.
23. Arizona Cardinals
Zion Johnson, G/C, Boston College
I know — back-to-back guards doesn’t really excite fans much, but Johnson is another player I really like. He was phenomenal at guard last season and took some snaps at center at the Senior Bowl. He’s strong and explosive.
24. Dallas Cowboys
Tyler Smith, OT/G, Tulsa
I thought about a wide receiver, but the Cowboys’ offensive line is aging. Smith would play right tackle in this scenario. He was a dominant pass-blocker in college, though he can get a little too physical at times; he was called for 12 penalties last season.
25. Buffalo Bills
Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida
I really struggled here because I wanted to give the Bills running back Breece Hall. I just can’t do it, though I’m going to be kicking myself if general manager Brandon Beane takes Hall. Ultimately, Beane could find a good back on Day 2. Buffalo’s need at corner is just too large to use a luxury pick here. Elam is a long, press-man corner with some ball skills.
26. Tennessee Titans
Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State
As I said in my two-round mock, the Titans need to get faster at receiver. Dotson is sure-handed and will make plays after the catch. And he could be moved all around the formation.
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Devonte Wyatt, DT, Georgia
If either of the top two guards are still available, the Bucs could pick one. Wyatt also fits a hole next to Vita Vea, though. He went under the radar on the loaded Bulldogs’ defense, but he has some intriguing physical traits.
28. Green Bay Packers
Christian Watson, WR, North Dakota State
Here you go, Aaron Rodgers. Here’s your first-round receiver. Watson is 6-foot-4 and ran a 4.36-second 40 at the combine. He averaged 20.2 yards per catch in his career for the Bison. He has a chance to develop into a true No. 1 wideout.
29. Kansas City Chiefs (via MIA/SF)
Skyy Moore, WR, Western Michigan
How about a curveball here? The Chiefs could go with a cornerback with one of these two picks, but Moore is a good fit as a high-upside pass-catcher. He’s No. 35 overall on my Big Board, and at 5-foot-9, he could remind coach Andy Reid of Tyreek Hill. Moore doesn’t drop passes, and he makes defenders miss after the catch. And he ran a 4.41 40 at the combine.
30. Kansas City Chiefs
Arnold Ebiketie, DE, Penn State
This was a toss up between Ebiketie and Boye Mafe, and you should know by now that Ebiketie is one of my favorite prospects in this class. He would help a Kansas City pass rush that needs much more production off the edge. He had 9.5 sacks after transferring from Temple last season.
31. Cincinnati Bengals
George Karlaftis, DE, Purdue
This pick was a late scratch, as I wanted to give the Bengals a top tight end in Trey McBride after they lost C.J. Uzomah in free agency. This is a little high for McBride, though, and the Bengals could get a tight end on Day 2. Cincinnati plays in a conference with great quarterbacks, and the value for Karlaftis is high here. He could be a rotational edge rusher in Year 1 as he grows into a starting spot.
32. Detroit Lions (via LAR)
Lewis Cine, S, Georgia
Will any team trade into this spot to get a quarterback and the fifth-year option? Don’t rule it out. For Detroit, this pick is about improving a porous defense, and Cine is explosive, physical and could be a great center fielder.
And finally, Todd McShay of ESPN.com (gold for all four, silver for some combination of three, blue for Brugler, red for Jeremiah, green for Kiper).
1. Jacksonville Jaguars
Travon Walker, DE, Georgia
As I said on Monday, signs are now strongly pointing to Walker as the top pick. He is versatile, explosive and powerful, and he’d team up with Josh Allen to form a solid edge-rush pairing for new coach Doug Pederson. Michigan edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson — who was long rumored to be the guy here — has the production résumé, but Jacksonville is intrigued by Walker’s upside and traits. And while taking an offensive tackle isn’t out of the question, Wednesday’s three-year extension for Cam Robinson certainly made the Jags’ direction here much more clear.
2. Detroit Lions
Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Michigan
Detroit might turn in the draft card before commissioner Roger Goodell is even finished reading Walker’s name. Landing Hutchinson would be a big win for general manager Brad Holmes and the rebuilding Lions. Hutchinson is my No. 1 overall prospect and would immediately be a leader on the Detroit defense. And he could top the team in sacks as a rookie thanks to his relentless and technically sound approach to rushing the passer.
3. Houston Texans
Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU
In true Las Vegas fashion, Houston is keeping its cards close to its vest. I could see Oregon edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux or NC State tackle Ikem Ekwonu here, but I’ve heard the Texans are high on Stingley, and they could certainly use a cornerback with his ball skills and massive upside. There is a wide range of opinions about Stingley’s game and what he will bring to the NFL, but the ceiling is undeniable. He was one of the best players in the country as a freshman in 2019.
4. New York Jets
Ikem Ekwonu, OT, NC State
The Jets are going to be playing the value game here, with another pick lined up at No. 10. Cincinnati cornerback Ahmad Gardner would be tempting if things fall this way, and I wouldn’t rule out the Jets addressing the edge rush concern now rather than later. But Ekwonu is a mauler who would immediately upgrade the offensive line, and he has the versatility to play all over.
5. New York Giants
Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State
I’ve heard the Giants and the Panthers both love Cross, who is the best pure pass-protector in the entire class. So New York will likely want to first address the line and land its guy ahead of Carolina before looking at other needs at No. 7. Pairing Cross with Andrew Thomas gives the Giants a solid duo, helping put Daniel Jones in the best possible position to succeed in a make-or-break season for the fourth-year quarterback.
6. Carolina Panthers
Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
Neal is nearly impossible to get around in pass protection, and he takes great angles in the run game, which would help spring Christian McCaffrey. The Panthers gave up 52 sacks last season, and while I like what they did on the interior in free agency, offensive tackle is still a need. Quarterback is, of course, also a consideration, but it’s just too early, and it doesn’t matter who is under center if the team can’t keep him upright.
7. New York Giants (via CHI)
Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati
It’s not often that a team gets good value this high on the board, but the chance to add a true shutdown cornerback might be enough for the Giants to skip out on the pass rush for the time being. And remember, it’s possible that cornerback could become the bigger of the two needs if the team’s salary-cap concerns forces it to move on from James Bradberry. The Giants can pop the champagne early and celebrate adding two high-level young starters before the sun even sets in Las Vegas.
8. Atlanta Falcons
Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon
Atlanta would think long and hard about a wide receiver here — Ohio State’s Garrett Wilson or Southern California’s Drake London would be the two to watch — but it would probably jump at the chance to stop Thibodeaux’s slide down the top 10. The Falcons’ 18 sacks were No. 32 in the NFL last season — 11 clear of the second-worst team — and Thibodeaux explodes off the line. Atlanta can concentrate on wideout in Round 2 with a deep pass-catching group.
9. Seattle Seahawks (via DEN)
Jermaine Johnson II, DE, Florida State
The drop-off at edge rusher after Johnson is steep, and all of the wide receivers are still on the board, so I wouldn’t be surprised to see Seattle trade out of this pick. But if the Seahawks can’t find a dance partner or opt to stay home, Johnson’s high-rev motor, first-step quickness and powerful hands would spark their pass rush. Others to watch, should they fall, include Stingley, Thibodeaux and the top three tackles.
10. New York Jets (via SEA)
Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
The cornerback and edge rusher groups each took an early hit, but the wide receiver class remained untouched through nine picks. So it’s a pretty easy move here. Wilson has elite body control and great speed, which would provide quarterback Zach Wilson with a trusty target in the vertical and red zone games. With Ekwonu blocking and plenty of other playmakers already in place, the Jets can look to the Wilson-to-Wilson connection for Year 1 fireworks. As for defensive needs, remember that the Jets have two more picks inside the top 40.
11. Washington Commanders
Drake London, WR, USC
Terry McLaurin had 1,053 receiving yards last season, but no other Washington player broke 400. I love London’s ability to box out defenders and come down with tough contested catches, and new Commanders quarterback Carson Wentz would too.
12. Minnesota Vikings
Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
Xavier Woods left in free agency, and Harrison Smith is 33 years old. Hamilton comes at pretty good value, and he has a unique combination of range, size, length and ball skills. Before his knee injury in October, Hamilton picked off three passes.
MOCK TRADE: Dallas skips the line
The Texans already have 11 picks in this draft, but a rebuilding team can never have enough. To make this deal happen, the Cowboys would likely have to send a package in the ballpark of No. 24, No. 56 and a 2023 second-rounder to Houston. (As an aside, I also wouldn’t be surprised to see the Texans do the opposite here and move into the top 10 for a wide receiver.)
13. Dallas Cowboys (via mock trade with HOU/CLE)
Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa
The Cowboys released La’el Collins this offseason, leaving a hole opposite Tyron Smith. Penning would help buy time for quarterback Dak Prescott in the pocket; but Penning’s real value to Dallas might come in the run game, where he truly excels. Eleven spots is quite a jump up the board, but there’s a noticeable drop-off at offensive tackle in this class after Penning.
14. Baltimore Ravens
Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia
This is probably the latest that Davis would come off the board. Even after signing Michael Pierce, Baltimore could use a massive, double-team-eating run-stopper like Davis to clog the middle of the field. We all know about his legendary combine workout by now — I mean, a 4.78-second 40-yard dash at 341 pounds is ridiculous — and if Davis stays at his current weight, he’ll be a nightmare for opponents every Sunday.
15. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIA)
Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama
Another year, another first-round wideout for the Eagles. And while Williams is still recovering from a torn left ACL, he is a burner who can beat you over the top in the vertical game or after the catch. Having Williams and DeVonta Smith running routes would ease some pressure on quarterback Jalen Hurts, even though we won’t see both wideouts on the field right away.
16. New Orleans Saints (via PHI/IND)
Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
Penning being off the board likely throws a wrench in the Saints’ draft-night plans, but they have other issues on offense too. Zero Saints pass-catchers reached 700 receiving yards last season, and the team’s No. 1 wideout — Michael Thomas — has played seven games over the past two years. Olave is a smooth route runner with soft hands and the wheels to haul in vertical shots.
17. Los Angeles Chargers
Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida
The Chargers opened the checkbook during free agency, and as they signed checks, they checked off big needs. But every team needs three good corners, so despite signing J.C. Jackson in March and drafting Asante Samuel Jr. in the second round last April, Los Angeles would welcome Elam’s instincts, versatility, physicality and speed to the mix.
18. Philadelphia Eagles (via NO)
Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington
We just projected a game-breaker on offense opposite DeVonta Smith, so how about one on defense opposite Darius Slay? McDuffie is an outstanding tackler with great burst and instincts.
19. New Orleans Saints (via PHI)
Devonte Wyatt, DT, Georgia
Defensive tackles David Onyemata and Shy Tuttle are only under contract for one more year, so if New Orleans can’t find value on the offensive line here, it could very well look to the defensive line. Wyatt finds the ball so quickly and then has the short-area quickness to close in a flash. With the additions of Olave and Wyatt, the Saints would take a step toward catching Tampa Bay in the NFC South — and as soon as this season.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers
Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
It has been 25 years since the first quarterback came off the board this late (Jim Druckenmiller at No. 26 in 1997), but that speaks to this year’s class. And the Steelers aren’t complaining. Willis has the biggest arm in the class and can do damage with his legs when he gets out of the pocket. Pittsburgh brought in Mitch Trubisky on a one-year deal, which just means it won’t have to immediately force Willis onto the field. There’s a lot of upside here.
21. New England Patriots
Devin Lloyd, ILB, Utah
Bill Belichick could use a player like this in the middle of his defense. Lloyd is a safety-turned-linebacker who will make an impact against the run (111 tackles last season), in coverage (four interceptions) and as a pass-rusher (eight sacks).
22. Green Bay Packers (via LV)
Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas
No surprise here: The Packers use the pick they acquired from the Davante Adams trade to go get a wide receiver. Burks has a big 6-foot-2 frame, and he is tough to contain after the catch thanks to his field vision and strength. This would put a smile on Aaron Rodgers’ face.
23. Arizona Cardinals
Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State
Christian Kirk signed with Jacksonville, but quarterback Kyler Murray — whose fifth-year option was picked up by Arizona on Wednesday — would love Dotson’s suddenness, speed and reliable hands out of the slot.
24. Houston Texans (via mock trade with DAL) KIPER HAS DALLAS TAKING SMITH HERE
Tyler Smith, OT/G, Tulsa
I’ve heard a lot of buzz around Smith this week, and Houston needs an offensive tackle opposite Laremy Tunsil. The Texans have given up at least 44 sacks in five straight seasons. Smith plays with a real edge and will help keep quarterback Davis Mills upright. Not a bad Thursday for Houston, landing two solid players and picking up some additional picks.
25. Buffalo Bills
Breece Hall, RB, Iowa State
The Bills need a cornerback, and perhaps they look at Clemson’s Andrew Booth Jr. But they also were No. 25 in the NFL in rushing yards from the running back position — quarterback Josh Allen obviously padded the overall numbers — and Hall has breakaway speed, reliable hands and the contact balance to break tackles along the way.
26. Tennessee Titans
Zion Johnson, G/C, Boston College
Center Ben Jones re-signed with Tennessee, but there is still room for improvement at guard, and Johnson is a smooth-moving pass-blocker with versatility. He didn’t allow a single sack or pressure in 2021. And as far as wide receiver goes, six are off the board, so Tennessee will probably look to Day 2 there.
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Kenyon Green, G, Texas A&M
The Buccaneers lost interior linemen Ali Marpet and Alex Cappa this offseason (though they added Shaq Mason), and they have to keep 45-year-old quarterback Tom Brady on his feet. Green has the balance and strength to handle power rushers inside.
28. Green Bay Packers
Lewis Cine, S, Georgia
I love Cine’s range and instincts on the back end, and he’d fit nicely with what the Packers do on defense. With Adrian Amos’ deal voiding after this season, Green Bay could pair Cine with Darnell Savage, assuming it picks up the 2019 first-rounder’s option.
29. Kansas City Chiefs (via MIA/SF)
Daxton Hill, S/CB, Michigan
Back-to-back picks for the Chiefs here, and Hill has versatility, a lot of speed and solid ball skills. The signing of Justin Reid shouldn’t keep Kansas City from continuing to improve the secondary.
30. Kansas City Chiefs
George Pickens, WR, Georgia
Even with six wide receivers gone, the Chiefs simply can’t afford to go to sleep Thursday night without adding one. Pickens missed time in 2021 while recovering from a torn ACL, but he can get off press coverage with his acceleration, and his ability to track the deep ball stands out. That skill set would come in handy with Patrick Mahomes under center and former Chiefs wideout Tyreek Hill suiting up for another team next season.
31. Cincinnati Bengals
Quay Walker, ILB, Georgia
Iowa center Tyler Linderbaum might make sense here, but Cincinnati did quite a bit to fix the offensive line in free agency. Germaine Pratt will be a free agent next year, and Walker has gotten some first-round buzz. Walker would be a difference-maker in the middle of the defense.
32. Detroit Lions (via LAR)
Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh
Yeah, Pickett is still here at No. 32. I wouldn’t be surprised to see a team try to trade into Round 1 if he starts to slide this far, but Detroit would obviously take a long look itself too. The Lions could move on from current signal-caller Jared Goff after this season, and they’d have the fifth-year option on Pickett. A quarterback at the end of the first round and the top prospect in the class at No. 2? A pretty good night for Detroit. |
