It’s almost time for the NFL Draft!
Check out Jason Pombo, Brandon Carr, & Dylan Saravia’s Mock Draft!
Jason Pombo
1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Aidan Hutchinson DE Michigan
After a 3-14 season, the Jaguars gave a combined $105 million to skill-position players, Christian Kirk, Zay Jones, & Evan Engram. They also franchise tagged tackle Cam Robinson and gave guard Brandon Scherff a three year deal worth close to $50 million. They could absolutely look to draft another offensive lineman, but I think Trent Baalke and Shahid Khan are looking for an exciting, cornerstone playmaker. Aidan Hutchinson is a dominant pass-rusher that perfectly fits the bill. The Jaguars defense surrendered 26.9 points per game last season, which was 28th in the NFL last season. They ranked 27th in the NFL in sacks with 32.0. Hutchinson will improve the Jags front-seven from day one.
2. Detroit Lions: Travon Walker DL Georgia
While I do find it possible that the Lions will look to trade down here, I ultimately have them landing Travon Walker. The Lions need all the help they can get defensively, as they ranked 29th in the NFL last season in yards per game (379.8). Walker’s size, athleticism and his ability to play anywhere on the defensive line will help this Lions team in their rebuild.
3. Houston Texans: Evan Neal OT Alabama
The Texans haven’t made a first-round pick since 2019, but now have a plethora of future draft assets after the Deshaun Watson trade. While the Texans have needs all over the field, getting the best offensive lineman in the draft seems like a no-brainer. Neal will help the Texans sure-up an offensive line that is filled with uncertainty. Neal isn’t the flashy pick, but if the Texans want to establish an offensive identity they need stability at tackle.
4. New York Jets: Kayvon Thibodeaux EDGE Oregon
The Jets need some help on the front-seven, and Thibodeaux was someone that many people thought could be the first-overall pick in this draft. The Jets didn’t select a defensive player until the fifth-round of last year’s draft. That’ll change, and Thibodeux makes the most sense. Defensively the Jets ranked last in nearly every defensive category, they need a full revamp there. I could also see the Jets going cornerback here, but ultimately I think Robert Salah will push for some help on the front-seven.
5. New York Giants: Charles Cross OT Mississippi State
The Giants have a new regime in the front office and on the sidelines. They could go in a number of ways with this pick, including trading down. If the Giants want to make it work with Daniel Jones, they need to protect him. Jones has been sacked 105 times in his first three seasons with the team. Cross could be an ideal replacement for Nate Solder.
6. Carolina Panthers: Kenny Pickett QB Pittsburgh
The Panthers are arguably the most compelling team in this draft. Last season was a complete disaster with Sam Darnold and Cam Newton at quarterback. Matt Rhule might be coaching for his job this season, so addressing the quarterback position is a priority. Carolina struck out on adding coveted veteran quarterbacks in Deshaun Watson and Russell Wilson, so I believe that they’ll pivot to the draft. I think the Panthers elect to go with Pickett over Liberty’s Malik Willis. Kenny Pickett is the first quarterback off the board in this uncertain quarterback class.
7. ***TRADE: New Orleans Saints: Malik Willis QB Liberty
After a trade with the Eagles earlier in the offseason, the Saints have two first-rounds picks (16th overall and 19th overall). But, I think the Saints will package both of those picks along with a second-round pick to move up and grab their quarterback of the future. The Saints move up to number seven to get in front of the Falcons who have the 8th pick. Despite the fact that the Saints reached a two-year contract extension with Jameis Winston, the Saints can move on from Winston after the first season. Willis to the Saints will be the biggest shakeup/surprise of this draft.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Garrett Wilson WR Ohio State
At this point with Pickett and Willis off the board, I think the Falcons pivot towards the wide receiver position. After losing Russell Gage in free agency and losing Calvin Ridley for the entire 2022 season, the Falcons are left with arguably the worst wide receiver group in the NFL. With their picking of any receiver in the draft, I think they go with Garrett Wilson. After selecting tight end Kyle Pitts last year, the Falcons now have two young, dynamic offensive playmakers.
9. Seattle Seahawks: Derek Stingley Jr. CB LSU
While most people have Ahmad ”Sauce” Gardner as the first cornerback coming off the board, I think the Seahawks take a chance on a high upside player in Derek Stingley. After Stingley’s freshman year, some believed that he would have been a top-three pick in this draft. But, after some injuries, his stock dropped amongst many mock drafts. But, I think the Seahawks roll the dice, and pass on Gardner for Stingley Jr. The Seahawks will need all the help they can get in the secondary, especially against the NFC West. The Seahawks defense ranked 31st in the NFL last season in passing yards (4,513).
10. New York Jets: Drake London WR USC
With the Jets second pick of the first-round, I have them going the wide receiver route. They were linked to receivers all offseason, including Tyreek Hill. The Jets could go with Alabama’s Jameson Williams or Ohio State’s Chris Olave here, but I think London fits in well. The Jets could also look to bolster their secondary, but I think passing on a receiver will be too tempting, especially after adding to the defense with their first-pick.
11. Washington Commanders: Jameson Williams WR Alabama
Terry McLaurin's contract status going forward is uncertain. But, even if Washington does come to an agreement with the superstar receiver, they need additional help at the position. The team’s second leading wide receiver in 2021 was Adam Humphries. I think Washington will fall in love with Williams’ explosiveness and quickness. However, Williams is recovering from an ACL injury, so he will likely start off the 2022 season on the PUP list.
12. Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner CB Cincinnati
Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner falls out of the top-10, and lands in Minnesota. If this situation plays out like this, the Vikings would be ecstatic to land a potential franchise cornerback with their first-round pick. The Vikings need help in the secondary, and Gardner would provide them with instant production. Minnesota got crushed in the pass-game last season, Gardner could be the start of fixing this issue.
13. Houston Texans: Kyle Hamilton S Notre Dame
Kyle Hamilton is undoubtedly the best safety in this draft-class. Hamilton may end up being the best defensive player in this draft class, and hits a need for Houston. They’d land a true anchor in their secondary, who can immediately help their defense. Nick Caserio spent nearly two decades in New England, and this is a player that Bill Belichick would lust after. The versatility and ability to change a game would make Hamilton impossible to pass-on.
14. Baltimore Ravens: Ickey Ekwonu OT North Carolina State
Ekwonu could get picked as high as third-overall, but, I could see a situation in which he falls to the middle of the first round. If he falls as far as 14, I think it’s a no brainer for the Ravens to take him. Lamar Jackson is going to need a healthy offensive line, as he was sacked 38 times last season, which was a career-high. Ekwonu seems like an ideal replacement for Orlando Brown, who was dealt to the Chiefs last offseason.
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Jermaine Johnson II EDGE Florida State
Jermaine Johnson II is someone that I have seen go in the top-five in some mock drafts, while I've seen him fall to the mid to late teens in others. I think the Eagles will ultimately buy on Johnson due to his potential upside. Johnson is an edge rusher that could help solidify the Eagles front-seven.
16. ***TRADE: New York Giants: Trent McDuffie CB Washington
After I projected that the Giants traded down with the Saints, I have them adding to their secondary. McDuffie is someone that has picked up some steam over the last few weeks, and I think he’d fit in perfectly with their secondary. James Bradberry’s future is uncertain, and the Giants should start looking for contingency plans at the position. McDuffie fits a need, and he is someone that Don "Wink" Martindale would love to get his hands on.
17. Los Angeles Chargers: Jordan Davis DT Georgia
The Chargers spent a lot of money on their defense this offseason, as they signed cornerback JC Jackson, and acquired pass-rusher Khalil Mack. But, for this pick, I think Brandon Staley would lust for a guy like Jordan Davis in his defense. The Chargers got run over at times last season, and Davis would help the Chargers plug up the interior of the defense. Davis is one of the most athletic defensive tackles, and can be moved to any position on the defensive line.
18. Philadelphia Eagles: Andrew Booth CB Clemson
I know a lot of people think that the Eagles are going to take a receiver with one of their two first-round picks, but I just don’t see it. I think they’ll prioritize defense in the first-round. They need help in the secondary, especially with Darius Slay’s age and contract status. Andrew Booth would give the Eagles some stability and depth at cornerback.
19. ***TRADE: New York Giants: Nakobe Dean LB Georgia
Again, this pick will be a part of the trade with the Saints. Nakobe Dean is one of the most intriguing prospects of this draft-class. Dean is versatile, and will be able to help the Giants defense in a number of different ways. “Wink” Martindale would love Dean’s versatility and athleticism. The Giants exit the first-round with two high-upside defensive talents, and a critical addition to the offensive line.
20. ***TRADE: Kansas City Chiefs: Chris Olave WR Ohio State
The Chiefs have two-first rounds in this draft, but I think they’ll package one of them to move up and take Chris Olave. The Chiefs have plenty of trade ammo in this draft as they have two first-round picks, two second-round picks, and two third-round picks. They have 12 total picks in this draft, and I find it highly unlikely that they’ll elect to stand pat if a receiver they like begins to fall. In this scenario, the Chiefs want to leapfrog the Patriots, who could also be in the market for a receiver. Olave can help fill the void of Tyreek Hill, in this dynamic Chiefs offense.
21. New England Patriots: Devin Lloyd LB Utah
The Patriots linebacker room feels like it’ll look much different in 2022. Dont’a Hightower, Kyle Van Noy, and Jamie Collins all are free agents, and it feels like the Patriots are trying to get faster at the position. Despite the fact that Lloyd plays inside, he’s athletic and can be used in a multitude of ways. Bill Belichick would use Lloyd in a variety of ways, he feels like a Patriots type of player.
22. Green Bay Packers: Treylon Burks WR Arkansas
The Packers haven’t drafted a wide receiver in the first-round since 2002, but I have a feeling that drought finally comes to an end. Aaron Rodgers may be back, but losing Davante Adams will certainly be a mountain of a challenge for this Packers offense to overcome. Burks is someone that is versatile, and will be someone that Matt LaFleur will move around. I’d be surprised if the Packers punted on selecting a receiver in the first-round.
23. Arizona Cardinals: Zion Johnson OG Boston College
Kyler Murray has been sacked 106 times in his first three NFL seasons. With Murray and the team already on thin ice, drafting an offensive lineman seems like the most beneficial thing to do. The Cardinals could plug Johnson in immediately, and some believe that he’s the best interior offensive lineman in this draft. Protecting Kyler Murray has to be a priority for this Cardinals team, and facing some daunting front-sevens in the NFC West can make life very difficult.
24. Dallas Cowboys: Trevor Penning OT Northern Iowa
The Cowboys have more of a need at guard, rather than tackle, but I can’t see the Cowboys passing on Panning at 24. The Cowboys said goodbye to La’El Collins this offseason, and Tryon Smith hasn’t been very durable as of late. Penning could insert himself at either tackle spot, or could start his career at guard, while the situation at tackle figures itself out. It’s important to have options and depth on the offensive line and Jerry Jones is well aware of that.
25. Buffalo Bills: Dax Hill S Michigan
The Bills biggest need is likely their secondary, specifically at cornerback. While Hill isn’t necessarily a true corner, he’s versatile and has experience all over the secondary. Hill fits in well with what Leslie Frazier is trying to do defensively, and with the AFC vastly improving this offseason, the Bills need a secondary that can stop the big plays.
26. Tennessee Titans: Kenyon Green OG Texas A&M
Some believe that the Titans are a sleeper team to take a quarterback here, but I just don’t see it. I think the Titans will add to their offensive line, specifically at guard. Kenyon Green could even be moved to tackle, which would give Tennessee some options going forward.
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kaiir Elam CB Florida
The Bucs dealt with a lot of injuries to their secondary in 2021, and adding additional depth to the position would make a lot of sense. Elam is a physical cornerback that can solve the Bucs long-term issue at the position. He doesn’t need to have a large role in 2022, but he could be a big part of the Bucs defense going forward.
28. Green Bay Packers: David Ojabo DE Michigan
With the Packers already landing a receiver, I have them going to the other side of the ball with their final selection of the first-round. If it hadn’t been for an achilles injury, Ojabo would have likely been a top-20 pick. He’ll likely start the season on the PUP list, but it certainly could be worth it long-term.
29. ***TRADE: Pittsburgh Steelers: Desmond Riddler QB Cincinnati
As detailed earlier, I have the Chiefs trading up, with the Steelers acquiring this pick along with future draft capital. The Steelers trade down and still get their quarterback. Desmond Riddler is someone that nobody is talking about, but I have him sneaking in the first-round. Riddler can extend plays, and I think that he’s a prospect that Mike Tomlin would be thrilled to work with. Riddler doesn’t have to be part of the team’s plans in 2022, so he can take his time with his growth and progression.
30. Kansas City Chiefs: George Karlafitis DE Purdue
With the Chiefs already landing their receiver, I have them getting some help on the defensive side of the ball. Karlaftis can help the Chiefs pass-rush, and he certainly has some upside. He’s shot up mock drafts, and he would provide the Chiefs with some immediate help with their final pick of the first-round.
31. Cincinnati Bengals: Kyler Gordon CB Washington
Most people believe that the Bengals will add an additional offensive lineman, but I think they’ll ultimately pass on that after addressing a lot of that in free agency. I think adding another cornerback would benefit their secondary, as it felt like last year they were one corner away on so many possessions in big games. Gordon has some upside, and will help the Bengals defense deal with a much-improved AFC.
32. Detroit Lions: Matt Corral QB Ole Miss
With the final pick of the first-round, I think the Lions land their quarterback of the future. I don’t rule out a potential trade up here, but, I think the Lions can get Corral at #32 overall. Corral could be a homerun selection from the Lions, as his stock has certainly fluctuated over the last few months. He has immense talent, and similar to the Steelers, can provide Corral a true redshirt season.
Brandon Carr
1. Jacksonville Jaguars - Travon Walker DL Georgia
The Jaguars sit #1 overall once again. They’re the fourth team in NFL history to hold the #1 pick in back to back seasons. With how uncertain it seems what direction the Jags will be going in with this pick, I can see Trent Baalke and Doug Pederson taking a swing at Travon Walker.
Walker, who has been this year’s biggest pre-draft riser, put up freakish athletic testing numbers at the NFL combine for a guy who is 6’5 272 pounds. Many believe that Walker put up low sack numbers due in large part to how many other NFL players he played with at Georgia. Picking Walker this high brings risk, but with his freakish athleticism, makes him have an extremely high ceiling. One that I think the Jags bet on working out for them in the long term.
2. Detroit Lions - Aidan Hutchinson DE Michigan
The Lions are back to picking in the top three after a season that wasn’t great, but still very promising. They take the player that Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell have dreamed about being a Lion, and that’s the home town kid in Aidan Hutchinson.
Hutchinson’s senior season was one that won’t be forgotten in Ann Arbor for a long time. Hutchinson won multiple awards, was a Heisman finalist, and set the record for the most sacks in a single season for a Michigan Wolverine. Hutchinson tested freakishly at the NFL combine and has the pass rushing tools and a nice blend of power and speed to give him a safe floor and room to be even more. This is a player that will ‘bite knee-caps off’ for Dan Campbell’s squad.
3. Houston Texans - Evan Neal OT Alabama
The Houston Texans are the first of many teams that have the luxury of picking twice in the first round of the draft. Nick Caserio, being a Patriots guy, feels like that they go in the direction of an Alabama standout. Which they do in this mock draft by taking the 340-pound gargantuan, Evan Neal.
Neal has the versatility to play multiple positions along the offensive line and is an effective pass blocker and run blocker. Neal’s weight can present concern along with some balance issues, but his blend of size and athleticism is rare and he would be a cornerstone piece for this Texans offense.
4. New York Jets - Kayvon Thibodeaux EDGE Oregon
The Jets are another team that have the luxury of having two picks, both inside the top ten. The Jets have been lacking a premiere pass rusher for quite some time and Joe Douglas and Robert Saleh in this mock draft, decide to prioritize that and take one of the more polarizing players in this class in Kayvon Thibodeaux.
Thibodeaux has presented questions from scouts about his work ethic and drive to become a better player, which I think personally is just noise. Thibodeaux is a player who has gotten better every single year in his time at Oregon. Thibodeaux has rare speed and power off the edge but will need to develop pass rushing moves and add more muscle to his lower body in order to reach his full potential, which is a project I believe Robert Saleh is willing to work on to take a player with the potential of Thibodeaux.
5. New York Giants - Charles Cross OT Mississippi State
The Giants have two picks out of the next three picks in the draft. I think they prioritize the first pick under the Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll regime by grabbing the best pass blocking tackle in this class in Charles Cross.
Cross played on a Mississippi State team under the Mike Leach air-raid offense that only ran the ball 25% of the time last season, so Cross is still on his way as a run blocker, but is an elite pass blocker who can prove to protect the blindside of whomever the Giants quarterback will be for years to come.
6. Carolina Panthers - Kenny Pickett QB Pittsburgh
The Carolina Panthers have done their due diligence on this upcoming quarterback class and are determined to find their franchise single caller after the likes of Sam Darnold, Cam Newton, and Teddy Bridgewater haven’t worked out for them. Enter Kenny Pickett.
Pickett projects to be the quarterback in this class who is the most pro-ready guy who can start day one for a NFL team. Pickett last year broke all of Dan Marino’s passing records with the Pitt Panthers. Pickett doesn’t have any traits that would ‘wow’ any team and has some of the smallest hands for an incoming quarterback prospect we’ve ever seen, but he has the experience and the intangibles to have a decent floor in the NFL.
7. New York Giants - Ahmad ‘Sauce’ Gardner CB Cincinnati
The Giants in this mock draft, shored up their offensive line with Charles Cross with their first pick. Now with their second pick Joe Schoen and Brian Daboll go to the other side of the ball and address their defense. Ahmad ‘Sauce’ Gardner falls into their laps and can’t refuse to pass up on him.
Gardner throughout his college career, has been the epitome of a shutdown corner. Gardner allowed zero touchdown receptions in 1,103 career coverage snaps with the Bearcats (PFF). Gardner is a tall and lanky cornerback who is excellent in man coverage. I believe with the Giants also shopping James Bradberry, this seems like an ideal replacement and an excellent fit for the Giants defense and Gardner.
8. Atlanta Falcons - Garrett Wilson WR Ohio State
The Atlanta Falcons have a plethora of holes with this roster and this could be a scenario where a possible trade out could occur in the real NFL Draft, but if they settle on a player, I can see them taking a stab at WR Garrett Wilson.
Wilson, out of the two first round receivers from Ohio State in this draft, is the more dynamic playmaker. Wilson has phenomenal hands and body control who uses his basketball background to his advantage as a guy who can go up and get it for being just about 6’0 tall and is an effective receiver after the catch. Wilson needs to be a more refined route runner, but with coaching, he can prove to become better in that area to really unlock the potential Wilson has.
The Falcons could really use the help at receiver with their extremely underwhelming crop of guys that they would be trotting out in week one this season, but Wilson can give Marcus Mariota some much needed help.
9. Seattle Seahawks - Ickey Ekwonu OT North Carolina State
The Seattle Seahawks could opt for a pass rusher, a cornerback, or even a quarterback with this pick, but what Seattle really needs the help at is with their offensive line. John Schneider and Pete Carroll take the falling Ickey Ekwonu who could’ve gone as high as inside the top three.
Ekwonu’s size could present issues as he isn’t the biggest tackle and is developing as a pass protector (which he has improved a lot in) but Ekwonu’s bully ball mindset is infectious and he is a mauler in the run game in any scheme. Ekwonu would be at the very least a pro-bowl level guard if he doesn’t find his footing as a tackle.
The Seahawks currently are starting Stone Forsythe and Jake Curhan as their two tackles and could really use the help for whomever their franchise quarterback will be moving forward.
10. New York Jets - Jameson Williams WR Alabama
The Jets with their first pick prioritized finding a premier pass rusher for Robert Saleh’s defense. Now they prioritize giving their second year quarterback Zach Wilson more help for his development. Jameson Williams, one of the most explosive receivers in this year’s draft, is a great fit for Wilson’s big arm.
Williams could very well have tested to be the fastest receiver in this draft class if he were healthy to run the forty-yard dash. Williams was a home run threat for the Crimson Tide, who won on all three levels of the field, and is a very good route runner. Williams’ recovery from a torn ACL in the 2022 National Championship game has been nothing short of remarkable, recent reports have indicated that his recovery has gone smoothly and has been seen already running sprints and performing agility drills.
Williams would be a nice fit for the Jets who would likely open as the team’s starting ‘Z’ receiver with his game breaking speed.
11. Washington Commanders - Drake London WR USC
The run of receivers continues with this being the third receiver going off the board out of the last four picks. The Commanders have been doing their homework on receivers and along with the questions surrounding Terry McLaurin’s extension, this seems like an ideal spot to find their guy. In this scenario, their guy would be Drake London.
London hasn’t had the opportunity to test his athletic measurables due to his fractured ankle suffered last season and a hamstring injury that has popped up throughout the pre-draft process, but London’s film speaks for itself. London is a giant at receiver, who stands at 6’5 and weighs 210 pounds. London was a star basketball player for USC who uses his frame to box out defenders on the football field too as a matchup nightmare. London isn’t the most refined route runner, but he isn’t just a contested catch one trick pony. He is relatively fluid for a guy his size and can play on the outside and the slot as well.
12. Minnesota Vikings - Derek Stingley CB LSU
The run of receivers is halted with the Vikings who have a pressing need at the cornerback position. The first pick of the Kwesi-Adofo-Mensah and Kevin O’Connell era in Minnesota in this mock draft is Derek Stingley.
Stingley back in the 2019 season as a true freshman, was the best corner in all of college football. Since then, there have been some injuries that have kept him off the field for periods of time, but when he did play, he still showed what made him so good as a freshman. Stingley possesses elite hip fluidity and technique who is a fantastic athlete that has proved to be very effective against SEC competition.
Stingley would be thrusted in alongside Patrick Peterson and eventually when Peterson’s contract expires after this season, Stingley would be the team’s CB1.
13. Houston Texans - Kyle Hamilton S Notre Dame
The Texans shored up their offensive line after taking Evan Neal earlier on in this mock draft, now they decide to get the best player available with a steal in safety Kyle Hamilton.
Hamilton in my opinion, is the best safety prospect we’ve seen in quite some time. He possesses outstanding size standing at 6’4 220 pounds. Hamilton has elite anticipation, ridiculous range, great ball skills, and is a great tackler. He falls because of the position he plays and a relatively slow forty time (4.59), but the tape speaks for itself and he would be a day one impact player for the Texans defense.
14. Baltimore Ravens - Jermaine Johnson II EDGE Florida State
The Ravens could very well decide to go and draft an offensive lineman which is a need for them, however they decide to take a shot on an explosive and lengthy rusher in Jermaine Johnson.
Johnson’s game as a pass rusher is more of a violent style with a lot of active hand movement and he uses his power, upper echelon athleticism, and long arms to be able to get to the quarterback effectively. These traits also make him a solid run defender as well.
The Ravens could be going more towards a 4-3 defense for next season, which can bode well for Johnson being able to fit with this team and pairing Johnson with Odafe Oweh who is an athletic pass rusher himself, makes for a nice duo for this Ravens defense.
15. Philadelphia Eagles - Treylon Burks WR Arkansas
The Eagles are now owners of two first round picks in this year’s draft after trading one of their other 2022 first rounders to the Saints. This doesn’t stop them in this mock draft for Howie Roseman and Nick Sirianni to take a receiver in the first round for the third season in a row. Treylon Burks is their guy in this mock draft.
Burks possesses the traits to be a bonafide ‘X’ receiver in the NFL. He is a plus athlete for a guy who is 6’2 225 pounds who is great after the catch, has a ridiculous catch radius to be able to pluck the ball out of the air, and is versatile to line up anywhere on the field. He is still developing his route running chops, but he is the type of receiver the Eagles desperately need and that unique blend of size and athleticism, makes the Eagles offense much more dynamic.
16. New Orleans Saints - Chris Olave WR Ohio State
The Saints are another team out of many in this year’s class, who have multiple first round picks. Could they decide to trade up and select their signal caller for the future? They very well could, but if they decide to stay put, I see a scenario where they add a receiver to a much needed boost in playmakers in this offense. Chris Olave fits the bill as a guy who can provide some needed explosiveness.
Olave is as smooth as it gets as a route runner in this class who can win on all three levels with his ability to separate. But what Olave would provide the most needed help for with the Saints is his ability to be a consistent threat as a deep threat with his sub 4.4 speed. The Saints do not have that type of receiver who can stretch the field and with the gunslinging mentality and big arm of Jameis Winston, this feels like a fantastic fit for Olave as the team’s ‘Z’ receiver.
17. Los Angeles Chargers - Jordan Davis DT Georgia
Although a position that the Chargers did address this offseason with the signings of Sebastian Joseph-Day and Austin Johnson, the Chargers in this mock draft I have snagging the behemoth in Jordan Davis.
Davis tested as a 99th percentile athlete at the combine with his freakish 4.78 forty time, despite weighing 341 pounds. Davis, although doesn’t provide a lot of value as a pass rusher and doesn’t play on every down, is a people mover and a space eater who can wreak havoc at the line of scrimmage. He would fit in perfectly with Brandon Staley’s defense.
18. Philadelphia Eagles - Devin Lloyd LB Utah
The Eagles added a dynamic playmaker on their offense with their first selection in the draft. Now they shift their focus on their defense and grab a position of need at linebacker with Devin Lloyd.
Lloyd is an athletic linebacker who can essentially play in any scheme that he wants to who can blitz, cover, and tackle. Lloyd is an exceptional player who although would be 24 in his rookie season, would be an immediate starter for the Eagles and roam the middle of their defense.
19. New Orleans Saints - Trevor Penning OT Northern Iowa
The Saints continue to add to their offense with their second pick in the first round with small school senior bowl standout, Trevor Penning.
Penning tested strongly at the combine that proved he was an athletic tackle and on the field, he is as nasty as a tackle prospect you will find in this draft. Sometimes he can get himself into trouble with having a lot of holding penalties called on him which will need to be worked on, but he is as good in the run blocking as you can find in this draft.
Penning could immediately fill in the void that Terron Armstead left and provide a stable option for the Saints for years to come.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers - Malik Willis QB Liberty
Another team that has done their due diligence on quarterbacks in this upcoming draft, are the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers lost longtime quarterback Ben Roethlisberger due to retirement and currently have Mitchell Trubisky as their projected week one starter. The guy that I see soon to be former Steelers GM Kevin Colbert and Mike Tomlin decide to be the hopeful franchise guy is Malik Willis.
Willis possesses the most upside out of any quarterback in this year’s class with his athletic ability and his strong arm. The tools are there and he does make throws that you simply don’t see from even a lot of guys in the NFL, but he still has some ways to go to work on his flaws. His decision making is sporadic and his accuracy can be hit or miss, but this is a guy who is coachable and played under two different player callers at the same time during his career at Liberty.
This seems like the type of guy who Steelers fans and players will end up liking and can be a huge hit for the team if everything goes to plan in his development.
21. New England Patriots - Trent McDuffie CB Washington
The Patriots are always a wildcard when it comes to the NFL Draft. No one really knows what they have planned and especially this year where they have a lot of holes that they need to fill. I think the team decides to take the best player available which happens to be a position of need in Trent McDuffie.
McDuffie, although lacking the average size and the length for a cornerback, is a player who tested extremely well at the combine/his pro day, is excellent in both man and zone coverage, and is a very instinctual player with high football IQ that Bill Belichick would love to have. I could see the Patriots potentially going for their more traditional corner that has size, but McDuffie is too hard to pass up at this value.
22. Green Bay Packers - Jahan Dotson WR Penn State
The Packers are another team who will be heading into draft night with two first round picks at their disposal. I think this finally could be the year where we see the team draft a first round wide receiver for Aaron Rodgers. That guy I think will be Jahan Dotson.
Dotson’s hands are some of the best in this year’s class and while he may not possess the prototypical size that you are looking for in a receiver, his catch radius is surprisingly one of his best traits that he has. Dotson also is a plus athlete with dynamic speed that should be a nice weapon for Aaron Rodgers moving forward.
23. Arizona Cardinals - George Karlafitis EDGE Purdue
The Cardinals I think could realistically go in a lot of different directions with this pick, but I think a glaring need with Chandler Jones now out of town is EDGE rusher. I think George Karlafitis would be their guy.
Karlaftis hands are some of the best in this class, who also has the power and speed combination to be an effective starting NFL player off the EDGE for Vance Joseph’s defensive unit.
24. Dallas Cowboys - Zion Johnson G Boston College
The Cowboys I think one need I feel that is glaring on their offense and that is the offensive line. The team lost La’el Collins and Connor Williams this off-season and I think they ultimately decide to take the best guard in this class in Zion Johnson.
Johnson is a solid player in both the running game and the passing game who provides some positional versatility as well for Dallas to move him around the offensive line. Johnson looks like a player that will be a quality starting interior offensive lineman for years to come.
25. Buffalo Bills - Andrew Booth Jr. CB Clemson
The Buffalo Bills are a team that is almost in a luxury with this pick because they can decide to really do whatever they pleased. I think though there is one need for this team and that is a corner opposite of Tre’Davious White with Levi Wallace now out of town. A player that I think fits the mold nicely is Andrew Booth.
Booth is an excellent corner who has fluid hips, has fantastic ball skills, and is a good man to man cornerback. He would be an excellent addition for this Bills team for their defense.
26. Tennessee Titans - Kenyon Green G Texas A&M
The Titans could use some help along their offensive line, which I believe they address with this pick in Kenyon Green
Green is a player the Titans reportedly have had some interest in and Green can play multiple positions across the offensive line. The Titans currently have Nate Davis and Aaron Brewer as their two starting guards. Green would be an upgrade over both of them.
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Dax Hill S Michigan
The Buccaneers once again see themselves with a late first round selection in this year’s NFL Draft. I think with this pick, they end up getting some nice value here with Dax Hill, who would be a logical replacement for Jordan Whitehead.
Hill provides some positional versatility as well with seeing time at cornerback as well. He will be just fine as a nickel or slot corner for Tampa Bay and a nice addition to their secondary.
28. Green Bay Packers - Devonte Wyatt DT Georgia
The Packers in this mock draft, addressed their need at WR with their first selection. I think they go to the opposite side of the ball here and address their need on the defensive line. I think Devonte Wyatt would be a nice addition for them
Wyatt is an older prospect being 24 years old, but he possesses some starting defensive tackle traits that I think would fit nicely into the Packers scheme.
29. Kansas City Chiefs - Arnold Ebiketie EDGE Penn State
The Chiefs are in a unique position where they hold back to back first round picks in this draft. I could see a scenario where they do trade up, but in this scenario they stay put and with the first of their two picks, they take Arnold Ebiketie.
Ebiketie is an elite athlete at the position who does need to continue to develop his pass rushing technique but he is a guy who can develop into a good starting EDGE for the Chiefs to bolster their pass rush.
30. Kansas City Chiefs - Skyy Moore WR Western Michigan
The Chiefs are right back on the clock after their last selection and I can see this being a spot where they address the receiver position after the Tyreek Hill trade. I think Skyy Moore ends up being their guy.
Moore has been a player that the Chiefs reportedly have a lot of interest and intrigue with. Moore isn’t the typical type of receiver that the Chiefs usually draft, but he is a very crafty player who is a good route runner and has large hands for a smaller receiver (5’10, 195 pounds). Moore can play on the outside, but I think a slot receiver is where he feels like he can be the most successful.
31. Cincinnati Bengals - Tyler Linderbaum C Iowa
The Bengals are in territory that is unfamiliar for them in the NFL Draft. They are usually a team that selects inside of the top ten in the draft but here they are close to the bottom of the first round. I think at all costs, this team wants to do whatever it takes to protect Joe Burrow, and I think they take the best available offensive lineman in Tyler Linderbaum.
Linderbaum doesn’t quite have the prototypical size for a center, but he displays great athleticism and will be an excellent zone run blocker at the next level and can also be athletic enough to pick up blockers at ease at the second level. This feels like a steal for the Bengals at this spot to grab Linderbaum, but I think teams don’t value him being a center rather than a guard with versatility or a tackle.
32. Detroit Lions - Desmond Ridder QB Cincinnati
The Lions are the last team to make a selection in the first round in this mock draft and this feels like a scenario with three of the top five quarterbacks left from this class, the Lions take their pick of one of the three so they can have the fifth-year option for that position. I like them taking Desmond Ridder.
Ridder is a player who has played a lot of games for the Bearcats, dating back as a true freshman, and he has exceeded expectations and has gotten better every single season. I think that there still are concerns with him being consistently accurate, which he is very hit or miss at, but Ridder has a decent arm and is a plus athlete for the position to provide a stable floor. If he lands with the Lions, he can sit behind Jared Goff and redshirt his rookie season.
Dylan Saraiva
1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Aidan Hutchinson DE Michigan
Jaguars for back to back years have the number 1 overall pick. Hutchinson has been hyped for a year as the top player in this draft class. His size will provide a much needed boost to a Jaguars defense that has stalled over the last few years. Hutchinson helps seal in the edges alongside Josh Allen. Although this doesn’t make the Jaguars overall record hopes improve significantly, this gives them a piece to build around for the future.
2. Detroit Lions: Kayvon Thibodeaux EDGE Oregon
The Lions are a franchise that could do a lot with this pick as there are quite a few positions they could use in order to bolster their overall roster. However, I think having a strong defense especially in the front seven can make or break a team. Thibodeaux has the ability to be an all around defensive lineman so adding his size and athleticism could definitely help Detroit’s defense in the years to come.
3. Houston Texans: Evan Neal OT Alabama
One thing Davis Mills faced a lot of last season was pressure from opposing defensive lines, and adding Neal could give the second-year Quarterback more time to develop. Adding Neal on the right side alongside Laremy Tunsil seals off the edges quite well for the offense, which would give the Texans more time to succeed on the offensive side of the football. Having the large amount of picks from the Deshaun Watson trade should allow the Texans to make some strong choices.
4. New York Jets: Travon Walker DL Georgia
The Jets currently are weak around the front seven and adding someone like Walker who uses his long arms to get around the offensive line could be very important to improving their defense. Walker had a career high in sacks last season with 6 and another career high in TFL for 7.5. Walker has been skyrocketing throughout the draft process and hopefully he’ll end up on the top five in order to make a splash on draft day.
5. New York Giants: Charles Cross OT Mississippi State
The Giants need offensive line protection for Daniel Jones; he has been sacked an insane 105 times in his first three seasons. Cross could be a help and lowering those numbers year to year. Although depending on the offers that come in on draft night I could definitely see the Giants trading down here.
6. Carolina Panthers: Kenny Pickett QB Pittsburgh
The first QB off the board goes to a team that is desperate to find an answer after having Sam Darnold and Cam Newton lead the offense last season. Matt Rhule could be on the outs soon if something does not change and the biggest issue needing to be fixed is the quarterback. Pickett seems to be someone looked down on due to his hand size but he consistently hits passes very well, and I think he just edges out Malik Willis
7. New York Giants: Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner CB Cincinnati
Gardner is arguably the best overall corner in this draft and could add some depth to a somewhat shaky Giants secondary. Gardner did not allow a touchdown in his career and in the ‘21 season he looked the most lockdown we have ever seen. He has the ability to play on every receiver and should be taken here by the Giants.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Malik Willis QB Liberty
The end of Matt Ryan’s tenure in Atlanta came this year and replacing him with Marcus Mariota seems to indicate the Falcons are in dire straits for a QB. Willis can make some great throws and the career he had at Liberty shows why he should be a top ten pick. Hopefully at the NFL level he continues to read defenses well when being mobile and could eventually produce how elite level QB’s play week in and week out.
9. Seattle Seahawks: Derek Stingley Jr CB LSU
Gardner I feel is the best overall corner in this draft but at one point Stingley was a possible projected top three pick. He is still a great prospect and could add a lot of help to a somewhat weak Seattle secondary. I think instead of wasting a first round pick on a QB add an elite corner here and possibly trade for Baker Mayfield.
10. New York Jets: Drake London WR USC
London has all the tools to perform as a wide receiver 1 and although his past season ended early he still possesses a great ability. He does remind a lot of people of his former teammate Michael Pittman. Adding a strong wideout to a Jets core that has struggled somewhat is extremely important. London being 6 foot 5 will definitely make it difficult for certain cornerbacks to guard.
11. Washington Commanders: Kyle Hamilton S Notre Dame
There are some certain positions that Washington needs to add here but a safe pick here seems to be adding to their struggling secondary. Hamilton is a good versatile player who could take some pressure off of Curl’s plate. He adds an ability to limit long plays downfield as well as being active in space.
12. Minnesota Vikings: Trent McDuffie CB Washington
The Vikings could add a huge helping hand to their secondary using a first round pick on a cornerback. McDuffy is extremely versatile and I personally see some similarities to Tyrann Mathieu when watching him play. He has a great deal of athleticism and really adds depth to Minnesota, with the top 2 corners in the draft already off the board.
13. ***TRADE: Pittsburgh Steelers: Matt Corral QB Ole Miss
The Steelers are not a team to wait later into the round when they feel they want to upgrade a position as we saw with Devin Bush a few years ago. The Steelers definitely need an upgrade at QB and waiting later when someone else could take Corral would be foolish. Corral does have upside like other QB’s in this draft and hopefully could be someone who hangs in Pittsburgh for a while.
14. Baltimore Ravens: Ickem Ekwonu OT North Carolina State
Adding Ekwonu to the O-line would be a smart decision for the Ravens in order to protect Lamar Jackson. He was sacked 38 times last year which was a career high and with losing Orlando Brown adding another strong lineman would help immensely. There are some mocks that have him much higher but I feel he’ll fall to the Ravens.
15. Philadelphia Eagles: Jameson Williams WR Alabama
Williams not falling to a torn ACL probably would have gone as the first wide receiver off the board. However, this will benefit the Eagles as they have a lot of young receivers and so they can stash Williams while he recovers. Williams has some great explosiveness and could complement the core alongside Devonta Smith.
16. New Orleans Saints: Trevor Penning OL Northern Iowa
The first of the Saints first round picks could go either way with a wideout or an offensive lineman but I think they first want to seal up the QB position. Losing Terron Armstead is quite difficult and Penning adds the athleticism to help fill that hole. The Saints definitely have a few positions to improve all around but a strong o-line is always helpful.
17. Los Angeles Chargers: Kenyon Green OG Texas A&M
The amount of tackles off the board already force the Chargers to look inside the line here. Green can play either in or out but helps add to a Chargers team that needs linemen. Protecting Justin Herbet should be the biggest need for the Chargers. The AFC West is the toughest division in football this year means making sure as many holes as possible are filled for your team.
18. Philadelphia Eagles: Devin Lloyd LB Utah
Adding a wide receiver with their first pick, this slot allows the Eagles to add some much needed help to their defense. Kyzir White was signed to a 1 year deal so adding Lloyd compliments their core very well. Lloyd impressed from the combine and during his final season and I wouldn’t pay much attention to his 4.7 something 40 he is extremely quick and can get into the backfield when needed.
19. New Orleans Saints: Chris Olave WR Ohio State
The Saints holding onto both of their first round picks helps fill two big positions of need. I think right now Winston will serve as a fine QB for the near future so the Saints should look to fill a skill position. Olave has great speed and will be a difference maker for the team without forcing the front office to give anything else up.
20. TRADE***Houston Texans (Trade from Pit): Andrew Booth Jr CB Clemson
This earlier trade from Pittsburgh will allow Houston to not only add future draft compensation but take a quality player towards the later part of the first round. Most of the duties Booth held at Clemson was zone coverage, however, he possess the tools in order to be a strong man coverage corner at the next level. I feel as though he can make plays downfield but could be used in corner blitz schemes as well.
21. New England Patriots: Daxton Hill S Michigan
The Patriots have lost a lot in the secondary in the past few seasons so using a first round pick on a long term starter would be a smart decision here. Hill also offers the ability to not only play the safety position but also the slot corner. There have been comparisons as well made to a current Patriot in Devin McCourty.
22. Green Bay Packers: Treylon Burks WR Arkansas
The offseason shook up Green Bay an immense amount with the trading of Davante Adams, the long term wide receiver one. In the Aaron Rodgers era the Packers have never used a first round pick on a wide receiver but now is the time to do so as the end continues to creep closer to the Rodgers era. He is a great versatile receiver, and deserves to be taken here in the first round.
23. Arizona Cardinals: George Karlaftis EDGE Purdue
The Cardinals have lost some pieces of their defense recently in Hassan Reddick and Chandler Jones. Adding an edge rusher will keep their defensive unit looking strong heading into the season. Karlaftis has the ability to possibly develop into a 10-12 sacks a year type of player.
24. Dallas Cowboys: Zion Johnson OG Boston College
The Cowboys used Tyler Biadasz who was serviceable last season but there is an opportunity for an upgrade this year. The showcase from the senior bowl makes it seem as though Johnson is deserving of a first round selection. The first team All-American could really help seal the running lanes for this cowboys team.
25. Buffalo Bills: Kyler Gordon CB Washington
Buffalo’s biggest need is cornerback, especially someone who can help Tre’Davious White who is coming off of a torn Achilles tendon. I think Gordon can play both outside and the slot as well as being a part of zone and man coverages. I don’t think his pro day showcased everything he possesses, and I think he is a smart choice for a team trying to make a Super Bowl run.
26. Tennessee Titans: Bernhard Raimann OT Central Michigan
Raimann is a former tight end converted to the left tackle over the last two seasons but I feel he has the quickness to match up with some of the league’s best pass rushers. I think he helps add to an offensive line prepped to run in front of Derrick Henry. Also, with so many offensive linemen off the board already he is the best choice.
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kaiir Elam CB Florida
The return of Tom Brady means the Bucs are primed for another deep Super Bowl run. The Bucs had a lot of injuries to their secondary during last season so adding depth here does make a lot of sense. Elam can provide the help a contender needs here early into his career.
28. Green Bay Packers: Nakobe Dean LB Georgia
The loss of Za'darius Smith was a blow to the inside linebacking core of the Packers. However, they did re-sign De’Vondre Campbell and so Dean provides another smart play caller in the middle for the defense. He is a playmaking machine and could truly improve the Green Bay defense in his first year.
29. Kansas City Chiefs: Boye Mafe DL Minnesota
The first of back to back picks for the Chiefs, although there is speculation of them trading one of the picks I see them using their first one to grab a strong defensive lineman. He might need to make some improvement against the run but showing up at Senior week has really improved his draft stock.
30. Kansas City Chiefs: Christian Watson WR North Dakota St
The Chiefs secured a great defensive piece with their first pick so adding another wideout in order to fill the Tyreek Hill void is important. Watson is a big athletic receiver that can fill that role and hopefully quick. I think he has a great combination of size and speed and can be very helpful quickly.
31. Cincinnati Bengals: Logan Hall DL Houston
The Bengals went through a lot of options last season with defensive tackles. Hall provides another option and aids in sealing up the interior on the defensive end of the ball. He has recently drawn more interest from a lot of teams in being a first round pick, so I think he fits in here at the end of the first round.
32. Detroit Lions: Sam Howell QB North Carolina
Although the option is there for the team to trade for Baker Mayfield in the case that does not happen Howell provides the opportunity to grab a QB at the end of the first. Defense should be the priority with the earlier pick, and Howell was quite a standout during his earlier years in college. Being third all time in ACC Touchdowns is quite an accomplishment, and even if he doesn’t start in his first year it might be good to have as a starter in the near future.