2022 NFL Draft: Ohio State wideouts Top Preseason WR Rankings
7. Romeo Doubs, Nevada
Romeo Doubs could be the big riser in the 2022 NFL Draft, and there’s already talk of the step he will take this season. Doubs is a good size and speed demon with the ability to win vertically. He has the foot quickness and footwork to win at the line of scrimmage, and is dynamic to separate as a route runner with strong footwork and explosion out of breaks. Stacking comes easy to him, and he’s a dangerous player after the catch with his toughness and speed.
Doubs can afford to work on a few things. He struggles with some concentration drops and has a tough time consistently winning at the catch point. With Carson Strong as his quarterback, the opportunities will be there for another big year.
8. George Pickens, Georgia
It’s a shame we won’t get to see George Pickens this season, which could affect whether or not he declares for the 2022 NFL Draft. Still, his upside warrants a spot on the wide receiver rankings here.
Pickens is dynamic off the line of scrimmage, and shows the quickness and explosion to separate especially well on intermediate routes. His burst and speed keep defenders on their toes, and that gives him the opportunity to create space on hitch and comeback routes while also working clean over the middle. His catch radius is impressive, and he hangs on through contact despite his lean frame.
Building consistency is important for Pickens, as he still lacks some efficiency with footwork at the top of his routes and is prone to taking some plays off. His upside could entice teams should he enter the 2022 NFL Draft.
9. David Bell, Purdue
David Bell is another big bodied receiver who excels in multiple facets of the game. He excels most at the catch, as he makes excellent late adjustments to the football and wins consistently in contested catch situations. Bell is also a very good tracker of the football and has the buildup speed to be a vertical threat.
While he’s competent as a route runner with transitions, using his hands more throughout routes and developing a more diverse release package will give him the edge to become a three level threat and rise in the rankings.
10. Drake London, USC
Drake London rounds out the early wide receiver rankings, and his spot in rankings around the draft community has high variance. London has great athleticism for his size, and shows enough change of direction skills to succeed in the short passing game. After the catch is where he thrives, with great field vision and toughness to break tackles at will.
Still, London has work to do as a route runner to consistently create separation. He will get the chance as he’s expected to line up on the perimeter this season for the Trojans. Improving technically will take time. The upside and potential is a good one to bet on, but this writer isn’t as bullish just yet.
Honorable Mentions: Jalen Tolbert (South Alabama), Bo Melton (Rutgers), Jahan Dotson (Penn State)