Which position groups for the 2022 NFL Draft have their stock going up, which are going down, and is the QB class still an unknown?
It was a fantastic return to college football this past weekend. From Enter Sandman to Jump Around and an incredible return to the field for McKenzie Milton, week 1 had it all. It also was a great first showing of the potential 2022 NFL Draft class.
Plenty of prospect made a great first impression, some of whom were in a big game with playoff implications. Certain positions have an overabundance of talent to this point and keep getting deeper. Others still bring questions, but the good news is that it’s a long season. Let’s look at the positions with draft stock trending up and those that are trending down in this week’s stock watch.
Stock Up: Defensive Backs
In a league that already feels biased towards the offense, the defensive back rooms are falling behind to otherworldly skill position players in an ever-evolving passing league. It’s time for the defense to fight back, and with this group of corners and safeties, NFL defenses could get much-needed assistance.
The corner group looks extremely strong at the top, with four prospects ranked in most top 20s around the blogosphere. Andrew Booth Jr. looked very good against Georgia, showing great closing speed and reliable tackling skills, making two splash plays near the line of scrimmage. Derek Stingley Jr., despite lower grades, also showed off a similar skill set. Virginia Tech, yet again, has a few corners that could get an NFL look this season, and shut down the North Carolina offense, albeit one that had some turnover at receiver.
The safety position might be even more impressive. Kyle Hamilton showed why he could be the top prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft, with two interceptions in the win against Florida State, one of which he traveled the entire width of the field to make the play. Arkansas safety Jalen Catalon was all over the field against Rice, and Georgia’s Lewis Cine made big time plays against Clemson, showing good skills at the catch point along with strong recognition skills. Jaquan Brisker was crucial to Penn State’s upset win as well.
Stock Up: Wide Receiver
The 2022 NFL Draft wasn’t supposed to live up to the past two classes, but don’t tell this group that. It’s a group that offers prototypical “X” receivers, to dynamic slot options, and true separators.
Two of those separators had a big night against Minnesota. Ohio State’s Chris Olave caught 4 passes for 117 yards and two scores, and Garrett Wilson put a safety in a blender for another score. The two technicians possess the separation quickness to be effective at the next level.
In the same game, Minnesota’s Dylan Wright grabbed some attention. With a long, lean frame, Wright challenged the Ohio State defensive backs and made an incredible touchdown grab with strong hands at the catch point. The Texas A&M transfer is firmly on the 2022 NFL Draft radar.
Staying in the Big Ten, Jahan Dotson made a big impact against Wisconsin, showing off the buildup speed and impressive twitch with his release at the line of scrimmage. He’s one of the explosive playmakers that could rise for the 2022 NFL Draft. Maryland’s Dontay Demus Jr. looks every bit the deep threat that was seen from film study this summer. He’s got the size and skills to thrive in the slot as well.
Kentucky’s Wan’Dale Robinson rounds out the week 1 list, as he brings the YAC to this class. Robinson has lethal change of direction skills, toughness, and good field vision after the catch. He’s one to watch this season in the SEC.
Finally, a big shout out to Boston College’s Zay Flowers, who was ranked fourth on the preseason WR rankings, dominated (expectedly) against Colgate. The undersized Flowers has potentially the best quickness and speed combo in the draft, and made some impressive plays in contested spots.
Stock All Over The Place: Quarterback
Perhaps this is the best way to phrase it. “Stock Down” feels like too much of an overreaction to week 1 performances. The quarterback position in the 2022 NFL Draft won’t be as talented as last year’s, barring something crazy. Having four incredibly talented players again is a major stretch, but there will still likely be risers as the season goes on.
The issue is how flat a couple of the top quarterbacks came out to start the year. Sam Howell struggled mightily, throwing three interceptions against the Hokies. However, it’s hard to drag him too much, as a rough offensive line kept him on edge, which disrupts timing and chemistry Howell has to build with new starting receivers. The recipe didn’t favor success, but Howell still has some work to do regarding accuracy and decision making.
Spencer Rattler threw an interception on his second attempt against Tulane, but battled back and made some great touch throws. He didn’t look as sharp as many hoped, with several overthrows in the game. Watching his footwork improve will be key.
The two biggest needle-movers (in this writer’s opinion) this past weekend were Carson Strong and Matt Corral. Strong showed off impressive deep accuracy and poise against Cal, and would’ve had a monster night if it weren’t for (at least) seven drops. There were a couple turnover worthy plays though where he felt confident in a deep throw without holding the safety. Corral looks ridiculous when he’s got a rhythm, and challenged some tight window throws with confidence. He has the velocity to dominate in the quick game, but his high-variance play seeped in against Louisville.
Right now, the class is all over the place as we wait for a signature game this season. Players like Malik Willis and Desmond Ridder will get their chance against bigger opponents. Still, this class is all over the map right now, as are the 2022 NFL Draft rankings at the position.