2022 NFL Mock Draft: Trenches Dominate Early In 2-Round Projection

2022 NFL Mock Draft, Ikem Ekwonu, 2022 NFL Draft. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports
2022 NFL Mock Draft, Ikem Ekwonu, 2022 NFL Draft. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports
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2022 NFL Draft, Kayvon Thibodeaux
2022 NFL Mock Draft, Kayvon Thibodeaux. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images)

The trenches dominate early and four quarterbacks go in the first round of this mid-season 2022 NFL Mock Draft that spans two rounds.

As Monday Night Football is set to conclude week nine of the NFL season, we are about to reach the halfway point in 2021. It’s been an odd year to say the least, as the NFC looks to have a few strong contenders, while the AFC is incredibly fickle. With the Bills losing to Jacksonville, the Browns climbing back into the race, and the Titans dominating the Rams Sunday night, it’s hard to say who’s tops. The Cardinals defeated the 49ers without Kyler Murray and could be the class of that conference.

The 2022 NFL Draft talk is heating up as we move later into the fall, and the class is taking shape. The defensive prospects should be much better in this class, and the trenches possess depth and top talent. The quarterback position is extremely shaky, but there will still be teams who reach for one in the first round. As for the skill positions, there are several intriguing names.

2022 NFL Mock Draft: Trenches, DBs Headline 2-Round Projection

This 2022 NFL Mock Draft two round projection features the trenches and defensive backs headline, and quarterbacks heading to some interesting spots. Let’s dive in to this mock draft as the season nears the beginning of its second half.

1. Detroit Lions: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

The Detroit Lions are in need of quarterback help, as Jared Goff isn’t the long-term solution, but it’s hard to pass up a top defensive talent in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. He’s going to be the most popular pick of the cycle if the Lions end up with the top pick, and Kayvon Thibodeaux can revitalize this defense.

Thibodeaux is a phenomenal athlete with the range to play runs to the perimeter, and he can win in a variety of ways as a pass rusher. His hand placement is great at contact, and he can stack and shed with ease. Winning on the outside track and with an inside move is in his repertoire as well.

2. Houston Texans: Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan

What a rise it’s been for Aidan Hutchinson so far in the draft process. He’s made a considerable leap this season, as he’s been a dominant force on the edge. The Houston Texans could also go quarterback, but why not get a potential defensive centerpiece.

Hutchinson’s testing should elevate him even further, and while his length could be the big question, his flexibility, hand usage, and pass rushing toolbox could revive the once-dominant front for Houston.