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

25. Buffalo Bills: Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

The Buffalo Bills had a major bump in the road to their plans to have the AFC playoffs run through Buffalo, as the Jaguars kept them out of the end zone in a field-goal ridden affair. Josh Allen never got comfortable in the pocket, and the rhythm and timing were just a bit off. The offensive line could use help in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, but finding a CB2 makes sense as well.

Most draft fans and analysts would say that Ahmad Gardner is a steal this late. Gardner has been fantastic on the Bearcats defense, and has yet to allow a touchdown this season. His awareness in zone coverage is excellent, and he’s formidable working back downhill as a tackler. He’d be great opposite Tre White.

26. Los Angeles Chargers: Travon Walker, DL, Georgia

Perhaps the biggest surprise in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft is here with the Chargers selection. It’s no secret that this defense needs a boost, as they struggled to stop the Eagles on Sunday. Finding a nose tackle to help stop the run would help here, but there isn’t someone worth selecting in the first other than Davis, who’s been off the board for a while.

Travon Walker would be intriguing as a pass rusher at the five-technique to rush opposite Joey Bosa. Walker is a unique prospect, as he’s an explosive pass rusher at 270 pounds with great explosion to power and speed to win around the edge. He can also drop into coverage and use his length to disrupt throwing windows.