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.
3. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIA): Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU
It’s going to be interesting to see how the Philadelphia Eagles attack this offseason, as the roster isn’t up to par. While Jalen Hurts may not be a franchise quarterback yet, he’s hardly been the main reason for their lack of success. One area that needs major work is the secondary. Darius Slay isn’t getting any younger, and the others in the corner room aren’t enough.
Derek Stingley Jr. makes total sense in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. Stingley had an unbelievable freshman campaign, and while the consensus was that his ceiling was limitless, his sophomore and junior seasons haven’t been up to snuff. Combine that with an injury that has potentially ended his 2021 season, there will be questions. However, his instincts, ball skills, and pedigree are worth the selection.
4. New York Jets: Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson
Rookie Michael Carter II has surprised so far this season, but the New York Jets need more help in that area. Bryce Hall could cut it as a day three guy as well, but getting a true lockdown corner would help in this division.
Andrew Booth might end up making a serious case for the title of CB1. His eye discipline is excellent, and he’s great at keying in on opposing quarterbacks. Combine that with great transitional quickness and unreal skills at the catch point, and Booth could be a great performer in year one.
5. Jacksonville Jaguars: Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
The Jacksonville Jaguars pulled off a stunning upset at home against the Buffalo Bills, winning a defensive struggle 9-6. While the defense is playing well, the offense needs some help, and it starts with fixing the offensive line, as rookie QB Trevor Lawrence has been under duress all season long.
Another pick that will be popular in mocks, including this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, is Evan Neal to the Jaguars. Neal moved over to left tackle for the Crimson Tide the season, and he’s played very well in that transition. He’s a true mauler with fleet feet and has potential to be an elite tackle for a decade.
6. Washington Football Team: Matt Corral, QB, Mississippi
The Washington Football Team are the first to grab a quarterback in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. It’s hard to believe in Taylor Heinicke and Ryan Fitzpatrick was always a bridge option. With the team not meeting expectations this season, it’s time to get a young quarterback.
Matt Corral is slowly becoming the QB1 of the 2022 NFL Draft. He put on a strong performance on Saturday against Liberty, evading pressure well and placing the ball well down the field. His mobility is a good calling card for when things break down, and his placement and decision making have drastically improved in 2021.
7. Philadelphia Eagles: Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
Building the secondary isn’t done yet for the Eagles in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. Stingley is a huge addition, but the safety position needs a facelift as well. Bringing back Anthony Harris would be a good start, and finishing it with Kyle Hamilton would be excellent.
Hamilton can make a case for the top prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft, and he’s one of the best safety prospects in a long time. His range is incredible, as he covers ground with ease with his long strides. Hamilton’s route recognition is impressive, and he has the versatility to play man coverage in the slot, sit on the roof of the back end, and play in the box.
8. New York Giants: George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue
The New York Giants have a serious decision to make this offseason, regarding whether or not to keep head coach Joe Judge, quarterback Daniel Jones, and even general manager Dave Gettleman. Could there be a new regime next year? Possibly, but for now we work off of the current information, like a big win over the Raiders on Sunday.
Gettleman loves to attack the defensive line early, so why not add a talent like George Karlaftis to pair with Azeez Ojulari on the edge? Karlaftis may not flash the elite athleticism, but he’s plenty good in his own right. He commands double and triple teams wherever he goes, is difficult to handle at contact, and has a great ability to trim the edge and flatten to the quarterback.
9. Miami Dolphins (via SF): Kenyon Green, OL, Texas A&M
The Miami Dolphins made a nice move to right the ship a bit against the Houston Texans Sunday, but there are still plenty of problems right now with this team. It would be great for this team to figure out the quarterback situation, or at the very least commit to Tua Tagovailoa.
The way to build around him starts by fixing the offensive line. The hope is that Liam Eichenberg or Austin Jackson becomes a solid starter at tackle, and drafting someone like Kenyon Green to fill out the group would be excellent. Green has rare versatility and has logged snaps at both tackle and guard spots in his last two seasons with the Aggies. He’s a great lateral mover and has great pop in his hands. His ability to reach the second level is good as well, and he rarely gives up ground with his great anchor.
10. New York Jets (via SEA): Ikem Ekwonu, OL, NC State
The Jets are back up in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, and they too look to address the offensive line. Mekhi Becton and Alijah Vera-Tucker will be great on the left side of the line, but the right side needs work.
Ikem Ekwonu has had a phenomenal season for the Wolfpack. He’s been super impressive in pass protection this season and is looking to bury defenders every chance he gets. His space blocking is impressive and he’s a great mover to lead the charge on outside runs. Giving him an opportunity at right tackle is the way to go for the Jets.
11. New York Giants (via CHI): Tyler Linderbaum, C, Iowa
The New York Giants are back up in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, and with one side of the trenches addressed, it’s time to move over to the other side. If Jones does stay, getting the best protection possible should be a priority. Andrew Thomas is getting better at left tackle, but center is a position that needs a quality starter.
Tyler Linderbaum is as quality as it gets at the center position. Originally recruited as a defensive lineman, Linderbaum made the move to center and has developed extremely well. His athleticism, initial quicks, and power make for a great combination. He can fit into an outside zone scheme as well as a gap scheme. His field vision is great in space, and he consistently finds work when necessary.
12. Minnesota Vikings: DeMarvin Leal, DL, Texas A&M
The Minnesota Vikings are a team that could blow things up after the season. Head coach Mike Zimmer’s seat is getting very warm, and Kirk Cousins still plays maddeningly inconsistent at times. No matter what happens, the defense needs a serious facelift. Corner is in play here, but the defensive line could use work as well.
DeMarvin Leal is an extremely versatile player who can create pressure from a variety of alignments. His athleticism is impressive for a player that’s 290 pounds, and he’s got powerful hands and a great penchant for defending the run. Leal could form a good duo with Danielle Hunter to get after opposing NFC North quarterbacks.
13. Carolina Panthers: Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State
With the way Sam Darnold has played in recent weeks, don’t be surprised if the Carolina Panthers potentially join the quarterback market in the 2022 NFL Draft. In this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, they decide to give Darnold one more season to figure things out and boost the offensive line that is a weak point on the roster.
Finding a left tackle is paramount, and Charles Cross has been a major riser this season. He’s improved his functional strength and power in his lower half, and he’s maintained his quick feet and recovery athleticism. Cross has looked super smooth this season and should be a round one lock by draft time.
14. Philadelphia Eagles (via IND**): Drake London, WR, USC
Right now, the Indianapolis Colts have played Carson Wentz enough for the Eagles to get their first round pick, so this 2022 NFL Mock Draft assumes that happens by end of season (which we will see). As the build continues around Jalen Hurts, there’s no reason not to add another weapon to the mix.
The Eagles have their true separator in Devonta Smith, but getting a true “X” type makes sense in this mock. Drake London suffered a leg injury last weekend, but there’s a good chance he still lands in round one should he declare. He’s got superb athleticism for his 6’5″, 210 pound frame, wins at the catch point, and dominates with good field vision and toughness after the catch.
15. Denver Broncos: Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina
The Denver Broncos quelled the “tanking” narrative rolling through the media this week, downing the Cowboys in Dallas by scoring the first 30 points in the matchup. Teddy Bridgewater looked good again, and the defense made things difficult for Dak Prescott.
So why a quarterback here when the philosophy screams defense early? The question is whether or not the Broncos go after a veteran quarterback in the offseason and offer a king’s ransom of picks. If not, Bridgewater isn’t the guy to carry this squad over the top. Sam Howell has played well this season as his chemistry develops with a new group of skill position players. His deep ball is still as pretty as ever, and he’s been surprisingly successful on the ground this year.
16. Cincinnati Bengals: Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida
The Cincinnati Bengals are coming off of two tough losses to the Jets and Browns, and now currently sit at the bottom of a tough AFC North. If they do indeed miss the postseason, Zac Taylor should stay with the progress made this year. Still, there are positions that could use an upgrade.
Corner is one of the positions, and Florida corner Kaiir Elam could come in and start right away opposite Chidobe Awuzie. Elam has great size for the position, transitions extremely well, and makes great plays at the catch point.
17. Cleveland Browns: Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas
The Cleveland Browns were desperate for a win Sunday, and they made a statement with a win over Cincinnati. The playoff chase is still within reach as the roster gets healthier, as the offense can hang with anyone when they’re clicking. Donovan Peoples-Jones had another game where he made a big play, and while he could eventually become a WR1, getting help at the position is smart in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft.
Treylon Burks is on pace for a career year, and has the height/weight/speed combination to be a WR1. His acceleration and play speed jump off the screen when watching him, and he has impressive body control and ball skills at the catch point. He’d be a good deep threat and YAC threat in the Browns offense.
18. Kansas City Chiefs: David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan
The Kansas City Chiefs got a big win over Green Bay Sunday, but the defense still needs a ton of work for them to get back to a Super Bowl. It starts with getting more pressure up front, and getting someone opposite Frank Clark is a priority. David Ojabo would be a great addition.
Ojabo might be a shock for some to see this high, but he’s had a spectacular breakout year for Michigan. His athleticism and explosiveness is evident on tape, and he can win on the outside track and with a wicked inside move. His range and change of direction skills are great against the run as well. Once he improves his hand usage, his ceiling will be ridiculously high.
19. Atlanta Falcons: Jordan Davis, DL, Georgia
The Atlanta Falcons are somehow sitting at the seventh seed in the NFC at the halfway point, something many fans wouldn’t believe after how things started. Matt Ryan is playing better, and the defense looked good for three quarters against the Saints. A.J. Terrell is playing like a lockdown corner, but the defensive line could use help.
Jordan Davis is rising up 2022 NFL Draft boards, and the defensive tackle has upped his game in 2021. He was always a stout run defender who could eat up space and free up linebackers, but he’s added some explosiveness and twitch to his game as a pass rusher. Pairing Davis with Grady Jarrett would be a nightmare for the NFC South.
20. New England Patriots: Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
The Patriots are up next in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, and they’re doing well with rookie quarterback Mac Jones at the helm. The defense is starting to warm up, but getting Jones a top weapon would further the dynamism in the offense.
Garrett Wilson isn’t having the season many anticipated, but in a loaded receiver room, he’s still making his mark. Wilson is a technically advanced receiver with impressive route tempo, great ball skills to adjust and attack the ball at the catch point, and impressive movement skills after the catch.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Sean Rhyan, OT, UCLA
The Pittsburgh Steelers are still in the playoff hunt, even as Ben Roethlisberger is in the midst of a curtain call. The offense is loaded with talent, and the defensive front is as nasty a unit as ever with the emergence of Alex Highsmith in his second season. Still, the quarterback position is a question mark for 2022.
It seems likely with the 2022 class that the Steelers opt for a veteran to bridge the gap and select a late round quarterback to develop. The offensive line still could use some help, and UCLA’s Sean Rhyan could provide it. Some draft analysts believe he is best inside at guard, but his processing skills, footwork, and anchor in pass protection make him a potential tackle in the NFL.
22. New Orleans Saints: Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
This one might feel like a shocker. With Jameis Winston done for the season, it’s hard to know whether or not Sean Payton believes in his prospect for the long term. It’s entirely possible the Saints go in a different direction in 2022, without Winston or Taysom Hill.
It was evident that Payton had ties to potentially picking Lamar Jackson in 2018, so it’s possible he opts for a mobile quarterback in this draft. Malik Willis has processing speed issues to iron out, but he’s got the arm talent and mobility baseline to work with and develop into a solid starter.
23. Las Vegas Raiders: Roger McCreary, CB, Auburn
The Las Vegas Raiders are up next in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, and it’ll be interesting to see if they buck the first round trend of surprising us. Corner is a position to watch for in the offseason and 2022 NFL Draft, as both Trayvon Mullen and Damon Arnette haven’t panned out thus far.
It’s back to the corner well here, as the class looks real strong right now. Roger McCreary hasn’t gotten the first round hype yet, but it’ll come. He’s been fantastic in man coverage this season in the SEC, and has the speed and transition skills to handle deep threats and good route runners.
24. Dallas Cowboys: Daxton Hill, S, Michigan
The Dallas Cowboys are enjoying so much offensive success this season, and a hiccup against the Broncos won’t stop them. Dak Prescott is playing great football, and they have a two-headed monster on the ground in Tony Pollard and Ezekiel Elliott. The defense looks better this season, but they could still use help on the back end.
Daxton Hill is a phenomenal safety, and he’s shown it for the Wolverines this season. He can play on the back end or in the slot manned up against receivers. He’s a great tackler and has ironed out the one weakness in his game by making plays at the catch point in 2021.
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.
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are still in the thick of the NFC playoff race, and should win the NFC South with their remaining schedule. The offense is humming with their depth at wide receiver, and the front seven is healthy and dominating.
The secondary is still a question mark as the corner room tries to get healthy. Carlton Davis is a free agent after the season, and Richard Sherman is a temporary fill. With no real glaring needs, a best player available approach can happen again in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. Trent McDuffie is a physical corner from Washington with an impressive motor, closing speed, and tackling ability.
28. Detroit Lions (via LAR): Carson Strong, QB, Nevada
The Lions are back up in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, and have the Rams first round selections for the next two drafts. After getting a cornerstone on defense, it’s time to get quarterback help, and they get a potential franchise signal-caller here late in the first in Nevada’s Carson Strong.
Strong has very good arm talent, and he generates great velocity on the football to challenge tight windows and make throws outside the hashes. His deep ball accuracy and touch is very good, and he’s great at identifying things pre-snap. While he isn’t the most mobile quarterback, Strong maneuvers the pocket well to avoid pressure. The potential is well worth it here.
29. Baltimore Ravens: Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa
The Baltimore Ravens have had some wild wins this season, especially coming from behind. They did it again Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings, with Lamar Jackson coming alive in the second half. Their defense certainly has its weaknesses, but getting an offensive tackle opposite Ronnie Stanley for the long term makes sense in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft.
Every year there’s a small-schooler that climbs the ranks, and it could be Trevor Penning this year. Penning is a road-grader in the run game, and played very well in Northern Iowa’s game against Iowa State. He could be the big riser after the all-star circuit, and he’d be a great fit in this Baltimore offense.
30. Green Bay Packers: Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
It’s been a wild week for the Green Bay Packers, as Jordan Love got his first start in green and gold. It took some time for him to gain rhythm, but there are still questions with footwork and accuracy. If he’s the starter in 2022, the Packers need to surround him with weapons, even if Davante Adams returns.
Chris Olave may not have the WR1 upside at the next level as others in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, but he can be an elite WR2. Olave is a great route runner, with great salesmanship and great awareness to set up defenders and attack blind spots. He’s a good deep threat with reliable hands and flashes of success at the catch point.
31. Tennessee Titans: Drake Jackson, EDGE, USC
What a massive win for the Tennessee Titans on Sunday night, as they beat the Rams, who many have as Super Bowl favorites. They’ve gotten several big wins lately, including wins over the Bills and Chiefs. There’s no reason to believe they can’t win the AFC, and their defense gelling is a major reason why.
As we look ahead to the offseason in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, the Titans could still use help on the defensive front. Harold Landry could leave via free agency, and adding another toolsy pass rusher makes total sense. Drake Jackson isn’t quite living up to expectations in 2021, but his athleticism and traits are worth betting on at the end of the first round.
32. Arizona Cardinals: Nicholas Petit-Frere, OT, Ohio State
The Cardinals looked dominant in their win over the 49ers, even without Kyler Murray and DeAndre Hopkins. The offense still looked good with James Conner leading the way, and the defense has been superb all season long.
Still, when thinking long-term in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, protecting Murray needs to be a primary focus in the coming offseason. The offensive line is much too pedestrian right now. Nicholas Petit-Frere is playing well this season for the Buckeyes, and his skills in both facets of the game should make him an immediate starter at right tackle.
2022 NFL Mock Draft, 2nd Round: Picks 33-48
33. Detroit Lions: Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia
34. Houston Texans: Kenny Pickett, QB, Pitt
35. Miami Dolphins: Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State
36. Jacksonville Jaguars: David Bell, WR, Purdue
37. Washington Football Team: Lewis Cine, S, Georgia
38. New York Jets: Brandon Joseph, S, Northwestern
39. New York Giants: Christian Harris, LB, Alabama
40. Philadelphia Eagles: Kingsley Enagbare, EDGE, South Carolina
41. Seattle Seahawks: Darian Kinnard, OL, Kentucky
42. Chicago Bears: John Metchie III, WR, Alabama
43. Minnesota Vikings: Garrett Williams, CB, Syracuse
44. San Francisco 49ers: Martin Emerson, CB, Mississippi State
45. Indianapolis Colts: Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama
46. New York Jets (via CAR): Trey McBride, TE, Colorado State
47. Cincinnati Bengals: Jaquan Brisker, S, Penn State
48. Cleveland Browns: Perrion Winfrey, DL, Oklahoma
2022 NFL Mock Draft: Picks 49-64
49. Kansas City Chiefs: Derion Kendrick, CB, Georgia
50. Denver Broncos: Jermaine Johnson, DE, Florida State
51. Atlanta Falcons: Myjai Sanders, EDGE, Cincinnati
52. New England Patriots: Zion Tupuola-Fetui, EDGE, Washington
53. Pittsburgh Steelers: Mykael Wright, CB, Oregon
54. Las Vegas Raiders: Devonte Wyatt, DL, Georgia
55. New Orleans Saints: Romeo Doubs, WR, Nevada
56. Dallas Cowboys: Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE, Penn State
57. Los Angeles Chargers: Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah
58. Buffalo Bills: Zion Johnson, OL, Boston College
59. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Isaiah Spiller, RB, Texas A&M
60. Denver Broncos (via LAR): Jaxson Kirkland, OT, Washington
61. Baltimore Ravens: Nolan Smith, EDGE, Georgia
62. Green Bay Packers: Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame
63. Atlanta Falcons (via TEN): Breece Hall, RB, Iowa State
64. Arizona Cardinals: Kyler Gordon, CB, Washington