2022 NFL Draft Big Board: Top 100 Features Defensive Prospects Rising
The latest 2022 NFL Draft Big Board here at NFL Mocks features some serious movement, including a new CB1 and a defense-littered top 10.
The November chill is upon us, and the heart of autumn is here. The boys of fall are seeing their season fly by, as three full weeks remain in the college football season. The 2022 NFL Draft talk is heating up, and soon we will see All-Star invitations being rolled out and accepted.
As the big board here at NFL Mocks continues to take shape, there are still a few things clear about the 2022 NFL Draft class. The edge group is astonishingly good, and the corner group is excellent. There is plenty of talent in the trenches that will go early come next April, and despite the relative drop off in talent, there will be quarterbacks in round one. The receiver class isn’t half bad either.
2022 NFL Draft Big Board: November Update
Let’s dive in to the updated 2022 NFLDraft Big Board update which features a new top corner, several wide receivers in the top 50, and a pair of rushers soaring up the board.
1. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
Kyle Hamilton stays atop the 2022 NFL Draft Big Board because of how truly rare he is as a safety prospect. His closing speed, range, versatility, route recognition, and reliability as a tackler make him one of the best DBs in recent memory.
2. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon
The top prospect for the consensus, Kayvon Thibodeaux has been downright impossible to block one-on-one since returning from injury. His productivity on all three downs stays unmatched, and he might be better as a run defender.
3. Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson
The new CB1 on the board, Andrew Booth stays extremely disciplined in coverage and has incredible transition skills. He does a great job keeping his eyes on the quarterback and has unreal ball skills.
4. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU
The film and production haven’t trended upward for Derek Stingley in his time at LSU, but the pedigree is impressive, as are his instincts and prowess at the catch point.
5. George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue
George Karlaftis has required double and triple teams throughout Big Ten play this season. He’s great at the point of contact and flattens his angle well to the quarterback. Karlaftis is a power rusher and possesses great athleticism to boot.
6. Kenyon Green, OL, Texas A&M
An extremely versatile offensive lineman, Kenyon Green has played everywhere for Texas A&M. He probably fits best at guard at the next level but he could fill in at tackle when necessary.
7. Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
Evan Neal has taken a big step forward this season in his move to left tackle, and sits as the top tackle in the 2022 NFL Draft. His quick feet and powerful presence in the run game will make for a good tackle on either side.
8. Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan
It’s been a big rebound season for Aidan Hutchinson, and he’s been in the top five of mock drafts for good reason. He’s a great athlete on the edge with good hand usage and the production to boot.
9. DeMarvin Leal, DL, Texas A&M
A strong run defender from multiple alignments, players shouldn’t move like DeMarvin Leal does at 290 pounds. His versatility, power, and hand usage make him the top defensive lineman in the 2022 NFL Draft.
10. Tyler Linderbaum, C, Iowa
Is Tyler Linderbaum scheme-specific? It’s a fair criticism, especially at his supposed playing weight. Linderbaum is still the top center in the 2022 NFL Draft with his combination of athleticism, smarts, and finishing ability.