Trenches dominate once again, four quarterbacks go in round one, and a couple new faces find themselves in or near the top 10 in this two-round 2022 NFL Mock Draft.
Another week in the NFL made us all shake our heads in disbelief. As the winter slowly settles in and the stretch run begins, the contenders, who should be rising from the rest, haven’t at this point. The Bills, dubbed an AFC favorite by many a few weeks ago, now sit in second in their own division after being drubbed by the Colts and a five touchdown performance from Jonathan Taylor.
The Packers defense was heralded in the media this past week, only for the Vikings to drop 34 on them and come away with the victory. On the bright side, both the Patriots and Chiefs are finding their stride at the right time, and the Cardinals are still winning with Colt McCoy at quarterback.
The 2022 NFL Draft is starting to enter the spotlight a bit more as the college football season winds down, and mock drafts are becoming more and more frequent. It’s a class that’s defensive and trench-focused, but quarterbacks will still be part of the equation. In fact, it’s been reported that the class will still see four signal-callers go in the first round, which shouldn’t surprise anyone due to demand.
2022 NFL Mock Draft: Two-Round Projection
In this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, we see a few teams go the quarterback route early, an edge rusher nearly crack the top 10 as he continues to rise, and a top defensive talent staying in the same state. Enjoy two rounds on this Mock Draft Monday! Let’s dive in!
1. Detroit Lions: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon
Hopefully this Lions team finds a win on the schedule down the stretch (a Thanksgiving win is possible) but the big win is landing Kayvon Thibodeaux in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. Thibodeaux has played great football since returning from injury, and terrorizing the Pac 12. His athleticism as a pass rusher is great, but his run defense might be even better. He can instantly invigorate the defense.
2. New York Jets: Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
It feels like the Jets really have to continue to address the offensive line, even though it’s been done in the past two drafts, in the first round no less. But, keeping Zach Wilson upright needs to be a priority, and selecting Evan Neal here can help that.
Neal has impressive footwork and quickness in pass protection and has a mauler’s mentality as a run blocker. He could slide back to the right side and be part of a fantastic line in 2022.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU
Missing out on Neal would hurt for the Jacksonville Jaguars, because the offense needs serious work to help out Trevor Lawrence. However, the secondary needs some help too, and Derek Stingley can be that help in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. Stingley hasn’t played his best ball since his freshman season, but his instincts, ball skills, and athleticism make for a potential lockdown NFL corner.
4. Houston Texans: Matt Corral, QB, Mississippi
It would be easy for the Houston Texans to go a different route than taking a quarterback in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, and it’s been done in previous mocks here. Getting an elite player makes sense, but for this organization, a full reboot needs a quarterback at the forefront. Matt Corral has had the rise to be the QB1 in the class, and has become much more efficient in 2021 while limiting his turnover-worthy plays.
5. New York Jets (via SEA): Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan
The Jets are back on the clock in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, and this situation works out perfectly. Yes, the defensive line has Carl Lawson set to return in 2022 and John Franklin-Myers signed a big extension, but passing up on Aidan Hutchinson isn’t possible.
Hutchinson had dominated this season, racking up 11 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks in 2021. He’s got an impressive get-off, good bend around the edge, and the change of direction and flexibility to win in different ways. He could reach double digit sacks in year one.
6. New York Giants (via CHI): George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue
The New York Giants defense has been playing better of late, and it’s a unit that should draw head coaching candidates, should they move on from Joe Judge. Azeez Ojulari is having an impressive rookie campaign, but selecting George Karlaftis to rush opposite him would be awesome.
Karlaftis is a strong, athletic rusher who can keep tackles off-balance and flatten his angle/trim the edge with good hand usage.
7. New York Giants: Ikem Ekwonu, OL, North Carolina State
It’s offensive line next for the Giants here, as they pass on selecting a quarterback in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. Whether or not Matt Peart is the long-term right tackle remains in question, and even if he is, the interior needs work too. Ikem Ekwonu is a true mauler who can thrive at either guard or tackle at the next level.
8. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIA): Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson
The Eagles are somehow back in playoff contention, as the front four is dominating once again and Jalen Hurts is playing much better as he approaches his 16th start. It’s possible that Philadelphia passes on a quarterback, and in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, that’s what happens.
Andrew Booth Jr. would be a big boost to the secondary and be an immediate starter opposite Darius Slay. Booth has great eye discipline, transitions, and elite ball skills. His ball production is a thing of beauty on film.
9. Atlanta Falcons: Jordan Davis, DL, Georgia
The first real (mild) shocker in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft is here. The Atlanta Falcons are a team in a weird position. It sounds like Matt Ryan will get an extension, and the offense needs more playmakers.
Still, adding Jordan Davis might be the best move possible. He’s a massive individual at 6’6″, and has the size and strength to eat up space against the run. Davis will command double teams to free up Grady Jarrett to get after the quarterback and make plays in the backfield.
10. Washington Football Team: Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
How much does the NFL truly value elite safeties? It’s a question that will be answered in the 2022 NFL Draft regarding Kyle Hamilton, who is the pick here for Washington. Plenty of teams would be wise to select him, but positional value clearly matters.
Hamilton would make this defense lethal. He’s a versatile playmaker with elite range, tackling skills, and route recognition. Hamilton also makes plays at the catch point and has the length to shrink passing windows.
11. Philadelphia Eagles: David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan
Derek Barnett hasn’t panned out, and Brandon Graham has really hit his last leg. Josh Sweat had made the leap, but the Eagles will likely seek out more in terms of a pass rush in the 2022 NFL Draft. They do here, selecting Michigan edge rusher David Ojabo.
After playing just 23 snaps in 2020, Ojabo is having a monster season and has risen into first round conversation. He’s got 10 sacks this season, and is rapidly growing in terms of his technical skills as a pass rusher. His athleticism raises his ceiling and his upside is tremendous as he continues to develop.
12. Carolina Panthers: Kenyon Green, OL, Texas A&M
The Carolina Panthers could be in the quarterback market in 2022, as we’ll see how Cam Newton works out the rest of the season. Still, they could make a move for a veteran and play the long game with Matt Rhule’s lengthy contract. Instead, they opt for the offensive line, and take Kenyon Green, who provides rare versatility at the position.
13. Denver Broncos: Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
The Denver Broncos scouting department has definitely done their homework on the top quarterback prospects of the 2022 NFL Draft this season, often attending big games. If they don’t land either Russell Wilson or Aaron Rodgers, the draft might be where they look.
Malik Willis will likely go high because of the tools he possesses, from the strong arm to the power and elusiveness as a runner. He has to work on his processing skills, and learn to not bail clean pockets, but the upside is there with Willis.
14. Miami Dolphins (via SF): Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State
The Miami Dolphins have to fix the offensive line if they want to give quarterback Tua Tagovailoa the best chance to succeed. Acceptance is a big deal, and still swinging at the position is important. They do in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft.
Charles Cross might be able to push for OT1 in the class. His athleticism and mirroring skills in pass protection are excellent, and his power and anchor are getting much better. Cross has looked very good against SEC competition.
15. Las Vegas Raiders: Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati
The Las Vegas Raiders are becoming a joke in terms of how they draft, as their first round selections continue to puzzle analysts and fans. They’ve struggled to hit at the corner position, so in a deep class, it’s back to the well.
Ahmad Gardner struggles a bit in man coverage, but he’s great in off-coverage situations, closes quickly with great instincts, and tackles extremely well. Gardner also has the temperament to be a shutdown corner.
16. Philadelphia Eagles (via IND): Tyler Linderbaum, C, Iowa
There’s a chance that 2021 is the last season for long time Eagles stud Jason Kelce, and replacing him with a near-clone of himself make sense in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. Tyler Linderbaum is a bit undersized like Kelce, but packs a wallop in terms of his power at the point of attack. His athleticism to thrive in zone schemes is a big plus as well.
17. Cleveland Browns: Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas
It’s going to be an interesting offseason for the Cleveland Browns, as it’s clear that Baker Mayfield will be looking for an extension. They will need to make a move to either go all-in to see if Mayfield is the guy or find his potential replacement.
In this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, the choice is easy. Treylon Burks has WR1 potential with his size and speed combination. He uses his frame and strong hands well at the catch point, and his speed comes in handy after the catch. Burks is versatile and can move all over the offense.
18. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Pickett, QB, Pitt
The prophecy completes itself in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, as the Pitt quarterback stays right where he’s at. Ben Roethlisberger played extremely well on Sunday Night Football against the Chargers, but it’s clear that moving on will happen in 2022.
Kenny Pickett is perhaps the most poised and accurate quarterback in the class. His jump in accuracy and placement in 2021 is excellent, and he’s making great throws down the field and out of structure. He’s calm amongst the chaos and can be a high-level distributor.
19. New Orleans Saints: Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
The Saints lack of help at the receiver position is still biting them, and while quarterback is an important question to solve this offseason, so is finding Michael Thomas a running mate.
Why not add another Buckeyes talent? Garrett Wilson has the argument for WR1 in the class with his route running prowess, incredible ball skills, and flexibility and change of direction skills to make defenders miss after the catch. He wins in all phases.
20. Minnesota Vikings: DeMarvin Leal, DL, Texas A&M
It’s kind of wild that Kirk Cousins is playing like an MVP candidate, which makes the Vikings decision that much tougher in the offseason. Quarterback is a possibility if a new regime is the move, but in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, the defense gets a stud.
DeMarvin Leal is a bit of a tweener with the versatility to play nose tackle, three technique, and on the edge. He’s super strong at the point of attack to defend the run, and he continues to improve as a pass rusher.
21. Buffalo Bills: Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida
The Buffalo Bills got a bit of a shock in their blowout loss against the Colts at home, and their offense continues to be an enigma. They need help on the interior and could use another weapon opposite Stefon Diggs.
Still, in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, they opt for a corner in a deep class. Kaiir Elam has the prototypical size and ball skills to thrive opposite Tre White, and his transitions are impressive. Elam would complete a fabulous secondary.
22. Los Angeles Chargers: Kingsley Enagbare, EDGE, South Carolina
The Chargers are doing their gosh darn best to generate pressure, from stunts to “NASCAR” fronts. They need to find a nose tackle in the 2022 NFL Draft to continue with Brandon Staley’s scheme, but edge is another need.
Kingsley Enagbare is a powerful rusher with great hand usage to keep tackles from gaining leverage. He can trim the edge and win quickly, and has been playing very well in the SEC this season.
23. Cincinnati Bengals: Roger McCreary, CB, Auburn
The Cincinnati Bengals are back in the playoffs as of now, with their defense carrying more of the load. Their front seven is playing very well, but they need more help at the corner position.
Roger McCreary doesn’t get the buzz of other corners, but he could be a first round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. He’s sticky in man coverage and has very good ball production at the catch point.
24. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Garrett Williams, CB, Syracuse
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers yet again sit with some luxury in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, with the ability to go in any direction they’d please. While injuries have been the culprit for the shaky secondary, their best cover corner is a free agent in 2022. Garrett Williams, like McCreary, is another corner with near-first round talent who could go higher than expected. He’s great in man coverage with great timing at the catch point.
25. Kansas City Chiefs: Drake London, WR, USC
The Kansas City Chiefs are finding their rhythm again, and it’s certainly possible that (albeit crazy a few weeks ago) they could end up with the top seed in the AFC. Still, this is a team that isn’t what it was a couple seasons prior.
It may seem odd to bypass defense early in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, but this offense needs a different body type at wide receiver. Drake London is a dominant player at the catch point, is improving as a route runner, and has impressive contact balance and toughness after the catch.
26. New England Patriots: Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia
The New England Patriots often surprise us in the draft, and in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, it’s no different. The Patriots could bring back Dont’a Hightower and Ja’Whaun Bentley, but they could opt to go young at the position.
Nakobe Dean is a force at linebacker with impressive range and speed. He’s a dominant blitzer who gets downhill quickly and dips through/around contact, and continues to get better with his recognition skills in coverage.
27. Detroit Lions (via LAR): Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina
It’s hard to imagine that the Lions don’t use one of their first three picks in the 2022 NFL Draft at the quarterback position. Jared Goff isn’t the answer and if Detroit fails to win a game, Dan Campbell needs to convince ownership they can turn a corner.
Sam Howell has Mayfield-like qualities, from his toughness and poise in the pocket and his very good arm strength. He throws an impressive deep ball and continues to impress as a runner this season.
28. Dallas Cowboys: Daxton Hill, S, Michigan
This feels like a perfect 2022 NFL Mock Draft pairing. The Cowboys defense has been a bit volatile this season outside of rookie Micah Parsons, and they need serious help on the back end. Daxton Hill is a versatile safety who can play on the roof of a defense. Hill is making more plays at the catch point this season and has great range and processing skills.
29. Baltimore Ravens: Sean Rhyan, OL, UCLA
The Baltimore Ravens look like an AFC contender, but Lamar Jackson is definitely hiding some deficiencies on the roster, the most glaring of which is the offensive line. Sean Rhyan is viewed as a guard, but he’s been plenty reliable at tackle for the Bruins this season and could take over at right tackle right away.
30. Green Bay Packers: Travon Walker, DE, Georgia
The Packers have serious cap issues to sort through this coming offseason regarding several stars, making the all-in approach more understandable last offseason. With both Za’Darius and Preston Smith potentially gone, Rashan Gary needs a running mate.
Travon Walker is a unique prospect who’s best position is on the edge. He’s incredibly quick and powerful, and can generate pressure in a variety of ways. Walker also has the athleticism to drop in coverage when necessary.
31. Tennessee Titans: Drake Jackson, EDGE, USC
The Tennessee Titans are tough to figure out, as their latest loss to the Texans show. Their inconsistencies lie mostly on offense, but don’t be surprised if they address defense early like they do in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft.
Harold Landry is a free agent who could command big money, so drafting Drake Jackson makes sense as a plug-and-play replacement. Jackson oozes athleticism rushing the passer and is wicked quick changing direction.
32. Arizona Cardinals: Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington
The Arizona Cardinals are still rolling with their backup quarterback, but the secondary could be their undoing in the postseason. They turn to the corner well in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft. Trent McDuffie is a great tackler who excels in man and zone coverage, and is really the Cardinals missing piece on defense.
2022 NFL Mock Draft: Second Round
33. Detroit Lions: Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah
34. Jacksonville Jaguars: Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
35. Houston Texans: Darian Kinnard, OT, Kentucky
36. New York Jets: Jaquan Brisker, S, Penn State
37. Chicago Bears: David Bell, WR, Purdue
38. Seattle Seahawks: Nicholas Petit-Frere, OT, Ohio State
39. New York Giants: Lewis Cine, S, Georgia
40. Miami Dolphins: Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama
41. Washington Football Team: Carson Strong, QB, Nevada
42. Atlanta Falcons: Myjai Sanders, EDGE, Cincinnati
43. New York Jets (via CAR): Derion Kendrick, CB, Georgia
44. Philadelphia Eagles: Henry To’o To’o, LB, Alabama
45. San Francisco 49ers: Kyler Gordon, CB, Washington
46. Las Vegas Raiders: Phidarian Mathis, DL, Alabama
47. Denver Broncos: Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE, Penn State
48. Cleveland Browns: Perrion Winfrey, DL, Oklahoma
49. Indianapolis Colts: Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa
50. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State
51. Minnesota Vikings: Brandon Joseph, S, Northwestern
52. New Orleans Saints: Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati
53. Los Angeles Chargers: Devonte Wyatt, DL, Georgia
54. Cincinnati Bengals: Zion Johnson, OL, Boston College
55. Buffalo Bills: Lecitus Smith, OL, Virginia Tech
56. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kyren Williams, RB, Notre Dame
57. New England Patriots: John Metchie III, WR, Alabama
58. Kansas City Chiefs: Isaiah Foskey, EDGE, Notre Dame
59. Dallas Cowboys: Logan Hall, DL, Houston
60. Denver Broncos (via LAR): Bernhard Raimann, OT, Central Michigan
61. Baltimore Ravens: Cameron Thomas, DE, San Diego State
62. Green Bay Packers: Trey McBride, TE, Colorado State
63. Atlanta Falcons (via TEN): Isaiah Spiller, RB, Texas A&M
64. Arizona Cardinals: Zach Harrison, EDGE, Ohio State