2022 NFL Mock Draft: Edge Rushers Fly Off The Board, 3 QBs In Round 1

2022 NFL Mock Draft, Kayvon Thibodeaux. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
2022 NFL Mock Draft, Kayvon Thibodeaux. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images) /
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George Karlaftis, Denver Broncos, 2022 NFL Draft
2022 NFL Draft: Purdue Boilermakers EDGE George Karlaftis.Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports /

13. Denver Broncos: George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue

After trading Von Miller to the Rams, the Broncos are left with a need at edge rusher. Despite the quarterback conundrum, it doesn’t feel like George Paton would force the issue, especially with veteran studs potentially available in the offseason. Purdue’s George Karlaftis would form a good duo with Denver’s Bradley Chubb.

Karlaftis is very projectable as a power rusher as he’s got good size with long arms and can win his pass rushes with strength and power. Karlaftis raised eyebrows his freshman season as he registered eight sacks and this season he has gotten to the quarterback with consistency this season as he has 48 pressures in eleven games.

14. Miami Dolphins (via SF): Ikem Ekwonu, OL, NC State

This selection comes via the trade in last year’s draft when the 49ers traded up for Trey Lance. It’s pretty clear that the biggest need for the Dolphins is offensive line, as they’ve given up pressure in spades all season long. Ikem Ekwonu would be a good addition for them in the middle of the first round.

Ikem Ekwonu has been dominant this season for NC State, as he’s been phenomenal in run blocking and consistent in pass protection. ESPN flashed a graphic this past weekend stating that Ekwonu had a whopping 63 pancakes on the season. Ekwonu has played all of his snaps this season at left tackle, which he could play in the NFL, but he could also kick inside and play guard if necessary. He’s a great fit for the Dolphins in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft.