2022 NFL Mock Draft: Edge Rushers Fly Off The Board, 3 QBs In Round 1
By Evan Bachman
8. New York Giants (via CHI): Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State
This selection comes from the Chicago Bears from last year’s trade up the Bears made to get Justin Fields. Right now, the Bears sit at 4-7, so it gives them another top ten pick as things stand right now.
The Giants have Andrew Thomas at left tackle who was the fourth overall pick in the 2020 draft, however besides him their offensive line is pretty weak. Drafting Charles Cross may not solve the problem completely, however he’d be a very good addition.
Cross certainly fits the mold to be a left tackle in the NFL as he has plus size, plus strength, and he moves well. He’s always had the physical tools to be a high pick, it was more of a matter of if he could put it all together and this season he has certainly done that.
He has been very consistent for Mississippi State this season, as he has a grade of 85.9, which is even more impressive when you consider how much pass rushing talent is in the SEC.
Against Texas A&M and Alabama this season, which Mississippi State played in back-to-back games, Cross didn’t give up a single pressure in either of these games. This is something that really boosts his draft stock because it proves he can dominate against high-level players that are also going to play in the NFL.