2022 NFL Mock Draft: Aidan Hutchinson Goes First, Four QBs In Round 1
By Evan Bachman
5. New York Giants (via CHI): Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
The Giants are another team that has plenty of holes on their roster to fill on both sides of the ball and luckily for them they have two picks in the top ten as of now. I wouldn’t rule out the possibility of them taking a quarterback with one of those picks because Daniel Jones has had his struggles, however I don’t think they’ll give up on him just yet.
Kyle Hamilton is an intriguing player that every defensive coordinator would love to have on their defense. His primary position is safety but he’s someone who lines up all over the field and makes an impact in a variety of ways.
Hamilton has the physical traits with good speed, height, and length to develop into an elite safety, but what separates him from most safeties are his instincts. He simply just has a nose for the football that most players don’t have and those exceptional instincts have been on display this season as he picked off three passes in just seven games.
6. New York Giants: Ikem Ekwonu, OL, NC State
The Giants offensive line this season has been pretty poor this season, aside from Andrew Thomas. They can’t fix the whole offensive line with just one draft pick, however drafting Ikem Ekwonu would be an excellent addition for them in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft.
Ekwonu has been dominant this season for NC State, as he’s been dominant in run blocking and consistent in pass protection as he hasn’t allowed a sack all 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.
The biggest thing to like about Ekwonu’s game is how dominant he is as a run blocker, as he’s very powerful and often drives defenders backwards. He also is more than capable as a pass protector as well making him a great fit for the Giants in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft.