2022 NFL Mock Draft: Aidan Hutchinson Goes First, Four QBs In Round 1
By Evan Bachman
15. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh
It’s been made abundantly clear this season that this is the end of the line for Ben Roethlisberger and it’s been reported that this will be his last season. I think the Steelers will likely go after quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Aaron Rodgers in the offseason. However if they can’t get one of them they’ll likely look to the draft for their replacement.
Kenny Pickett has really raised some eyebrows this year as he had an outstanding season where he threw for 4,308 yards, 42 touchdowns, and seven interceptions over 13 games.
Pickett checks a lot of the boxes of what you want to see when looking for a potential franchise quarterback. He’s got a good arm as he’s capable of throws that not everyone can make, he’s accurate, and he’s a good athlete who can extend plays with his legs.
He’s not a perfect prospect by any means, but I think he’s pretty much a lock to hear his name called in the first round on draft night and in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft he goes top 15.
16. Denver Broncos: DeMarvin Leal, EDGE/DL, Texas A&M
After trading Von Miller to the Rams, the Broncos are left with a need at edge rusher. DeMarvin Leal would form a good duo with Denver’s Bradley Chubb.
Leal is a former five-star recruit who checks all of the boxes of a top ten prospect. He has all the traits to develop into a very good defensive lineman in the NFL with a good blend of size, power, and movement skills and he has performed well at Texas A&M as both a pass rusher and run stopper.
He is a unique prospect as he primarily lines up on edge, however with his size (6-foot-4, 290 pounds) and power he could definitely be effective lining up on the interior as well and provide some versatility for the Broncos.