2022 NFL Draft: Offensive line dominates top five in 2022 NFL Mock Draft
By Kyle Edmond
1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
Scouting Report. OT. Alabama. player. 52. Pick Analysis. Evan Neal. 1
Most early projections have this pick being one of the top edge rushers in the 2022 NFL Draft and while that is still a possibility, the Jacksonville Jaguars know that they will need to protect their most important asset in Trevor Lawrence. They do so in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft.
During the 2021 season, Lawrence was sacked 32 times, accounting for 5% of his drop backs. The pressure on Lawrence forced his hand, resulting in an NFL-high 17 interceptions for the 2021 first overall pick.
Taking all of that into account, the Jags offensive line could take a hit this offseason. Both Cam Robinson and Andrew Norwell are set to enter free agency, meaning Jacksonville could need to completely rebuild the entire left side of their offensive line.
Evan Neal could step in and fill nearly any role on the Jacksonville offensive line. He was a left guard in 2019, right tackle in 2020 and a consensus All-American left tackle in 2021. Given the Jaguars’ offensive line situation, Neal could slide right into the left tackle spot and protect the blind side of Lawrence right off the bat.
I understand the intrigue of wanting a top pass rusher, but edge rushers are easier to come by than top tier tackles. Neal would allow Lawrence the time in the pocket he needs to progress and reach his full potential in Jacksonville.