Two Round 2022 NFL Mock Draft: Jets Address Trenches, Saints Go QB

3. Houston Texans: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

The Houston Texans could do a lot of things at number three overall. It feels like they’re going to hand the keys over to Davis Mills for 2022, and they should. Protecting him with a top offensive lineman makes sense, as does going best overall player. Defense feels like a strong candidate here, and it would be hard to pass up on Kayvon Thibodeaux. He’s the pick in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft.

Thibodeaux is getting the odd “does he like football?” treatment already this offseason, but he’s a darn good football player with impressive upside. He wants to run through tackles every chance he gets, playing with good leverage and hand placement. With his athleticism, there’s much more to unlock as a pass rusher.

4. New York Jets: Ikem Ekwonu, OL, North Carolina State

The New York Jets have a chance to take a big step forward in 2022, and the 2022 NFL Draft is why. They have four picks in the top 40 and two in the top 10. In the first round of this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, it’s going to be all about the trenches.

Ikem Ekwonu is going to be a dream in the run game. He’s a pancaking machine, and will drive defenders off their spot. His space blocking is very good, and pass protection has improved. Ekwonu can form a great bookend duo with Mekhi Becton, who hopefully stays healthy.