2022 NFL Mock Draft: Panthers, Steelers, Lions All Take QBs In Round 1
By Evan Bachman
19. New Orleans Saints: Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
Besides Michael Thomas, the Saints don’t have many good options at receiver. Adding Chris Olave to the receiving core would give Jameis Winston a very good complimentary option to Thomas, so that’s where they go in this 2022 NFL mock draft.
Olave is a pretty solid bet to be at the very least a solid NFL receiver as he is an excellent route-runner, as he’s smooth, very quick in and out of his breaks, and is capable of winning on routes to all levels of the field. Also, his hands are as dependable as it gets, as he simply just catches everything within grasp.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh
The Steelers come into this draft needing to find their next franchise quarterback after Ben Roethlisberger’s retirement. Mitch Trubisky is a solid option for a bridge quarterback, however he’s likely not the answer long-term, so I expect them to be in the market for one this draft.
They have been linked to Malik Willis and it’s possible that they make a draft-night trade to try to get into position to secure him. In this no-trade 2022 NFL mock draft scenario however, they stand pat and take Kenny Pickett.
Kenny Pickett really raised some eyebrows last season 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 no-trade 2022 NFL mock draft scenario he comes off the board 20th overall to the Steelers.