2022 NFL Mock Draft: Panthers, Steelers, Lions All Take QBs In Round 1
By Evan Bachman
3. Houston Texans: Ikem Ekwonu, OT, NC State
The Texans have needs at pretty much every position, so best player available will be the strategy for them in this draft. Ickey Ekwonu is easily one of the best players in this class and would be a great first premium pick of the Texans rebuild. So, that’s where they go with their first or two picks in this 2022 NFL mock draft.
Ekwonu was 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 is where he’ll likely play in the NFL, but he also has the flexibility to 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 has many very impressive blocks where he drives defenders backwards onto the ground. He is also more than capable as a pass protector as he possesses impressive movement skills.
Another big selling point for Ekwonu is that he is one of the safest projections to the NFL of any player in this class. I can with a lot of confidence that Ekwonu will at the very least be a solid starter in the NFL and I assume many around the NFL agree.