2022 NFL Mock Draft: Panthers, Steelers, Lions All Take QBs In Round 1
By Evan Bachman
8. Atlanta Falcons: Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
With Calvin Ridley getting suspended for the entirety of next season for betting on games, as well as Russell Gage leaving for the Buccaneers in free agency, the Falcons have been left with a pretty big and unexpected need for receivers.
Garrett Wilson would be an excellent fit for the Falcons alongside last year’s first round pick tight end Kyle Pitts. Wilson projects as a very complete, dependable receiver at the next level. He is an excellent, very smooth route runner, who can separate at all levels of the field. Wilson also has a very impressive catch radius as he often pulls in passes outside of his frame.
Another big selling point to Wilson’s game is what he can do after the catch. He is quick and elusive making him tough to bring down with the ball in his hands, which is why he forced 19 missed tackles last season.
Wilson played on an Ohio State offense that had two other star receivers, but still impressively put up over 1,000 receiving yards and 13 total touchdowns. He is a lock to come off the board in the top 20 at this point and he goes number eight overall to the Falcons in this 2022 NFL mock draft.