2022 NFL Draft: Ranking The Quarterbacks In Their Landing Spots
By Hunter Haas
Malik Willis, QB, Titans
Against all odds, the Tennessee Titans claimed the number one seed in the AFC in 2021. They fought through countless injuries to key members of their team and inconsistent play from quarterback Ryan Tannehill. The team made the bold decision this offseason to search for upgrades rather than become content. They achieved this by cutting Julio Jones and bringing in veteran Robert Woods to fill that void. Tight end Austin Hooper flew under the radar during the free agency period, but I look for him to rebound after an underwhelming couple of seasons in Cleveland.
The franchise entered the 2022 NFL Draft at a crossroads of sorts. During the first day of the event, a blockbuster trade involving wide receiver AJ Brown and the No. 18 overall pick saw Brown traded to Philadelphia. With the 18th pick, the Titans found an immediate replacement by selecting a guy who regularly drew comparisons to Brown during the draft process — Arkansas wide receiver Treylon Burks. With their second-round pick, the team chose a cornerback from Auburn, Roger McCreary.
To the surprise of the front office, every quarterback — aside from Kenny Pickett — was still available on day two of the draft. When they came to the podium for the 69th pick, many wondered if Malik Willis was now in play. Alas, they ultimately picked an offensive tackle out of Ohio State (Nicholas Petit-Frere) instead. Surely Ryan Tannehill let out a big sigh of relief following this, but the Titans were not done yet. They decided to trade back into round three to finally stop the draft day skid for Willis. Not a soul on Earth would have believed you if you showed them this draft haul before the weekend began.
Now, Malik Willis finds himself in the best position for any rookie quarterback in this class. He will be groomed to take over the mantle from Ryan Tannehill, on a roster that just won the AFC South and clinched home field advantage through the playoffs. It wasn’t just a “pick him because he’s there” strategy, because Willis fits the exact style that the Titans pride themselves on. He will be able to provide a higher upside, not only as a passer but with his uber athleticism as well. Can you imagine trying to game plan for a guy that flicks the ball 60 yards downfield with ease, and also blows by any defender on the ground? A potential read option with Malik Willis and Derrick Henry is terrifying.