2022 3 Round NFL Mock Draft
February 15, 2022
If you saw my three-part one-round mock draft, you will have noticed that the Jets, Giants, Eagles, and Lions picked more than once (the Eagles three times, the others twice). We are going to include every team in this draft because the Rams don’t pick in the top 100 (I’ll explain why as we go on). With the Senior and Shrine Bowls behind us, let’s see if any views have changed, and get to know more prospects in the process.
**Symbol means the player may go much higher, and likely will in future mock drafts.
Round One
1. The Jaguars select Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
Carson Wentz flourished in his second season in Philadelphia because Doug Pederson built a team around him, with a strong foundation on the offensive line. Now, Pederson finds himself in Duval, needing to help Trevor Lawrence by building him an offensive line. Evan Neal is a massive beast, standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 350 pounds. But, he is surprisingly mobile and carries super strength and long arms. This is not just a replacement for Cam Robinson, a pending free agent, but a massive upgrade.
2. The Lions select Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Michigan
Dan Campbell needs pieces to build a future in Detroit. Luckily, there is one in the metro area of the Motor City. Considered by some as the best overall player in the class, Aidan Hutchinson has a massive arsenal of pass rush moves, so he can beat any offensive lineman depending on what their weaknesses are. He is a technically refined defensive end who has played many positions on the Wolverine D-line, but he has flourished best on the outside of a four-man front. The Lions would certainly take someone like Hutchinson, who has been compared to Nick Bosa, to be a part of their future.
3. The Texans select Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon
Nick Caserio is a product of the Patriots, so he knows a thing or two about having good pass rushers. In his nineteen years with New England, he saw players like Chandler Jones develop into beasts. Kayvon Thibodeaux fits that mold. His athletic upside is insane, as he carries a lot of explosiveness and flexibility off the edge. He can also be a great run stopper. The Texans need everything, and Thibodeaux is nothing short of what they should be looking for.
4. The Jets select Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
The Jets defense defined leaky last season, giving up more points than anyone else in the NFL. Part of that was the secondary, where all the young guys struggled. Kyle Hamilton is the sort of talent the Jets need. He has the ability to execute different roles, including safety, nickel corner, and maybe even as a linebacker. He is Jamal Adams but with greater versatility, which will surely tempt Joe Douglas and coach Robert Saleh.
5. The Giants select Ikem Ekwonu, OT, NC State
Ikem Ekwonu has become one of the most dynamic blockers in the nation this year. He has sufficient athleticism, fundamentals, and toughness to succeed in the NFL and make a lot of Pro Bowl appearances as either a tackle or guard. The Giants have been looking for that sort of quality tackle for years, but struck out with Ereck Flowers and Nate Solder. They likely won’t with Ekwonu starting opposite Andrew Thomas.
6. The Panthers select Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh
The Panthers have all the talent: they just need a quarterback to lead the way. It cannot be the turnover-prone Sam Darnold. And, it has to be picked here because they do not pick again until round four. Kenny Pickett carries a Joe Burrow-like storyline, going from relative unknown to top prospect in just a year. He was terrific in 2021, finishing as a Heisman Trophy finalist and ACC champion whilst also being a very accurate passer and a solid runner. He is by far the most refined quarterback in the class. His fake slide will live long in the memory of college fans and he will likely make positive plays that live long in Panthers fans’ memories.
7. The Giants select David Ojabo, DE, Michigan
The pass rush class is extra stacked this time around. David Ojabo is no exception. Across from Aidan Hutchinson stood the Nigerian freak who only got into football at age 17, but has all the makings of a star. He plays as though he has played the game his whole life, using speed to rush the passer off the edge. The Giants need an added dynamo on defense to partner Azeez Ojulari, and Ojabo might just be the guy.
8. The Falcons select Derek Stingley, CB, LSU
There are concerns over Derek Stingley’s injuries in 2021 and inconsistencies in 2020, but 2019 shows everything about how talented he is. Stingley picked off six passes, a testament to his elite ball skills. He also showed physicality by recording 30 tackles, good numbers for a college corner. Having a ball hawk across from lockdown guy AJ Terell will mean great improvement to Atlanta’s pass defense.
9. The Broncos select Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
The Broncos are basically a quarterback away from a winning season. Drew Lock and Teddy Bridgewater have their limitations. Malik Willis has some limitations himself, but he has a rocket arm and has an eye for big plays. There are concerns over some accuracy and decision-making issues, but the potential is there. He brings Lamar Jackson vibes and adding that sort of player to the Broncos’ offense will help out a lot.
10. The Jets select Andrew Booth Jr., DB, Clemson
Like the Falcons, the Jets would definitely want a ball hawk across from the lockdown guy, who in this case is Bryce Hall. Andrew Booth does not have the same ball skills as Stingley, but he is still a pretty nice prospect. He is developing in zone coverage but is polished in man-to-man (following the assigned player instead of patrolling an assigned part of the field). Using their two top ten picks, the Jets make two serious upgrades to their once-porous secondary.
11. The Commanders select Matt Corral, QB, Ole Miss
Matt Corral is an interesting prospect. He has had some accuracy issues that have glared during his Ole Miss days. However, he also has improved ball security and already has shown a rocket arm and good scrambling ability, the latter of which is not to the level of Malik Willis. He has great poise also, which is important because teams count on their QBs to lead on offense. In other words, it is best if, in this scenario, Corral takes command.
12. The Vikings select Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati
Ahmad Gardner drew a lot and very little attention. He does not get targeted often, but for good reason. He scored two touchdowns on interception returns but did not give up a single passing touchdown. That alone makes him deserving of a Round one pick. The Vikings have been searching for cornerbacks since the departure of Xavier Rhodes. They have Cam Dantzler, but adding the guy known as “Sauce” will give the long-awaited answer to an important question.
13. The Browns select Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas
The whole Odell thing will not be a positive memory for Cleveland fans. They will have to rock on with someone new. Treylon Burks is a massive guy who has been utilized as a speedy weapon in the slot and on the outside as well as running back. In other words, put Deebo Samuel’s speed and versatility inside DK Metcalf’s frame. The guy is fast, he can win contested passes and more. Tell that to a Browns fan and they will get mightily excited over this recruit.
14. The Ravens select Tyler Linderbaum, C, Iowa
Size and positional value are the only things keeping Tyler Linderbaum out of the top ten because, based on talent alone, he belongs there. He is exactly six feet tall, but it does not seem to mean anything on tape. He is a polished and dynamic player with great upside, with all the makings of becoming a Jason Kelce-type player in terms of quality. The Ravens, set to lose Bradley Bozeman, would love him blocking for Lamar Jackson.
15. The Eagles select George Karlaftis, DE, Purdue **
The Greek Freak of football? In my eyes, yes. George Karlaftis, a former youth water polo player for the country of his birth, moved to West Lafayette, Indiana, from Greece and went on to star for the local college, Purdue. He is quite well refined and is a high-effort player who uses his hands very well in the pass rush. With the Eagles set to lose Brandon Graham, Ryan Kerrigan, and Derek Barnett to free agency, they need someone like Karlaftis to fill at least one void.
16. The Eagles select Kenyon Green, G, Texas A&M
Philly has a chance to keep their pass rushers but not Brandon Brooks, who announced his retirement after ten seasons. Replacing this stud will be imperative for the Eagles, and Kenyon Green is the perfect replacement. He has played four positions on the offensive line, but he will play guard in Philly, his natural best position.
17. The Chargers select Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia **
The Chargers need a pure run stopper if they let Linval Joseph walk. Jordan Davis is the best in that department. Analysts and experts have him as high as 8th overall, but his lack of plays on passing downs is slightly concerning. However, if you are a team like the Chargers, a team in need of a monstrous run defender, it is almost too much to pass up.
18. The Saints select Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
The Saints’ offense will struggle next season without Jameis and Sean Payton, so getting the playing talent is a must. Garrett Wilson is practically a slot monster. His short-area quickness serves him well in that position, and he also has the best hands in the class. He may not be as versatile as others (he may not succeed as much on the outside versus the slot), but is still a good addition to any team.
19. The Eagles select Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama
The Eagles need to make big plays in the passing game if they are to make progress next season. Jameson Williams is the main deep threat in the class. He is a versatile weapon with blistering speed and reliable hands. The Eagles hoped that Jalen Reagor would become that sort of player, but it simply has not gone that way. They know what they are getting with Williams.
20. The Steelers select Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina
It is clear that the Steelers will need to replace club legend Ben Roethlisberger to take any strides next season. Sam Howell is mostly accurate and is a tough competitor and leader. Senior Bowl week was a great week for Howell, who had concerns over poise and regression in 2021. It was, however, due to a lack of weapons due to graduation. The Steelers have many weapons.
21. The Patriots select Drake London, WR, USC
Drake London is an intriguing prospect to read about and watch. Though he lacks top-end speed, he is very good at separation and has reliable hands. He moves very well for a guy who is 6’5”. And, he produced heavily despite poor and inconsistent quarterback play at USC in 2021. The Patriots find their new number one target in London.
22. The Raiders select Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State **
Charles Cross is a solid pass protector. He is also an exceptional athlete who moves really well and whose primary role should be pass protection (the offense he played for in college was super reliant on the passing game). Derek Carr was able to play decently despite the Raiders’ dissolving his offensive line from 2020. If the Raiders are to be perennial contenders, they need to get some new faces upfront. Cross and Kolton Miller will go quite well together.
23. The Cardinals select Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida
Kaiir Elam has a lot of upside as an outside corner in zone and press coverage. He has some issues facing twitchy receivers, but he has the functional athleticism. Overall, Elam can develop into a top-tier starter if he stays healthy (which is also a concern with an injury history). With the Cardinals lacking depth in corners and Robert Alford getting old, Elam will slide in immediately.
24. The Cowboys select Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah
Keanu Neal and Leighton Vander Esch are pending free agents. At least one, if not both, will be let go, and a replacement will be needed. Devin Lloyd is one of the better tacklers in the class who can tell when a run play is coming and when a pass play is coming. He has done well in pass coverage also and has the size NFL teams will value. He will help make a Cowboys front seven with Micah Parsons even more powerful.
25. The Bills select Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
The Bills are likely going to lose one of Emmanuel Sanders and Isaiah McKenzie this spring, and Cole Beasley could walk next spring. In easier words, they need a receiver for the future of their budding dynasty. Chris Olave is a speedy route-runner who could easily fit into any offense in the NFL. Basically, many teams will have their eye on him, including Buffalo.
26. The Titans select Jermaine Johnson, DE, Florida State**
The Titans are likely going to have a hard time keeping Harold Landry in free agency, so they need someone dominant off the edge. Jermaine Johnson showed out at the Senior Bowl, displaying dominant moves and freak athleticism. He has been nothing short of impressive for Florida State, and he perfectly fits the scheme. Good fortune strikes Tennessee in this mock draft.
27. The Buccaneers select DeMarvin Leal, DT, Texas A&M
I believe in Kyle Trask succeeding with weapons around him. So, the Buccaneers will now find a new partner for Vita Vea on the defensive line. DeMarvin Leal has seen concerns arise over his regression from 2020 to 2021, but he still has displayed rare athleticism and versatility and the upside to succeed in Todd Bowles’ defense.
28. The Packers select Bernhard Raimann, OT. Central Michigan
The Packers could use some help on the right side of the offensive line. Aaron Rodgers or Jordan Love could both use bolstered protection. Born in Austria, Raimann is a well-refined prospect for a guy who has only been playing the sport since age 14 and has only been playing tackle for two years. Now, he has the potential to start right away.
29. The Dolphins select Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa **
In similar ways to Raimann, Trevor Penning can start right away, but at left tackle. He plays with a nasty style, which was on full display at the Senior Bowl practices and drills. There are concerns over the talent he has faced, having played for a smaller school, but it should not be a problem. The Dolphins are getting a major steal here.
30. The Chiefs select Travon Walker, DE, Georgia **
The Chiefs’ defensive line pieces are all set to hit free agency, with Frank Clark and Chris Jones the exceptions. A guy like Travon Walker, who carries upside and versatility as a defensive lineman—he has played on the edge, as an interior lineman, and has sometimes dropped into coverage. The Chiefs will treasure this man if they get him.
31. The Bengals select Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington **
The Bengals will have to wait on offensive lineman until later, and for good reason. Eli Apple has been getting burnt, and the Bengals need one more corner to start a real dynasty on defense. Trent McDuffie carries other-worldly versatility. He can slide into any scheme and has the athleticism and fundamentals to play in the slot, on the boundary, or at free safety, where Jessie Bates may leave a void if he enters free agency.
32. The Lions select Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia **
The Lions’ inside linebacker room lacks any elite names. Nakobe Dean is sure to make a change. Most concerns are over his size and length (standing exactly 6’0”, which is below average height). But, beyond that, he is a rangy linebacker with great speed, tackling, and leadership. Dan Campbell will certainly get something out of him.
Round Two
33. The Jaguars select Trey McBride, TE, Colorado State
Doug Pedersen recreates the Wentz-Ertz connection by acquiring the athletic, reliable, and versatile tight end. Lawrence and McBride may well dominate the league like Brady and Gronk. And, he has a clear chance of being a first-round pick.
34. The Lions select Desmond Ridder, QB, Michigan **
The Lions prepare for their future by picking up Ridder, a developmental starter who can zip it and can scramble. Because of Jared Goff, he likely will not start right away. But he will once the expensive commodity ahead of him can be moved.
35. The Jets select Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State**
Jahan Dotson does very well with catching passes that go beyond his frame. He is a crafty and speedy route runner that would work well on the boundary, where he and Corey Davis might form a deadly tandem on the outside.
36. The Giants select Zion Johnson, G, Boston College **
Zion Johnson excelled at guard at Boston College and was decent at center in the Senior Bowl drills. He has plug-and-play potential, especially at guard, so he can definitely start right away on the Giants’ notoriously weak offensive line. If this happens, do not be surprised if Saquon Barkley hits 800 yards again.
37. The Texans select Daxton Hill, S, Michigan
With Justin Reid set to walk, the Texans must look ahead. Dax Hill offers elite speed and impressive instincts, as well as the ability to play nickel corner in addition to safety. The Texans need both those positions and should find a way to utilize him well.
38. The Jets select Nicholas Petit-Frere, OT, Ohio State
Mekhi Becton is a beast on one side, but the Jets should have another tackle ready for the future on the other side. Petit-Frere can play both left and right tackle with the prototypical size who is powerful at the point of attack. Zach Wilson should be ok if he is on that offensive line.
39. The Bears select Roger McCreary, CB, Auburn **
Jaylon Johnson is the only reliable boundary corner the Bears currently have. That all changes with McCreary, who excelled in man, zone, and press as a boundary corner at Auburn. Though he is not the fastest cornerback to play the game, he has the athleticism and short-area quickness to succeed across the secondary. Chicago’s defense will immediately improve with the addition of the talented Mobile, Alabama native.
40. The Broncos select Daniel Faalele, T, Minnesota
Standing at a towering 6’9”, Daniel Faalele is freakishly athletic for such a big man. The former Australian rugby player is a high-risk, high-reward player, and starting in Denver may help Faalele, where he can start quickly because of the Broncos’ need for a right tackle.
41. The Seahawks select Logan Hall, DE, Houston **
Seattle has a lot of defensive ends, but only a few are truly good. And, the departure of Al Woods would leave a void at defensive tackle. Logan Hall can play on both the edge and the inside. His hand technique was outstanding this season, and he has a long frame and tons and tons of explosiveness. Having that extra dynamo on the defensive line will help the Legion of Boom come back to Seattle.
42. The Commanders select Christian Harris, LB, Alabama
The Commanders could stack up in a position where they are thin. Christian Harris is a muscular and athletic man who excels in patrolling open spaces. Having him pair up with Jamin Davis should spell a bright future for Washington’s football team.
43. The Falcons select Carson Strong, QB, Nevada **
Some have valued Carson Strong as high as the middle first round. He excels as a pocket passer and has decent arm talent. He has average mobility overall, less than the five quarterbacks who were ahead of him, but Matt Ryan is also average mobility-wise, so having Strong develop under the 2016 NFL MVP will help out a lot.
44. The Browns select Devonte Wyatt, DT, Georgia
Devonte Wyatt dominated at the Senior Bowl, using his quickness and burst to win his reps. He has experience playing all across the defensive line, but having him play in the Browns’ 4-3 scheme will make him a more than competent replacement for Larry Ogunjobi.
45. The Ravens select Kyler Gordon, CB, Washington **
Movement-wise, Kyler Gordon is exceptionally athletic. His speed helps make him effective as a tackler and a coverage guy. He can play inside or out. He has some issues in press coverage, but the Ravens should certainly help coach him up.
46. The Vikings select Cam Thomas, DE, San Diego State
With Everson Griffen set to leave, the Vikings should think about taking a shot on Thomas, an agile edge rusher who has good hands and a high motor. He was practically unblockable when it came to single blocks, and can be impactful as an inside pass rusher or defensive end.
47. The Colts select George Pickens, WR, Georgia
T.Y. Hilton is regressing quite a bit now, so now is the time to look forward if you are Chris Ballard and the Indianapolis Colts. A young receiver with a high upside to partner with Michael Pittman is a big need for this team. George Pickens is a speedy guy with an amazing catch radius and is a problem when he runs slants or fades. His injury history, as well as a wiry frame that holds him back in run blocking, will affect his projection, but he has first-round talent.
48. The Chargers select Isaiah Likely, TE, Coastal Carolina
Jared Cook is reliable but old at 34. Isaiah Likely is 21. He is quite a talented tight end who loves to stretch the field using his athleticism. Likely also has the versatility to line up away from tight end, which will mean a bit more game time as a rookie. He will certainly be the highest-drafted Coastal Carolina Chanticleer since front-flip boy Jerome Simpson went 46th overall in 2008.
49. The Saints select Jaquan Brisker, S, Penn State
The Saints have a torrid cap situation which means Marcus Williams will, more likely than not, have to hit the free-agent market. Jaquan Brisker is an athletic freak who can play both safety roles and make plays consistently on both sides of the secondary. He can play his natural role in place of Williams opposite CJ Gardner-Johnson.
50. The Dolphins select Kenneth Walker, RB, Michigan State
The Dolphins’ run game has been among the most inconsistent of all NFL teams. Kenneth Walker, who finished second in the FBS in rushing yards this season with over 1600, is sure to change that with his deadly cuts upfield and his angry style. He projects to be a lead back carrying a heavy workload at the next level.
51. The Eagles select Darrian Beavers, LB, Cincinnati
The Eagles have a solid guard, refined pass rusher, speedy receiver, and now an explosive linebacker in Darrian Beavers. An impact playmaker on one of the nation’s best defenses, Beavers is a smart man and a physically aggressive linebacker who can stop the run excellently.
52. The Steelers select Max Mitchell, T, Louisiana
Max Mitchell is a proficient pass protector who may lack upper-body strength, but is still agile and solid and can keep a good balance. The Steelers have gotten something out of Dan Moore, but need help on the right side. Mitchell can play there, and play well.
53. The Raiders select David Bell, WR, Purdue
David Bell carries a nice athletic profile, good hands, and a decent-sized route tree. He is a well-refined receiver who works best on the outside rather than the slot. With Henry Ruggs gone and DeSean Jackson likely following suit, help is imperative for Vegas.
54. The Patriots select Derion Kendrick, CB, Georgia
Derion Kendrick lacks the versatility to play in the slot and is a raw prospect with flaws, particularly his inconsistency in man coverage, lack of elite speed, and his tackling (he likes to dive for the ankles, which has a higher risk of failure than wrapping up the ball carrier). However, he has great ball skills and Bill Belichick will definitely develop him into a star.
55. The Cardinals select Drake Jackson, LB, USC **
If Chandler Jones does not stay around, the Cardinals need a new outside linebacker. Someone like Drake Jackson is a perfect scheme fit. He has inconsistencies as a run defender when plays are run to his side of the field, but is an explosive and flexible pass rusher that will at least make some plays in year one.
56. The Cowboys select Lewis Cine, S, Georgia
Lewis Cine is a hard-hitting safety who does well in coverage and against the run. He will likely be prone to penalties for his style, but Dan Quinn, mastermind of the Legion of Boom, should be able to teach him self-control and get the best out of his talents.
57. The Bills select Ed Ingram, G, LSU
Ed Ingram played both guard positions as an LSU Tiger. He showed proficiency as a powerful run blocker and a high-IQ pass blocker who picked up stunts and linebackers coming on blitzes. The Bills would like to have some depth, especially talented depth like Ingram.
58. The Falcons select Isaiah Spiller, RB, Texas A&M
Mike Davis did not become the power back Arthur Smith wanted. Isaiah Spiller, who was one of the best running backs in a competitive SEC, will upgrade the backfield which will likely have Cordarelle Patterson as a receiving back. Spiller will be a good goal-line back considering his vision, agility, size, and power.
59. The Packers select Jalen Wydermyer, TE, Texas A&M
The Packers cap situation likely will mean that Robert Tonyan will have to walk in free agency. Wydermyer has an extraordinary catch radius and is a decent route runner. His blocking needs work, but his upside in the receiving game will be too much for Green Bay to skip on.
60. The Buccaneers select Kyren Williams, RB, Notre Dame
Building around Kyle Trask means having a decent two-headed horse at running back. Kyren Williams offers up great ability as a pass-catching back, as a former receiver. He is also a great pass blocker, which means added value as a lead running back in all situations.
61. The 49ers select Coby Bryant, CB, Cincinnati
The 49ers are likely to lose a lot of their corners to free agency. Ambry Thomas is good but needs help. Coby Bryant is a competitive number two corner with man and zone scheme versatility who is great at tracking the ball, but he needs to improve his tackling and coverage of twitchy receivers in order to really succeed in the NFL. If Kyle Shanahan wants to make the Niners a superpower, he needs to take talented corners like Bryant.
62. The Chiefs select Justyn Ross, WR, Clemson
Surgery for a spinal condition is basically the one thing that is scaring off every NFL team. Take that away, and he is a definite first-round prospect. Justyn Ross is a big guy with natural ball skills and is a danger to anyone covering him. The Chiefs are getting a steal with a capital S.
63. The Bengals select Darian Kinnard, T, Kentucky **
The Bengals are getting great value with Kinnard, who works best as a guard but could potentially play his listed position of right tackle, where Riley Reiff is set to hit free agency. Kinnard will work best blocking for Joe Mixon but needs work in pass sets.
64. The Broncos select Nik Bonitto, LB, Oklahoma
There is a possibility Von Miller comes back in free agency, but still, someone needs to come in to develop and replace him. Bonitto fits the Broncos’ 3-4 scheme and plays with a high motor to make up for his lack of length. He should be able to succeed in a rotation before becoming a starter.
Round Three
65. The Jaguars select Phidarian Mathis, DT, Alabama **
Josh Allen and Dawuane Smoot will produce much more if they have another threat on the defensive line. Phidarian Mathis is lined up in several different alignments and has an array of pass rush and block shedding moves that will make a more formidable defensive line.
66. The Lions select John Metchie, WR, Alabama
The Lions would love a speedy weapon like Metchie, who has elite speed and quickness to win as a deep threat. An ACL tear could hurt his stock, but it only helps the Lions in this scenario, as they get a very nice compliment to Amon-Ra St. Brown and TJ Hockenson.
67. The Giants select Chad Muma, LB, Wyoming
“Tackling machine” is the best way to describe Chad Muma. A rangy linebacker who is above average in zone coverage, Muma makes the ideal partner for Blake Martinez, and it only upgrades the defense further
68. The Texans select Sean Rhyan, T, UCLA
The Texans could use help across the line, including tackle and guard. Sean Rhyan played tackle at UCLA but has the makings of developing into a nice guard (length concerns are the main reason for that). No matter which position, he is an upgrade for Houston’s offensive line.
69. The Jets select Arnold Ebiketie, DE, Penn State **
There is a possibility that Folo Fatukasi leaves in free agency. Even if he stays, having another pass rusher would not hurt. Especially if Arnold Ebiketie, a speedy and twitchy defensive end, is on the board at 69. The Jets get a great value pick in this former Temple transfer.
70. The Jaguars select Myjai Sanders, DE, Cincinnati**
Like the Jets, the Jaguars can get a pass rush specialist and a great value pick at 70. Myjai Sanders balled out at the Senior Bowl, where his explosive first step gives him an advantage. Run defense may be a concern, but he can improve in that matter as he grows.
71. The Bears select Wan’Dale Robinson, WR, Kentucky
With Allen Robinson, likely leaving, the Bears should turn to Wan’Dale Robinson, another slot monster. He is a natural playmaker who struggled in two seasons at Nebraska, but new Bears offensive coordinator Luke Getsy should turn him into the new Randall Cobb.
72. The Seahawks select Rasheed Walker, OT, Penn State
Rasheed Walker is a very good developmental left tackle prospect who has excellent athleticism and change of direction. He uses his wide body in run blocking to decent success. He should be an immediate upgrade on the Seahawks’ leaky offensive line.
73. The Commanders select Jamaree Salyer, G, Georgia**
With Brandon Scherff potentially leaving in free agency, offensive guard is a need for Washington. Jamaree Salyer is an imposing physical presence who plays with good awareness and instincts to pick up particular plays. Matt Corral will be happy if someone like Salyer gives him time to throw.
74. The Falcons select Travis Jones, DT, Connecticut**
The Falcons would like to have a nose tackle like Travis Jones, a disruptive figure who is very athletic for his size. He is a strong run defender who can also create some plays as a pass rusher, and he and Grady Jarrett would be dynamic together.
75. The Broncos select Quay Walker, LB, Georgia**
Quay Walker is a rangy linebacker in similar ways to Nakobe Dean. Some have considered him a second–round, and even a first-round prospect. His concerns revolve mostly around his experience, where he has only started one season, but he was great in that season.
76. The Ravens select Alec Pierce, WR, Cincinnati
One of the key pieces of the greatest Cincinnati team ever, Alec Pierce is the perfect balance of size, speed, toughness, and hands, that any quarterback would enjoy having. Pierce can easily be a good number two or three option in the Ravens’ speedy, energetic offense.
77. The Vikings select Perrion Winfrey, DT, Oklahoma**
The Vikings need some dynamo on the inside of the defensive line. The versatile and productive Perrion Winfrey will be an immediate upgrade to a Vikings defense that just added Cameron Thomas and one that already has Danielle Hunter and Michael Pierce.
78. The Browns select Kingsley Enagbare, DE, South Carolina **
The Browns may not keep Jadeveon Clowney around long-term. Even so, Enagbare at 78 is too much to pass up for value’s sake. He is an explosive pass rusher who can specialize in that department whilst he improves his processing ability (a weakness that hurt him in run defense).
79. The Chargers select Jalen Tolbert, WR, South Alabama **
Jalen Tolbert’s route-running could be a little better, but beyond that, he has the speed to be a vertical threat and the frame to be a threat in an offense utilizing short passes. With Mike Williams on an expiring contract, having another big-play threat around will be needed for any improvement in 2023 for the Chargers.
80. The Texans select Breece Hall, RB, Iowa State
The run game was non-existent in 2021, because no holes developed for the halfbacks. Now that Sean Rhyan is around, taking a patient runner like Breece Hall, who amassed nearly 4,000 career rushing yards in his Iowa State career, will mean another youthful offensive upgrade.
81. The Giants select Jeremy Ruckert, TE, Ohio State
Kyle Rudolph and Evan Engram could not get anything going in 2021. No one was a true threat in the red zone, and Jeremy Ruckert will surely bring about change. Ruckert is a good blocker who scored all of his touchdowns in 2021 from inside the red zone, and the Giants have talented players who can divert focus from him so that he can do his best work.
82. The Colts select Cade Otton, TE, Washington
There are reports of Jack Doyle considering retirement. Mo Alie-Cox is a pending free agent. Thus, tight end is a need. Cade Otton is a powerful blocker with strong hands, decent speed, and a wide catch radius to be an extra threat in the passing game.
83. The Eagles select Alontae Taylor, CB, Tennessee
Alontae Taylor has only been playing corner since 2018, but he was one of the best in the SEC. He is a good athlete and a spirited, competitive player. His tackling may be a problem, but coverage most certainly is not. This developmental prospect could potentially be a standout in the NFL.
84. The Steelers select Martin Emerson, CB, Mississippi State
The main concern for Emerson is his limited athleticism and versatility. However, he is really solid in zone and press coverage (the scheme Mississippi State ran was heavily based on zone). Whilst his ball skills are a question, the Steelers are still getting someone solid in Emerson.
85. The Patriots select Damone Clark, LB, LSU
With Jamie Collins and Ja’Whaun Bentley on expiring deals, linebacker should be of consideration to the Kraft family. Damone Clark is a special athlete whose closing speed allows him to produce heavily. His high motor and his character further push his case as a good choice for New England.
86. The Raiders select Tyler Smith, G, Tulsa
Surely Richie Incognito will not stay around for much longer. Taking Tyler Smith is a decent option for Vegas because Smith is a very physical and tough player who can be a developmental guard on this very weak offensive line.
87. The Cardinals select Brian Robinson, RB, Alabama
If Arizona opts against keeping James Conner, they can turn to Brian Robinson so be their power back. Robinson has value as a power-back who can break off a big play every so often. However, it is his pass protection skills that convince the Cardinals to choose him.
88. The Cowboys select Khalil Shakir, WR, Boise State**
Though Khalil Shakir is an average route runner, he is someone who will constantly get the ball. He is always a threat to make plays once he has the ball, and it would be nice to have Shakir in case both Cedrick Wilson and Michael Gallup depart in free agency.
89. The Bills select Zachary Carter, DT, Florida
Zachary Carter is an athletic and versatile defensive lineman who can flourish in a 4-3 scheme like the Bills have. His traits will draw attention towards him and instantly make everyone else a little bit more of a threat.
90. The Titans select Channing Tindall, LB, Georgia
The Titans do not appear to want to keep Rashaan Evans and Jayon Brown, so they need another linebacker. Like his fellow Bulldogs, Tindall is speedy, energetic, and agile. He is a good tackler, but just like Quay Walker, he has concerns about only one full year of starts in college.
91. The Buccaneers select Mykael Wright, CB, Oregon
The Bucs might not be able to keep Carlton Davis, so they need to find someone they can easily keep. Mykael Wright will be a beast in the slot, as he is a sound tackler—though prone to bigger backs—and does well in coverage when he is near the line of scrimmage.
92. The Green Bay Packers select Christian Watson, WR, North Dakota State
Christian Watson is one of the reasons Trey Lance flourished so much. He will be a very good outside receiver who can easily supplant Davante Adams when he leaves. Watson is surprisingly dynamic for a tall guy and has value as both receiver and kick returner.
93. The 49ers select Tyreke Smith, DE, Ohio State
Having another pass-rush specialist does not hurt. Tyreke Smith will be a very good rotational edge defender. He has a high motor, high upside, and a sufficient frame to succeed on the outside of a defensive line, especially one with Arik Armstead and Nick Bosa.
94. The Chiefs select Marcus Jones, CB, Houston
The Chiefs would not have a problem with stacking up the secondary. Marcus Jones is a great athlete with elite speed and quickness and playmaking ability. He has value as a solid slot corner and a featured kick returner.
95. The Bengals select Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor**
If Trent McDuffie is to replace Eli Apple, Jalen Pitre can step in and replace Jessie Bates if he leaves in free agency. Pitre played several different roles and positions at Baylor, and he is a strong run defender and tackler who also has flashed the ball skills of a decent free safety.
96. The Broncos select Tariq Woolen, CB, UTSA
The Broncos have a lot of corners, but Patrick Surtain seems to be the only sure superstar in the unit. Tariq Woolen could turn into that. Woolen is a superb athlete with some technical issues, but having Darby around, along with other veterans, could help him become a perennial Pro Bowler.
The next few picks are compensatory, meaning they are given to teams that lose valuable players or staff members to other teams in the offseason. They are then ordered by worst to best record.
97. The Lions select Verone McKinley, S, Oregon
Dan Campbell would like to have a defensive back like Jalen Pitre, but Verone McKinely is solid nonetheless. He has pretty nice ball skills and instincts in the passing game and is the sort of improvement Detroit needs in pass defense.
98. The Browns select Brian Asamoah, LB, Oklahoma
Having a rangy and athletic linebacker like brian Asamoah means an instant upgrade to a Browns front seven that has been the clear focus of the Browns’ draft this time around.
99. The Ravens select Sam Williams, DE, Ole Miss **
The Ravens are set to lose Justin Houston and Calais Campbell to free agency. The addition of the athletic, productive, and versatile Sam Williams is key to the Ravens’ defense remaining solid.
100. The Saints select Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Kentucky
Bailey Zappe was the most productive quarterback in college football by over 1,000 yards in 2021, setting FBS records in single-season passing yards and touchdowns. His Senior Bowl performance suggests that he will be a solid starter if given the chance.
101. The Dolphins select Boye Mafe, LB, Minnesota**
Boye Mafe was very impressive at Senior Bowl weekend, where his athleticism and explosiveness helped him win reps and get a sack in the red zone. The Dolphins will appreciate having Mafe opposite Jaelan Phillips.
102. The Chiefs select Kyle Phillips, WR, UCLA
Kyle Phillips is another slot monster. He went off at the Shrine Bowl, catching everything going his way. The Chiefs use this pick to add some youth and dynamism to an already super stacked offense.
103. The Rams select Braxton Jones, T, Southern Utah
I wanted to include all the teams and the Rams traded away their original first-round pick to Detroit for Matthew Stafford and their second-and third-round picks to Denver for Von Miller. They have no pick until this one, but it worked out in the end. Andrew Whitworth will not be around for much longer. Having Braxton Jones, a developmental tackle who can turn into a starter in a matter of two years will be good for the Rams if their goal is to start a dynasty.
Ones to Watch
Here are some names to watch as the draft process goes on, just to name a few. They all had decent chances to sneak into the back end of the 3rd round, but there simply was no room.
- Leo Chenal, LB, Wisconsin: Statistical leader in tackles and sacks for Wisconsin in 2021. Concerns over tackle radius
- Josh Paschal, DE, Kentucky: A twitchy, versatile rusher who can play several roles. Concerns over health and erratic production
- Hassan Haskins, RB, Michigan: A powerful back who is not super elusive as of right now, but has upside in that regard.
- Alec Lindstrom, C, Boston College: Technique concerns leave Lindstrom, younger brother to first-round pick Chris Lindstrom just outside the top 103.
- Brandon Smith, LB, Penn State: A gifted athlete with most concerns arising over inconsistent performances in 2021, when he was given more responsibility in the box
- Matthew Butler, DT, Tennessee: Modest length and mass are the biggest weaknesses to Matthew Butler, but his fundamentals are terrific at the moment. Decent reach candidate for all teams in late Round three
- Abraham Lucas, OT, Washington State: Does not play like 6’7”, 324-pound tackle would suggest, but he has some upside as a pass blocker and natural right tackle.
- JoJo Domann, LB, Nebraska: Will enter the NFL at 25 and has had several injuries, but will be pretty nice as a coverage linebacker.
- Josh Jobe, CB, Alabama: Age is also a concern for Jobe. He is big and physical as a boundary corner, but his aggressive approach will certainly attract a load of penalties
- Thayer Munford, G, Ohio State: Carries great stature and versatility. He faced regression when he moved to left tackle in 2021, however.
As you can see, a lot of teams ended up with a steal or two. That is the chaos and fun of making a mock draft. Next up? The NFL Scouting Combine, where athleticism is on full display.