NFL mock draft 2022: Jordan Reid's new two-round predictions for top 64 picks, featuring six quarterbacks, Senior Bowl risers
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Jordan Reid breaks down how Jermaine Johnson performed at the Senior Bowl and the potential QB choice the Panthers face between Malik Willis and Kenny Pickett. (1:07)
Feb 7, 2022
Let's reset for the
2022 NFL draft with a two-round mock draft, predicting the top 64 picks in the class.
The
East-West Shrine Bowl and
Senior Bowl wrapped up last week, which means the all-star game circuit has officially come to a close. All 32 teams were able to
collect valuable information over the past few weeks, watching some of the best upperclassman prospects in this class compete against each other and getting one-on-one interviews with them to pick their brains.
Next up in the pre-draft process? The NFL combine, which kicks off in Indianapolis on March 1. Until then, teams will have another month to lay the groundwork of building their big boards for the draft, watching tape on prospects before they getter a better grasp of their testing numbers at the combine.
Those testing numbers and interviews are major pieces to the draft puzzle that teams and prospects have yet to do. Even though draft day (Round 1 begins April 28) is quickly approaching, there's still a lot that could change over the course of the next two months, including watching what teams do with a
loaded free-agent class.
I was on the road over the past few weeks, getting eyes on prospects and talking to scouts and front-office execs to develop my new mock draft, which includes a full projection of the first two rounds. As you'll see below, the need for quarterbacks across the league is apparent, but the strength of the 2022 class lies in the defensive line and secondary.
The
draft order for picks 1-30 is set, and the final two picks will be determined based on who wins
Super Bowl LVI. The
ESPN Football Power Index projects the Rams to beat the Bengals, which means I'm putting Cincinnati ahead of the Rams -- who have traded both of their top selections in this draft -- in the order.
Round 1
1. Jacksonville Jaguars
Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
The Jaguars have back-to-back No. 1 overall picks and would be wise to protect quarterback
Trevor Lawrence here. (For the record, the Browns ended up with Myles Garrett and Baker Mayfield when they were in this position in 2017 and 2018.) It has long been believed that the leaders in the clubhouse for the top pick were edge rushers
Kayvon Thibodeaux and
Aidan Hutchinson, but Neal is worthy, too. With
Cam Robinson likely headed elsewhere in free agency and 2019 second-rounder
Jawaan Taylor still showing inconsistency, pairing Neal with promising tackle
Walker Little gives the team two bookends to protect Lawrence.
Biggest needs: CB, WR, OT
2. Detroit Lions
Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon
The Lions are right on track in their rebuild, but they still have several holes to fill. In this scenario, they'd get their choice of either of the class' top defensive ends. They could bet on the raw talent of Thibodeaux, who has more upside than the polished
Aidan Hutchinson. Detroit has to strengthen its defensive line, and it has the early picks to do so.
Biggest needs: QB, EDGE, WR
3. Houston Texans
Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan
With needs all along the roster, the Texans stick to taking the best player available. Hutchinson's combination of explosiveness, effort and ready-made physical attributes make him the selection here for general manager Nick Caserio. Hutchinson finished second in the
voting for the Heisman Trophy after he had 14 sacks for the Wolverines.
Biggest needs: DL, WR, OL
4. New York Jets
Ikem Ekwonu, OT, NC State
General manager Joe Douglas values the trenches, and the Jets need to protect their investment in quarterback
Zach Wilson. Ekwonu is a physical tone-setter who could play either guard or tackle. Coach Robert Saleh has already said that 2020 first-round pick
Mekhi Becton will have to "come in and
reassert himself into the starting lineup," with
George Fant competing with him to play left tackle. Ekwonu would make this team better and give it an insurance policy at either tackle spot in case Becton is unable to return to form following knee surgery.
Biggest needs: CB, EDGE, WR
5. New York Giants
Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State
Andrew Thomas, the No. 4 pick in the 2020 draft, has turned into the left tackle the Giants envisioned, but they still need help across multiple spots along the offensive line. Newly hired general manager Joe Schoen and coach Brian Daboll seem to be on the same page with wanting to set up quarterback
Daniel Jones for success. That could mean adding a right tackle opposite Thomas in order to keep Jones clean in the pocket.
Biggest needs: EDGE, OL, LB
6. Carolina Panthers
Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
After the Panthers played musical chairs with quarterbacks in 2021, they take a swing on the raw talent of Willis. The big QB decision they have is this: Do they go with the class' most physically gifted thrower in Willis or think about
Kenny Pickett, who's more ready to play right away? Willis is a long-term project, so the challenging part for the Panthers is remaining patient and developing him considering the pressure on the coaching staff to win entering Year 3 for Matt Rhule. This could also be a spot to watch for a trade down, and Carolina -- which hasn't drafted an offensive lineman in Round 1 since
Jeff Otah in 2008 -- could look to the O-line, too.
Biggest needs: QB, OL, WR
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7. New York Giants (via CHI)
Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
Hamilton is my top-ranked prospect in this draft, and although safety isn't a premium position or an immediate need for the Giants (though
Jabrill Peppers is set to become a free agent), taking the best available prospect is the way to go here. The Giants already have some talent in the secondary with
James Bradberry and
Xavier McKinney, but Hamilton is an X factor who could unlock everyone on the back end because of his versatility. This could be seen as a luxury pick for Schoen, but Hamilton is that good.
Biggest needs: EDGE, OL, LB
8. Atlanta Falcons
Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU
Following the selection of
Kyle Pitts last year, general manager Terry Fontenot and coach Arthur Smith have already shown that they aren't shy about sticking to their board and taking the best prospect. That could happen here, too, as they already have 2020 first-rounder
A.J. Terrell, a second-team All-Pro selection this season, locking down one side of the field. Taking the super-talented Stingley is a bet on the traits and high-level play we saw from him as a freshman in 2019, when he had six interceptions for the national champs.
Biggest needs: EDGE, OL, WR
9. Denver Broncos
Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah
It's no secret that the Broncos might not make this selection, as they could use it to trade for a veteran quarterback. But if they keep the pick, Lloyd could be the answer to getting more speed and consistency at the second level of the defense. Denver has three off-ball linebackers hitting free agency next month --
Alexander Johnson,
Josey Jewell, and
Kenny Young -- and Lloyd would add versatility and pass-rush ability to the D.
Biggest needs: QB, EDGE, OT
10. New York Jets (via SEA)
Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
With another top-10 pick, the Jets could add a playmaker for
Zach Wilson and form a Wilson-to-Wilson connection. The former Buckeye stands as my top-ranked wideout in this class, and he reminds me of
Stefon Diggs as a prospect. At 6-foot and 188 pounds, Wilson has strong hands and unique body control and could give the team a go-to target who pairs well with
Elijah Moore and
Corey Davis.
Biggest needs: CB, EDGE, WR
11. Washington Commanders
Kenny Pickett, QB, Pitt
The Commanders have to upgrade at quarterback, and they'll likely be in the running for veterans via free agency or trade to provide competition for
Taylor Heinicke. In this scenario, they look to the draft to try to find their long-term answer at the position. Pickett, who started 49 games in college, is ready to step in and play in Year 1. He took a massive leap in 2021, throwing 42 touchdown passes to just seven interceptions while averaging 8.7 yards per attempt.
Biggest needs: QB, OL, DB
12. Minnesota Vikings
David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan
Under the previous front-office regime, the Vikings relied heavily on their ability to develop Day 2 and Day 3 players at defensive end, which left the team's depth razor-thin at the position outside of
Danielle Hunter. If new general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah uses the same model as the Browns, where he was the past few years, Minnesota could value the age of prospects (22 and younger) and their college production, physical traits and potential upside. Ojabo's combination of potential and youth make him a clear target for the Vikings at a position of need. They haven't selected an edge rusher in the first two rounds since
Erasmus James in 2005.
Biggest needs: CB, EDGE, IOL
13. Cleveland Browns
Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas
The Browns, who rely heavily on analytics-based scouting, are in desperate need of pass catchers, and Burks could meet the criteria they use for prospects. At 6-foot-3, 225 pounds, he is expected to run a 40-yard dash in the 4.4s and wears Size 5XL gloves. Burks, who caught 66 passes for 1,104 yards in 2021, could be a versatile weapon in Kevin Stefanski's offense, which has to get playmakers around
Baker Mayfield. Expect him to be a riser in the pre-draft process.
Biggest needs: WR, IDL, EDGE
14. Baltimore Ravens
Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa
The Ravens were decimated by injuries a season ago, revealing how much help they needed at offensive tackle and in the secondary. They allowed the most sacks in franchise history (57), and only the Bears allowed more (58). Penning is an ideal fit in Baltimore because of his ability to control the line of scrimmage, which is necessary for the Ravens' downhill running scheme. He plays with violence and physicality and could be an early starter at right tackle opposite
Ronnie Stanley. At Senior Bowl practices last week, Penning proved that he belonged in Round 1.
Biggest needs: OT, CB, EDGE
15. Philadelphia Eagles (via MIA)
Jermaine Johnson II, EDGE, Florida State
Johnson is the prospect who helped himself the most at the Senior Bowl, dominating during the two days that he participated in practice. The combination of strength, power and a wide variety of moves off the edge has Johnson's stock climbing. It shouldn't come as a surprise if he enters the top-15 discussion. With
Derek Barnett set to become a free agent, the Eagles could be in search of a running mate for
Josh Sweat. They have three first-round selections and are in prime position to infuse depth into multiple areas of the roster.
Biggest needs: DB, EDGE, LB
16. Philadelphia Eagles (via IND)
Ahmad "Sauce" Gardner, CB, Cincinnati
Philadelphia hasn't selected a cornerback in the first round since Lito Sheppard in 2002, and it's time for that streak to come to an end. With
Avonte Maddox and
Darius Slay the only consistent starters in the secondary, Gardner brings a potential shutdown presence on the perimeter. He was the best prospect I saw up close when I live-scouted him in 2021. Every bit of 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds, Gardner can play man and zone coverage, but it's his physical traits and body movements at that size that could move him even higher. Based on what I've heard from NFL scouts, don't be surprised if Gardner is the first corner off the board in April's draft.
Biggest needs: DB, EDGE, LB
17. Los Angeles Chargers
Jordan Davis, IDL, Georgia
In search of ways to get better in the trenches, the Chargers have clear holes at defensive tackle and right tackle. A lot will be made of whether Davis can be a three-down player, but he's the exact type of presence in the middle that is needed in Brandon Staley's defense. The league's worst run defense could be improved mightily by sticking the 6-foot-6, 340-pound Davis at nose tackle and letting him eat up blockers.
Biggest needs: IDL, OT, CB
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18. New Orleans Saints
Matt Corral, QB, Ole Miss
Corral was the lone potential first-round quarterback who couldn't participate in the all-star circuit because he hasn't graduated from school, which means his performances next month at his pro day and the NFL combine will be crucial. There are still a wide range of possibilities in which he could be selected. He could make sense for the Saints, though, who might need to use the draft to find their 2022 starter because of their salary-cap issues. Drafting a young signal-caller would give them a cheaper option for five seasons. Corral is a quick processor who has the release to match. Praised for his leadership and magnetic personality, this is an ideal landing spot for him.
Biggest needs: QB, DB, WR
19. Philadelphia Eagles
Tyler Linderbaum, IOL, Iowa
Whenever there's a great center in the draft, the earliest he is likely to go is in the mid-to-late teens, as shown recently with
Ryan Kelly (No. 15 overall in 2016) and
Garrett Bradbury (No. 18 in 2019). Linderbaum is seen as a better prospect than both Kelly and Bradbury, however, so he could end up being an outlier. The Eagles already have promising players along the interior in
Landon Dickerson,
Isaac Seumalo,
Jack Driscoll and
Jack Anderson, but none possess the upside of Linderbaum, who could take over at center if
Jason Kelce retires. Linderbaum, the reigning Rimington Award winner, has the strength and physical tools to be a great player.
Biggest needs: DB, EDGE, LB
20. Pittsburgh Steelers
Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina
One of the worst-kept secrets at the Senior Bowl was the Steelers' desire to draft a quarterback to replace
Ben Roethlisberger. During the second day of practices, coach Mike Tomlin and general manager Kevin Colbert paced back and forth down the sideline in a downpour of rain getting an up-close view of prospects. Howell, who had 24 touchdown passes and nine picks in 2021, had several high moments at the Senior Bowl. The Steelers have shown in previous years that they aren't afraid to trade up to acquire a player they really like, which means they are a team to watch if they don't acquire a veteran signal-caller.
Biggest needs: QB, OL, CB
21. New England Patriots
Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson
Booth is a ball hawk (five picks over the past two seasons) with the tools and technique to fit in Bill Belichick's versatile scheme. He improved as the season went along, showing off his ability to create turnovers. Booth has great instincts against the pass and run, and he has the talent to be an early starter in the NFL.
Biggest needs: CB, WR, LB
22. Las Vegas Raiders
Drake London, WR, USC
The Raiders have a great slot receiver in
Hunter Renfrow, but they don't have an outside receiver like the 6-foot-5 London, who could be a great target for quarterback
Derek Carr. London had 88 catches for 1,084 yards and seven touchdowns in eight games last season before a
broken ankle ended his season. He towers over defensive backs and can make contested catches. The Raiders are moving in a different direction under new coach Josh McDaniels, and London's yards-after-catch ability could make him tough to stop in McDaniels' offense.
Biggest needs: WR, IDL, CB
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23. Arizona Cardinals
Kenyon Green, IOL, Texas A&M
Green played every position along the offensive line for the Aggies, looking comfortable at all five spots. He projects best at guard in the NFL, and that versatility is exactly what the Cardinals need. Considering the talent of the defensive lines in the NFC West and the playing style of quarterback
Kyler Murray, he would be a welcome addition to a unit that needs help around center
Rodney Hudson.
Biggest needs: DL, IOL, CB
24. Dallas Cowboys
Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia
The Cowboys' scouting department has gone with the best available prospect in the first round of each of the past two drafts (wide receiver
CeeDee Lamb in 2020, linebacker
Micah Parsons in 2021), avoiding reaches to improve positions of strength. They could do that again with Dean, who could replace free-agent-to-be
Leighton Vander Esch. Although Dean is a little undersized -- 6 foot, 225 pounds -- his play speed, smarts, leadership ability and physicality match every trait of the modern-day off-ball linebacker. Adding Dean would allow Parsons to remain on the edge full time as a versatile defender.
Biggest needs: IOL, DL, S
25. Buffalo Bills
Travon Walker, EDGE, Georgia
The Bills need improvements along their offensive and defensive lines, and after drafting
Greg Rousseau in Round 1 in 2021, they could go back to the D-line this year. Walker is a 6-foot-5, 270-pound project edge rusher who oozes talent. He has physical traits and length that NFL scouts look for, though he's still learning how to put everything together. He played mostly as a tight 5-technique for the Bulldogs, which means he didn't have many opportunities to rush the passer, but he has a high ceiling. He had six sacks last season.
Biggest needs: CB, DL, IOL
26. Tennessee Titans
Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
The first year of pairing
Julio Jones with
A.J. Brown didn't go as planned for the Titans, as the duo combined to miss nine games due to injuries. In search of a long-term answer that provides a different dynamic, Olave would bring speed; he's a target who can take advantage of all three areas of the field. One NFL scout described Olave to me as a "more polished
Will Fuller." Olave has a slender 6-foot-1 frame and could run in the 4.3s in the 40-yard dash at the combine. He could unlock the downfield dynamic of the Tennessee offense and keep teams from solely focusing on
Derrick Henry by loading up the box.
Biggest needs: EDGE, WR, OL
27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington
Cornerback is in flux for the Bucs, with
Carlton Davis set to become a free agent and
Jamel Dean and
Sean Murphy-Bunting entering the final seasons of their contracts. With the depth and long-term outlook on the perimeter already thin for the Bucs, McDuffie's upside makes a lot of sense here. He is an instinctive and quick-footed cornerback who will vie for the top corner spot in this class. The Huskies' scheme involved playing lots of zone coverage in which he was forced to play with his back to the sideline, but he's fully capable of playing man-to-man coverage as well. McDuffie is a reliable player against the run; he isn't scared to roll up his sleeves and get dirty in run support. Another position to watch for Tampa Bay is quarterback, as it's now a major hole following the
retirement of Tom Brady. It could be a team to watch for the late Round 1 signal-callers.
Biggest needs: QB, IOL, CB
28. Green Bay Packers
George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue
In a deep edge class, Karlaftis, who had 7.5 sacks in 2021, is in the mix after
Kayvon Thibodeaux and
Aidan Hutchinson. He has a chance to land in the top 20, but in this scenario he'd fall right in the Packers' lap. Green Bay must get some depth along the defensive line, and Karlaftis' combination of power and heavy hands could help him thrive in the NFC North.
Biggest needs: WR, EDGE, IDL
29. Miami Dolphins (via SF)
Logan Hall, EDGE, Houston
At 6-foot-5, 278 pounds, Hall quickly stuck out as one of the most physically imposing prospects at Senior Bowl practices. He created easy wins at the line of scrimmage with his hands, length and wide array of moves. He also has the versatility to fit multiple schemes and spots up front. Hall is still scratching the surface of what he can become, and his foundation of natural traits could make him an early contributor in a defensive line rotation.
Biggest needs: OL, LB, EDGE
30. Kansas City Chiefs
Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama
Prior to
tearing an ACL in the national title game, Williams had a strong case for being the first wide receiver off the board. I still expect him to go in the top 35 picks, but teams will have to think beyond the 2022 season, because he might have to miss some time as a rookie. He could land in the perfect spot in Kansas City, joining an explosive offense that has been in search of adding a deep threat alongside
Tyreek Hill,
Travis Kelce and
Mecole Hardman. Williams would give the Chiefs a strength on a strength, adding another target for quarterback
Patrick Mahomes.
Biggest needs: WR, EDGE, DB
Picks 31 and 32 will be set after Super Bowl LVI. The ESPN Football Power Index projects the Rams to win, which means their pick is the final one in Round 1.
31. Cincinnati Bengals
Zion Johnson, IOL, Boston College
You could make a strong argument that Johnson was the most consistent offensive prospect through the week of practices at the Senior Bowl. After playing guard and tackle during his career, he spent time at center in Mobile and showed minimal signs of drop off despite never before playing the position. Johnson has a rock-solid build (6-foot-3, 314 pounds) and the strength to match, and the Bengals are a team desperately in need of better offensive linemen in front of quarterback
Joe Burrow. Johnson could fill any of the three interior spots.
Biggest needs: IOL, OT, CB
32. Detroit Lions (via LAR)
Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State
The Lions got a fourth-round steal in
Amon-Ra St. Brown last year, and he proved to be a key player for the team moving forward. Outside of St. Brown and tight end
T.J. Hockenson, however, the franchise lacks reliable pass-catchers. Dotson is a "Z" receiver who can handle outside duties while St. Brown does his best work from the slot. Dotson, who had 91 catches for 1,182 yards and 12 touchdowns last season, is a consistent route-runner with a wide catch radius. He'd be a great fit for Detroit and quarterback
Jared Goff.
Biggest needs: QB, WR, EDGE
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Jahan Dotson pulls in another TD catch
Jahan Dotson burns the Michigan State secondary on a 30-yard touchdown catch as Penn State ties the game.
Round 2
33. Jacksonville Jaguars
Kyler Gordon, CB, Washington
The Jaguars took cornerback
Tyson Campbell with the first pick in Round 2 last year, and they could go with another corner in 2022. Gordon is expected to light up the combine with his physical traits, and he could rise into Round 1 if a team falls in love with his speed and movement skills. The Jaguars could make cornerback a strength with this pick.
Biggest needs: CB, WR, OT
34. Detroit Lions
Daxton Hill, S, Michigan
Tracy Walker,
Dean Marlowe and
C.J. Moore are all set to become free agents, and the Lions' safety room is bare entering the offseason. Hill is a versatile safety with plenty of potential to unlock. After playing strictly in the slot for the Wolverines, he could be used in different ways at the next level. The Detroit secondary just needs more playmakers; hopefully it can get back healthy
Jeff Okudah, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2020 draft who has played only 10 games in two seasons. And if you're keeping track, the Lions end up with two starters on defense and a wideout with their three top-34 picks.
Biggest needs: QB, WR, EDGE
35. New York Jets
Myjai Sanders, EDGE, Cincinnati
The Jets' defense was historically bad in multiple categories last season, and it could use depth at every position. Getting back
Carl Lawson from injury could be a big addition to its pass rush, but Sanders is the exact type of weakside defensive end who could thrive in Robert Saleh's defense. Sanders' ability to consistently generate pressure as well as being an underrated run defender could give the franchise a boost. The Jets haven't had a player record a double-digit sack season since
Muhammad Wilkerson in 2015.
Biggest needs: CB, EDGE, WR
36. New York Giants
Kingsley Enagbare, EDGE, South Carolina
The 6-foot-4, 261-pound Enagbare is a pressure generator who relies heavily on transitioning speed to power. He has a strong repertoire of pass-rush moves, including a cross-chop that stands out on film. Enagbare will likely be a Round 2 target for teams trying to solve their edge-rush issues. After the Giants addressed their offensive line with the No. 5 pick and added my top-ranked prospect at No. 7, they could get a quality pass-rusher here.
Biggest needs: EDGE, OL, LB
37. Houston Texans
Roger McCreary, CB, Auburn
The Texans are in the early stages of building a foundation -- they don't even have a new coach yet -- and general manager Nick Caserio should focus on adding talent to as many spots as possible. McCreary, who has received first-round grades from a few scouts I talked to, is a compact and toolsy corner. He spent time at both nickel and outside corner during Senior Bowl practices, and scouts have mixed opinions about his best projection on the next level because of his lack of length, specifically his 29-inch arms. McCreary could quickly become Houston's best corner.
Biggest needs: DL, WR, OL
38. New York Jets (via CAR)
Trey McBride, TE, Colorado State
With their fourth pick in the top 38, the Jets add another target for
Zach Wilson in McBride, who can be a security blanket in the passing game. He has strong hands and can run any route; he's one of the best yards-after-catch tight ends in this class. At 6-foot-3, 250 pounds, McBride is also a serviceable blocker who can be an asset in the run game when lined up in attached sets. He could flex out wide, though, creating a mismatch for Wilson to target. In this scenario, New York ends up with a two pass-catchers, a stellar offensive lineman and an edge rusher with upside.
Biggest needs: CB, EDGE, WR
39. Chicago Bears
David Bell, WR, Purdue
New general manager Ryan Poles has his work cut out at the receiver position, with only
Darnell Mooney under contract next season. Bell, who had 93 catches for 1,286 yards last season, is a smooth route runner with consistent hands. He proved over the past two seasons that he can be counted upon as a go-to option in the passing game. Bell doesn't have outstanding speed, but he executes the details on his route stems and has a knack for finishing catches at the catch point. Chicago doesn't have a first-round pick, which means it needs to hit on this one.
Biggest needs: WR, OL, CB
40. Denver Broncos
Cameron Thomas, EDGE, San Diego State
The 6-foot-4, 264-pound Thomas is a do-it-all threat with experience generating pressure from both the tackle and end spots. He had 27 tackles for loss in 2021, more than any player in this class. The Broncos have questions at the edge spots after the
trade of Von Miller and with
Bradley Chubb's durability issues, which makes Thomas a great get here. They still have the Rams' second-round pick to upgrade their roster, too.
Biggest needs: QB, EDGE, OT
41. Seattle Seahawks
Darian Kinnard, OT, Kentucky
Defensive end and offensive line are the clear top needs for the Seahawks, who don't have a first-round pick because of the
Jamal Adams trade with the Jets. Kinnard is a pick to add protection for quarterback
Russell Wilson. Talking to a scout at the Senior Bowl,
Cody Ford (a second-round pick in 2019) was the comparison I got for Kinnard. There are some mixed opinions on whether Kinnard will play tackle or guard at the next level, but he could improve the Seattle O-line at either spot.
Biggest needs: OL, DL, CB
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42. Washington Commanders
Jaquan Brisker, S, Penn State
Brisker, who has been praised for his leadership and communication skills in the back end, is a versatile safety who can play both strong safety and in the high post, though he's better closer to the line of scrimmage. At 6-foot-1, 200 pounds, he is a competitive run defender with experience playing multiple spots.
Biggest needs: QB, OL, DB
43. Atlanta Falcons
DeMarvin Leal, IDL, Texas A&M
The Falcons had a league-worst 18 sacks last season, and their emphasis must be on retooling the trenches and figuring out a way to generate pressure. The team wants to get back to having dense and lengthy body types for defensive coordinator Dean Pees' 3-4 scheme. At 6-foot-4, 290 pounds, Leal's traits fit the bill. He had 8.5 sacks last season.
Biggest needs: EDGE, OL, WR
44. Cleveland Browns
Drake Jackson, EDGE, USC
The Browns will have a huge hole opposite
Myles Garrett if
Jadeveon Clowney leaves in free agency. Jackson, who turns 21 in April, is one of the youngest prospects in this class. He's a long-levered and loose-moving prospect with ready-made traits to contribute as a designated pass-rusher early in his career. He had five sacks for the Trojans last season.
Biggest needs: WR, IDL, EDGE
45. Baltimore Ravens
Devonte Wyatt, IDL, Georgia
The Ravens want to get back to controlling the line of scrimmage, and Wyatt is a great fit. A true penetrating 3-technique tackle at 6-foot-3, 307 pounds, he was arguably the most consistent player on Georgia's loaded defensive line. His stock has risen a lot over the past couple of months, riding a stellar end to the season and standout performance at the Senior Bowl. Wyatt could climb to the backend of the first round by the time we get to April.
Biggest needs: OT, CB, EDGE
46. Minnesota Vikings
Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida
Elam has received mixed reviews from NFL evaluators I've spoken to; some see him going as high as the late first round, while others seem him in Round 2. At 6-foot-2, 195 pounds, Elam is a big press-man corner. With Minnesota in search of cornerback help and Elam turning 21 years old a week after the draft, he checks a lot of the boxes for the Vikings' scouting department. He had six picks in three seasons for the Gators.
Biggest needs: CB, EDGE, IOL
47. Indianapolis Colts
Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati
Don't be surprised if the Colts take a quarterback with their first pick in this draft. General manager
Chris Ballard was clearly not happy about
Carson Wentz's finish to the season. The 6-foot-3 Ridder is polished in going through progressions -- he took a big step in 2021, leading the Bearcats to the College Football Playoff -- and he can execute in all areas of the field. He could be an appealing backup plan to Wentz, who isn't owed much guaranteed money on the rest of his contract.
Biggest needs: OT, WR, CB
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1:21
Why McShay has difficulty evaluating Desmond Ridder
Todd McShay goes through the pros and cons if a team decides to draft Cincinnati quarterback Desmond Ridder.
48. Los Angeles Chargers
Nicholas Petit-Frere, OT, Ohio State
The team struck gold with left tackle
Rashawn Slater in Round 1 last year, but
Bryan Bulaga and
Storm Norton haven't been the answer at right tackle. Petit-Frere is a high-ceiling option with experience at both right and left tackle. In search of protection for
Justin Herbert, the former Buckeye could upgrade the offensive line.
Biggest needs: IDL, OT, CB
49. New Orleans Saints
Lewis Cine, S, Georgia
The Saints have a lot of big decisions to make this offseason, including figuring out how to re-sign safety
Marcus Williams, a second-round pick in the team's historic 2017 class. Cine makes a lot of sense if the team is unable to bring back Williams. Cine is a hard-hitter against the run who's also rangy in coverage.
Biggest needs: QB, DB, WR
50. Miami Dolphins
Bernhard Raimann, OT, Central Michigan
With
Austin Jackson moving inside to guard and
Liam Eichenberg's rookie season marred by inconsistency, the Dolphins will continue their efforts to fortify the offensive line. Raimann is a hard-nosed blocker who has a physical presence as a run blocker and is more than reliable as a pass protector. With Miami's lack of depth at tackle, Raimann gives it another option to help keep
Tua Tagovailoa upright. Raimann entered college as a 230-pound tight end, but he has transformed into a raw, ascending tackle.
Biggest needs: OL, LB, EDGE
51. Philadelphia Eagles
Christian Harris, LB, Alabama
The second level of the Eagles' defense needs an upgrade, and Harris would add speed. He specializes as a blitzer and can wreak havoc on the first level, which means more tackle-for-loss opportunities for the rest of the team. Harris needs to improve with trusting his read keys and attacking downhill, but he has the physical tools to make an impact.
Biggest needs: DB, EDGE, LB
52. Pittsburgh Steelers
Daniel Faalele, OT, Minnesota
When the Steelers were at their best, they took full control of the line of scrimmage. That hasn't happened over the past few seasons, and Faalele could be an easy fit. A mammoth-sized prospect at 6-foot-8, 387 pounds, he moves like a much smaller player. He played right tackle for the Gophers, and he could swallow up edge rushers for Pittsburgh, turning a weakness into a strength.
Biggest needs: QB, OL, CB
play
0:34
6-9, 380-lb lineman barrels in touchdown for Minnesota
At 6-9, 380 pounds, Daniel Faalele takes the handoff and runs through a crowd to score a 2-yard touchdown for Minnesota.
53. Las Vegas Raiders
Travis Jones, IDL, UConn
Jones was unblockable during practice at the Senior Bowl and was one of the prospects who boosted his draft stock most. At 6-foot-4, 326 pounds, he's a stout and powerful interior defender. He's also nimble for his size as a pass-rusher. He could rise even higher. With new defensive coordinator Patrick Graham on board -- and a pending in-house free-agent list that includes
Johnathan Hankins,
Quinton Jefferson and
Solomon Thomas -- the Raiders will be searching for a true nose tackle. Jones is a perfect fit.
Biggest needs: WR, IDL, CB
54. New England Patriots
Chad Muma, LB, Wyoming
The Patriots covet size with their linebackers, and Muma brings that and much more. At 6-foot-3, 245 pounds, he has plenty of physical ability and is a spark plug against the run. He had 142 tackles and three interceptions last season. This landing spot makes perfect sense.
Biggest needs: CB, WR, LB
55. Arizona Cardinals
Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE, Penn State
With
Chandler Jones possibly moving on in free agency, Arizona could target a young pass-rusher opposite
Markus Golden. Ebiketie is raw, but Cardinals general manager Steve Keim has shown he's not afraid to select projects early and hope that coaching allows them to reach the ceiling of their potential. A fit as a 3-4 outside linebacker, Ebiketie's explosiveness and natural traits as a pass-rusher could help him be a contributor in spots early in his rookie season. The Temple transfer had 9.5 sacks last season.
Biggest needs: DL, IOL, CB
56. Dallas Cowboys
Sean Rhyan, OL, UCLA
With center
Tyler Biadasz still inconsistent and
Connor Williams potentially leaving in free agency, the Cowboys could look to find reinforcements for the interior of their offensive line. Rhyan played left tackle for the Bruins, but he has the skill set and strength to kick inside and become an instant impact contributor.
Biggest needs: IOL, DL, S
57. Buffalo Bills
Perrion Winfrey, IDL, Oklahoma
Winfrey is one of the biggest risers of the pre-draft process so far -- he dominated at the Senior Bowl -- and could rise even higher. At 6-foot-4, 304 pounds, the former No. 1 junior-college recruit in the country has traits that NFL teams love, even if he wasn't consistent in college. Winfrey is an explosive 3-technique tackle. In this scenario, the Bills take defensive linemen with both of their top picks in this class.
Biggest needs: CB, DL, IOL
58. Atlanta Falcons (via TEN)
John Metchie III, WR, Alabama
Metchie
tore his ACL in the SEC title game in December, but he made 96 catches for 1,142 yards and eight touchdowns before the injury. The injury is a big question mark, but when healthy, he is a quick and detailed route runner with strong hands at the catch point. The Falcons could have questions at receiver with
Calvin Ridley' status unknown.
Biggest needs: EDGE, OL, WR
play
0:29
Metchie races past Bulldog's defense for the 46-yard TD
John Metchie III shows off his RAC ability with a 46-yard touchdown catch for Alabama.
59. Green Bay Packers
George Pickens, WR, Georgia
Whether it's
Davante Adams,
Greg Jennings or
Jordy Nelson, the Packers have a legacy of picking star receivers in the second round, and Pickens could become the latest. He
tore an ACL last March and returned late in the season, showing his big-play potential with five catches for 107 yards. Prior to his injury, Pickens was viewed as a WR1 candidate, so this is a pick that could pay off down the road.
Biggest needs: WR, EDGE, IDL
60. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Isaiah Spiller, RB, Texas A&M
The only running back under contract for the Bucs entering 2022 is
Ke'Shawn Vaughn, and they still have needs along the offensive and defensive lines and at quarterback. With this pick, they begin the run on Day 2 running backs with Spiller, who posted back-to-back 1,000-yard rushing seasons and has some value as a receiver (74 catches in three seasons).
Biggest needs: QB, IOL, CB
61. San Francisco 49ers
Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor
Pitre really impressed me at the Senior Bowl, and he was
one of the biggest risers from the event. He primarily played the STAR position in Dave Aranda's defense at Baylor, but he has a better skill set than playing only close to the line of scrimmage. Pitre is a smooth operator in coverage with some range. With
Jaquiski Tartt hitting free agency, the 49ers could try to get younger in their secondary.
Biggest needs: DB, IOL, WR
62. Kansas City Chiefs
Martin Emerson, CB, Mississippi State
Emerson could get more buzz over the next two months, as he is a strong and physical corner who quietly had a productive season for the Bulldogs, even if he didn't have any interceptions. He could be a popular choice for teams that run lots of zone scheme concepts.
Biggest needs: WR, EDGE, DB
Picks 63 and 64 will be set after Super Bowl LVI. The ESPN Football Power Index projects the Rams to win, which means their pick is the final one in Round 2.
63. Cincinnati Bengals
Tariq Woolen, CB, UTSA
At nearly 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds, Woolen is a slender but vertically built corner who played wide receiver two years ago. His technique is still raw, but his transition skills, ability to make plays on the ball and upside make him a fit in the Bengals' versatile coverage scheme.
Biggest needs: IOL, OT, CB
64. Denver Broncos (via LAR)
Carson Strong, QB, Nevada
Who will play quarterback for the Broncos in 2022?
Drew Lock enters the final season of his rookie deal, and
Teddy Bridgewater is a free agent. If the Broncos go the draft route, Round 2 could have a few options. Strong will likely be on the board, if the medical reports for his knee check out. He has a strong arm, and he was given a lot of autonomy at the line of scrimmage for the Wolf Pack, which means he has experience with handling pro-level schemes. He threw 36 touchdown passes and eight interceptions while completing 70% of his passes last season.
Biggest needs: QB, EDGE, OT