NFL 2022 Mock Draft 3.0: Post-Free Agency Two-Round Mock
With a majority of the big-name free agency signings in the books and a handful of blockbuster trades going down, it’s time to reassess team needs and make some new projections in another mock draft. With the 2022 NFL Draft fast approaching, teams are making their final evaluations on players and putting together their final big boards. Our Lineups staff will have you covered with all of the draft content you need to get you ready for the big event at the end of April. In this mock draft, I shook things up a bit with a new face at #1 overall and three big trades in the first twelve picks. Without further ado, let’s dive into my Mock Draft 3.0.
NFL 2022 Mock Draft 3.0
#1: Jacksonville Jaguars – OT Evan Neal, Alabama
I’ve had Aidan Hutchinson in this spot in both of my mock drafts so far, and I still believe it will be the Michigan star defender at #1. However, I’m putting Evan Neal here to show a different look in the draft and illustrate how it could shake up the top of the draft order. This offseason, the Jaguars franchise-tagged Cam Robinson and still have Jawaan Taylor slated to start at right tackle. Still, neither player is a top long-term option at a premier position in offensive tackle. Evan Neal can start at guard or tackle in his first season, and over the long haul, he should become an elite blindside protector for Trevor Lawrence.
#2: Detroit Lions – DE Aidan Hutchinson, Michigan
This would be a sprint-the-card-in situation for Detroit. There’s no question that the franchise has a strong admiration for Aidan Hutchinson, and the 2021 Heisman finalist is my top-ranked prospect in my Big Board. Hutchinson provides an excellent floor with his high-level pass-rush and run defense, and he’s an underrated athlete who still has room to improve. He would be a franchise anchor on the defensive line for a team still looking to bolster its edge corps.
#3: Houston Texans – S Kyle Hamilton, Notre Dame
The Texans have needs all over their roster, but first and foremost, they need culture-setting, high-level talents. Kyle Hamilton may not play the most valuable position in safety, but he’s as good a safety prospect as we’ve seen in recent years. His underwhelming 4.59-second 40-yard dash seemed to hurt his public perception, but flip on the film, and you’ll see he’s much faster in pads. Hamilton would be a game-changing defensive player for the Texans as they look to build the foundation for a more robust roster.
#4: New York Jets – DL Travon Walker, Georgia
An offensive lineman would have made some sense here, but the Jets have a solid five-man starting group with no apparent need for an upgrade. Instead, they look to a high-upside athletic specimen along the defensive line. Walker’s combine testing was through the roof, and he’s one of the biggest risers in the pre-draft process. Adding him to a defensive line that already features Carl Lawson, John Franklin-Myers, and Quinnen Williams would help the Jets bolster their defense in a big way.
#5: Pittsburgh Steelers – QB Malik Willis, Liberty
Trade: Steelers trade picks #20 and #52 + 2023 1st round pick to the Giants for pick #5
The Steelers’ adoration for Malik Willis has been one of the worst-kept secrets of the pre-draft process. Pittsburgh will likely need to trade up to secure his talents, with the league collectively rising on the quarterback prospect. Frankly, they might have to give up even more of this to leapfrog the Panthers at #6, as Carolina would likely select Willis if he’s still on the board. However, the Steelers have a roster ready to compete and needs to address its quarterback position. The Giants are comfortable trading out of this spot with another premium pick in the top ten.
#6: Carolina Panthers – QB Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh
The Panthers will be frustrated that Malik Willis didn’t fall to them, but their current regime is desparate. If head coach Matt Rhule and general manager Scott Fitterer don’t make a dent in their progress towards finding a quarterback soon, they won’t be long for Carolina. The Sam Darnold trade was a disaster, and while he’s currently slated as the starter, they have to find a better option. Pickett initially committed to play under Rhule at Temple before rescinding and committing to Pittsburgh. Still, the duo’s mutual admiration and continued great relationship could see the Panthers take a swing on Pickett here.
#7: New York Giants – OT Ikem Ekwonu, NC State
Despite trading out of the #5 pick, the Giants can land one of this draft class’s top two offensive tackles. Ikem Ekwonu is a road-grading, ass-kicking offensive lineman who plays with the type of nastiness teams covet in the position. With Andrew Thomas’s continued ascension and massive Year 2 improvement, the addition of Ekwonu would give the Giants a stout offensive tackle duo to build around for whoever the quarterback of the future might be.
#8: Kansas City Chiefs – WR Drake London, USC
Trade: Chiefs trade picks #29 and #30 to the Falcons for pick #8
The Chiefs have two late first-round picks after the Tyreek Hill trade, and they will likely be looking to trade up for one of the top wideouts in this class. The Falcons would probably be open to the idea of compiling additional draft compensation as they enter a rebuilding period. Garrett Wilson or Jameson Williams might make more sense if the Chiefs want the closest facsimile to Hill. However, as we enter Phase 2 of the Kansas City offense with Patrick Mahomes, why not mix it up with a different look at wide receiver? Drake London is a physically imposing wideout who excels at the catch point and has the body control, agility, and quickness to run a more expansive route tree.
#9: Seattle Seahawks – DE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon
Once considered neck-and-neck with Aidan Hutchinson as the top prospect overall in this class, Kayvon Thibodeaux’s draft stock has steadily declined over the past few months. Thibodeaux’s evaluation is more fueled by traits than proven production, but his excellent first step off the line and speed-to-power potential makes him a high-upside edge rusher at the next level. The Seahawks love taking swings on high-upside athletic talents, and Thibodeaux could develop into one of the best pass-rushers in the NFL in due time if he can refine his technique and improve his motor and discipline.
#10: New York Jets – WR Garrett Wilson, Ohio State
Even after drafting Elijah Moore last year and adding Corey Davis, C.J. Uzomah, and Tyler Conklin in free agency over the past two offseasons, the Jets could stand to add more pass-catching talent for Zach Wilson. Garrett Wilson is a natural separator with dynamic YAC ability and a massive catch radius in the open field. His lack of physicality to beat press means he should be playing in the slot most of the time for now, which works well for the Jets, who have Moore and Davis on the outside.
#11: Washington Commanders – CB Ahmad Gardner, Cincinnati
A wide receiver could be in play for the Commanders here, but cornerback is also a long-term need with Kendall Fuller and William Jackson only under contract for one more season past this one. Gardner has exceptional press-man traits and plays with confidence and aggressiveness as he looks to embarrass opposing wide receivers. Gardner never allowed a touchdown in coverage at Cincinnati, and while he’d likely be bound to allow a score at some point in the NFL, his consistent upward trajectory is worth buying into.
#12: New Orleans Saints – OT Charles Cross, Mississippi State
Trade: Saints trade picks #18 and #49 to the Vikings for picks #12 and #77
The Saints seem to trade up every year, and after Terron Armstead signed with the Dolphins, they have a significant need at left tackle. Some see Charles Cross as the top offensive tackle prospect in this draft class and his proven pass-blocking production with elite mirroring and hand technique. Cross may not be the physical specimen that Neal or Ekwnou is, but he’s incredibly pro-ready, and his excellent skill-set should translate to a high-level floor in the NFL.
#13: Houston Texans – CB Derek Stingley Jr., LSU
After drafting Kyle Hamilton at #3 overall, the Texans may be looking to continue to bolster a secondary devoid of talent. Without much pressure to compete right away as they enter a multi-year rebuild, the Texans can afford to take a swing on Derek Stingley with his volatile projection. After an elite freshman season, Stingley struggled with injuries and inconsistent play at LSU. However, with his exceptional athletic profile and remarkable first year, he’s one of the highest-upside prospects in this class at any position.
#14: Baltimore Ravens – DT Jordan Davis, Georgia
Jordan Davis had one of the best combine performances in recent memory, and his 4.78-second 40-yard dash at 6’6”, 342 pounds was simply absurd. Davis will overwhelm smaller interior offensive linemen with his sheer size and power, and that speed will allow him to develop a more well-rounded pass-rushing skillset. Davis’s workload and conditioning remain concerns, but he should be able to excel in even a part-time role for a Ravens’ defense needing some reinforcements in the trenches.
#15: Philadelphia Eagles – DE Jermaine Johnson, Florida State
With the rising public perception of Jermaine Johnson, this would be a bit of a slide for him. Johnson excelled through the Senior Bowl and combine, and his 98th percentile 10-yard split in the 40-yard dash highlighted his incredible get-off speed. As an older prospect coming off a late-career breakout, there are some concerns over his continued ceiling. However, he’s an iron man who never came off the field for Florida State and has the power, agility, strength, speed, and nastiness to win off the edge.
#16: Philadelphia Eagles – WR Jameson Williams, Alabama
Despite spending first-round picks on Jalen Reagor and Devonta Smith in recent years, the Eagles aren’t done bolstering their pass-catching corps. Jameson Williams is a unique prospect with his ankle-breaking, uncatchable deep speed in his physical 6’2” frame. Williams shouldn’t be discounted for the injury as he’s expected to be ready for training camp. He would provide a dynamic element over the top to make life easier for everyone in the Philly offense.
#17: Los Angeles Chargers – DT Devonte Wyatt, Georgia
The Chargers did well to bolster their interior defensive line with Sebastian Joseph-Day and Austin Johnson not to pigeonhole themselves into that position here, but that doesn’t mean they can’t look that direction. Devonte Wyatt is a dynamic pass-rushing defensive tackle who would excel feasting on single-teams next to Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack. With his consistently elite first step off the line of scrimmage, Wyatt’s explosiveness will carry over to the NFL.
#18: Minnesota Vikings – DE George Karlaftis, Purdue
The Vikings are likely eyeing the edge position in this draft after losing Everson Griffen this past year. Still, with a few great options available, they were content to add some extra draft compensation to move down a bit to #18. George Karlaftis is likely a player on their radar at #12, so landing him here is excellent value. Karlaftis has arguably the best power game in the class with a dynamic bull rush and exceptional edge-setting ability.
#19: Philadelphia Eagles – CB Trent McDuffie, Washington
While Darius Slay and Avonte Maddox are locking down two starting cornerback spots, the Eagles could stand to add another high-level cornerback. Trent McDuffie may not be a prototypical cornerback regarding height-weight-length measurables. Still, he is one of the most intelligent players in this class who loves watching film and works incredibly hard. McDuffie’s excellent closing speed, physical run support, and scheme versatility are plus traits.
#20: New York Giants – CB Andrew Booth Jr., Clemson
After landing Ikem Ekwonu with their first pick, the Giants can address their most significant need on the defensive side of the ball. James Bradberry hasn’t been moved yet, but he doesn’t seem long for New York, and the team should be looking for another young cornerback regardless. Andrew Booth Jr. has a five-star pedigree with five-star measurables, and his ball skills, eye discipline, fluid hips, and large frame make him a fit for any defensive scheme.
#21: New England Patriots – OG Zion Johnson, Boston College
The Shaq Mason trade was odd, to say the least, and while the Patriots’ offensive line still has four outstanding players, the need at guard is significant after losing Mason. Zion Johnson has been a big riser up draft boards with top-15 all-time numbers in the three-cone and 20-yard shuttle, and he led all offensive guards with 32 bench reps. Add in his intelligence and leadership traits, and Johnson is a plug-and-play Pro Bowl-level guard.
#22: Green Bay Packers – C Tyler Linderbaum, Iowa
Tyler Linderbaum has consistently been the most challenging player to land in mock drafts, as I have him ranked inside my top ten prospects. Still, I understand why teams are lower on him due to his lack of length and the positional value of the center position. With a handful of wide receiver prospects on the board, the Packers end Linderbaum’s slide down the board and make him their starting center of the future to bolster the interior of their offensive line.
#23: Arizona Cardinals – WR Chris Olave, Ohio State
The Cardinals have more significant needs than the wide receiver position, but Chris Olave might be too good to pass up at this spot. Arizona needs more pass-catching talent outside of DeAndre Hopkins and Rondale Moore, and Olave is arguably the most refined route-runner in this draft class. With high-end separation ability, excellent lateral agility, and the versatility to line up across the formation, he’s an ideal WR2 next to Hopkins.
#24: Dallas Cowboys – OT Trevor Penning, Northern Iowa
I’m not as high on Penning as some, as I see his lack of technical refinement creating even more of a learning curve as he experiences a significant jump in competition level. However, there’s no question his prototypical size and strength, along with his competitive toughness, make him a high-upside prospect. With the Cowboys losing La’el Collins this offseason, they could look to bolster their offensive line at this spot.
#25: Buffalo Bills – OT Tyler Smith, Tulsa
Tyler Smith has been one of the biggest risers on my big board over the past month, and the 21-year-old offensive linemen will be one of the youngest players in this upcoming draft class. Smith has a strong frame with violent hands and a stout anchor, but his nimble movement suggests the potential to transition to offensive tackle over the long haul as he improves his technique and body control.
#26: Tennessee Titans – OT Bernhard Raimann, Minnesota
The run on offensive linemen continues here with the Titans throwing their hat in the ring and attempting to resolve what has been a revolving door at right tackle in recent years. Raimann is a former tight end who’s new to the position and the game of football overall. Still, his polished technique and excellent movement skills suggest the upside to become a high-level offensive lineman long-term.
#27: Tampa Bay Buccaneers – S Daxton Hill, Michigan
After the return of Tom Brady and a masterful free agency period, the Buccaneers don’t have many apparent needs to fill here. However, after losing Jordan Whitehead, they could look to add a versatile safety in Hill. Daxton Hill has tremendous speed and acceleration with a nose for the football, and he can fill a variety of coverage needs for his eventual NFL team. He would be a great complement to Antoine Winfield Jr.’s skillset.
#28: Green Bay Packers – WR Jahan Dotson, Penn State
Packers fans would be furious in this mock draft scenario that the team didn’t land a receiver at #22, but all would be forgiven with Jahan Dotson falling here. Dotson is a true three-level threat with excellent change-of-direction and suddenness in and out of his breaks. With his dynamic YAC creation, confidence, and solid release package, he should be able to continue to build on his third-year breakout.
#29: Atlanta Falcons – WR Treylon Burks, Arkansas
Treylon Burks would likely be on the radar for the Falcons with their #8 overall selection, and they would be ecstatic to land him here with the added benefit of an extra first-round pick. I am lower on Burks than most due to his lack of consistent separation, perimeter route-running experience, and ability to beat press coverage. Still, his physicality and strength allow him to profile as a high-upside wide receiver for a team desperately needing reinforcements.
#30: Atlanta Falcons – CB Kaiir Elam, Florida
After addressing their most significant need at wide receiver, the Falcons can look to land a cornerback to pair with A.J. Terrell. While Atlanta added Casey Hayward Jr. in free agency, the veteran corner is 32 years old and won’t be around for this team’s long-term rebuild. Kaiir Elam, meanwhile, has excellent press-coverage traits with his physicality, length, and strength. His 4.39-second 40-yard dash proved his long-field speed, as well, and he might go a lot earlier than this when it’s all said and done.
#31: Cincinnati Bengals – LB Devin Lloyd, Utah
Luckily for the Bengals, they overhauled their offensive line in free agency and don’t have to pigeonhole themselves into the position with this pick after all of the first-round offensive linemen are off the board. Lloyd is a well-balanced, three-down linebacker who has very few weaknesses and would provide stability in the middle of the Bengals’ defense. He could be a long-term defensive captain for the team.
#32: Detroit Lions – S Jalen Pitre, Baylor
With Mike Hughes added to the young cornerback tandem of Jeff Okudah and Amani Oruwariye, the Lions will feel that their outside cornerbacks are mostly resolved for the time being. However, Pitre was one of the best slot defenders in the country last year and showed the type of short-area burst and competitive toughness that allow him to make plays on the ball in space consistently.
#33: Jacksonville Jaguars – DE Boye Mafe, Minnesota
After passing on Aidan Hutchinson in the first round, the Jaguars address their defensive line with a high-upside prospect in Boye Mafe. Mafe’s elite combine showcased his exceptional athletic traits, and his speed, power, and agility provide the baseline for a foundation as a high-upside pass-rusher. Mafe’s technique isn’t refined, and his anchor lacks in the run game, but his developmental traits are worth a swing here.
#34: Detroit Lions – QB Sam Howell, North Carolina
With two picks in quick succession here for the Lions, they may opt to take a flier on Sam Howell to see what he could become. Investing this selection in a quarterback still allows the team to add high-value players in the first and second round while adding a high-upside passing prospect. If Howell doesn’t pan out, the Lions would be right back in the quarterback conversation in the 2023 draft, and this is potentially a low-risk, high-reward move.
#35: New York Jets – LB Nakobe Dean, Georgia
A pec strain reportedly kept Nakobe Dean from testing at the combine and participating fully at his pro day. Still, his explosive athleticism flashes on film every time you watch the Georgia defense last season. Dean is a playmaker who fits the mold of a modern linebacker with the footwork and agility to cover in space and the burst and hard-nosed play to close on the football and make bone-crushing plays.
#36: New York Giants – DE David Ojabo, Michigan
The Giants didn’t use one of their top two picks to dip into this talented edge class, but if David Ojabo falls to this spot, that would be a great place to turn. Ojabo’s torn Achilles will likely keep him out of his entire first professional season, and it’s an unfortunate turn of events for one of the biggest risers in this class. However, his athletic upside and long-term trajectory can remain intact, and he’s still worthy of a top-40 pick even with the injury.
#37: Houston Texans – RB Breece Hall, Iowa State
With perhaps the worst running back room in the NFL last season, the Texans compiled just 1,422 rushing yards last year, the fewest in the NFL. Breece Hall is my favorite running back prospect in this class with his elite 5.8 YPC over his career despite a lack of offensive support at Iowa State. With tackle-breaking agility, contact balance, and solid top-end speed (4.39-second 40-yard dash), Hall’s elite collegiate production should translate to the NFL.
#38: New York Jets – CB Tariq Woolen, UTSA
Tariq Woolen has only played cornerback for two years, but his traits fly off the page and suggest elite long-term upside. His measurables are unheard of with a massive frame and wingspan, a 42-inch vertical, and a 4.26-second 40-yard dash. From Woolen’s closing burst to his physicality at the catch point to his surprising awareness and execution in zone coverage, there’s enough for teams to fall in love with despite his sloppy technique and lack of proven experience.
#39: Chicago Bears – WR Christian Watson, North Dakota State
Christian Watson was lumped into that group of traits-based evaluations, but he may have transcended that label. Watson’s electric combine testing helped boost his stock as any 6’4”, 208-lb player running a 4.36-second 40-yard dash will be noteworthy. The Bears have an empty wide receiver room outside of Darnell Mooney, and to prioritize Justin FIelds’s development, they have to find a way to add more pass-catching talent.
#40: Seattle Seahawks – IOL Kenyon Green, Texas A&M
This is the lowest I’ve had Kenyon Green slated in a mock draft, and I see him being leapfrogged by both Zion Johnson and Tyler Smith in offensive line prospects. The Seahawks need to build a foundation of consistency in their offensive line, and Green would help accomplish that as a polished lineman who has spent time playing guard and tackle at Texas A&M. Green’s combine was underwhelming, but his technical expertise gives him a strong floor.
#41: Seattle Seahawks – LB Leo Chenal, Wisconsin
Leo Chenal feels like a Seahawks player. With Bobby Wagner being released, Seattle needs to add some physicality in the middle of their defense, and Chenal certainly brings that to the table. As an explosive 250-pound linebacker, Chenal’s strength and physicality make him a force in blitzing and tackling. His coverage experience is lacking compared to some of his peers in this class, but the Seahawks typically don’t prioritize that in their linebackers.
#42: Indianapolis Colts – OT Daniel Faalele, Minnesota
While Chris Ballard has highly praised Matt Pryor, currently slated as the offensive tackle starter, the Colts have to add competition for him in some form. Daniel Faalele is a massive player at 6’9”, 380 lbs, and the Australian former rugby player is a force in pass protection with surprisingly solid movement and recovery ability for his size. Faalele is more mechanical than instinctive, but his size and strength give him a solid floor with room to improve.
#43: Atlanta Falcons – IDL Logan Hall, Houston
The Falcons addressed two major needs in the back of the first round with a wide receiver and a cornerback, but their pass-rush still lacks juice. While Atlanta is reportedly working on an extension with Grady Jarrett, adding another pass-rushing specialist on the defensive line in Hall would be beneficial. Hall can play inside or on the edge, depending on the scheme he’s in, and his elite length and explosive athleticism are awesome high-upside attributes.
#44: Cleveland Browns – IDL Travis Jones, Connecticut
Travis Jones is more of your traditional space-eating, gap-controlling defensive tackle, but he has sneaky athleticism and tested very at the combine. The Browns need reinforcements up front next to Myles Garrett, and Jones would eat double-teams and allow Garrett to get off the line of scrimmage more cleanly. The Browns were lacking a physical presence in the interior last season, and their defense would improve overall by adding Jones.
#45: Baltimore Ravens – S Jaquan Brisker, Penn State
The Ravens are quickly remaking one of the worst defenses in the NFL last year with Marcus Williams added as their single-high safety, Marcus Peters and Marlon Humphrey getting healthy, and Jordan Davis added in the first round of this mock. However, they could still use a physical downhill presence in the box, and Brisker fits the bill. Brisker can play all over the field, but he’s at his best when he can play a “see ball, get ball” role in run defense and pass-rush.
#46: Minnesota Vikings – TE Trey McBride, Colorado State
After losing Tyler Conklin in free agency, the Vikings are too reliant on Irv Smith Jr. as he works his way back from a meniscus injury. McBride was the most productive tight end in college football over the past couple of years. His reliable hands and polished route-running give him an easily projectable high-floor evaluation. McBride would provide another weapon for Kirk Cousins in the passing game as the Vikings look to return to the postseason.
#47: Washington Commanders – QB Desmond Ridder, Cincinnati
The Commanders are lying to themselves if they see Carson Wentz as their long-term starter at quarterback, and they would have the opportunity here to add a pro-ready prospect who frankly might be a better option than Wentz from the jump. Ridder would provide the team with excellent processing, solid arm talent, and great leadership traits to build on. His excellent athletic testing at the combine only helps further boost his evaluation.
#48: Chicago Bears – DE Drake Jackson, USC
After trading away Khalil Mack this offseason, the Bears have a glaring need in the pass-rush even as they retain Robert Quinn. Drake Jackson has exceptional bend around the line with the ideal length for the edge. His excellent short-area mobility even led to him seeing some coverage snaps at USC, and while the strength element of his game needs refinement, Jackson’s pass-rushing upside is well worth taking a shot on here.
#49: Minnesota Vikings – CB Roger McCreary, Auburn
Roger McCreary was, unfortunately, one of the big losers of the combine as his 28 7/8” arms will likely land him in the second round after previously being seen as a lock for the first round. McCreary’s aggressiveness at the catch point, excellent play strength, and tough tackling will still see him as a high-value cornerback prospect, but his limitations in zone coverage and lack of length will hurt his stock. Still, the Vikings need a cornerback and could take a chance on him here.
#50: Kansas City Chiefs – DE Arnold Ebiketie, Penn State
In addition to their now glaring need at wide receiver, the Chiefs need help on the edge. Frank Clark has been disappointing as a starter, and Melvin Ingram, who was crucial to the team’s defensive turnaround last season, has yet to be resigned. Ebiketie was a late breakout, but the technique he showed in his fifth year with hand usage, flexibility, and nimble movement should carry over into him being a solid edge prospect.
#51: Philadelphia Eagles – RB Kenneth Walker, Michigan State
After spending their three first-round picks on premium positions, the Eagles can afford to eschew positional value here and select what could be a transformational player in their offense. Kenneth Walker’s season at Michigan State can’t be overstated in terms of impressiveness, and he was in the Heisman conversation if not for his team faltering down the stretch. Walker may not be polished in pass protection or receiving, but he has so many ways to win as a runner with strength, power, speed, elusiveness, and more. He can run for 1,500 in his first year in this elite rushing offense.
g#52: New York Giants – S Lewis Cine, Georgia
Lewis Cine was the biggest winner of the combine at the safety position with his 96th percentile 40-yard dash and broad jump. Cine profiles as an elite slot defender with smooth hips to turn in coverage, high-level instincts, and sound tackling. Even after drafting Andrew Booth Jr. in the first round of this mock, the Giants could continue to bolster their pass defense with Cine in the second round.
#53: Green Bay Packers – WR Alec Pierce, Cincinnati
I had the Packers landing Alec Pierce with their second-round pick in my Mock Draft 2.0, but I’ll have them using the Raiders’ pick to land him here, even after adding Jahan Dotson in the first round. Pierce had a lights-out combine performance and is a much more explosive athlete than people give him credit for. He fits what the Packers look for in their wide receivers with his play strength and dominant contested-catch ability.
#54: New England Patriots – WR Skyy Moore, Western Michigan
The Patriots could look to add a wide receiver in the first round, but they filled their need in the interior of the offensive line instead. With Skyy Moore falling here, they scoop up a high-level athlete who has turned into a tremendous receiver after playing quarterback and defensive back in high school. Moore’s route-running lacks refinement, but he has drawn Julian Edelman comparisons for his ability to get off the line of scrimmage despite his more diminutive stature. He would be a high-level slot receiver for the Patriots.
#55: Arizona Cardinals – DT DeMarvin Leal, Texas A&M
After losing Chandler Jones in free agency and with J.J. Watt coming off a significant injury, the Cardinals could look to add to their defensive line rotation. DeMarvin Leal is a bit of a tweener as he lacks the strength to anchor inside consistently and the flexibility to win on the edge. Still, his explosive first step and high-level change-of-direction ability make him an intriguing upside prospect along the defensive line.
#56: Dallas Cowboys – WR George Pickens, Georgia
The Cowboys lost Amari Cooper and Cedrick Wilson in free agency, and while CeeDee Lamb and Michael Gallup will be the team’s top two wideouts, they could look to add to the position in the second round. George Pickens battled back from his torn ACL to contribute to Georgia’s championship season, and his exceptional ability at the catch point allows him to win consistently. If teams were more comfortable with injury and off-field issues, he might be a first-round prospect in this class.
#57: Buffalo Bills – LB Chad Muma, Wyoming
The Bills don’t have many needs in the draft, but Chad Muma would provide a new look to their pass defense. Muma is a converted safety that meets all of the thresholds for a linebacker and tests with excellent numbers at the combine. Muma’s coverage is elite with eye discipline and short-area quickness, and the Bills’ elite defense would be an ideal landing spot for him as he transitions to a much higher level of competition.
#58: Atlanta Falcons – QB Matt Corral, Ole Miss
After trading away Matt Ryan, the Falcons have kickstarted their rebuild. Finding a long-term starting quarterback will be an essential piece of their efforts. Corral’s injury history is somewhat concerning especially given his smaller frame, but his throwing power and mobility are traits worth building upon. Corral needs to learn to throw with more touch and anticipation while working through progressions, but he has solid long-term upside.
#59: Green Bay Packers – OG Darrian Kinnard, Kentucky
Even after landing Tyler Linderbaum in the first round, the Packers could attempt to add more talent to the interior of the offensive line. Darrian Kinnard mostly played right tackle at Kentucky, but he will likely kick inside in the NFL with his lack of polished pass set technique and inconsistent footwork. However, he can be a road-grading offensive guard at the next level with his thick build and competitive aggressiveness.
#60: Tampa Bay Buccaneers – OG Dylan Parham, Memphis
The Buccaneers acquired Shaq Mason to fill one guard spot, but they are still dealing with the losses of Alex Cappa to the Bengals and Ali Marpet to retirement. Dylan Parham has rare athletic talent for his size, and he’s experienced playing multiple positions on the line. He has a thin frame and lacks elite power, but his processing speed and movement ability help make up for those deficiencies.
#61: San Francisco 49ers – S Kerby Joseph, Illinois
The 49ers can go in several directions with this pick. Kerby Joseph had an impressive senior year breakout to become one of the most productive safeties in college football. He had some of the best ball production in the country and is built to be a ball-hawking safety in a Cover 3 defense in the NFL. I love the prospect of adding another high-level pass defender to the Niners’ secondary, which has already improved in free agency.
#62: Kansas City Chiefs – CB Kyler Gordon, Washington
Kyler Gordon’s combine may have been somewhat underwhelming, but his explosiveness and verticality shine on film. The Chiefs will likely look to add to their cornerback group after losing Charvarius Ward in free agency, and Gordon would bring inside-out versatility and solid ball skills to their defense. His scheme versatility and varied experience help his profile in several defensive schemes.
#63: Cincinnati Bengals – TE Greg Dulcich, UCLA
After the Bengals lost C.J. Uzomah in free agency, they have a glaring need at tight end. Uzomah provided the team with big-play, seam-busting ability, and Greg Dulcich could fill a similar role. Dulcich has excellent long speed and athleticism to run a more advanced route tree over time. His blocking technique is still somewhat lacking, but that was never a huge part of Uzomah’s evaluation, and he would provide another dynamic element to the Bengals’ passing offense.
#64: Denver Broncos – TE Cade Otton, Washington
With Noah Fant headed to Seattle and the Broncos not having much in the way of proven pass-catching at tight end outside of Albert Okwuegbunam, they could look to bolster that group with this pick. Cade Otton was wasted in a bad Washington offense the past couple of years and is capable of much more in the NFL. His excellent movement blocking also helps with the offense Nathaniel Hackett wants to run, and his reliable hands and solid length help him profile as a solid pass-catcher.