2022 NFL Mock Draft: Spencer Rattler takes top spot, Eagles replace Hurts
By Randy Gurzi
Pick Analysis. Scouting Report. LSU. Derek Stingley. 4. player. 28. CB
4. Las Vegas Raiders: Derek Stingley, CB, LSU
It’s tempting to predict the best player from Alabama or Clemson here since that’s what Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden have loved doing since taking their respective roles with the Las Vegas Raiders. However, we go with a player who is a great value pick here and who also fills a massive need by taking Derek Stingley, the cornerback from LSU.
Kent Lee Platte of the Pro Football Network says that Stingley is not only a top cornerback in this class but also a top player overall, which is why the Raiders would have no problem breaking their own unwritten rule and taking a player who didn’t go to Alabama or Clemson with their top pick.
"“Stingley is considered a top corner and indeed one of the top players in the 2022 draft class. This is in part due to his 6 interceptions and 1 fumble recovery in 2019. He was challenged far less in 2020, not collecting a pick and only recording 27 tackles and 5 pass deflections in 7 games.” — Platte Pro Football Network"
The Raiders decision-makers have taken players such as Kolton Miller, so it shows they will go away from their preferred schools, and in this mock, it’s a wise move since they get a defensive playmaker who will instantly make them better.