2022 NFL Mock Draft: Falcons hit reset at QB, Packers plug hole on defense
2022 NFL Mock Draft – Picks No. 13-16
QB (Nevada). Carolina Panthers. Carson Strong. 13. player. 87.
Back-to-back quarterbacks come off the board as the Panthers choose to prematurely — or at least somewhat — end the Sam Darnold era. They move on and take Carson Strong out of Nevada, a player who raised his stock with a big step forward in the 2020 season. He’s got a wicked arm and a great body for the position. If he keeps showing improvements in decision-making and accuracy, he’s a lock to be taken in the top-half of the first round.
Denver Broncos. Drake Jackson. 14. player. 45. . EDGE (USC)
With Teddy Bridgewater set to hit free agency after this year, some people would say the Broncos need a quarterback. I’m of the belief, however, that Denver either re-signs their current signal-caller or pulls off a deal for Aaron Rodgers.
Thus, Drake Jackson is the obvious choice. Von Miller has been great but he’s past his prime and at the end of his contract. As such, the USC product could come in and be an explosive young player to pair with Bradley Chubb and keep this defense humming.
EDGE (Michigan). Dallas Cowboys. Aidan Hutchinson. 15. player. 123.
Speaking of teams that could use an edge rusher, the Dallas Cowboys more than qualify. DeMarcus Lawerence is one of the most underrated players in the league and Randy Gregory still has tantalizing talent, but the depth at the position is lacking.
Aidan Hutchinson is the perfect player for a team like this, even if the Michigan ties bring up bad Taco Charlton memories. Hutchinson has played every spot on the Wolverines defensive line and excelled. His blend of speed, power and agility make him a movable and versatile threat that Dallas needs to fortify their front seven further.
Kaiir Elam. 16. player. 54. . CB (Florida). Philadelphia Eagles
Secondary has long been an issue for the Eagles and, while they should have their safety duo settled, the cornerback room is much less in that realm. Adding Kaiir Elam will give that group a boost though. The Gators star has been thriving since he first arrived, allowing a 47.2 passer rating over the previous two seasons when targeted according to PFF. Philly needs that type of blanketing cornerback to move forward on that side of the ball.