2022 NFL Mock Draft: Jets land superstar EDGE, Eagles triple-dip on defense

By Randy Gurzi | Sep 25, 2021

EUGENE, OREGON - SEPTEMBER 04: Defensive end Kayvon Thibodeaux #5 of the Oregon Ducks rushes the passer during the first quarter of the game Fresno State Bulldogs at Autzen Stadium on September 04, 2021 in Eugene, Oregon. Oregon won 31-24. (Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images) /

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DeMarvin Leal, Texas A&M Aggies. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-USA TODAY Sports /

17. 45. Texas AM. EDGE. DeMarvin Leal. player. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis

17. Denver Broncos: DeMarvin Leal, EDGE, Texas A&M

When the Denver Broncos won the Super Bowl several years ago, it was thanks to their incredible defense which was led by Von Miller. Now, Miller is nearing the end of his career which means they need to get another defender who can be disruptive along with Bradley Chubb.

So why not replace Miller’s production with someone from his old stomping grounds? That’s exactly what the Broncos do here by taking DrMarvin Leal from Texas A&M. What makes Leal really stand out for Denver is his versatility, which was praised by Oliver Hodgkinson of Pro Football Network while scouting Leal ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft.

"“ Versatility is one of the most valuable attributes in the NFL, so let’s start Leal’s scouting report right there. The Texas A&M defensive lineman is one of the most versatile linemen in the nation. The Aggies have used him in every conceivable alignment along the defensive front during his two seasons in College Station. Leal has demonstrated the ability to play with his hand in the ground or stood up, with no discernible difference in his capacity to impact the game” — Hodgkinson, Pro Football Network"

Listed at 6-foot-4 and 290-pounds, Leal is a massive defender but he moves like a man at least 50 pounds lighter.

He would be an instant impact player for the Broncos and a thorn in the side of whoever they face on a given Sunday.

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