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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ORLANDO, FL – AUGUST 24: (L-R) DJ Scaife Jr. #51, Corey Gaynor #65, Navaughn Donaldson #55, and Zion Nelson #60 of the Miami Hurricanes line up against the Florida Gators in the Camping World Kickoff at Camping World Stadium on August 24, 2019 in Orlando, Florida.(Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /

22. 87. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. OT. Zion Nelson. Miami. player

22. Carolina Panthers: Zion Nelson, OT, Miami

After three weeks, the Carolina Panthers are now 3-0 and they look brilliant for their move to acquire Sam Darnold from the New York Jets. Just three years removed from being selected third overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, Darnold was acquired for a second-round pick and he’s more than lived up to that price tag.

In his three starts, he’s completed 68.2 percent of his passes which is by far a career-best for him. He’s managed 888 yards with three touchdowns through the air and three more on the ground. Most importantly, he has just one interception with no reports of seeing any ghosts.

Carolina also has to feel good about the weapons he has. D.J. Moore has been great and Robby Anderson just agreed to an extension. Throw in Terrace Marshall and Tommy Tremble and Darnold has all the weapons he needs.

All of that being said, the Panthers use this draft to start building up the offensive line — which is the only offensive area that needs much work. They end up with Zion Nelson from Miami who is a three-year starter at left tackle.

He should have no problem dealing with the speed rush and while he has to get better against the power rush, he should be an instant upgrade on the blindside.

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