2022 NFL Mock Draft: Desmond Ridder jumps into Round 1
By Randy Gurzi
North Carolina. Sam Howell. 7. Scouting Report. . player. 44. Pick Analysis
7. Atlanta Falcons: Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina
The Atlanta Falcons are a mess. This team doesn’t really seem to have much of an identity and Arthur Smith might be in over his head as a coach. However, he could buy himself some time as he tries to keep his job a little longer while also finding who he wants this team to be by drafting a new quarterback.
Doing so allows them some leeway and in this mock, their selection is Sam Howell from North Carolina. Howell hasn’t done a whole lot to assert himself this season but he’s still had a solid career. He should be a good player at the next level and the Falcons need someone to eventually take over for Matt Ryan who will be 37 before next season begins.
Aidan Hutchinson. 8. player. 30. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. EDGE. Michigan
8. New York Jets (via Seattle Seahawks): Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan
With their second pick in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft, the Jets replaced Jamal Adams with the selection of Kyle Hamilton. Now, they use the second day one pick from the Adams’ trade to build some depth on their defensive line.
Their selection is Michigan’s Aidan Hutchinson who boasts great size at 6-foot-6 and 265-pounds. He’s also fresh off his best season as a pro, recording 9.0 sacks in 11 games as he was spending much of the season camped in the opposing backfield.