2022 NFL mock draft: Panthers and Saints take risks on QBs early
The latest 2022 NFL mock draft features a new player on top to the Detroit Lions and plenty of twists and turns throughout round one.
The Detroit Lions got their first victory of the 2021 season, but they remain alive for the top overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. In this 2022 NFL mock draft scenario, the Lions make yet another change with the top pick.
For months, the top pick has been expected to be Oregon pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, or possibly a quarterback prospect like Matt Corral. In fact, Corral was the player atop our other most recent mock draft scenario.
In recent weeks, a new possible first overall pick has emerged right in the Lions’ backyard. In this 2022 NFL mock draft scenario, we take a look at some fascinating player-team fits and prospect matches including some new quarterbacks for not only the Detroit Lions, but also the New Orleans Saints, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Carolina Panthers…
Latest 2022 NFL mock draft features a new #1 overall pick
EDGE. player. 50. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Michigan. Aidan Hutchinson. 1
The Detroit Lions need to rebuild the foundation of their roster. It began in the 2021 NFL Draft when they got one of the best linemen in the class, Oregon offensive tackle Penei Sewell.
Most of my personal mock drafts to this point have had the Lions taking Oregon pass rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux, but they shouldn’t have to go so far out west to find a player that fits the way this team wants to rebuild.
Aidan Hutchinson is right in their backyard.
The Heisman finalist has been a game-changer this season, racking up 13 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss going into the College Football Playoff.
At 6-foot-6, 265 pounds, Hutchinson is an unreal athlete with a variety of moves to win off the edge. He has a similar play style to that of Chargers star pass rusher Joey Bosa.
Pick Analysis. Kayvon Thibodeaux. 2. 52. Scouting Report. EDGE. Oregon. player
Kayvon Thibodeaux may have better production over the last three years compared to Aidan Hutchinson as a pass rusher, and he may have a higher ceiling.
Although Hutchinson is hotter right now, Thibodeaux is absolutely still a top overall pick candidate.
For many mock draft scenarios, the Jaguars have gone with Alabama offensive tackle Evan Neal, who still makes plenty of sense here. However, in this scenario, they don’t pass on the opportunity to pair up their current best defensive player — Josh Allen — with a guy who could wreak havoc with him off the edge.