2022 NFL Draft: 10 Prospects to watch in the 2021 College Football Playoff

The 2022 College Football Playoff is around the corner, and there are a few 2022 NFL Draft prospects you should keep an eye on

Here we are, nearing the end of the 2021 College Football season. It’s a bittersweet time. The 2021 College Football Playoffs are around the corner, which means some 2022 NFL Draft prospects get a chance to shine a little brighter.

Is there a better way to impress NFL draft scouts one last time than under the bright lights of a playoff atmosphere? We’ve seen prospects boost their draft stock thanks to performances in the playoffs.

Former Clemson defensive lineman Christian Wilkins made a name for himself in 2018 with a dominant performance against Bama. Chiefs running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire dominated Clemson in 2019 to earn himself a first-round grade. The 2021 FBS playoffs are around the corner, with prospects from the top four teams looking to make a statement.

The four teams are vying for the National Championship are the Alabama Crimson Tide, Cincinnati Bearcats, Georgia Bulldogs, and Michigan Wolverines. One of the biggest names gearing up is Bryce Young, but you won’t see his name on this list — gotta wait until next year. However, there are few other prospects, including some teammates who’ll hear their names called in the 2022 NFL Draft.

2022 NFL Draft, College Football Playoff Watchlist Honorable Mentions

Before diving into the list, I want to highlight a couple of honorable mentions. Daxton Hill is a 6-0 192-pound instinctive safety with enough range to play Cover 1 or 2 and the nickel. He’ll likely hear his name called late Day 1 or early Day 2.

There are Cincinnati players who deserve some love. The first is linebacker, Darrian Beavers, whose NFL comp is Leighton Vander Esch. The fifth-year senior has the tools, size, and athleticism to be a force at linebacker. On offense, Alec Pierce does his work on vertical routes. He’s a fast, athletic leaper who’ll find a home as a big slot and vertical specialist in the NFL.

Georgia’s George Pickens is a wideout with Devante Parker-like abilities. A lean atheistic wideout who fought back from an ACL injury to help the Bulldogs. Last but not least, there’s the 6-5 275-pound Travon Walker from Georgia. He’s an edge defender with size, power, ideally suited for the five in a 3-4 team or hybrid defense.