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

8. Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati

The 2022 NFL Draft class doesn’t have a clear-cut QB1. Some may argue Pittsburgh’s Kenny Pickett — for good reason. With the 2021 College Football Playoff, Desmond Ridder has a chance to make a case for the top spot. We’ve seen quarterbacks in years past make a name for themselves at Alabama’s expense.

Players like Joe Burrow and Deshaun Watson boosted their draft stock with great performances against Nick Saban defenses.

The 6-4 215-pound signal-caller has all the makings of a starting NFL quarterback. He has a powerful arm, which shows when fitting passes in tight windows. He can also launch it down the field, as evident by his 9.0 yards per pass attempt.

When things break down, Ridder is more than capable of making plays with his legs. He’s a linear athlete who runs with power. Look no further than his 28 rushing touchdowns (career) as evidence.

Ridder is an RPO athletic passer who fits the modern game. If he balls in the playoffs, you could hear whispers of him taking over as QB1.

7. Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama

Coming from the wide receiver factor that is Alabama is Jameson Williams. With his partner in crime out (John Metchie III) for the season, Williams is the lone star. The Ohio State transfer stepped onto Bama and dominated in his first and only season. He and Bryce Young developed instant chemistry. With his first game against another top prospect, Ahmad Gardner.

Williams is a 6-2 188-pound quick-twitch burner. He’s an ideal slot wideout who performs best with the ball in his hands. He’ll see a ton of targets which should help his stock as he looks to show he’s a volume receiver.

However, thanks to his deep speed and acceleration, he doesn’t need a ton of catches to make plays happen. He’s a late first, early second-round prospect who could make himself a Day 1 lock.