2022 NFL Mock Draft: Browns replace Baker Mayfield, Bucs find another wideout

Dec 18, 2021; Mobile, Alabama, USA; Liberty Flames quarterback Malik Willis (7) rolls out to pass against the Eastern Michigan Eagles in the third quarter during the 2021 LendingTree Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert McDuffie-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2021; Mobile, Alabama, USA; Liberty Flames quarterback Malik Willis (7) rolls out to pass against the Eastern Michigan Eagles in the third quarter during the 2021 LendingTree Bowl at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Robert McDuffie-USA TODAY Sports
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2022 NFL Mock Draft
2022 NFL mock draft; Liberty Flames quarterback Malik Willis (7) moves past Syracuse Orange defensive back Justin Barron (23) in the first quarter at the Carrier Dome. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

13. Cleveland Browns: Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

Does Baker Mayfield really want out in Cleveland? If you listen to him, no. He says that the reporter saying this is using “clickbait” and that he never said a word about leaving. While he might not have said those words, the truth is that there is never any smoke without some fire. Browns fans didn’t want to admit this with Odell Beckham, Jr. and probably won’t admit it with Baker until he is gone.

In this mock, that happens which means Cleveland needs a new quarterback — and they land an exciting one with Malik Willis. His addition gives them someone who might not be as pure of a pocket passer as Mayfield but his ability to win with his legs adds a whole new element to the offense, and makes up for their lack of speed at receiver.

And while they do need more wideout help, this class is deep enough that they can still find some talent in Round 2, while also going after some of the good free agents that will be out there.

14. Philadelphia Eagles (via Miami Dolphins): Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia

One of the best overall prospects in this draft is Nakobe Deam from Georgia. The Bulldogs are an elite defense and he might very well be the best player on it. However, much like Micah Parsons from Penn State last season, his position could force him to go later than his talent suggests.

This is fine with the Philadelphia Eagles who end up taking him at No. 14 — which is their first of three picks in this draft. Dean is a playmaker who will vastly improve the Eagles defense, and they still can continue to stack their roster with their remaining picks.