Post-combine 2022 NFL Mock Draft: Jaguars take surprise pick at No. 1

Mar 3, 2022; Indianapolis, IN, USA; North Carolina State offensive lineman Ickey Ekwonu talks to the media during the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 3, 2022; Indianapolis, IN, USA; North Carolina State offensive lineman Ickey Ekwonu talks to the media during the 2022 NFL Scouting Combine. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
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Malik Willis, 2022 NFL Mock Draft
2022 NFL mock draft: Malik Willis #QB16 of Liberty throws during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 03, 2022 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

Malik Willis finds his home in 2022 NFL Mock Draft

9. Denver Broncos: Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

The Denver Broncos might be going after a veteran quarterback but if they don’t find a way to get one, they need to go for a new face of the franchise at No. 9. Right now, it looks as though Aaron Rodgers might not be on his way and the rest of the quarterback market seems to have quieted down as well.

What didn’t quiet down over the weekend was the hype for Liberty quarterback Malik Willis. He looked sharp in his workouts and had some excellent touch on his deep ball. Some will point to the overthrows but he also hadn’t really worked with the receivers he was throwing to.

Willis should be able to make it as a pro and his ability to beat teams with his legs while still being able to sling it 60-yards down the field makes him an intriguing prospect. Especially for a team that seems to be a quarterback away from contending.

10. New York Jets (via Seattle Seahawks): Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

After taking Travon Walker with their first pick, the New York Jets are back on the clock at No. 10. This time, they go after Ahmad Gardner who may have asserted himself as the top cornerback in this class.

Gardner was the definition of a shutdown corner in his senior season and the Jets defense should be vastly improved with the addition of him and Walker in this mock.