David Ojabo was injured at his Pro Day which leads to him falling to the Dallas Cowboys while his teammate, Aidan Hutchinson, goes first overall in this 2022 NFL Mock Draft
One of the worst things that can happen to an incoming NFL player is to suffer an injury right before the draft. This just happened to Michigan’s David Ojabo, who went down with an injury and limped off the field during his pro day.
It’s a frustrating thing for a player who inserted himself into the top-15 conversation following a great final season with the Wolverines and an explosive showing at the NFL Combine. However, in this three-round 2022 NFL Mock Draft, he doesn’t fall all the way out of Round 1 as one team in need of a dangerous pass rusher is willing to take a flier on him even if he misses time.
As for his teammate, Aidan Hutchinson, he ends up going first overall as the Jacksonville Jaguars decide to beef up the defensive line.
Aidan Hutchinson goes first in 2022 NFL Mock Draft
1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan
The Jacksonville Jaguars beefed up their offensive line with the signing of Brandon Scherff in free agency. He’s a guard and doesn’t solve their need for a tackle but with them making the investment there, it’s possible they shift their attention with the first pick in this draft.
That’s how it ends up working out as they do take Aidan Hutchinson first overall. Hutchinson is one of the more well-rounded players and while he doesn’t have as high of a ceiling as Kayvon Thibodeaux, he does have a higher floor — and the Jags need guys they can count on.
2. Detroit Lions: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon
Aidan Hutchinson feels like the better fit for the Detroit Lions and in many mocks, he stays in-state and joins the Lions. However, he goes first here and Detroit ends up with Kayvon Thibodeaux from Oregon.
There are questions about his love for the game but if Dan Campbell believes his heart is in it, this could end up being a great addition as they could wind up with the most explosive defensive player in this draft. It will all come down to how teams view his drive and all we can do is guess until draft night.