NFL Mock Draft: Entire 1st round after a crazy free agency
By Andrew Falce
NFL Mock draft picks 7 and 8
7. New York Giants: Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
DB. Kyle Hamilton. 7. 819. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. player. Notre Dame
The Giants find themselves back on the clock, and this time they land the prospect most expect them to target at pick five. While Kyle Hamilton has cooled off slightly through the pre-draft process, he is still a lock to be taken in the top ten picks. He has rare size, impressive coverage skills, and the ability to play well against the run.
The Giants are lacking a true strong safety, and Hamilton would more than fit that bill. While taking a safety in the top ten is a little rich, Hamilton could be a game-changer early in his career. The Giants need to revamp this secondary to help get their defense back on track. Hamilton could aid in their attempt to finally boast a strong defense once again.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
Liberty. 8. Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Malik Willis. player. 2384. QB
The second quarterback comes off the board shortly after the first one does. While I personally believe that Malik Willis has the highest ceiling of any quarterback in this draft, he certainly carries a lot of risks. While athletically gifted, Willis was inconsistent against inferior competition. He has all the traits you want in a franchise player, but he will need time to develop before having any chance as a pro.
Luckily for him, the Falcons just signed veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota and appear ok with having a tank year after trading Matt Ryan. Even if the offense begins to implode, they can and should give Willis time on the bench and prepare him for a better 2023. It seems likely that the Falcons target their next franchise quarterback, and in time Willis could be well worth the risk to acquire him.