2022 NFL Mock Draft: 3-rounds with surprise blockbuster trades

The New Orleans Saints make a leap and the Cleveland Browns get back into Round 1 in this trade-filled three-round 2022 NFL Mock Draft

We are less than two weeks from the start of the 2022 NFL Draft and things are already crazy. Even before the big event, there have been some big trades, including the Cleveland Browns surrendering their pick in Round 1 — and many others — for Deshaun Watson.

There was also the trade between the Miami Dolphins and Kansas City Chiefs, which nets the Chiefs two picks in a row. New Orleans also got in on the fun as they made a move with the Philadelphia Eagles to land a couple of picks in this opening round.

Now, we try and predict a couple more moves in the opening round, including Baker Mayfield being paired with a premium pick to get back into the first round, in our latest 3-round 2022 NFL Mock Draft.

Jacksonville Jaguars start 2022 NFL Mock Draft at No. 1 0verall

1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ikem Ekwonu, OT, NC State

Trevor Lawrence could very well be the guy to save the Jacksonville Jaguars franchise but that won’t happen until they fix their offensive line. They were able to keep Cam Robinson but it wouldn’t be the worst idea to move him to the right side and bring in Ikem Ekwonu.

This also protects them if Robinson doesn’t sign beyond 2022. But the best plan would be to keep Robinson and Ekwonu to give Lawrence a much better chance going forward.

2. Detroit Lions: Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan

The Detroit Lions land Aidan Hutchinson at No. 2 overall and this is a pick that just feels like it has to happen. Hutchinson, a star for the Michigan Wolverines, brings the exact type of no-nonsense approach to the game that can be contagious on this defensive line.

Detroit was closer than it seemed in 2021 and filling out the roster with players who can do their job — and make the job of their teammates even easier — could help push them over the edge.