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

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2022 NFL Mock Draft; Cincinnati Bearcats cornerback Ahmad Gardner (1) and cornerback Coby Bryant (7) react after cornerback Arquon Bush (not pictured) blocked a field goal by the Southern Methodist Mustangs in the second half at Nippert Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports /

Pick Analysis. OT. Evan Neal. 9. 36. Scouting Report. Alabama. player

9. Seattle Seahawks (via Denver Broncos): Evan Neal, OT, Alabama

Another big trade that happened before the draft was Russell Wilson being sent to the Denver Broncos in exchange for several picks. The first of those comes due at No. 9 overall and the Seattle Seahawks use that to secure Evan Neal from Alabama.

They continue to act as though Drew Lock is their guy but even if he’s not, they need to make sure they have a solid left tackle. The 6-foot-7, 345-pound Neal is exactly that.

Trade: New York Jets send picks No. 10 and No. 19 to the New York Giants for Pick No. 7

Ahmad Gardner. player. 31. Scouting Report. CB. Cincinnati. 10. Pick Analysis

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

The New York Jets moved up in this mock for Kyle Hamilton and that means the New York Giants are able to secure Ahmad Gardner from Cincinnati. For the longest time, it appeared Derek Stingley was the No. 1 cornerback in this class but then we all got to see what Sauce Gardner can do.

He was the definition of a shutdown cornerback for years but when Cincy made a run to the NCAA Playoffs and he continued to hold his own against elite talent, it became apparent that he was the guy who should go first.

For the Giants, they need someone in the NFC East who can keep up with players such as Terry McLaurin and CeeDee Lamb, and Gardner will be up to the task.

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