2022 NFL Mock Draft: Jaguars, Lions land stud defensive ends
By Randy Gurzi
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. George Karlaftis. 23. EDGE. Purdue. player. 32
23. Arizona Cardinals: George Karlaftis, DE, Purdue
J.J. Watt is still under contract with the Arizona Cardinals but they did lose Chandler Jones in free agency. This means they could use another pass rusher and they luck into George Karlaftis from Purdue. Karlaftis is one of the better power rushers in this class and has an NFL-ready frame.
He hasn’t even hit his ceiling yet but there’s already plenty about his game to love. Playing alongside someone such as Watt will only help him find his footing in the NFL.
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Boston College. Zion Johnson. 24. player. 123. OG
24. Dallas Cowboys: Zion Johnson, OG, Boston College
With Connor Williams heading to the Miami Dolphins, the Dallas Cowboys now have an opening at left guard. Connor McDermott was hopeful to take the job but considering he was unable to take over for Williams during a 2021 campaign that saw him benched for excessive flags, Dallas might still consider the job wide open.
In the end, they fill that role with the selection of Zion Johnson who has experience all over the line. Known as an incredibly smart player, Johnson was a two-time team captain and should be able to start right away but he also has the versatility to move inside to center or even outside to play tackle.
Dallas saw a huge decline with their offensive line over the past couple of seasons and they’re in the midst of some change with Williams and La’el Collins on the way out. Getting a young guard such as Johnson who can handle his job for the next several years will help as they re-tool that line.