2022 NFL Mock Draft: Jaguars, Lions land stud defensive ends
By Randy Gurzi
11. player. Pick Analysis. CB. Cincinnati. Ahmad Gardner. Scouting Report. 58
11. Washington Commanders: Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati
One of several teams to get a new quarterback this offseason, the Washington Commanders brought in Carson Wentz who spent the 2021 season with the Indianapolis Colts. Wentz now joins an offense that has some of the key pieces including wide receiver Terry McLaurin and running back Antonio Gibson.
Now, they start to build up their defense as they take the top cornerback prospect in Ahmad Gardner. The Cincinnati product was the definition of a shutdown player and in the NFC East where Washington plays against the Dallas Cowboys who have CeeDee Lamb and the Philadelphia Eagles with DeVonta Smith, they need such a player.
Pick Analysis. Derek Stingley. 12. CB. LSU. player. 60. Scouting Report
12. Minnesota Vikings: Derek Stingley, CB, LSU
It has to be frustrating for the Minnesota Vikings to still have a need at cornerback after spending first-round picks on Mike Hughes and Jeff Gladney but here they are. They also can’t let the past misfires make them gun shy, especially when someone such as Derek Stingley falls into their lap.
Stingley was widely considered the No. 1 prospect at the position during the 2021 season but then when Cincinnati went on their run, Ahmad Gardner was able to show off his skills. That doesn’t mean Stingley is a consolation prize and there could still be an argument made that he’s going to be the better pro.
In the end, both players will likely be sold and the Vikings will finally have their No. 1 pass defender.