2022 NFL mock draft: Desmond Ridder soars to QB1 in final predictions

2022 NFL mock draft: Desmond Ridder soaring in final predictions

2022 NFL mock draft - Cincinnati Bearcats quarterback Desmond Ridder (9) walks onto the field before the NCAA football game between the Cincinnati Bearcats and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Saturday, Oct. 2, 2021, at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Ind.Cincinnati Bearcats At Notre Dame Fighting Irish 208 /

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2022 NFL Mock Draft – Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Chris Olave (2) makes a catch against Michigan State Spartans in the second quarter during their NCAA College football game at Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio on November 20, 2021. /

19. New Orleans Saints: Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State

There’s very little doubt that the Saints need wide receiver help after what we saw from that group last season.

Without Michael Thomas, it was tough to watch. Marquez Callaway led the Saints in targets last season, so when no. 13 is fully healthy, his return to the field will be a welcomed sight.

How about pairing up Thomas with another Buckeye?

Chris Olave is a smooth route runner with good speed, the ability to stretch the field, and reliability.

Olave can create separation at every level of the field and would give the Saints a desperately needed WR2 to pair with Thomas.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

Ultimately, the biggest question about this pick is — when does it happen?

Last year, it felt like the Steelers had badly telegraphed their interest in Najee Harris. This year, they have seemingly made no secret their interest in Liberty QB Malik Willis.

Will they have to jump into the earlier portion of round one to get him?

This is general manager Kevin Colbert’s final draft with the Steelers, so he might as well go out with a bang. If Pittsburgh believes Willis can reach his massive potential in their system, perhaps starting out behind former no. 2 overall pick Mitchell Trubisky, then they should absolutely go for it.

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