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; North Carolina State Wolfpack tackle Ikem Ekwonu (79) warms up prior to a game against the Louisville Cardinals at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports /

5. New York Giants: Ikem Ekwonu, OL, North Carolina State

The Giants would probably be high-fiving in their war room just like the Detroit Lions were last year if this scenario were to play out.

There have been rumors that Ikem Ekwonu could go as high as first overall in this draft. In the end, the Giants may be able to stay put with the fifth overall pick and still get the top offensive lineman on their board.

That would be a huge haul for them because offensive line is their top area of need. With the recent improvements made by Andrew Thomas at left tackle, Ekwonu would probably have to move to the right side for Brian Daboll but that shouldn’t be a huge issue.

6. Carolina Panthers: Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

For the longest time, I have had the Carolina Panthers taking Kenny Pickett at this slot. The tea leaves no longer lead me to believe that’s going to be the case.

Although Pickett and Matt Rhule go way back, I think the Panthers have something in place to trade for either Baker Mayfield or Jimmy Garoppolo using 2023 NFL Draft capital sometime after this year’s draft.

I think they are desperate for offensive tackle help in this draft and there are some out there who believe Cross could wind up being the best of the bunch.

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