NFL DRAFT WATCH: 2022 NFL DRAFT PICK PROJECTION

 

Aidan Hutchinson has been discussed as the possible #1 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft

A little less than one month remains before the the beginning of the 2022 NFL Draft, set to be held live in Las Vegas from Thursday, April 28th through Saturday, April 30th. With the completion of the combine now a couple weeks in the past and plenty of pro days having since passed, increasingly informative details as it relates to the draft have started to surface. Still, there is no consensus on who'll be the number one overall pick and the possibilities of how the quarterback position may play out leave a lot left to be unpacked before draft day. With that being said, Matt's Draft Journal has decided to do its due diligence in best projecting the picks of the 2022 NFL Draft as the available information allows. 

1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Evan Neal, OT (Alabama)

Neal was the earliest and most often name attached to the Jaguars and the top pick, with idea of protecting 2021 #1 overall pick, quarterback Trevor Lawrence in mind. Other names have began to be discussed as realistic options for Jacksonville but as for now Neal's agility, athleticism, and battle-tested experience as a multi-year starter in the SEC, facing against NFL-caliber defensive lineman during the entirety of his college career make him a likely selection. 

2. Detroit Lions: Aidan Hutchinson, ED (Michigan)

Hutchinson has received some increased discussion as the potential top pick in the draft, though for now (and for a while now) the Michigan man is tabbed to be taken 2nd, staying in his home state and being selected by the Detroit Lions. His size and style of play may remind some of a former highly productive pass-rusher from the NFC North in former Minnesota Viking Jared Allen. The Lions would love for Hutchinson to harass Kirk Cousins and opposing QBs in the division currently with the same desire. 

3. Houston Texans: Kayvon Thibodeaux, ED (Oregon)

The consensus top recruit entering college and projected top pick during the pre-season, Thibodeaux has been under the spotlight for a few years now — certainly receiving the typical scrutiny that accompanies it. Still there is little debating the different aspects of his game as a a slippery edge rusher with the technique to challenge even some of the most talented offensive tackles. At this pick the Texans could consider a number of prospects, but they likely won't be disappointed to draft the former Oregon Duck. 

4. New York Jets: Jordan Davis, DL (Georgia)

Davis ability and presence in the middle of Georgia's defense is what helped them win a national championship and simultaneously improved the draft stock of other individuals a part of the unit. The 6'7, 340 pound defensive lineman display of ridiculous athleticism, agility, and explosiveness at the combine only further increased and solidified his status. Should the Jets select Davis it would not only serve to benefit 2019 3rd pick defensive lineman Quinnen Williams, but the Gang Green defense as a whole. 

5. New York Giants: Ikem Ekwonu, OT (North Carolina State)

Ekwonu is one of a few prospects that have reportedly received serious consideration with number one overall pick of the draft. However, should he be on the board following the first pick, the physical and powerful offensive tackle shouldn't have to wait long before his name is called. The Giants have attempted to address their offensive line in recent years through both the draft as well as free agency and Ekwonu could help honor those efforts as the missing piece to competently complete their starting five up front. 

6. Carolina Panthers: Malik Willis, QB (Liberty)

Willis has emerged as the prospect at the quarterback position in this draft with the most potential. His projection to the NFL isn't seamless, though his arm strength, dynamic playmaking ability, and positive attitude make him an attractive asset to have as the face of a franchise for years to come. As players like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson make waves for their raw ability that was refined while in the NFL having been selected outside the top 10, the team who drafts Willis may be forced to select him sooner. 

7. New York Giants: Kyle Hamilton, DB (Notre Dame)

Hamilton has the potential to be the biggest impact player in this draft, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Earning All-American honors despite missing nearly half the season due to injury last year the versatile, rangy 6'4, 215 pound safety had 3 interceptions and 4 pass deflections in 7 games during 2021 — proving his playmaking ability against the pass. With previous defensive back Jabrill Peppers recently signing with the Patriots, Hamilton will have the opportunity to step in and help steady the secondary.

8. Atlanta Falcons: Sauce Gardner, CB (Cincinnati)

Few cornerbacks in college football history had as historic a career as the man best known as Sauce Gardner. Having not allowed a receiving touchdown while in coverage during his entire 3-year career at Cincinnati, Gardner will enter the NFL with the reputation of a lockdown corner. Should the Falcons decide to draft the 6'2, 190-pound corner they could possibly have the best duo in the league, pairing him with 2020 NFL Draft 1st rounder AJ Terrell — who has emerged as one of the top CB in the league. 

9. Seattle Seahawks: Charles Cross, OT (Mississippi State)

The Seahawks will have a new man at quarterback as the Russell Wilson-era ended when they traded him  earlier this off-season. They could very well use this pick to address the position, but regardless of who's under center they'll need someone to protect them. Both starting tackles Duane Brown and Brandon Shell are free agents and Charles Cross could possibly provide an immediate upgrade. Battle tested coming from the SEC, the 6'5, 310 pound tackle is promising in pass protection and could become an All-Pro.

10. New York Jets: Jermaine Johnson, ED (Florida State)

After projecting the Jets to take Jordan Davis with the 4th overall pick, they select his former teammate and transfer from Georgia in Florida State's Jermaine Johnson to try and bolster a defense that ranked last in the league during 2021. Beginning his college career at the JUCO level before becoming one of the most prized recruits in the country, Johnson was productive in a part-time role with the Bulldogs during 2020 and took off after transferring to play for the Seminoles, earning ACC Defensive Player of the Year. 

11. Washington Commanders: Derek Stingley Jr, CB (LSU)

Having earned All-American honors as a true freshman in 2019 where he was instrumental in LSU's national championship season, Stingley immediately established himself as one of the premier prospects who had yet to reach the professional level. Possessing the size, skills, and speed to be one of the top corners in the NFL from day one, Washington would hope that the LSU product could help sure up their secondary after having spent significant draft capital on the front seven in recent years. 

12. Minnesota Vikings: Drake London, WR (USC)

London's draft stock seems to be as varied as you'll find for a notable prospect in this year's draft class. His season-ending injury cut short what was shaping to be a special year for the tall and talented receiver from USC (though he still amassed 88 catches, 1084 yards, and 7 TD in 8 games). At 6'4, 220 pounds, London has the ability to combat press coverage with both his footwork and length, plus can provide a big target and pluck the ball from anywhere on the field. If they add him to Cook, Jefferson, and Thielen .. beware. 

13. Houston Texans: Travon Walker, DL (Georgia)

Walker has been the biggest riser in this year's draft process, especially within the last month. Having been projected as a likely Day 2 pick prior to and during the season, the former Bulldog has worked his way into becoming not only a first round prospect, but someone who has been spoken about with the first overall pick. The 6'5, 280 pound defensive lineman is a valuable and versatile player capable of being effective across different techniques similar to a former Houston Texan, JJ Watt. 

14. Baltimore Ravens: Kenyon Green, OL (Texas A&M)

Recent conversations surrounding the Ravens have focused on quarterback Lamar Jackson and a potential contract extension. Regardless of the outcome, they should look to supply him with help on the offensive side of the ball. Enter Kenyon Green, a solid and strong 6'4, 323-pound offensive lineman who has been battled-tested through his experience in the ever-talented SEC and proven to be a pro-ready prospect. He should slot in at guard and be able to create space for ball-carriers in Baltimore ground attack. 

15. Philadelphia Eagles: Garrett Wilson, WR (Ohio State)

Despite trading away top target and tight end Zach Ertz last season, Jalen Hurts and the Eagles managed to make their way to the playoffs. After spending a first round pick on former Heisman Trophy Winner Devonta Smith last year, adding Garrett Wilson should only help to propel the passing game further. An amazing athlete and dynamic playmaker, Wilson would pair well with a refined route-runner in Smith and starting tight end Dallas Goedert who is one of the more talented players at his position. 

16. Philadelphia Eagles: George Karlaftis, DL (Purdue)

Having been a highly productive player since the first day he stepped on a college campus, while physically looking the part of an NFL player, Karlaftis is one of the more interesting individuals in this draft class. A native of Greece, the 6'4, 266-pound prospect has a very similar profile and traits to that of Ryan Kerrrigan who played for the Eagles last season and coincidentally was taken with the 16th pick of the 2011 NFL Draft, the same spot where the Purdue product is projected to be taken. 

17. Los Angeles Chargers: Chris Olave, WR (Ohio State)

While there are plenty of pass catchers in this current draft class, few, if any, are more well-rounded at the wide receiver position than Chris Olave. A four-year performer for the Buckeyes, the California native completed an outstanding college career in Columbus as the all-time leader in TD receptions for Ohio State. An above-average route runner, with plus ball skills, and the speed to separate from defenders Olave would compliment receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams very well, making Justin Herbert happy.

18. New Orleans Saints: Kenny Pickett, QB (Pittsburgh)

Pickett became Pitt's all-time leader in passing TDs, surpassing NFL Hall of Famer Dan Marino. With a wealth of experience at the college level, the New Jersey native improved immensely during his senior season, leading his team to the ACC Championship. His awareness, improvisation, and processing are all positive traits that should allow him to compete for a starting spot as a rookie. The Saints currently have Jameis Winston, Andy Dalton, and Taysom Hill on their roster, could use a franchise caller for the future. 

19. Philadelphia Eagles: Leo Chenal, LB (Wisconsin)

A big, physical, and strong prospect, Chenal comprises the body type of a NFL linebacker in the 90's and 2000's while retaining the agility and athleticism at the position that is attractive in the modern era. At 6'3, 250 pounds running a 4.53 40-yard dash, while revealing a 40.5-inch vert, there aren't many athletes in the NFL that can match his combination of size and explosiveness, especially on the defensive side of the ball. He'd add solid depth to a group that currently consists of TJ Edwards, Kyzir White, and Haason Reddick. 

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Desmond Ridder, QB (Cincinnati)

The Ben Roethlisberger-era ended last season when the future Hall of Fame QB decided to retire. Now with Mitch Trubisky, Dwayne Haskins, and Mason Rudolph on the roster, the potential to add a promising signal caller to be the future face of the franchise seems feasible. Ridder is a proven winner with traits to translate successfully at the next level, including mobility, pocket presence, and processing. Coach Mike Tomlin has shown interest in drafting a quarterback and reportedly had dinner with Ridder. 

21. New England Patriots: Jahan Dotson, WR (Penn State)

The Patriots have drafted wide receivers previously with varying returns on their investment, yet having taken QB Mac Jones in the first round last year, it would be wise to support him with some pass catchers he can develop chemistry with. Dotson, a dynamic playmaker at Penn State, could offer an outlet for the Patriots as he combines smooth route running, slick ball skills, and an understanding of how to seek and settle into open space, making himself a consistently available target. 

22. Green Bay Packers: George Pickens, WR (Georgia)

The Packers will likely address the wide receiver position during some point of the 2022 NFL Draft, if not with multiple picks. With this pick they project to take George Pickens from Georgia, who stayed on the radar of NFL scouts all season, even as he rehabbed from a torn ACL he suffered last spring. Pickens proved himself to be a promising prospect as he led the Bulldogs in receiving as a true freshman and sophomore in 2019 and 2020 and has began to regain his health, helping him regain his draft stock. 

23. Arizona Cardinals: Tyler Linderbaum, OL (Iowa)

Earning outstanding grades and praise by statistical analysis and scouts alike, Linderbaum will enter the league with as much mention of that of a true center in recent memory. Having a background as a former high school wrestler, the traits show up in his performance on the field, showcasing elite snap to step quickness, ability to climb to the second level, and feel for oncoming blitz from the defense. Coach Kliff Kingsbury and Kyler Murray would love what Linderbaum could do for their open, up-tempo offense. 

24. Dallas Cowboys: Trevor Penning, OT (Northern Iowa)

Once having what was considered the best offensive line in the NFL a few years ago, the Cowboys have seen their play upfront suffer as a result of various injuries and transactions that have taken away from the cohesion and effectiveness that unit once displayed. 2021 starters Connor Williams and La'el Collins have since departed, leaving Dallas to have to do damage control to maintain quality depth to protect Dak Prescott. Penning provides a physical demeanor, while adding excellent size and speed at tackle.

25. Buffalo Bills: Trent McDuffie, CB (Washington)

The Bills season ended in heartbreaking fashion last year when star QB Josh Allen went toe-to-toe against Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in the playoffs. Unable to stop the Chiefs from scoring a touchdown in overtime prevented Buffalo from being able to advance to the AFC Championship. Had McDuffie been on the field, he may have made a difference as the competitive corner with coverage skills in both man and zone, breaks on the ball with burst, and is a tremendous tackler at his size.

26. Tennessee Titans: Breece Hall, RB (Iowa State)

Despite Derrick Henry returning from his injury prior to the end of last season, the time he was absent and recovering, illustrated the Titans lack of a back who could pick up the slack should something similar occur again. Bring in Breece Hall who brings a balance of patience, power, and speed, that should allow him to succeed in the NFL. A productive and proven playmaker, Hall led the FBS in rushing during 2020 with 1,572 yards and had 5 touchdowns for his career go for 75+ yards. 

27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jameson Williams, WR (Alabama)

Tampa Bay received a boost when Tom Brady announced last month that he would un-retire, following the decision he made at the end of the 2021 season. It'll be interesting to see how the Bucs choose to use their first round pick, with head coach Bruce Arians stepping down to be succeeded by defensive mind and former Jets head coach Todd Bowles. Still, Brady will need someone to help space the field and Williams possess elite speed, electric playmaking ability, and overall upside that should be of benefit. 

28. Green Bay Packers: Bernhard Raimann, OT (Central Michigan)

A transition from tight end to offensive tackle in 2020 was taken well enough by Raimann that he was able to impress scouts entering the 2021 season. While the European prospect remains relatively raw in his development as an offensive lineman, he has positively picked up certain aspects at the position that have allowed him to perform effectively and show signs of promising potential that has been untapped. At 6'6, 303 pounds he flashes above-average agility, balance, and competitiveness that could be built upon. 

29. Kansas City Chiefs: Dax Hill, DB (Michigan)

While much of the focus when it comes to the Chiefs centers around quarterback Patrick Mahomes and the offense, a secondary led by Tyrann Mathieu the last few years have been big in the success of the squad. Now with the veteran defensive back a free agent it would be wise for the AFC West team to address the position as their divisional opponents each made improvements to their passing attack. Hill will provide awareness, versatility, and speed to supply the secondary with similar traits to Mathieu. 

30. Kansas City Chiefs: Treylon Burks, WR (Arkansas)

Veteran wide receivers JuJu Smith-Schuster and Marquez Valdes-Scantling signing with the Chiefs should help mitigate for the trade of Tyreek Hill. However, that shouldn't prevent the front office from finding another playmaker for their franchise QB. Treylon Burks is a big, physical receiver who is capable of being aligned just about anywhere in an offense and always a threat to make a play. Difficult to tackle in the open field, the former Razorback could form another 1-2 punch for Kansas City with Travis Kelce.

31. Cincinnati Bengals: Devonte Wyatt, DL (Georgia)

The Bengals were able to make it to the Super Bowl led by QB Joe Burrow, but if they are to sustain a similar level of success they will have to support him by balancing their offensive talent with depth on defense. While Jordan Davis was the main man the media made mention of on Georgia's defense, Wyatt was as disruptive as any player on the Bulldog defense. Often in the backfield of opponents, the 6'3, 305-pound defensive lineman has extreme quickness in the interior with a knack for finding the ball-carrier.

32. Detroit Lions: David Ojabo, ED (Michigan)

Having previously projected the Lions to take Aidan Hutchinson, here they're tabbed to take his Michigan teammate. Ojabo exploded with a standout 2021 season, often rushing opposite Hutchinson. A rangy edge rusher with the ability to dip and slip around offensive tackles, and a nose for the football (5 forced fumbles last season) the Nigerian-native tore his achilles during Michigan's pro day. He'd be a steal at this spot and give Detroit potentially two dominant edge rushers, similar to what the duo did for Michigan.