The 2022 NFL draftIt was Saturday. The most significant thing to happen on Saturday was a quarterback being interviewed. taken with the last pick, a spot dubbed “Mr. Irrelevant.”
Because after a 2021 draftTalent evaluators clearly noticed that QBs were ranked 1-2-3, 11th and 15th respectively. thought this class of signal-callers wasn’t worth much. One player was eliminated in each of the first two rounds. The fifth QB was not taken until the end the fourth round. It meant that there was a lot of fall. Malik Willis, Desmond Ridder, Matt CorralAnd Sam Howell.
This draft was dominated wide receiversAnd Georgia Bulldogs.
Regardless if your team was selected for a QB, WR, or future steal, there is reason to be hopeful. What was the most important question your team faced when entering the draft? What’s next?
We asked NFL Nation reporters to give us their top questions and answers. Check out their post-draft insights below. See what ESPN draft analysts have to say. Mel Kiper Jr.And Todd McShayConsider the class of each team. Then scan the full classes for every teamCheck out the big-picture takeawaysRound 7:
Jump to
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
AFC EAST
What’s next for Bills’ secondary after tackling cornerback in a major way through the draft?
The Bills reacted to their greatest need by trading up in round one to draft a Florida cornerback Kaiir Elam. After also drafting Villanova defensiveback Christian BenfordBuffalo has brought in key talent to its secondary. What a difference those players made, particularly Elam, who will soon be the opposite. Tre’Davious WhiteOnce White is fully healthy, the Bills defense will have another strong year. This will be possible if they perform together. Although they didn’t go after safety in the draft specifically, veteran safety is something to watch. Jordan Poyer. Poyer, who has one year left on his contract has asked for a contract extension. He has not taken part in any voluntary offseason programs. — Alaina Getzenberg
How confident are the Dolphins’ coaches in the offensive line?
Although they only had four picks in 2022’s draft, the Dolphins didn’t spend any of those picks on an offensive lineman, even though GM Chris Grier said offensive line was the best position group this year. Miami made two significant additions to their tackle line. Terron ArmsteadGuard Connor WilliamsIt is, however, lacking depth in the interior — particularly at center. This season, the league’s worst pass-blocking unit has no place to go but up. The new coaching staff clearly believes they can develop a team that includes four of the top-100 draft picks. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Did the Patriots play enough defense to make the difference in the Patriots’ win?
Through the first five round, the Patriots only had two defensive picks: cornerbacks. Marcus JonesAnd Jack JonesIt was quite a surprise. Patriots pass on deep linebacker class, but they are betting on their new-look linebacker corp of 2021 fifth round picks. Cameron McGroneTrade acquisition Mack WilsonReturnee Ja’Whaun Bentleyto assist in changing the course. They also extended defensive backs Devin McCourtyAnd Adrian Phillips(during 2021 season), while bringing back veteran safety Jabrill PeppersCornerback Malcolm ButlerIn free agency. Yes, they made moves leading up to the draft… but they may have missed a great opportunity to do even more. — Mike Reiss
Is the run defence vulnerable up the middle of the field?
The Jets have lost their most run-stuffing, defensive lineman in free agent (Folorunso FatukasiJaguars), making them thin at defensive tackle. At the moment, the starters Quinnen Williams(Probably) Sheldon RankinsHe is a better run-defender than he is pass-rusher. They signed the journeyman Solomon ThomasHe’s not the best fit for DE, however, he is undersized. They should also add a widebody to their post-draft agency. If the Eagles’ Fletcher CoxIf he is available, it’s worth checking him out. — Rich Cimini
AFC NORTH
What will the Ravens do to replace them? Marquise Brown?
Baltimore did not use any of its 11 picks to draft a wide receiver following the Brown trade to the Cardinals. This was because Eric DeCosta, general manager of the Baltimore Ravens, stated that the receivers were drafted at a least one round earlier than they expected. Brown’s departure means that none of the six wide receivers have more than 53 career catch totals. The Ravens have the option to sign a free agent such as Will Fuller VBrown can either stretch the field as well as trade for one. Even if Rashod BatemanFills the No. Baltimore is looking for a proven second option to fill the No. Lamar JacksonExternal. — Jamison Hensley
Which rookie could have an immediate impact on the most?
Let’s see what happens! Cordell Volson? The North Dakota State offensive lineman was selected to be a Guard. Volson and the Bengals coaches mentioned that Volson were competing for playing time. This could suggest that there is a battle for left guard in 2021. Jackson CarmanWas considered to be the front-runner. Volson used the COVID-19-pandemic extra year to play another year at NDSU. He could thus reduce the learning curve, and be able to apply immediately for the job. — Ben Baby
When will the Browns make their move for a QB? Baker Mayfield?
Browns attempted to negotiate a Mayfield trade with the Panthers Friday, but could not complete the deal. Carolina instead chose to move up and draft Ole Miss QB. Matt CorralIn the third round. There are fewer potential suitors for Mayfield. Cleveland might have to swallow the $19 million guaranteed contract to keep him. Jake Trotter
1:21
Jeremy Fowler discusses Baker Mayfield and Deebo Sam’s plans to trade despite little or no progress during the NFL draft.
Who will be the starting quarterback in Week 1?
The Steelers’ most important question before the draft is also their biggest question after it: Who will become the starting quarterback? Drafting Kenny PickettIt doesn’t answer this question. Pickett will be available Week 1 but Pickett is not ready. Mitch TrubiskyThe Steelers will decide whether the rookie is ready to play or if it’s better to stick with the veteran in free agency. Mike Tomlin stated Pickett will have the chance to compete for the job. But, if he wins, what happens to all the others? Will Trubisky serve as backup? Mason RudolphBe put on the trade list? Steelers will have months to find an answer but the evaluation begins in the offseason training program. — Brooke Pryor
AFC SOUTH
Does drafting Derek Stingley Jr. Do you have enough knowledge to improve the secondary?
Although they had many options to improve their defense, the Texans chose to draft at cornerback with their top selection. He joins a Houston defense that allowed the second-most yards per game last season and was 29th in yards per pass attempt allowed, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Houston also increased safety Jalen PitreThe second round was completed by a veteran cornerback. Steven NelsonHouston’s secondary will likely not be among the best in league, even though it should be. — Sarah Barshop
Did the Colts acquire a quarterback? Matt RyanThere are enough weapons to go around?
Yes. Yes. Ryan was helped by the Colts selecting receivers. Alec PierceIn the second round, tight ends Jelani WoodsAnd Andrew OgletreeIn the sixth round. The Colts aren’t closing the door to resigning as a free agent. T.Y. HiltonHe spent the first ten years of his professional career with the franchise. They expect to resolve Hilton’s status in near future. Mike Wells
There are no receivers. What’s the deal?
The Jaguars believe they did enough free agency, adding WRs Christian KirkAnd Zay JonesTE Evan Engram— To give the second-year quarterback Trevor LawrenceThere are more targets. The Jaguars were more concerned with adding players to the defense, particularly at linebacker and pass rush, and finding a replacement center Brandon Linder. After doing this, they decided that no tight end or receiver would make an impact. These positions will be of high priority next offseason. — Michael DiRocco
What did the Titans do to compensate for the loss? A.J. Brown?
Adding Treylon BurksTrade Brown could help to offset some of the loss in playmaking ability. Burks’s dynamic yards after catching should transfer to NFL. Brown has been compared to him. Tennessee will be blessed with a powerful pass-catching tandem if Robert WoodsIs able to recover from a torn ACL. Fifth-round selection Kyle PhilipsHe is the wildcard. He is the wild card. Fourth-round picks are worth mentioning Chigoziem Okonkwo, who is another yards-after-the-catch specialist and matchup problem. To make up the loss of Brown, it will take a group. There are still many questions. Turron Davidnport
AFC WEST
Is the offensive line enough for the Broncos?
George Paton, general manager, had made the transition from free agency to the draft weekend. Right tackle was one of the things on his list. The Broncos signed tackles Tom ComptonAnd Billy TurnerIn free agency and brought Calvin AndersonThey went back but did not select a tackle from their nine draft picks. Fifth round pick Luke WattenbergThe selections included only one offensive lineman, who was also a Washington guard and a center. Heading into the offseason workouts left tackle Garett BollesIt would appear that this position is the only one on the depth chart, as Nathaniel Hackett promises plenty of competition. — Jeff Legwold
How efficient will the offense be now that the Chiefs have been traded? Tyreek Hill?
While the Chiefs may not have Hill’s impressive skillset as a receiver anymore, they do have a larger group of catchers. Patrick Mahomes‘ passes. It is a fascinating combination of Andy Reid’s offensive creativity and this fact. Although it may take some time for the Chiefs to put all the pieces together, it would be a huge disappointment if they didn’t produce anything close to Hill’s lineup. — Adam Teicher
What will the Raiders’ next regime look like to boost the roster after hitting both the running back and line hard in the draft?
After being drafted two versatile O’linemen, a pair defensive tackles and two runningbacks (a day following declining the fifth year option on one-time Pro Bowler), Josh JacobsThe Raiders have still got depth problems at the linebacker and in the secondary. Las Vegas is expected to fill the gap between undrafted rookies, and those remaining unsigned vets. Thanks to the cuts to defensive end Carl Nassib (linebackers) and offensive linebacker, the Raiders will be able to use $20 million of cap space on June 1 to make signings. Cory LittletonAnd Nick Kwiatkoski. — Paul Gutierrez
Are the Chargers doing enough to get out of the loaded AFC West?
In 2021, the Chargers missed the playoffs by a narrow margin. They now face a potentially even more difficult task in the AFC West, which has a Super Bowl-winning quarterback Russell WilsonAll Pro receiver Davante AdamsOver the offseason. However, the Bolts made serious upgrades as well — trading for an outside linebacker Khalil Mack, signing Pro Bowl cornerback J.C. JacksonTo protect the star quarterback, invest once more in a draft offensive lineman in the first round. Justin Herbert. However, only time will show if they are able to put the pieces together and end a three-year playoff drought. — Lindsey Thiry
NFC EAST
Can the Cowboys be considered legitimate contenders?
The Cowboys remain the favorite in NFC East, despite the differences in quarterback play. The goal is to be more than just better than the Eagles, Commanders and Giants. It’s to be amongst the best in the NFC. The Cowboys have lost some talent from their 12-5 team last season and haven’t added any major free agents. However, they believe they received great value even though they were late in the draft. The Cowboys must have the picks they want, but they also need to keep the good ones on the roster. — Todd Archer
Are the Giants now able to fix their offensive line?
They hope so. Giants have just invested in a top-10 pick as well as a third-rounder for the offensive line. Two years ago, they did the exact same thing. Andrew ThomasAnd Matt Peart. It’s not a great look for Peart, but Thomas is. Evan NealShould give the Giants bookend tackles. This is a great start. Add free agent acquisitions Mark GlowinskiAnd Jon FelicianoThere are a few young candidates in the left guard and it seems they may be on to something. — Jordan Raanan
1:23
Take a look at Evan Neal’s résumé as an offensive lineman at Alabama and what he can bring to the NFL.
Who will play in the second?
Safety and cornerback were the most urgent needs in the draft, and the Eagles did not use any of their picks to fill those roles. Howie Roseman, general manager, stated that there were not many opportunities to pick a safety or corner from a value standpoint when the Eagles were on the clock. There aren’t any clear winners. Darius SlayAnd Anthony HarrisFor the moment. They will be looking to the remaining agents for help. The Eagles are in touch with safety. Tyrann MathieuRoseman stated that nothing is imminent for the offseason — but they will need to bring in some younger players. Tim McManus
Did they replace Landon Collins in the big nickel package, also known as the Buffalo nickel?
Maybe. Monday morning, the Commanders will meet to review what they still require and to decide if they are still in need of this large nickel role. Collins could be contacted again. Collins was an integral part of their defense. Collins was their best defensive player last year. He played the hybrid safety/linebacker position, which allowed them three safeties on field. They love fourth-round safety. Percy ButlerHe is just 200 pounds, and has exceptional speed and toughness. They may also be able to acquire another linebacker that can play inside — they are in dire need of more — and could even consider a third linebacker. Cole HolcombThis role is sometimes filled. They often played the Buffalo nickel package, more than half the time. It’s a critical role that they must fill. — John Keim
NFC NORTH
Will the Bears get more weapons? Justin Fields?
Only one of Chicago’s 11 draft picks went to a wide receiver. Velus Jones Jr. Selection at No. 71. Jones is a strong kickoff returner and a good offensive player, but his college career was six years long. The Bears have few options. Darnell MooneyAnd Byron PringleSo signing a veteran wide receiver shouldn’t be a problem. Ryan Poles, general manger, said that “if that’s what we need to do, then we will.” “If we are comfortable with our group, we will continue to search for talent.” Courtney Cronin
Is the defensive approach the best?
Yes. Yes. The Lions were last year ranked as one of the worst defensive teams in league. It was wise to attack the defense, especially with Michigan’s. Aidan HutchinsonAt No. 2. They used six of their eight picks for defensive guys. These moves are not for everyone, but they show their determination to improve. Eric Woodyard
How much will it cost? Aaron RodgersTake part in the offseason program
By showing up on a single day last week, he surprised Matt LaFleur and worked out with the team. He has also indicated that he will be attending the minicamp in June. He probably won’t be available much other than that. What will that mean for the three draft picks plus and the new receivers? Sammy Watkins. Brian Gutekunst, the General Manager, actually said something very interesting. He stated that it was okay to let some guys get familiar with our offense a bit before he arrives. Rob Demovsky
Are the Vikings now more talented after trading down in the draft?
They are better in certain areas, particularly in the secondary. Safety was the second player drafted in the draft. Lewis CineAnd Andrew Booth Jr. — who should and could be one of their top five defensivebacks. However, the Vikings hope that a new coaching team can help them get more wins from their inherited nucleus. — Kevin Seifert
NFC SOUTH
How will the offense look?
Receiver Drake LondonHe will be the clear No. The Falcons have a clear No. 1 this year, but there are still a lot of questions. With the fifth-round pick, the running back room was more crowded. Tyler AllgeierBYU. Atlanta still has strong offensive line competition. This is what the quarterback room looks to be between Marcus MariotaAnd Desmond RidderThis will be one the most intriguing stories of the autumn. When you’re a team that is trying to rebuild its entire roster, this is how it goes. — Michael Rothstein
How close were they to trading? Baker Mayfield vs. drafting Ole Miss quarterback Matt Corral?
Carolina clearly had the interest. Multiple sources say that the Browns did not agree with the Panthers’ request for Mayfield’s 2022 salary of $18.58 million. Without this, it was impossible for this to work. Scott Fitterer, general manager, wanted to find a young quarterback with a contract that was cost-effective. Corral gave him that opportunity in the third round. Fitterer was actually in Seattle when the Seahawks acquired Fitterer in 2012. Russell WilsonIn the third round. — David Newton
New Orleans to sign Tyrann MathieuOder Jarvis Landry now?
Before the draft, the Saints met with both LSU players and left the door open to a signing if necessary. The Saints dealt up for WR. Chris OlaveIn Round 1. They lost their starters, but safety is still an important concern. Marcus WilliamsAnd Malcolm JenkinsThis offseason. Mickey Loomis, general manager, didn’t give any specifics but said that New Orleans still had one “must-have” on its roster. Mike Triplett
Does drafting defensive tackle Logan HallAnd tight ends Cade OttonAnd Ko KieftClose the door Ndamukong SuhAnd Rob Gronkowski returning?
Jason Licht, general manager of the team, stated that Suh was not going to be returning unless there were injuries. The team wants to become younger and more agile inside. Gronk was not the only player who could replace him, but Licht stated that he is still given that time and they still talk. — Jenna Laine
NFC WEST
Is the offense ready for deep playoff runs?
It is hard to argue otherwise. The Cardinals traded for a first-round draft pick. Marquise BrownThey will be a bona-fide No. 2 receivers behind DeAndre Hopkins. They also included the tightest end in the draft. Trey McBrideThere were also a few interior offensive linemen and an athletic back in the draft. Arizona will have enough depth to withstand an injury bug if at least half of them succeed. After Hopkins’s death in late-season, Arizona’s greatest problem was that no receiver could scare defenses enough to make a difference in a game plan. Kliff Kingsbury also failed to adapt the offense to allow for Hopkins to continue. Arizona should have no problems this season with Brown and other depth options. However, this might be a difficult task. — Josh Weinfuss
Was the Rams able to maintain their outstanding offensive line play in 2022?
After left tackle Andrew Whitworth’s retirement and right guard being replaced, the Rams led the NFL with pass block win rates in 2021. However, they lost two of their starters in their Super Bowl LVI victory. Austin CorbettIn free agency, he signed with the Carolina Panthers. Los Angeles had a strong defensive-heavy draft. However, the team used its first pick (No. 104 overall) on guard Logan BrussHe will be competing immediately to become the Rams’ right-guard. Bruss, who used their cap space in free agency to make this possible, is a solid choice to be a contender for a starting position. — Sarah Barshop
0:56
Here are the highlights of Logan Bruss, Wisconsin’s guard, from his college career.
Where will the 49ers go after this? Deebo SamuelAnd Jimmy Garoppolo?
Samuel was held on by the Niners during the draft. They remain optimistic that any damage done can be repaired in an acceptable manner for both sides. That would mean that Samuel and the Niners could agree to a long-term agreement before they go to training camp. Garoppolo is unlikely to get anything before he has a clean bill. It could happen by the end of June, or even early July. It is not clear if he will find a landing spot, but the Niners do not expect any other teams to be interested until his shoulder is fully healed. — Nick Wagoner
Why didn’t the Seahawks draft an experienced quarterback?
They didn’t like any of these options in a draft that was particularly bad for QBs. At least, not at any of the nine spots they chose. They didn’t want to pick someone they weren’t confident enough to be a factor in their competition. Drew LockAnd Geno Smith. Baker Mayfield would be a great trade target if Cleveland was allowed to keep at least a portion of his $19 million salary. — Brady Henderson