NFL mock draft 2022 – NFL Nation reporters make predictions for the first round

This is the most unpredictable draft you’ve ever seen. The top pick isn’t a sure thing.

You’ve seen the latest mock drafts from ESPN gurus. Mel Kiper Jr.And Todd McShayIt is not one. in which they collaborated.

Our NFL Nation reporters are now invited to share their expertise about the 2022 NFL draft. We close in on Round 1. ET, Thursday, ABC/ESPN/ESPN App).

NFL Nation reporters played the role of general manager for their teams and performed a mock-round on Tuesday night. There were three quarterbacks (including one with last round’s pick) and seven wide receivers at the end. The first one came in the No. 10. Trades were prohibited

Here are the complete results

Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Michigan

Offensive tackles Ikem EkwonuAnd Evan NealBoth defensive and offensive end Travon WalkerWhile they are in play, the Jaguars choose to go with the player that helps them overcome their biggest weakness: pass rush. Over the past two seasons, the Jaguars have sacked opposing quarterbacks 50-0. That’s less than the Jets (47), but that won’t get them anywhere in a conference. Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen, Joe BurrowYou get the idea. Hutchinson’s addition means that opponents can no longer focus on stopping DE/LB. Josh Allen. Mike DiRocco

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Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon

The Lions finished 3-13-1 and have many needs that they can address. However, at No. They desperately need a game-changer at No. Thibodeaux will be that change for the franchise. Thibodeaux’s energy and explosive first step can help a Lions defense, which ranked 31st for points surrendered per match (27.5). Thibodeaux was a unanimous All-American at Oregon where he recorded seven sacks. Penei SewellHe was his teammate. Eric Woodyard

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Evan NealOT, Alabama

The Texans may not be certain Davis MillsThey know that their quarterback of the future is not yet available, but they want to make sure they do. Trades are not allowed. Laremy TunsilHouston will retain its 2019 first-round selection in the offseason and drafting Neal Tytus HowardGuard. The Texans’ offensive line struggled last season, allowing 44 sacks with a 40% team pass rush win rate, according to research by ESPN Stats & Information. Neal is the third-ranked player on ESPN and played at both left guard and tackle at Alabama. — Sarah Barshop

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Ikem EkwonuOT, NC State

Defensive end Travon Walker is tempting because he plays a need position and his measurables are off the charts, but GM Joe Douglas sticks with his best-player-available philosophy. Ekwonu, a safe pick, has tremendous upside and can start at either left or right tackle. Ekwonu brings a lot of bad luck to the running game. Although the Giants do not require a tackle per se, that could change. Mekhi BectonShe is now free from knee surgery, and she has struggled with weight issues. George FantHe is entering his final year of contract. This would mark the third consecutive year that they have taken a lineman into the first round. Overkill? Yes, it might be, but that is Douglas’ way of doing business. — Rich Cimini

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Travon WalkerGeorgia, DE

With the board falling, the top offensive tackles are gone. But perhaps the Giants have the top edge player staring them in the face. Walker is too valuable to pass up. Walker is the Giants’ top-tier edge rusher, and they are in love with his potential. Since trading, the Giants haven’t had a top-tier pass rusher. Jason Pierre-Paul. They have only had one edge rusher since 2015 (Markus Golden) reach double-digit sacks. It is hard to believe that they are still the dominant team at this position. Walker’s output at Georgia was very limited. However, it is possible to believe that more opportunities will allow for rapid change. — Jordan Raanan

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Malik WillisQB, Liberty

Carolina should trade back to recoup any second- or three-round picks it lost last year in trades. However, the most important needs are left tackle as well as quarterback. The Panthers will take Willis, who is the most experienced quarterback among them, as their top tackle. They can survive without Willis. Brady Christensenat the left tackle They won’t live with Sam Darnold at quarterback. Willis poses a risk but, as Ben McAdoo, the offensive coordinator, noted, he is a “swing for fences” guy. This is a swing that could provide a long-term solution in a position that has been problematic since more than three seasons. — David Newton

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Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

Okay, it is going to be a problem for the fans to not get a right deal with any of these top-seven picks. It worked out this way. Yes, the Giants are very high on Mississippi State’s offensive tackle Charles Cross. There are definitely some people who support him. Gardner was also a strong supporter, as he didn’t allow any receiving touchdowns in his three years at Cincinnati. With James BradberryCornerback is a great choice. Cornerback is a valuable position and fills a huge need this year and beyond. — Jordan Raanan

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Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

The Falcons need everything. The selection of wide receiver was heavily discussed with the top edge rushers, but it is actually a versatile player who will make Dean Pees’ defense system even better. Hamilton may have the highest draft floor and makes Atlanta a solid prospect. — Michael Rothstein

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Jermaine Johnson IIFSU, DE

Offensive tackle Charles CrossCornerback Derek Stingley Jr.There are many options in this scenario as each could address larger needs. Johnson is, in my opinion, a better prospect than Cross. He’s also a safer pick that Stingley who’s just gotten back from a foot injury. An organization that has made a lot of mistakes in recent years and can’t afford not to pick its first top-10 draft since 2010, might find this important. Johnson has big-time production on his résumé (12 sacks last season en route to being named ACC Defensive Player of the Year) and the body type (6-foot-5, 250) the Seahawks are looking for at outside linebacker in their 3-4 defense. Coach Pete Carroll is unable to have enough pass rushers. Johnson would be a good addition to that group. Darrell Taylor, Uchenna NwosuAnd Jamal Adams. — Brady Henderson

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Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State

Failure to trade Deebo SamuelThe Jets must draft a wide receiver in their first round. A true WR1 is needed for the second-year QB. Zach Wilson. Drake LondonHe is attractive because of his 6-foot-4 frame and catch radius. But Wilson’s explosiveness, separation and explosiveness give him an edge. He would fit right in with Elijah MooreAnd Corey Davis. Since Brandon Marshall (2015), the Jets have not had a Pro Bowl receiving player. They’re overdue. They love them. Jameson WilliamsHowever, this might be too high for a player with a left ACL tear. They could trade him down to keep him in the game, which they might consider. — Rich Cimini

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Drake LondonWR, USC

The Commanders might consider taking on the challenge Charles CrossAnd maybe even the receiver Jameson WilliamsDepending on how confident they feel about when he would return from his left knee torn ACL, it could be. Washington, who loves London, would love to be a target in its receiving group. He stands 6 feet 4 inches tall and offers a wide catch zone for quarterbacks. Carson WentzHe doesn’t always need to spot throws. London makes contested catches, which is something the Commanders love. It shows that not everyone can create separation. However, it also illustrates the type of catches the NFL players make every day. Washington’s offense hasn’t been ranked among the top 10 in points or yards since 2016, so it was important to recruit more talent. — John Keim

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Derek Stingley Jr., CB and LSU

In the seven previous drafts, the Vikings have drafted a cornerback three times in round one. But none of those three — Trae Waynes (2015), Mike Hughes(2018) Jeff Gladney(2020) — Stay with the team. Resignation by the Vikings Patrick PetersonAdd an additional agent for no cost Chandon SullivanHowever, the position requires the type of energetic infusion Stingley is able to provide. Stingley’s injuries can’t be overlooked, but he is a top-five prospect even without them. No. 12 is a high-risk position. 12. is more than reasonable. — Kevin Seifert

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Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State

Another pick to strengthen a position of need by the Texans. Olave is an agile receiver that will provide Davis Mills with another option. Brandin CooksSecond-year Pro Nico Collins. Although he never surpassed 1,000 yards receiving in four college seasons as a standout at Ohio State, he did score 13 touchdowns in 2022. The Houston team gains another player and improves a situation that is in dire need. Houston’s offense was ranked 29th in Football Outsiders pass DVOA last season. Adding protection in Neal, and a playmaker like Olave, should help to improve that. — Sarah Barshop

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Jordan DavisDT, Georgia

Although the Ravens have pressing needs for cornerback and pass-rusher, they cannot pass up Davis, who would be their most highly-rated player on board. Baltimore is a big, fast, and intimidating place to draft a lineman. No one better fits that description than the “Godzilla” nose tackle. Davis is a solid foundation piece for the Ravens’ front seven, even though they didn’t sign long-serving defensive tackle. Brandon Williams. Davis, who was predominantly a run-stopper at college, will have high expectations. Haloti Ngata was the Ravens’ only interior defensive lineman who was drafted in round one. He is a five-time Pro Bowler and a relentless game wrecker. — Jamison Hensley

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Jameson WilliamsWR, Alabama

If Baltimore hadn’t grabbed Davis, Davis would have been the pick. Howie Roseman, general manager, could make a trade for the 6-foot-6, 341 pound linebacker. Williams is the best receiver available, even though it isn’t ideal to pick a receiver from the first round for the third year in a row. Williams’ game-changing speed is worth the wait while he recovers after ACL surgery on his left leg. Co-signed with Alabama’s top players Jalen HurtsAnd DeVonta SmithWilliams’s addition will make the Eagles’ offense even more explosive. Williams averaged 19.9 yards per catch and racked-up 15 touchdowns last year. Tim McManus

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Charles CrossOT, Mississippi State

Quarterback Kenny PickettCross is a compelling possibility. A receiver would be an option if any of the top four prospects were to die. Cross’s value is just too great to pass up in a position of need. It wouldn’t surprise if the Saints traded up for one the best tackles in the draft, after losing a perennial Pro Bowler Terron ArmsteadFree agency. Cross was an elite pass-blocker last season and could be the cornerstone Armstead was for the next ten years. Mike Triplett

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Trevor PenningOT, Northern Iowa

Protecting quarterback Justin HerbertTo realize their potential to make deep playoff runs, it must be a top priority for the Chargers. Last year, the Bolts were selected Rashawn SlaterTo fill a need at left tackle, Penning was selected as a first round pick. They have filled a vacancy in right tackle with the selection Penning. Penning, a three-year starter left tackle at Northern Iowa was 6’7″ and 325 lbs. He is well-known for his physical attributes, including height, wide shoulders, long arms, and a bruising mentality. He’s expected immediately to be a reliable starter. — Lindsey Thiry

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Trent McDuffieWashington

It would be a slight upset if they didn’t pick a defensive player with one of their first-round picks. Both George KarlaftisAnd Devonte WyattThis spot makes sense. They might even have a conversation about quarterbacks, who knows? Kenny PickettAt this pick. But defensive back is screaming for help. The Eagles have yet to find a place for their starting corner. Darius Slay. They seem to have kept the spot open in case they need a CB quickly. McDuffie wasn’t a big player at Washington, but he has the traits and physicality to succeed in zone or man coverage. Tim McManus

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Kenny PickettPitt, QB

It’s not a certain thing that the Saints will draft a quarterback. They may use both of their first-round picks for support Jameis WinstonPickett will be a left tackle and wide receiver. Pickett is too far down in the draft. New Orleans would be a perfect fit for him, as it has an offense that relies on timing and rhythm under Pete Carmichael Jr. Mike Triplett

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Devonte WyattDT, Georgia

With Kenny PickettAnd Malik WillisThe Steelers will be looking at the best available player, in addition to the top-tier cornerbacks and safety options. With one exception, the Steelers focused on the most important positions of need in free agent. Wyatt might be preferred by the Steelers to Wyatt’s Georgia counterpart, nose tackle Jordan DavisWyatt can be a more versatile defensive back. Wyatt provides a boost to the Steelers’ run defense last season. Wyatt’s selection raises concerns off the field, such as his arrest for family violence two years ago. This could lead to Wyatt being dropped from draft boards. The Steelers may then trade back in their hopes of acquiring Wyatt. Desmond RidderAdditional draft capital. — Brooke Pryor

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Devin Lloyd, LB Utah

Although there is likely to be a desire to trade down, there is still the possibility of landing No. Lloyd was drafted as the No. 1 linebacker, and he was drafted this far in the draft. Daxton HillHis ability to play in the corner improves his value. Lloyd, who is similar to 2008’s Patriots selection of Jerod Mayo linebacker (10th overall) in the first round, projects as a four down player and can transform a defense that needs speed and physical abilities. — Mike Reiss

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Treylon BurksWR, Arkansas

The Packers may continue their two-decade-long streak of passing first-round receivers if Burks isn’t available at 22. He could be the Packers’ final receiver at 22. He is both the size and strength (6-2 and 225 respectively) that the Packers lost to him in the Packers. Davante Adams. This should make up any speed issues that may scare some teams. Rob Demovsky

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Christian WatsonWR, North Dakota State

The Cardinals haven’t given quarterback to them. Kyler MurrayAny help in their first two rounds was not available so they have the chance to draft a playmaker that could immediately help Arizona’s offense. Watson’s size (6-foot-4), and speed (4.36 second 40) make him a dynamic addition to the Cardinals offense. The Cardinals have learned a lot from the likes DeAndre HopkinsAnd A.J. GreenIt’s not a bad idea to start in the NFL as a rookie. — Josh Weinfuss

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Zion JohnsonBoston College

Although you could argue for a receiver or pass-rusher, or even linebacker in this case, the Cowboys still haven’t filled their offensive line needs in free agency. They have the option to choose Johnson to be their left guard walk-in starter. He would be the fourth Cowboys offensive line first-rounder since 2011. Tyron SmithTravis Frederick Zack Martin. The Cowboys could have another acclaimed offensive line if he could do what these guys did. — Todd Archer

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Breece Hall, RB, Iowa State

Based on the board’s behavior, it would make sense for Bills to trade up or down. Cornerback is an option that makes sense, both need-wise and in practice. Andrew BoothHowever, there is no position in which Brandon Beane would invest top draft picks. The Bills choose a player who is immediately the No. 1 running back. The Bills draft a running back who can play a key role in the passing game. It is risky to draft a running back in round one. However, at No. Hall immediately improves the offense and there are only a few logical options. — Alaina Getzenberg

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Kenyon Green, G, Texas A&M

Green is an offensive lineman with bad habits. He can finish blocks and plays with a mean streak. This fits well with the Titans physical approach. Green is a three year starter and has played at least four positions on the offensive line. Green’s versatility is an asset to the Titans. His natural fit at left tackle is just what Tennessee needs after Rodger Saffold was released. Green, who has 35 career starts, is a plug and play prospect. Turron Davenport

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Lewis CineS. Georgia

Yes, there are needs for the Bucs at guard and defensive tackle but the team still doesn’t know where tight end is. Rob Gronkowski. But with defensive tackle Devonte WyattGuard Zion JohnsonCine and Daxton HillCine’s skills set was a better match to replace them. Jordan WhiteheadThe Bucs lost a free agent named Cine. Cine is a great thumper who can go downhill fast and covers a lot of ground. They signed! Keanu NealIn free agency, it is a one-year contract and he has a past of injuries. On Day 2, they could still find help in their trenches. — Jenna Laine

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George Karlaftis, DE, Purdue

Brian Gutekunst, GM, loves defense in first round. He was a first-round selection in five other rounds, and four of his picks were on this side. After the release Za’Darius SmithThere is a need to have another pass-rusher, especially one who can rush both from the inside and outside. Rob Demovsky

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Daxton Hill, DB, Michigan

The departure Tyrann MathieuThis leaves a gap in the secondary and free agent additions Justin ReidIt is only one aspect of the solution. Hill’s speed, coverage and ability to cover would enable the Chiefs’ versatility at the back of their defense, which is an important component in Steve Spagnuolo’s system. — Adam Teicher

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George PickensWR, Georgia

Even after signing JuJu Smith-SchusterAnd Marquez Valdes-ScantlingThere is still some playing time at wide receiver this season. Smith-Schuster is the Chiefs’ long-term playmaker. Mecole HardmanPotential free agents at the conclusion of the season. Pickens is a high-end player and it is up to the Chiefs for him to prove that. — Adam Teicher

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Andrew Booth Jr.Clemson, CB, Clemson

Cincinnati is able to avoid the need for an immediate starter in this draft. This allows them to focus on cornerback depth, which Duke Tobin, a team executive, identified as a problem after last year’s Super Bowl loss. Booth is a good player for the Bengals, with speed, length, and the ability to pass the ball in the air. This last aspect is extremely valuable, especially since the Bengals won the AFC and almost the Super Bowl because of their defensive turnovers. Booth recorded three interceptions during his third and last year at Clemson. With Eli AppleAnd Chidobe AwuzieBooth and the other Week 1 starters are projected. Booth can work his way up into the rotation to find his footing in the NFL. — Ben Baby

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Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati

It’s no secret current Lions quarterback Jared GoffThis is the man for now, and possibly even next year. The quarterback depth on this roster can’t be ignored forever. Both David BloughAnd Tim BoyleThey haven’t shown they are capable of running the show in the event that Goff is killed, so the Lions must address this issue immediately. Ridder, a proven winner, ended his college career with 44 wins. As they are rebuilding, the Lions will need this mentality. Eric Woodyard