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The long-term story of the 2022 NFL draftThe NFL Power Rankings’ future performance will depend on how the draftees fare in the years ahead. This version of NFL Power Rankings is more immediate. We chose veterans from each team, whose status was improved by the draft, instead of breaking down rookies (there will still be plenty of time).
There are many ways to bolster your team. After their respective teams failed to pick someone immediately to replace them, veteran players can let out a sigh.New Orleans Saints quarterback Jameis WinstonThe two Seattle quarterbacks are feeling better. Other veterans also received assistance to make their jobs easier next year, whether they are quarterbacks with new targets and blocking or pass-rushers with more help. Others were able to take a little more time off so that they could be fresher later in the season. No matter the motivation, several NFL veterans can be content with their new team members.
How we rank: The power panel, which includes more than 80 editors, writers and TV personalities, evaluated how teams performed throughout the season.
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ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LV | LAC | LAR | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
Ranking of post-free agencies: 1
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:G Cody Ford
The Bills have not addressed the need for an interior offensive lineman in the draft. It would not surprise them to add one or two veterans before training camp. The Bills are able to benefit from the return of interior players, including likely starting right-guard. Ryan BatesHe was brought back by the team after they matched the offer sheet he signed with them. Chicago Bears. Ford is the best reserve without any new additions. Ford is the top reserve in 2019, and the 2019 second-round pick has a lot to prove. — Alaina Getzenberg
Ranking of post-free agencies: 2
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Matthew Stafford
Due to the drafting of the Rams’ sixth consecutive draft, neither a first-rounder nor a second rounder were available. Von MillerTrade, and not drafting until after the compensatory portion. The Rams picked Wisconsin guard with that pick Logan BrussThey now have another player who can compete for the right guard position. Austin CorbettBy leaving for the Panthers in Free Agency, he vacated the position. The Rams have had success in Wisconsin with linemen (right tackle). Rob HavensteinGuard left David EdwardsThey are ex-Badgers), so they hope to return to the field and provide Stafford with protection, in order to help him get the ball to his talented receiving team. — ESPN staff
Post-free agency ranking 4
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Tom Brady
The Bucs invested a second round draft pick at guard Luke GoedekeIn the third round, he brought back a pass-catching run. Rachaad WhiteSelect two ends that are tight in your selection Cade OttonSpecialist in blocking and deterrence Ko KieftTo possibly addTo Rob Gronkowski. The Bucs will always be looking to the future, but their draft decisions are very much a reflection of their win-now mindset. — Jenna Laine
Post-free agency ranking 3
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: DE Frank Clark
Chiefs select edge defender George KarlaftisDespite being drafted in the first round by the Chiefs, the depth chart at the defensive end is still very thin. Clark was drafted even though he is not eligible for the draft. after accepting a pay cutTo avoid being released, Clark is a key figure for Chiefs. The Chiefs will need Clark to give them a huge season, unless Karlaftis has an exceptional rookie season or they get unexpected help from other sources. — Adam Teicher
Post-free agency ranking 6
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:DT Kenny Clark
Clark was the Packers’ interior defense line player that was going up against double-teams. Clark was the second of two Packers first-round picks. Devonte Wyatt (No. 28 overall), is worth some attention. It could allow Clark to be freed up more often. The Packers are clearly trying to build a championship defenseClark is a standout player, so it’s a good thing to have more players. — Rob Demovsky
1:27
Booger McFarland explained that Aaron Rodgers needs to make his team stronger if the Packers are to reach the Super Bowl.
Ranking of post-free agencies: 5
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: LB Germaine Pratt
Pratt, who was a fourth round pick in 2019, had his best season in ’21. He demonstrated what he can do off-ball as a linebacker. He was the game-sealing interceptionIn the AFC wild-card match against the Raiders, it was the team’s first playoff victory since 1981. The Bengals didn’t draft any of their linebacker draftees this year, despite hitting the position with three draftees in 2020. Pratt is now entering his final year of his rookie deal. Pratt could feel more confident knowing that Cincinnati is in a position to replace its starters with draft-class players. — Ben Baby
Ranking of post-free agencies: 7
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Justin Herbert
The Chargers chose a guard in Zion JohnsonWho is it? figures to be a Day 1 starterRunning back and, Isaiah SpillerHe is a valuable alternative to Austin EkelerThey drafted two of their top three draft picks. Herbert saw the Chargers sign receivers, which is even better news. Mike WilliamsAdd tight ends Gerald EverettIn free agency. — Adam Teicher
Post-free agency ranking 9
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: LB Micah Parsons
Parsons won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. The Cowboys want Parsons’ versatility to continue. Jerry Jones has described Parsons’ position in the Cowboys as a “Micah” player. Parsons can play the role of a linebacker. He is a pass rusher. If the Cowboys had not been selected Sam WilliamsIn the second round they would have kept the plan in place but Williams presents Parsons and Cowboys. with more options. Williams enters a pass-rush pool DeMarcus Lawrence, Dorance ArmstrongAnd Dante Fowler Jr. Parsons can move easily between positions, especially with the help of Leighton Vander EschReturn of’s via free agency and Jabril CoxThe return of injury. — Todd Archer
Post-free agency ranking 8
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: WR Deebo Samuel
The Niners used two of their three first picks to select a running back, and a receiver. This was a good move for the quarterback. Trey Lance. Samuel could benefit from the draft, despite how strange it may sound. Samuel was responsible to 28% of the Niners’ yards scrimmage in 2021. This was the fourth highest number by an NFL player. Samuel wants to keep playing a major role and getting the ball, but it is important that he does not lose any of his responsibilities. his dispute with the NinersHis potential longevity is a concern. It stands to reason that he could be assisted at running back and other skill positions to ease his workload and resolve his problems with the team. — Nick Wagoner
Ranking of post-free agencies: 12
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: WR Rashod Bateman
Bateman is unquestionably the No. 1 wide receiver for Lamar JacksonAfter the Ravens trade Marquise “Hollywood” BrownThe Cardinals, and didn’t use any of their 11 draft choices on a wide receiver. Bateman was Baltimore’s top-ranked pick last year. He showed signs of being a target for the rookies and has worked hard to establish a relationship with Jackson through their regular throwing sessions this offseason. He will have many opportunities now that Brown is gone, his 146 targets ranking 10th among the NFL’s last season. — Jamison Hensley
Post-free agency ranking 11
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: WR Robert Woods
Woods hasn’t played as a Titans football player, but he was quickly elevated to the No. After the team traded, Woods became the No.1 receiver. A.J. Brownto the Eagles. Brown was responsible for 23% Titans’ receiving yards last year to Philadelphia. Woods will likely get the most targets from the quarterback. Ryan TannehillBrown was targeted by a lot of receivers since Week 7, when he became the starter. Woods won’t be the only one who targets Brown in the passing game. Tennessee was chosen Treylon BurksWith the pick it received in exchange for Brown. Burks could be a good complement to Woods. — Turron Davenport
1:42
Matthew Berry and Field Yates both see value in Treylon Burks, Rashod Bateman among fantasy receivers.
Post-free agency ranking 10
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:RB Melvin Gordon III
After the Broncos had concluded their pre-draft meetings they weren’t too excited about the available class of running backs. They signed Gordon just two days before the draft. Gordon had previously drawn interest from leaguewide in free agency but not enough to convince him to sign a short-term incentive-filled contract. He signed a one-year contract with the Broncos. The Broncos then did not choose a running back. Granted, Javonte Williamsis expected to be the leadback this season. However, the Broncos love what Gordon can do for the offense and with Russell WilsonThe offense should have Gordon as the quarterback. some opportunities to put up numbers. — Jeff Legwold
Post-free agency ranking 13
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Derek Carr
One, the Raiders didn’t draft his replacement. The new regime added some depth to his protection with two versatile offensive linemen. Dylan ParhamAnd Thayer Munford. Although neither man leaps off the page instantly, they make an O-line suspect in terms of competition. You can only hope that you get your first selection in the third round, which is what May has. To get wide receivers, the Raiders used their first two picks. Davante AdamsCarry in trade? Yes. — Paul Gutierrez
Ranking of post-free agencies: 14
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: DE Kwity Paye
The Colts used their first two draft picks to pass-rushers in 2021. However, they went on the offensive with their first three draft choices. This shows that they believe Paye will be one of their top pass-rushers next year. In fact, the Colts didn’t draft a defensive end. Paye should have the opportunity to improve on his four sacks in his rookie season by signing with veteran Yannick NgakoueThe other spot at the defensive end was filled by a player named ‘Mike’, who has 55.5 career tackles. — Mike Wells
Post-free agency ranking 15
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: LB Cameron McGrone
Many thought the Patriots would select a linebacker from a deep class. The position was also a top need for the team. But Bill Belichick & Co. didn’t seem to see it the same way. Matt Groh, director of player personnel, said McGrone was a 2021 fifth round pick who missed his rookie year after tearing an ACL at Michigan. He is now considered “an additional draft pick”. McGrone is a legitimate candidate to startAs he competes for the position alongside Ja’Whaun Bentley, Mack WilsonAnd Raekwon McMillanAmong others. — Mike Reiss
Post-free agency ranking 19
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Jalen Hurts
The Eagles declined to draft a quarterback using either of their first-round picks, but also traded a first rounder to the Titans in exchange for a receiver A.J. BrownHurts’ one-year-old son,? best friends. He is also a top-ranked receiver in the game. Hurts enters a crucial year in his career, as he attempts to prove that he is the quarterback of the future. He has a strong offensive line and a team of playmakers that includes Brown. DeVonta SmithEnds that are tight Dallas GoedertHurts will be able put his best foot forward. — Tim McManus
0:45
Domonique FOXWORTH explains why Tua tagovailoa will have an even better season than Jalen HUTTS.
Ranking of post-free agencies: 16
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: WR Donovan Peoples-Jones
The Browns were without a first round pick and traded out of second round despite the need for wide receivers. Cleveland added one in the third round. David BellPurdue. Bell, who was extremely productive in college, could play an important role in the Browns offense. However, he will likely play out of the slot and under coverage. Peoples-Jones should be able to take advantage of this. to remain a starterThe opposite Amari Cooper. Even though Browns could add another receiver, DPJ will still be a significant player next season. — Jake Trotter
Ranking of post-free agencies: 17
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:C Michael Deiter
Fans and media alike called for the Dolphins’ addition of competition at the centre through the draft. They didn’t spend any picks on an offensive player — which is likely to reflect positively on last year’s starting center. Deiter will have to prove his worth this season, but he is at least aware that he’s part of the team’s future plans. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Post-free agency ranking 18
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: DE J.J. Watt
Watt will be able manage his snaps better as he gets more young help at 33. His legs will be more flexible and his production may improve. Arizona’s pass rush this season will be more dependent upon the interior of their front with the departures of Chandler JonesYou can use free agency. Watt will be a big beneficiary by having subs on hand in waves. — Josh Weinfuss
Ranking of post-free agencies: 22
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Jameis Winston
Instead of draft a future quarterback replacement, the Saints traded Winston aggressively for two first-round picks as receiver. Chris OlaveLeft tackle Trevor Penning. Add the healthy return of No. Add the healthy return of No. Michael ThomasWe should have a better understanding of Winston’s performance. fits in New OrleansThis season. In 2021, the offense was decimated when Thomas missed 17 games and Winston missed 10. The top four offensive linemen also missed 32 games. — Mike Triplett
Post-free agency ranking 20
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:OT Chukwuma Okorafor
Okorafor is listed in bold but Dan Moore Jr. He also qualifies to be a Steelers draft beneficiary. The Steelers did not address the tackle spot via an external signing in free agent or through the draft, which only solidified its trust in Okorafor/Moore. Moore was a rookie and started every single game. Okorafor only had an average year. Both positions could have benefited from an upgrade in this offseason but it didn’t happen so Okorafor or Moore won’t be at risk. — Brooke Pryor
Post-free agency ranking 23
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Carson Wentz
Ron Rivera repeatedly stated this offseason that it was important to protect your quarterback by surrounding him with targets. Washington drafted receiver Jahan DotsonIn the first round, Wentz was given a quick target in the middle and tight end. Cole TurnerIn the fifth round. These two players will help boost the talent for the passing game. Washington drafted a running back in round 3. Brian Robinson Jr.Who will be behind the scenes? Antonio GibsonBut it provides insurance and depth in case of an emergency. This allows Commanders to keep a running game which helps reduce pressure on the pass. — John Keim
Post-free agency ranking 21
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:FB C.J. Ham
Take a look at this video. The Vikings didn’t draft a tight end before the seventh round (South Carolina’s). Nick Muse), despite a relative lack of depth behind presumptive starter Irv Smith JrA knee injury meant that he missed 2021. Why the lackluster urgency? Kevin O’Connell is planning to use the versatile Ham in two back sets. He can then be moved into tight spots that would have been used traditionally. According to the draft, the Vikings were the only team that included a fullback. — Kevin Seifert
Ranking of post-free agencies: 24
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: S Eddie Jackson
The Bears came out of the second round with two defensive backs who were top-notch and they hope to revitalize their secondary by allowing rookies to play. Jaquan Brisker. Jackson hasn’t recorded any interceptions since the 2019 season. He might be able to benefit by playing further from the box with Brisker at strong safety. Brisker is a physical, versatile defensive defender who has played 400 snaps at safety and 100 snaps as an inside linebacker. He also played 100 snaps in slot corner at Penn State in 2021. Jackson is calling this season a “clean slate”, and Jackson could be reunited with a DB whose skills complement his to regain the same level of play that made them one of the best safeties in the league three years ago. — Courtney Cronin
Post-free agency ranking 25
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Daniel Jones
Jones was one of two Giants offensive linemen.Evan Neal, Joshua Ezeudu) and a wide receiver (Wan’Dale RobinsonThey drafted three of the first four draft picks. It was also telling that they kept some of the top quarterbacks in their draft. This improves Jones’ chances of a long-term deal with the team, whether or not he is offered a fifth-year option. The Giants want to be sure they get a real chanceSee if Jones could be their long-term quarterback. — Jordan Raanan
Ranking of post-free agencies: 27
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful: DE/LB Josh Allen
Allen had his best rookie season (10.5 sacks) in 2019, when he was a member of the 2019 team. Calais CampbellAnd Yannick NgakoueHe was also on the field at the same moment. Campbell and Ngakoue were both traded before 2020, and Allen has had 10 tackles in the 24 games since then without any significant help from the other side. Drafting DE Travon WalkerWith the first overall selection and adding LB Devin LloydWith the 27th beefs up the pass rushIt will distract opponents from Allen. — Michael DiRocco
Ranking of post-free agencies: 26
Draft was the best for draft-winning playersQBs Drew LockAnd Geno Smith
This was not a vote of confidence in the Seahawks current options. Instead, it was an indication that the Seahawks weren’t convinced by any of the options available in this poor draft for quarterbacks. That doesn’t mean Lock and Smith aren’t. won’t have to compete with a highly drafted rookieAs they fight to replace Russell Wilson. Baker MayfieldHe is available and could be signed for a bargain if Cleveland releases him, but it’s Lock and Smith at the moment. — Brady Henderson
Post-free agency ranking 32
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Davis Mills
The Texans did not use their top draft choice on a defensive player. However, they definitely upgraded Mills on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball. Houston’s second-round guard pick was also in the second round. Kenyon Green, who should be able to slide into the Texans’ starting line-up. The Texans also acquired a wide receiver John Metchie IIIDay 2: Running back Dameon PierceDay 3. Houston is gradually improving an offense that ranked thirtyth in Football Outsiders’ DVOA. While Mills might not be the Texans long-term quarterback answer, Nick Caserio is sure to set him up for success in 2022. — Sarah Barshop
Ranking of post-free agencies: 30
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:LT Mekhi Becton
After weeks of speculation, the Jets still have a large pick for the 2020 first-round. They didn’t address tackle until after the fourth round.Max MitchellBecton was now ready to tackle left or right tackle. It’s now on Becton. previously hampered by injuries and weight issuesHe wanted to show the organization that he is capable of being a regular on the offensive line. Although he is a talented player, he has only played eight games of 33. — Rich Cimini
Ranking of post-free agencies: 31
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Jared Goff
Though there was much speculation regarding what the Lions would make of their first-round picks in the draft, they did not select a younger quarterback. Goff has not only benefited from the draft but he also has enjoyed free agency. Goff’s front office at the Lions has demonstrated its commitment to adding offensive threat to him this season. This was a major problem last season when they finished 3-13-1. Detroit also traded up in order to acquire a rookie wide receiver Jameson Williamsat No. 12, and many believe that he was the most influential. most talented at his positionBefore his ACL injury. Goff will have many playmakers to assist him when he returns. — Eric Woodyard
Ranking of post-free agencies: 29
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:DT Grady Jarrett
Jarrett was the Falcons’ best front-seven defender and received little help last season. He was often surrounded by double-teams and, sometimes, even triple-teams. Atlanta’s draft strategy — Day 2 rushers Arnold EbiketieAnd DeAngelo Malone— should assist the pass rush. Jarrett should not be subject to as much attention. Plus, Jarrett signed a $51 million, three-year extensionHe celebrated his birthday a few days after the draft. — Michael Rothstein
Ranking of post-free agencies: 28
The draft had the greatest impact on the player who was most successful:QB Sam Darnold
This could turn out in any direction. Darnold was fortunate in Carolina’s left tackle Ikem EkwonuThe sixth pick strengthens an already strong line that lost 52 sacks last year. Darnold excels when he is not under pressure. The Panthers also traded for Ole Miss quarterback in the third round. Matt CorralIf Darnold reverts to the same bad habits that haunted him during his first four NFL seasons, he will be replaced by, who will likely become the fan favourite to start. Darnold has to do this, but only as long as he produces. — David Newton