The 2022 NFL draft started Thursday and continues by means of Saturday (ABC/ESPN/ESPN App). The Jacksonville Jaguars have the primary choose of the draft and are considered one of eight groups to have two picks within the first spherical, becoming a member of the Detroit Lions, Houston Texans, Green Bay Packers, Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles.
With no consensus quarterback, there are extra divergent opinions about how the highest 20 picks will go when speaking to scouts, coaches and normal managers. Solely 4 occasions prior to now 15 drafts has a quarterback not been the No. 1 choose — Myles Garrett to the Cleveland Browns in 2017, Jadeveon Clowney to the Texans in 2014, Eric Fisher to the Chiefs in 2013 and Jake Lengthy to the Miami Dolphins in 2008.
We will track all 262 picks for Rounds 1-7, and you can also see the entire finest accessible draft prospects.
The draft continues with Rounds 2-3 on Friday (7 p.m. ET) and concludes with Rounds 4-7 on Saturday (midday ET).
Right here is the primary spherical of picks, analyzed by our ESPN NFL Nation reporters.
Travon Walker, LB, Georgia | Highlights
Why they picked him: Walker's draft inventory shot up after the mix, however the Jacksonville Jaguars have been already intrigued by the Georgia standout due to his versatility. He lined up at defensive finish, defensive sort out and linebacker in 2021, and the Jaguars can transfer him round to get the most effective matchup. He is athletic sufficient to drop into protection, too, if the Jaguars need to get inventive with him. It was notable Walker performed his finest soccer within the two School Soccer Playoff video games; he is a man who ratchets issues up when it issues most.
Largest query: Walker had a career-high six sacks in 2021 after 3.5 whole in his earlier two seasons, so there may be concern a couple of one-year surge. Walker additionally did not stand out as the most effective participant on the Bulldogs' protection – that was linebacker Nakobe Dean – so this choose is extra in regards to the Jaguars projecting what Walker can turn into. Each choose is made with that in thoughts to a level, however the Jaguars handed up a participant most draft analysts agree will make an instantaneous affect and be a perennial double-digit sack man (Michigan's Aidan Hutchinson) for a participant who has 9.5 profession sacks. — Mike DiRocco
Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Michigan | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Michigan participant will keep at residence. However let's be actual, that is not the solely cause behind this choose. The Lions are in determined want of game-changers, particularly on the protection, and Hutchinson checks the entire bins. He'll be prepared instantly – and he is already constructed an area fan base that ought to deliver of us to Ford Area. This can be a good choose, and it falls consistent with what the Lions try to perform of their rebuilding course of.
Largest query: Hutchinson was a 2021 consensus first-team All-American and Heisman Trophy finalist, however will that success carry over to the subsequent stage? As nice as Hutchinson was through the common season, he struggled towards Georgia within the nationwide semifinal loss. Will his manufacturing be stilted towards higher competitors? Solely time will inform. — Eric Woodyard
Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU | Highlights
Why they picked him: Coach Lovie Smith made it clear earlier within the month that the Texans' cannot play soccer the way in which they need to with out enhancing at cornerback. The Texans have since added veteran Steven Nelson, however drafting Stingley with the No. 3 choose reveals Houston's dedication to the place. Stingley Jr., who earned first-team All-America honors in 2019 and 2020, will thrive in Smith's defensive system. Stingley Jr. is coming off an damage — he had surgical procedure in September 2021 after he tore a ligament in his left foot — however was in a position to take part in LSU's professional day exercise earlier this month and stated he felt “advantageous.”
Largest query: Ought to the Texans have given quarterback Davis Mills extra assist as an alternative? Let me preface this by saying there was no unhealthy choose at No. 3 as a result of the Texans have so many holes to fill on their roster. Though there was actually a necessity within the secondary, Houston additionally must set Mills as much as succeed. Taking both offensive sort out Ikem Ekwonu or Evan Neal would have given Mills some dependable safety alongside left sort out Laremy Tunsil. The excellent news for the Texans? — Sarah Barshop
Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati | Highlights
Why they picked him: Gardner is a terrific expertise who performs a place of want. The sport is performed on the perimeter — see all of the star receivers scoring massive contracts — and Gardner will give the Jets an opportunity to compete towards the elite playmakers within the AFC East. Gardner ought to begin reverse free-agent addition D.J. Reed, an enormous improve from the Bryce Corridor-Brandin Echols tandem final season. Gardner has the traits that ought to make him a perfect slot in coach Robert Saleh's scheme – lengthy physique (6-foot-3), lengthy arms (33 ½ inches) and 4.41 velocity within the 40. He was dominant in faculty. Get this: He allowed zero landing passes in his profession (1,103 protection snaps). Quarterbacks have been afraid of him, as he was focused solely 3 times per recreation in 2021. His ball abilities (9 interceptions in three years) will probably be a welcome addition to a secondary devoid of playmakers.
Largest query: What about an edge rusher? The Jets had their selection of Florida State's Jermaine Johnson and Oregon's Kayvon Thibodeaux. Saleh's protection is based on move rush, however Gardner was the fitting transfer as a result of Thibodeaux and Johnson would've been reaches at No. 4. As for Gardner, the massive query is, can he reduce down on the penalties? He was handsy in faculty, committing 9 penalties over the past two seasons (together with seven pass-interference and holding calls). He is such an extended athlete that one scouting supply stated, “I do not assume he can deal with fast, speedy guys.” — Wealthy Cimini
Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon | Highlights
Why they picked him: They wanted a dominant edge rusher. That is how the Giants have been all the time constructed, and so they've had only one edge rusher (Markus Golden) document double-digit sacks since 2015. Thibodeaux performed by means of an ankle damage and nonetheless produced. His 17.8% strain proportion was third within the FBS. He additionally can be utilized everywhere in the area in new defensive coordinator Wink Martindale's scheme. Thibodeaux and final yr's second-round choose Azeez Ojulari (8.0 sacks as a rookie) give the Giants two younger and harmful edge rushers. It provides their protection a completely completely different look.
Largest query: How will Thibodeaux deal with the Massive Apple? There was some discuss Thibodeaux's effort and motivation all through the draft course of. Some stated he was too involved about his model as an alternative of soccer. Clearly the Giants did not assume that was an issue. They did not hesitate and made the Oregon edge rusher their first of two first-round picks. — Jordan Raanan
Ikem Ekwonu, OT, North Carolina State | Highlights
Why they picked him: Apart from maybe buying and selling down so as to add second-day picks, this could not have turned out higher for the Panthers. They're making an attempt to construct a basis and the most important lacking piece aside from a franchise quarterback is a franchise left sort out. Ekwonu (6-foot-4, 310 kilos) checks all of the bins for a staff that hasn't drafted a sort out within the first spherical since Jeff Otah with the nineteenth choose in 2008. Left sort out has been a revolving door since Jordan Gross retired after the 2013 season. And Ekwonu is a Charlotte native who performed at at Windfall Day. Go forward and pencil Ekwonu in at left sort out on a line that normal supervisor Scott Fitterer has spent the offseason rebuilding.
Largest query: The largest query is how did he fall to No. 6? No sort out on this draft sticks with blocks longer and has a nastier perspective on the place. Not solely can Ekwonu play sort out, he can play left guard if wanted there whereas engaged on move safety and method. Whereas he is thought of an excellent run-blocker, which offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo is searching for, Ekwonu's been inconsistent at occasions in move safety. However total, it is nothing that may't be fastened. And Ekwonu has an excellent story. A youth coach nicknamed him “Ickey” as a result of he appeared like former Cincinnati Bengals working again Ickey Woods. Shuffle him right into a beginning function. — David Newton
Evan Neal, OT, Alabama | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Giants want offensive line assist and needed so as to add a sort out early on this draft so long as the board fell accordingly. Neal, who was on the high of my checklist of almost definitely gamers to be chosen by the Giants at choose No. 5, has a large body (6-7, 360) and strikes nicely, a prerequisite in coach Brian Daboll's system. He additionally has expertise enjoying proper sort out at Alabama having performed there through the 2020 season. It is the place he's anticipated to carry down for the Giants, giving them bookend tackles together with Andrew Thomas to guard Daniel Jones or whomever is likely to be their quarterback sooner or later. Neal allowed just one sack final season, which got here within the nationwide title recreation towards the College of Georgia. His run block and move blocking improved every of his three years at Alabama, in keeping with Sports activities Information Options.
Largest query: There is not a ton to nitpick in his recreation, however a number of scouts prompt he is on the bottom too typically. A lot of that was on the second stage. It is one thing scouts consider could be rectified with extra expertise and endurance. It is not a bodily or athletic limitation. Neal has the ability to dominate as a run-blocker and maintain agency towards bull rushers. His quickness and footwork for his dimension enable him to succeed in that second stage. — Jordan Raanan
Drake London, WR, USC | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Atlanta Falcons actually — I imply, actually — wanted a large receiver. Julio Jones was traded final yr. Calvin Ridley is suspended for playing. Russell Gage is in Tampa Bay. So the Falcons needed to discover receiver expertise on this draft. Add to that, head coach Arthur Smith likes big-bodied receivers and the 6-foot-5 huge receiver makes an entire bunch of sense.
Largest query: There aren't many. London makes a ton of sense for Atlanta at a place the place the premium has gone up prior to now few months due to the monster contracts given to Tyreek Hill, Christian Kirk and others. However the query stays for the Falcons — who's going to be speeding the passer? It is one thing they've to determine on Day 2. — Michael Rothstein
Mike Clay's 2022 projection: 110 targets, 70 receptions, 904 yards, 5 TDs
Charles Cross, LT, Mississippi State | Highlights
Why they picked him: Offensive sort out was simply the Seahawks' greatest want. Duane Brown and Brandon Shell are each unsigned, and Seattle has simply three tackles below contract, none of whom have in depth beginning expertise. However it goes nicely past rapid want. GM John Schneider has lengthy talked about how exhausting star offensive lineman are so exhausting to seek out in in the present day's NFL, particularly once you're routinely choosing late within the first spherical just like the Seahawks have for many of the final decade. A top-10 choose left them with a uncommon likelihood to get that man, and it was too good to move up.
Largest query: The rapid query is which aspect Cross will play. The left aspect appears extra probably given his background — he performed on the left aspect in faculty — and the way that is a way more helpful place than proper sort out. Jake Curhan, a 2021 UDFA, performed nicely final season whereas filling in for Shell at proper sort out. Longer-term, the query is whether or not Cross would be the higher choose than Florida State's Jermaine Johnson II, maybe the most effective edge rusher nonetheless accessible at No. 9. That is additionally a necessity spot for the Seahawks, however they should have figured that edge rusher — and every other wants — will probably be simpler to fill within the second spherical than sort out would have been. — Brady Henderson
Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State | Highlights
Why they picked him: In case you have not been paying consideration the previous few weeks, the Jets have been on a mission to discover a WR1. In Wilson, they've a possible star, a participant who can develop with QB Zach Wilson, WR Elijah Moore and RB Michael Carter. He'll deliver much-needed explosiveness to the offense. Not solely does he have wonderful velocity (4.38 within the 40), however he has elite separation capacity and physique management. He improved every year at Ohio State, ending with a monster yr – 70 catches, 1,058 yards and 12 touchdowns. He is the Jets' first first-round receiver since Santana Moss in 2001.
Largest query: Can he take the pounding? A shade below 6-feet, listed at 183 kilos, Wilson is on the smallish aspect. The very last thing the Jets want is one other injury-prone receiver from Ohio State. (See: Devin Smith, second-round choose, 2015.) Solely considered one of their high 4 receivers is over 6-feet – Corey Davis (6-foot-3). Wilson additionally had some bother with dropped passes (six final season). One other query: What turns into of Denzel Mims, their 2020 second-round choose? At finest, he is the WR5. It would not be a shock if he is traded. — Wealthy Cimini
Clay's 2022 projection: 108 targets, 67 receptions, 852 yards, 5 TDs
Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State | Highlights
Why they picked him: This was one of the apparent circumstances of filling a evident want within the NFL Draft up to now after the Saints completed thirty second within the league in passing offense final yr. They needed to transfer up from No. 16 to No. 11 to do it, however they solely had to surrender a third- and fourth-rounder. Clearly getting WR Michael Thomas and QB Jameis Winston again from accidents will assist, however the Saints wanted one other dynamic move catcher – and so they acquired one within the 6-foot, 187-pound Olave. The Saints have insisted all offseason they do not plan to rebuild below new coach Dennis Allen. They usually proved it by making two aggressive trades over the previous month so as to add an instant-impact participant.
Largest query: The Saints clearly handed on a quarterback right here (like the remainder of the NFL). They usually have now used up loads of draft capital with their two trades (they traded away subsequent yr's first-round selection amongst others to amass the Philadelphia Eagles' sixteenth choose within the first place). However they've now given Winston a a lot better likelihood to succeed. — Mike Triplett
Clay's 2022 projection: 101 targets, 60 receptions, 843 yards, 4 TDs
Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama| Highlights
Why they picked him: One of many greatest wants on this present roster was the huge receiver place and the Lions regime was aggressive with taking a swing on Jameson Williams by buying and selling up for the twelfth total spot. Lions receivers caught 24.5% of their tight-window targets final season per NFL Subsequent Gen Stats, which was third-worst within the NFL. By including Williams, they get one other speedster who could be a robust weapon for quarterback Jared Goff.
Largest query: How will Williams recuperate from a torn ACL? It is actually a danger to take an opportunity on a man who's recovering from damage and can probably miss a part of the season, however his on the sphere expertise cannot be denied. Williams made eight landing catches of fifty+ yards in 2021, which tied for essentially the most in a single season by FBS participant over the past 15 seasons. — Eric Woodyard
Clay's 2022 projection: 83 targets, 51 receptions, 707 yards, 5 TDs
Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Eagles traded the fifteenth,124th,162nd and166th total picks to pick Davis, the 6-foot-6, 340-pound anchor of Georgia's championship protection. He has uncommon measurables — he ran a wild 4.78-second 40-yard sprint on the mix — and can function the offensive-line wrecking, pure nostril sort out defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon coveted for his hybrid scheme.
Largest query: He did not play on third down a lot in faculty, resulting in questions on whether or not he'll solely be efficient on this stage as a run-stuffer. The Philadelphia brass believes he has the talent set to be a disruptive drive within the passing recreation, and that the one cause he was taken off the sphere was due to the immense expertise on the defensive aspect of the ball for Georgia. — Tim McManus
Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame| Highlights
Why they picked him: Kyle Hamilton was clearly the most effective participant on the Baltimore's board by a large margin as a result of there may be actually no different cause for this choose. Ravens normal supervisor Eric DeCosta has insisted that he takes the most effective participant accessible, and he backed that up with this choose, which was a curveball. Hamilton was rated because the No. 4 prospect by Mel Kiper Jr. This can be a shocking choose as a result of the Ravens' greatest free-agent splash was security Marcus Williams. Now, Baltimore follows that up through the use of its highest choose in six years on one other security. Hamilton is flexible and may line up at nickel, the place the Ravens have a void. His eight interceptions since 2019 are tied for the fifth-most amongst Energy 5 gamers in that span. Hamilton will instantly assist a Ravens protection that ranked final within the NFL in passing yards (4,986) and recorded the fifth-fewest interceptions (9) final season.
Largest query: Why did not the Ravens tackle a extra urgent want? Baltimore's two greatest holes on the roster are at pass-rusher and cornerback, and the Ravens had a possibility to get a top-four prospect at these positions. The Ravens handed on the draft's fourth-best pass-rusher (Jermaine Johnson II) and the third-best cornerback (Washington's Trent McDuffie). Baltimore has all the time put a premium at loading up within the secondary, and that actually hasn't modified with Joe Burrow and Deshaun Watson within the division. — Jamison Hensley
Kenyon Green, G, Texas A&M | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Texans' high precedence in 2022 must be determining simply how good quarterback Davis Mills is and including assistance on the offensive line is a step in the fitting route. Final season, Houston's offensive line ranked twenty seventh in move block win fee, in keeping with ESPN Stats & Information, and the staff completed final within the NFL in speeding yards. Including Inexperienced provides Mills some extra dependable safety and helps put him in a greater spot to reach 2022.
Largest query: The place does Inexperienced match on the offensive line? When requested earlier within the week about the place offensive linemen Tytus Howard would line up subsequent season, Smith stated he is simply targeted on getting the most effective 5 offensive linemen on the sphere without delay and he wasn't targeted on the person positions. Inexperienced began at 4 spots on the offensive line for Texans A&M in 2021 and might be Houston's proper sort out or play inside for the Texans subsequent season. — Sarah Barshop
Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Commanders' have not completed within the high 10 in offense in yards or factors since 2016 so offense was wanted. They now have a quick, dynamic receiving crew with Dotson, Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel and Dyami Brown. There's additionally versatility with this group as every can line up anyplace. Dotson can play inside or exterior; Washington coach Ron Rivera beloved his playmaking capacity. Dotson could make performs at any stage, taking brief passes for lengthy positive aspects and profitable down the sphere with athletic grabs. He can also return punts if Washington desires to make use of him on this function.
Largest query: Play power. At 178 kilos, there may be concern over his capacity to deal with bodily protection within the NFL, although Washington will help by spreading groups out with good expertise round him. He is finest at working exterior the hashes, which is not an issue as a result of others can but it surely does restrict Dotson slightly bit. Washington nonetheless might use a bodily receiver to enrich the velocity wideouts. However Washington's coaches have lengthy favored Dotson due to his playmaking capacity. — John Keim
Clay's 2022 projection: 80 targets, 49 receptions, 640 yards, 4 TDs
Zion Johnson, OG, Boston School | Highlights
Why they picked him: Discovering extra safety for quarterback Justin Herbert was a precedence for the Chargers coming into the draft. They solidified the left aspect of their offensive line a yr in the past after they used a first-round choose to pick left sort out Rashawn Slater. Now they use their seventeenth total choice to snag Johnson, who was ESPN's top-rated guard prospect within the 2022 draft class. The 6-foot-2, 312-pound Johnson will have the ability to instantly begin on the fitting aspect of the road.
Largest query: With Johnson anticipated to step in at proper guard, who will begin at proper sort out? The Chargers have struggled to discover a resolution on the spot after signing veteran Bryan Bulaga in free company final yr, solely to see him play in a single recreation attributable to accidents, adopted by his launch after the season. Storm Norton began 15 video games at proper sort out, but it surely's unclear if Norton will win the job going ahead or if the Bolts will think about transferring Matt Feiler from left guard to proper sort out, a place he performed with the Pittsburgh Steelers — Lindsey Thiry
Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas | Highlights
Why they picked him: Deciding on Burks provides the Titans a large receiver to interchange A.J. Brown, who was traded to the Eagles in change for the No. 18 total choose. Brown didn't report back to Section 1 of offseason actions in hopes of securing a brand new contract. The Titans did not need to pay Brown high greenback. Burks has drawn comparisons to Brown due to his capacity to generate yards after the catch. The Titans rely closely on the play-action passing recreation and have discovered success getting the ball to Brown throughout the center. Burks has the identical type of sturdy body to bounce off of tackles and achieve additional yards. He was a extremely productive participant at Arkansas as proven by his 11 touchdowns together with a 91-yard catch and run.
Largest query: Buying and selling Brown means the Titans are dropping considered one of their most explosive playmakers on offense. Burks will probably be requested to fill massive footwear as a rookie. Though the play types are comparable, it is a tall order. The Titans are taking an enormous danger however they are going to save upwards of $20 million per season by buying and selling Brown. Ryan Tannehill focused Brown greater than every other receiver throughout their time collectively. Now Tannehill has to develop the identical stage of belief with Burks and do it shortly. — Turron Davenport
Clay's 2022 projection: 99 targets, 62 receptions, 835 yards, six TDs
Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa | Highlights
Why they picked him: New Orleans went 2-for-2 on Thursday evening when it got here to filling apparent wants. Penning will get an opportunity to step in instantly because the Saints' beginning left sort out after they misplaced perennial Professional Bowler Terron Armstead in free company. And as an alternative of changing quarterback Jameis Winston on this yr's draft, they supported him with Penning and a much-needed huge receiver in Chris Olave. Receiver Michael Thomas' return from an ankle damage will assist an terrible lot, too.
Largest query: Penning should make the leap from a decrease stage of competitors at Northern Iowa, so this is not fairly the identical “positive factor” because the three offensive tackles who went inside the highest 10 on Thursday evening. And there's no method he can stay as much as the immense void left by Armstead immediately. However the 6-foot-7, 325-pounder has displayed an attractive mixture of athleticism and toughness that made him the consensus selection as the subsequent finest offensive sort out on this yr's class. — Mike Triplett
Kenny Pickett, QB, Pitt | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Steelers did not need to let one other franchise quarterback from Pitt escape like Dan Marino within the 1983 draft. Pickett is a well-rounded prospect with mobility — a trait coveted by the Steelers of their subsequent franchise quarterback — together with accuracy, dimension and a powerful vertical recreation. Along with his confidence, management and aggressive play, Pickett has the swagger of a franchise quarterback, one thing particularly mandatory as he is available in to interchange Ben Roethlisberger.
Largest query: After throwing 13 touchdowns in every of his two earlier seasons and 12 the yr earlier than that, Pickett shot up NFL draft boards with 42 in a Heisman finalist 2021 marketing campaign. Can he maintain and replicate that success on the NFL stage? And when will he be given the reins to the Steelers offense? The Steelers signed Mitch Trubisky to a two-year deal in free company and have Mason Rudolph below contract, too. Pickett is essentially the most NFL-ready quarterback within the class, however will he full with Trubisky to begin in 2022 or will he sit a yr? — Brooke Pryor
Clay's 2022 projection: 213 of 349, 2,312 yards, 11 TDs, 9 INTs; 31 carries, 124 yards, one TD (10 begins)
Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Chiefs have been brief at cornerback after dropping Charvarius Ward to free company and so they felt strongly sufficient about McDuffie to maneuver up from the twenty ninth choose. The Chiefs gave up three picks in return, so McDuffie must be a starter from Day 1.
Largest query: Did the Chiefs ignore massive wants at huge receiver and defensive finish? The Chiefs wanted assist at cornerback with out query. However with DE Jermaine Johnson accessible, will the Chiefs remorse not choosing him to enhance a move rush that was twenty ninth within the league in sacks final season? — Adam Teicher
Quay Walker, LB, Georgia | Highlights
Why they picked him: With six receivers already off the board, the Packers believed the worth was higher with Walker than whomever that they had as WR7 on their board. Tennessee buying and selling A.J. Brown to the Eagles ruined any likelihood of the Packers getting the final of the highest receivers; the Titans took Arkansas receiver Treylon Burks at No. 18. He was the sixth receiver taken between choose Nos. 8 and 18. This provides the Packers a working mate for De'Vondre Campbell in the midst of their protection. Campbell would moderately not should cowl tight ends and backs, and Walker matches up nicely in protection. GM Brian Gutekunst has continued the Packers' penchant for drafting protection within the first spherical — 10 of the Packers' final 11 first-round picks have been on that aspect of the ball.
Largest query: Why did not the Packers commerce up for a receiver? It does not imply they did not strive. Gutekunst has not been afraid to wheel and deal within the first spherical. In his earlier 4 drafts, he is traded within the first spherical in three of them. — Rob Demovsky
Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida | Highlights
Why they picked him: Cornerback was one of many weakest positions on a proficient Payments roster coming into the offseason. With Levi Wallace leaving in free company and Tre'Davious White persevering with to recuperate from a torn ACL, including Elam provides the Payments protection a starting-caliber nook who will solely make the No. 1 protection in 2021 even higher. The 6-foot-1, 191-pound nook allowed a 35.3% completion fee as the first defender in protection over the past two seasons, fourth finest in FBS (min. 50 makes an attempt). Buffalo was aggressive in addressing the line of defense in free company and now invests closely within the defensive backfield for the primary time since drafting White twenty seventh total in 2017.
Largest query: There is not any doubt that the Payments wanted assist at cornerback, however with Clemson's Andrew Sales space nonetheless on the board, was buying and selling as much as get Elam the fitting determination? The Payments felt that method as Elam was the final participant on their board with a first-round grade. Elam's closing faculty season wasn't excellent, however he actually would not lack velocity. He ran a 4.39 40-yard sprint, which ought to pair nicely with the variety of proficient receivers now within the AFC East and the remainder of the convention. So far as apparent main issues, there are none right here. — Alaina Getzenberg
Tyler Smith, OT, Tulsa | Highlights
Why they picked him: Offensive line is a serious want for the Cowboys after they reduce proper sort out La'el Collins and noticed left guard Connor Williams signal with Miami as a free agent. The Cowboys haven't added an offensive lineman in free company, so Smith might are available in as a left guard immediately and probably transfer to sort out. Mike McCarthy had a historical past of taking faculty tackles and making them guards in Inexperienced Bay (T.J. Lang, Josh Sitton). The Cowboys had solely 14-16 first-round grades on gamers, in order that they have been probably worn out by the twenty fourth choose and couldn't discover a commerce they have been keen to make.
Largest query: Williams was the most-penalized lineman within the NFL final yr (15 whole, 12 accepted). Smith had 16 penalties (12 holding calls) final yr at Tulsa. Smith is taken into account a superb athlete however he may need time to develop. The Cowboys have a observe document of success with first-round linemen recently with Tyron Smith (2011), Travis Frederick (2013), Zack Martin (2014). Can he proceed that streak, and may offensive line coach Joe Philbin develop him? — Todd Archer
Tyler Linderbaum, C, Iowa | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Ravens fill their void at heart with Tyler Linderbaum, top-of-the-line prospects at this place in current reminiscence. Baltimore had a gap in the midst of its offensive line after the staff declined to re-sign Bradley Bozeman, final yr's starter at heart. Linderbaum ought to present stability for Baltimore, which has had 5 beginning facilities over the past 5 seasons. How a lot did the Ravens like Linderbaum? He is the primary heart drafted by the Ravens within the first spherical of their 27-year historical past, and this choose was acquired in a deal that despatched huge receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown to the Arizona Cardinals. Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson despatched out an attention-grabbing tweet one minute after this choose: “Wtf.”
Largest query: As soon as once more, when are the Ravens going to deal with their greatest wants? Regardless of having two first-round picks, Baltimore selected to not fill its high three holes on the roster: pass-rusher, cornerback and offensive sort out. The Ravens now have a necessity at huge receiver as nicely after buying and selling Brown. It was shocking to see Baltimore choose Linderbaum as a result of normal supervisor Eric DeCosta stated within the pre-draft press convention that the staff needed larger gamers at heart. At 290 kilos, Linderbaum is now the smallest linemen on the Ravens and the one one below 300 kilos.. — Jamison Hensley
Jermaine Johnson II, DE, Florida State | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Jets thought of Johnson a top-10 expertise. When he slipped to 26, they traded up with the Titans. It value them a second-, third- and fifth-round picks. They acquired again a 3rd rounder. In Robert Saleh's protection, it is all in regards to the move rush – and the Jets completed twenty fifth in sacks and thirtieth in strain proportion. That is an enormous cause why they allowed a franchise-record 504 factors. Johnson's dynamic 2021 season, coupled with an excellent efficiency on the Senior Bowl, vaulted him from a late first rounder to the fourth choose. Speak about speedy ascents. After transferring from Georgia, Johnson blew up the ACC in his solely season at Florida State – 12 sacks and 18 tackles-for-loss. He performs exhausting and works exhausting, a perfect tradition match for Saleh. He is their first first-round edge rusher since Vernon Gholston in 2008.
Largest query: Why did he slip? Go rushers often get scooped up shortly, so it makes you marvel. One cause is that some expertise evaluators seen him as a one-year marvel. His character rubs some folks the fallacious method, in keeping with a number of scouting sources, however his soccer character is sweet. He performs exhausting, with a chip on his shoulder. — Wealthy Cimini
Devin Lloyd, DE, Florida State | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Jaguars wanted to interchange Myles Jack, who they reduce in March, on the within of the protection to play alongside Foye Oluokun. Lloyd, the 2021 AP Defensive Participant of the 12 months, has drawn comparisons to Indianapolis Colts linebacker Darius Leonard in his capacity to diagnose performs and shortly get to the ball. He is additionally athletic and quick sufficient to play exterior as nicely, so he and Oluokun, who led the NFL in tackles final season with Atlanta earlier than signing with the Jaguars in March, give the Jaguars a pair of three-down linebackers. They did not have that final season. The Jaguars have executed a superb job of including items on the entrance seven in free company and the draft to date: first-round choose Travon Walker, Oluokun, Lloyd and defensive sort out Foley Fatukasi. It is a a lot stronger unit than it was when the season ended.
Largest query: It value the Jaguars their second-round choose (thirty third total) to maneuver as much as draft Lloyd. They do have two third-round picks, so will they be keen to place collectively a bundle to maneuver again into the second spherical to nonetheless tackle some main wants at inside offensive line and security? Receiver and tight finish are positions to observe as nicely. — Michael DiRocco
Devonte Wyatt, DT, Georgia | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Packers have one stud on the line of defense, however Kenny Clark might use some assist. Whereas Dean Lowry has lengthy been a strong sidekick, they now have a pair of first-round picks on the road. Clark was the twenty seventh total choose in 2016, and that choose has turned out nicely with Clark on his second contract. Clearly, the Packers consider that Georgia performs the type of protection that may translate to the NFL on condition that they picked his teammate Quay Walker at No. 22 and final yr's first spherical choose was Georgia cornerback Eric Stokes. The Packers are the primary staff within the widespread draft period to take two defensive gamers from the identical faculty within the first spherical of the identical draft..
Largest query: What does this imply for Lowry? He was one of many few veterans that did not have his contract restructured this offseason. He has a cap cost of $7.922 million this season and so they might achieve $5.8 million in cap area in the event that they launched him after June 1. — Rob Demovsky
Cole Strange, G, Chattanooga | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Patriots traded down from No. 21, receiving No. 29 and in addition third-round (94) and fourth-round (121) picks. So an enormous a part of their Day 1 technique was so as to add these mid-round chips, after which navigate the eight-pick drop and land a participant they hope will probably be a Day 1 starter. Unusual, who a number of draft analysts projected extra as a second- or third-round choose, initiatives as a plug-and-play starter at left guard. Senior Bowl director Jim Nagy, a former New England scout, had recognized him earlier than the draft as a perfect match for the Patriots. “Nice-looking, trim, good athlete. He is bodily. Actually robust arms. A very tenacious participant,” he stated.
Largest query: Will the Patriots remorse buying and selling out of No. 21, the place the Chiefs chosen Washington CB Trent McDuffie, who performs arguably New England's best place of want. — Mike Reiss
George Karlaftis, DE, Purdue | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Chiefs have been twenty ninth final season in sacks, and considered one of their high pass-rushers, Melvin Ingram, is a free agent. As well as, this might be Frank Clark's closing season with the Chiefs. In order that they wanted to replenish on the sting, and Karlaftis was a productive participant at Purdue.
Largest query: Do the Chiefs have sufficient pass-rush punch? In Chris Jones, Clark and Karlaftis, the Chiefs have a pleasant begin? However is it sufficient? The Chiefs clearly weren't productive sufficient final season and so they want Karlaftis to be a big addition from the beginning. — Adam Teicher
Daxton Hill, S, Michigan | Highlights
Why they picked him: Secondary depth was an enormous level of emphasis for the Bengals. Whereas cornerback was the evident want, Cincinnati additionally might use a security given the roster state of affairs. Jessie Bates III is enjoying on the franchise tag and Vonn Bates is on an expiring deal, leaving each with out a contract after 2022. Hill provides the Bengals an choice as a long-term starter.
Largest query: There is not loads of draw back for Hill with the Bengals. He has been wholesome and productive in three seasons at Michigan. Cincinnati might have opted for a cornerback to fit behind Eli Apple and Chidobe Awuzie, however the Bengals as an alternative opted for somebody who ought to give Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo the schematic flexibility the staff has loved with Bates the final 4 seasons. — Ben Child
Lewis Cine, S, Georgia | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Vikings have short- and long-term wants on the security place. Xavier Woods departed by way of free company, and Harrison Smith — whereas he's nonetheless enjoying at a excessive stage — will probably be 33 this season. The Vikings might save $8 million in cap area if he is not on the roster in 2023. Second-year participant Camryn Bynum stated just lately that he expects to win Woods' beginning job, however clearly the Vikings had different concepts. Cine acquired expertise at each security and slot cornerback throughout his time at Georgia
Largest query: There will probably be lots stated and written in regards to the Vikings' determination to commerce down from No. 12, the place they may have chosen Notre Dame security Kyle Hamilton, to No. 32. On paper, there's a dropoff from Hamilton to Cine. Is the hole sufficiently small to justify the improved positioning the Vikings acquired by way of the commerce? That query might take just a few years to determine. One factor we all know for positive: Cine provides velocity to the Vikings' protection after working a 4.37 within the 40-yard sprint. — Kevin Seifert
