[ad_1]
The 2022 NFL draft started Thursday and continues via Saturday (ABC/ESPN/ESPN App). The Jacksonville Jaguars had the first pick of the draft and chosen Georgia pass-rusher Travon Walker.
With out a consensus quarterback, there have been extra divergent opinions about how the highest 20 picks will go among the many scouts, coaches and normal managers. Solely 4 instances within the earlier 15 drafts had 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 are tracking all 262 picks for Rounds 1-7, and you can also see the entire greatest out there draft prospects.
The draft continues with Rounds 2-Three 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 Jaguars had been already intrigued by the Georgia standout due to his versatility. He lined up at defensive finish, defensive deal with and linebacker in 2021, and the Jaguars can transfer him round to get the perfect 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 greatest soccer within the two School Soccer Playoff video games; he is a man who ratchets issues up when it issues most.
Greatest query: Walker had a career-high six sacks in 2021 after 3.5 complete in his earlier two seasons, so there’s concern a few one-year surge. Walker additionally did not stand out as the perfect participant on the Bulldogs’ protection — that was linebacker Nakobe Dean — so this choose is extra in regards to the Jaguars projecting what Walker can develop 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 dwelling. 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 carry people to Ford Discipline. It is a sensible choose, and it falls consistent with what the Lions try to perform of their rebuilding course of.
Greatest query: Hutchinson was a 2021 consensus first-team All-American and Heisman Trophy finalist, however will that success carry over to the following stage? As nice as Hutchinson was throughout the common season, he struggled in opposition to Georgia within the nationwide semifinal loss. Will his manufacturing be stilted in opposition to 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 bettering at cornerback. The Texans have since added veteran Steven Nelson, however drafting Stingley with the No. Three 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 capable of take part in LSU’s professional day exercise earlier this month and stated he felt “fantastic.”
Greatest query: Ought to the Texans have given quarterback Davis Mills extra assist as a substitute? Let me preface this by saying there was no unhealthy choose at No. Three as a result of the Texans have so many holes to fill on their roster. Though there was definitely a necessity within the secondary, Houston additionally must set Mills as much as succeed. Taking both offensive deal with Ikem Ekwonu or Evan Neal would have given Mills some dependable safety alongside left deal with Laremy Tunsil. — 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 huge contracts — and Gardner will give the Jets an opportunity to compete in opposition to the elite playmakers within the AFC East. Gardner ought to begin reverse free-agent addition D.J. Reed, an enormous improve from the Bryce Hall–Brandin Echols tandem final season. Gardner has the traits that ought to make him a great 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 had been afraid of him, as he was focused solely 3 times per recreation in 2021. His ball expertise (9 interceptions in three years) shall be a welcome addition to a secondary devoid of playmakers.
Greatest query: What about an edge rusher? The Jets had their alternative of Florida State’s Jermaine Johnson II and Oregon’s Kayvon Thibodeaux. Saleh’s protection is based on go rush, however Gardner was the proper transfer as a result of Thibodeaux and Johnson would’ve been reaches at No. 4. As for Gardner, the large query is, can he minimize down on the penalties? He was handsy in faculty, committing 9 penalties over the previous two seasons (together with seven go 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 had been all the time constructed, they usually’ve had only one edge rusher (Markus Golden) report double-digit sacks since 2015. Thibodeaux performed via an ankle damage and nonetheless produced. His 17.8% strain proportion was third within the FBS. He additionally can be utilized all around the area in new defensive coordinator Wink Martindale’s scheme. Thibodeaux and final yr’s second-round choose Azeez Ojulari (8.zero sacks as a rookie) give the Giants two younger and harmful edge rushers. It offers their protection a wholly totally different look.
Greatest query: How will Thibodeaux deal with the Large Apple? There was some speak about Thibodeaux’s effort and motivation all through the draft course of. Some stated he was too involved about his model as a substitute 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: Aside 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 deal with. Ekwonu (6-foot-4, 310 kilos) checks all of the bins for a group that hasn’t drafted a deal with within the first spherical since Jeff Otah with the 19th choose in 2008. Left deal with 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 deal with on a line that normal supervisor Scott Fitterer has spent the offseason rebuilding.
Greatest query: The most important query is how did he fall to No. 6? No deal with on this draft sticks with blocks longer and has a nastier angle on the place. Not solely can Ekwonu play deal with, he can play left guard if wanted there whereas engaged on go safety and approach. Whereas he is thought of an excellent run-blocker, which offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo is looking for, Ekwonu’s been inconsistent at instances in go safety. However general, it is nothing that may’t be mounted. 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 position. — David Newton
Evan Neal, OT, Alabama | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Giants want offensive line assist and wished so as to add a deal with early on this draft so long as the board fell accordingly. Neal, who was on the prime of my listing of almost definitely gamers to be chosen by the Giants at choose No. 5, has a large body (6-7, 360) and strikes effectively, a prerequisite in coach Brian Daboll’s system. He additionally has expertise enjoying proper deal with at Alabama having performed there throughout 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 perhaps their quarterback sooner or later. Neal allowed just one sack final season, which got here within the nationwide title recreation in opposition to Georgia. His run block and go blocking improved every of his three years at Alabama, in line with Sports activities Information Options.
Greatest query: There is not a ton to nitpick in his recreation, however a number of scouts advised he is on the bottom too usually. A lot of that was on the second stage. It is one thing scouts consider may be rectified with extra expertise and endurance. It is not a bodily or athletic limitation. Neal has the facility to dominate as a run-blocker and maintain agency in opposition to bull rushers. His quickness and footwork for his dimension enable him to achieve 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 extensive receiver makes a complete bunch of sense.
Greatest query: There aren’t many. London makes a ton of sense for Atlanta at a place the place the premium has gone up up to now few months due to the spectacular contracts given to Tyreek Hill, Christian Kirk and others. However the query stays for the Falcons — who’s going to be dashing 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 deal with was simply the Seahawks’ greatest want. Duane Brown and Brandon Shell are each unsigned, and Seattle has simply three tackles underneath contract, none of whom have intensive beginning expertise. However it goes effectively past instant want. GM John Schneider has lengthy talked about how arduous star offensive lineman are so arduous to seek out in right now’s NFL, particularly if you’re routinely selecting late within the first spherical just like the Seahawks have for a lot of the previous decade. A top-10 choose left them with a uncommon probability to get that man, and it was too good to go up.
Greatest query: The instant query is which facet Cross will play. The left facet appears extra probably given his background — he performed on the left facet in faculty — and the way that is a way more invaluable place than proper deal with. Jake Curhan, a 2021 UDFA, performed effectively final season whereas filling in for Shell at proper deal with. Longer-term, the query is whether or not Cross would be the higher choose than Florida State’s Jermaine Johnson II, maybe the perfect edge rusher that was nonetheless out there at No. 9. That is additionally a necessity spot for the Seahawks, however they should have figured that edge rusher — and another wants — shall be simpler to fill within the second spherical than deal with 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 carry much-needed explosiveness to the offense. Not solely does he have glorious velocity (4.38 within the 40), however he has elite separation skill and physique management. He improved every year at Ohio State, ending with a excellent season — 70 catches, 1,058 yards and 12 touchdowns. He is the Jets’ first first-round receiver since Santana Moss in 2001.
Greatest query: Can he take the pounding? A shade underneath 6-feet, listed at 183 kilos, Wilson is on the smallish facet. The very last thing the Jets want is one other injury-prone receiver from Ohio State. (See: Devin Smith, second-round choose, 2015.) Solely certainly one of their prime 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 greatest, 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 probably the most apparent instances of filling a evident want within the NFL draft up to now after the Saints completed 32nd 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 pass-catcher — they usually obtained one within the 6-foot, 187-pound Olave. The Saints have insisted all offseason they do not plan to rebuild underneath new coach Dennis Allen. And so they proved it by making two aggressive trades over the previous month so as to add an instant-impact participant.
Greatest query: The Saints clearly handed on a quarterback right here (like the remainder of the NFL). And so they have now used up a number of draft capital with their two trades (they traded away subsequent yr’s first-round alternative amongst others to accumulate the Philadelphia Eagles’ 16th choose within the first place). However they’ve now given Winston a a lot better probability 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 extensive receiver place and the Lions regime was aggressive with taking a swing on Williams by buying and selling up for the 12th general 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 generally is a sturdy weapon for quarterback Jared Goff.
Greatest query: How will Williams get better from a torn ACL? It is definitely 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-field expertise cannot be denied. Williams made eight landing catches of 50-plus yards in 2021, which tied for probably the most in a single season by FBS participant over the previous 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 15th,124th,162nd and166th general 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 deal with defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon coveted for his hybrid scheme.
Greatest 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 power within the passing recreation, and that the one cause he was taken off the sector was due to the immense expertise on the defensive facet of the ball for Georgia. — Tim McManus
Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame| Highlights
Why they picked him: Hamilton was clearly the perfect participant on the Baltimore’s board by a large margin as a result of there’s actually no different cause for this choose. Ravens normal supervisor Eric DeCosta has insisted that he takes the perfect participant out there, and he backed that up with this choose, which was a curveball. Hamilton was rated because the No. Four prospect by Mel Kiper Jr. It is a shocking choose as a result of the Ravens’ greatest free-agent splash was security Marcus Williams. Now, Baltimore follows that up by utilizing its highest choose in six years on one other security. Hamilton is flexible and might 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.
Greatest 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 definitely 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’ prime precedence in 2022 needs to be determining simply how good quarterback Davis Mills is and including assistance on the offensive line is a step in the proper course. Final season, Houston’s offensive line ranked 27th in go block win fee, in line with ESPN Stats & Data, and the group completed final within the NFL in dashing yards. Including Inexperienced offers Mills some extra dependable safety and helps put him in a greater spot to reach 2022.
Greatest 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 perfect 5 offensive linemen on the sector 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 may very well be Houston’s proper deal with 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 prime 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 wherever. Dotson can play inside or exterior; Washington coach Ron Rivera cherished his playmaking skill. Dotson could make performs at any stage, taking brief passes for lengthy positive factors and successful down the sector with athletic grabs. He can also return punts if Washington needs to make use of him on this position.
Greatest query: Play power. At 178 kilos, there’s concern over his skill to deal with bodily protection within the NFL, although Washington may also help by spreading groups out with good expertise round him. He is greatest at working exterior the hashes, which is not an issue as a result of others can but it surely does restrict Dotson somewhat bit. Washington nonetheless might use a bodily receiver to enhance the velocity wideouts. However Washington’s coaches have lengthy appreciated Dotson due to his playmaking skill. — 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 getting into the draft. They solidified the left facet of their offensive line a yr in the past after they used a first-round choose to pick left deal with Rashawn Slater. Now they use their 17th general 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 be capable to instantly begin on the proper facet of the road.
Greatest query: With Johnson anticipated to step in at proper guard, who will begin at proper deal with? The Chargers have struggled to discover a answer on the spot after signing veteran Bryan Bulaga in free company in 2020, solely to see him play 11 video games in two seasons resulting from accidents (together with just one final yr), adopted by his launch after the season. Storm Norton began 15 video games at proper deal with, 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 deal with, a place he performed with the Pittsburgh Steelers — Lindsey Thiry
Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas | Highlights
Why they picked him: Deciding on Burks offers the Titans a large receiver to switch A.J. Brown, who was traded to the Eagles in alternate for the No. 18 general 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 prime greenback. Burks has drawn comparisons to Brown due to his skill 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 further yards. He was a extremely productive participant at Arkansas as proven by his 11 touchdowns, together with a 91-yard catch and run.
Greatest query: Buying and selling Brown means the Titans are dropping certainly one of their most explosive playmakers on offense. Burks shall be requested to fill huge sneakers as a rookie. Though their play types are comparable, it is a tall order. The Titans are taking a giant danger however they may save upwards of $20 million per season by buying and selling Brown. Ryan Tannehill focused Brown greater than another receiver throughout their time collectively. Now Tannehill has to develop the identical stage of belief with Burks and do it rapidly. — 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 two-for-two on Thursday night time when it got here to filling apparent wants. Penning will get an opportunity to step in instantly because the Saints’ beginning left deal with after they misplaced perennial Professional Bowler Terron Armstead in free company. And as a substitute of changing quarterback Jameis Winston on this yr’s draft, they supported him with Penning and a much-needed extensive receiver in Chris Olave. Receiver Michael Thomas‘ return from an ankle damage will assist an terrible lot, too.
Greatest query: Penning must 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 night time. And there’s no approach he can stay as much as the immense void left by Armstead immediately. However the 6-foot-7, 325-pounder was capable of show toughness and again up his movie with sturdy showings in pre-draft exercises. This helped make him the consensus alternative as the following greatest offensive deal with 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 robust vertical recreation. Along with his confidence, management and aggressive play, Pickett has the swagger of a franchise quarterback, one thing particularly essential as he is available in to switch Ben Roethlisberger.
Greatest 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 underneath contract, too. Pickett is probably the most NFL-ready quarterback within the class, however will he compete 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 had been brief at cornerback after dropping Charvarius Ward to free company they usually felt strongly sufficient about McDuffie to maneuver up from the 29th choose. The Chiefs gave up three picks in return, so McDuffie must be a starter from Day 1.
Greatest query: Did the Chiefs ignore huge wants at extensive receiver and defensive finish? The Chiefs wanted assist at cornerback with out query. However with DE Jermaine Johnson out there, will the Chiefs remorse not selecting him to enhance a go rush that was 29th 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 they’d as WR7 on their board. Tennessee buying and selling A.J. Brown to the Eagles ruined any probability 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. Eight and 18. This offers 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 effectively in protection. GM Brian Gutekunst has continued the Packers’ penchant for drafting protection within the first spherical — 10 of the Packers’ previous 11 first-round picks have been on that facet of the ball.
Greatest 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 gifted Payments roster getting into the offseason. With Levi Wallace leaving in free company and Tre’Davious White persevering with to get better from a torn ACL, including Elam offers 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 during the last two seasons, fourth greatest 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 27th general in 2017.
Greatest query: There is no doubt that the Payments wanted assist at cornerback, however with Clemson’s Andrew Booth Jr. nonetheless on the board, was buying and selling as much as get Elam the proper resolution? The Payments felt that approach as Elam was the final participant on their board with a first-round grade. Elam’s ultimate faculty season wasn’t excellent, however he definitely does not lack velocity. He ran a 4.39 40-yard sprint, which ought to pair effectively with the variety of gifted 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 minimize proper deal with 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 deal with. 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 to 16 first-round grades on gamers, so that they had been probably worn out by the 24th choose and couldn’t discover a commerce they had been prepared to make.
Greatest query: Williams was the most-penalized lineman within the NFL final yr (15 complete, 12 accepted). Smith had 16 penalties (12 holding calls) final yr at Tulsa. Smith is taken into account a great athlete however he may need time to develop. The Cowboys have a monitor report of success with first-round linemen recently with Tyron Smith (2011), Travis Frederick (2013), Zack Martin (2014). Can he proceed that streak, and might 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 Linderbaum, among the finest prospects at this place in current reminiscence. Baltimore had a gap in the midst of its offensive line after the group 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 during the last 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 extensive receiver Marquise “Hollywood” Brown to the Arizona Cardinals.
Greatest 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 prime three holes on the roster: pass-rusher, cornerback and offensive deal with. The Ravens now have a necessity at extensive receiver as effectively 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 information convention that the group wished greater gamers at heart. At 290 kilos, Linderbaum is now the smallest linemen on the Ravens and the one one underneath 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 price them second-, third- and fifth-round picks. They obtained again a third-rounder. In Robert Saleh’s protection, it is all in regards to the go rush — and the Jets completed 25th in sacks and 30th in strain proportion. That is a giant cause they allowed a franchise-record 504 factors. Johnson’s dynamic 2021 season, coupled with an impressive efficiency on the Senior Bowl, vaulted him from a late first-rounder to the fourth choose. Discuss speedy ascents. After transferring from Georgia, Johnson dominated the ACC in his solely season at Florida State, with 12 sacks and 18 tackles for loss. He performs arduous and works arduous, a great tradition match for Saleh. He is their first first-round edge rusher since Vernon Gholston in 2008.
Greatest query: Why did he slip? Cross-rushers normally get scooped up rapidly, so it makes you surprise. One cause is that some expertise evaluators seen him as a one-year surprise. His character rubs some folks the mistaken approach, in line with a number of scouting sources, however his soccer character is nice. He performs arduous, with a chip on his shoulder. — Wealthy Cimini
Devin Lloyd, DE, Utah | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Jaguars wanted to switch Myles Jack, who they minimize 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 skill to diagnose performs and rapidly get to the ball. He is additionally athletic and quick sufficient to play exterior as effectively, 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 achieved a great job of including items on the entrance seven in free company and the draft thus far: first-round choose Travon Walker, Oluokun, Lloyd and defensive deal with Foley Fatukasi. It is a a lot stronger unit than it was when the season ended.
Greatest query: It price the Jaguars their second-round choose (33rd general) to maneuver as much as draft Lloyd. They do have two third-round picks, so will they be prepared to place collectively a package deal 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 effectively. — Michael DiRocco
Devonte Wyatt, DT, Georgia | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Packers have one star on the line of defense, however Kenny Clark might use some assist. Whereas Dean Lowry has lengthy been a stable sidekick, they now have a pair of first-round picks on the road. Clark was the 27th general choose in 2016, and that choose has turned out effectively with Clark on his second contract. Clearly, the Packers consider that Georgia performs the type of protection that can 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 group within the widespread draft period to take two defensive gamers from the identical college within the first spherical of the identical draft..
Greatest 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 they usually might achieve $5.Eight 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 likewise third-round (94) and fourth-round (121) picks. So a giant a part of their Day 1 technique was so as to add these midround chips, after which navigate the eight-pick drop and land a participant they hope shall be a Day 1 starter. Unusual, whom a number of draft analysts projected extra as a second- or third-round choose, tasks 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 great match for the Patriots. “Nice-looking, trim, good athlete. He is bodily. Actually sturdy fingers. A very tenacious participant,” he stated.
Greatest 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 biggest place of want? — Mike Reiss
George Karlaftis, DE, Purdue | Highlights
Why they picked him: The Chiefs had been 29th final season in sacks, and certainly one of their prime pass-rushers, Melvin Ingram, is a free agent. As well as, this may very well be Frank Clark‘s ultimate season with the Chiefs. In order that they wanted to replenish on the sting, and Karlaftis was a productive participant at Purdue.
Greatest 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 they usually want Karlaftis to be a major addition from the beginning. — Adam Teicher
Daxton Hill, S, Michigan | Highlights
Why they picked him: Secondary depth was a giant level of emphasis for the Bengals. Whereas cornerback was the evident want, Cincinnati additionally might use a security given the roster scenario. Jessie Bates III is enjoying on the franchise tag and Vonn Bell is on an expiring deal, leaving each with out a contract after 2022. Hill offers the Bengals an possibility as a long-term starter.
Greatest query: There is not a number 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 a substitute opted for somebody who ought to give Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo the schematic flexibility the group 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 through free company, and Harrison Smith — whereas he’s nonetheless enjoying at a excessive stage — shall be 33 this season. The Vikings might save $Eight 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 obtained expertise at each security and slot cornerback throughout his time at Georgia
Greatest query: There shall be lots stated and written in regards to the Vikings’ resolution to commerce down from No. 12, the place they might have chosen Notre Dame security Kyle Hamilton, to No. 32. On paper, there’s a drop-off from Hamilton to Cine. Is the hole sufficiently small to justify the improved positioning the Vikings obtained through the commerce? That query might take a number of 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
Source link