The Daily Blitz: April 2022

Thursday, April 14, 2022

Philadelphia Eagles 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 7.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft, we will update our Philadelphia Eagles Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the Philadelphia Eagles from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Eagles:

ESPN - Mel Kiper (4/13)

15. Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State

After last week's trade with the Saints, the Eagles now have one fewer first-round pick, but you have to think they'll take a receiver with one of them, right? If they're committed to using 2022 as an evaluation year for Jalen Hurts, the best way they can evaluate him is to give him the tools to succeed. Olave had seven touchdowns out of the slot last season, but he can move outside, too, and use his 4.39 40 speed to get open. Hurts would love throwing to him and DeVonta Smith, with Dallas Goedert working the middle of the field.

18. Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia

I see a massive void in the middle of the Eagles' front seven, and we're getting to the point in this draft in which an off-ball linebacker will be taken. I have Devin Lloyd just ahead of Dean in my rankings, but there are teams that will fall in love with Dean's intangibles. He's a tremendous teammate who was the leader of the national champs' historic defense. He's a little undersized, but he can play sideline to sideline.

The Draft Network - Keith Sanchez (4/13)

15. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

For my money, Kyle Hamilton is a top-five pick, but I ultimately believe that Hamilton's 40 time makes some teams shy away from him early in the first round, causing him to slip a bit.

That's to the benefit of the Eagles, and they draft him to help vastly improve their secondary. Hamilton is a day-one starter and immediately becomes a playmaker for this Eagles defense.

18. Devonte Wyatt, IDL, Georgia

Fletcher Cox hinted at retirement but ultimately decided to come back one more year. In preparation for the departure of Cox, the Eagles draft Devonte Wyatt. Wyatt has a very similar skill set to Cox and will benefit tremendously from learning from the veteran this year.

NFL.com - Lance Zierlein (4/12)

15. Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington

Philadelphia has an obvious void at one cornerback spot, and McDuffie gives the Eagles one of the stickiest, toughest man corners in the draft.

18. Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas

Jalen Hurts needs another weapon on offense, and Burks is one of the most well-rounded in the draft, combining size (6-3, 225), athletic ability, play strength and run-after-the-catch capability.

CBS Sports - Will Brinson (4/12)

15. Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia

We're going to look back at this Georgia defense the same way we look back on that Joe Burrow LSU offense when it's all said and done, especially with how many guys get drafted early. With a ton of picks, the Eagles can ditch their usual avoidance of drafting linebackers early.

18. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

Precipitous drop for Hamilton but perhaps indicative of the positional value here. But the Eagles are squatting on two firsts next year and two potentially transformational defenders.

PFF - Anthony Treash (4/11)

15. Drake London, WR, USC

Before breaking his ankle in Week 9, London was flying up draft boards and had posted a 91.8 receiving grade along the way. He dominated in one-on-one scenarios, consistently won with physicality and displayed elite ball skills.

Across eight games, the 6-foot-5, 210-pound receiver totaled 19 contested catches, six more than any other Power Five wide receiver through Week 12, and broke a colossal 22 tackles after the catch.

18. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

There are few bones to pick with Lloyd's game as a prospect. He's explosive, intuitive and has the frame and physicality the NFL is looking for.

Lloyd was one of only four players at the position who earned a 90.0-plus PFF grade in 2021. He graded above 80.0 against the run, in coverage and as a blitzer.

ESPN - Jordan Reid (4/11)

15. Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington

Time to break the streak for the Eagles? They haven't drafted a corner in the first round since Lito Sheppard in 2002. McDuffie makes a lot of sense here. Although he doesn't have the prototypical size (5-foot-11) or length for an outside corner, he plays much bigger than his size.

He is an intense run defender and isn't afraid to come up to the line of scrimmage and strike ball carriers. He played primarily zone coverage with the Huskies but has potential as a man corner because of his quick feet, patient technique and strong instincts.

18. George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue

Karlaftis is a tough defender with plenty of pop in his hands, but he won't be a fit for every defense. His versatility to play down the line of scrimmage will likely appeal to the Eagles even though his upside might not be as high as that of some of the other edge rushers in this class.

Karlaftis projects as a starter in defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon's scheme as a base end.

CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson (4/11)

15. Jordan Davis, IDL, Georgia

Davis dropped some weight, showed up at the combine and at 6-foot-6, 341 pounds, ran the 40 in 4.78 seconds, had a 32-inch vertical, and a broad jump of 10 feet, 3 inches -- and oh, by the way, he was a one-man wrecking crew in the SEC. It's easy to say Davis is a two-down player but his obvious strength and surprising speed make a legit three-down threat who just needs to refine his pass-rush arsenal beyond the bull rush. The biggest question is if he can keep his weight down, which directly correlates to his stamina, and his ability to stay on the field.

18. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

The Eagles signed Kyzir White to a one-year deal but there are still needs at the linebacker position. Lloyd was impressive during the '21 season and nothing changed at the combine. He's the prototypical off-ball linebacker in today's NFL (pay no attention to his 4.7-something 40 times -- he plays immeasurably faster), and it's like he was built in a lab.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

Previous updates:

Seattle Seahawks 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 3.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft, we will update our Atlanta Falcons Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the Seattle Seahawks from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Seahawks:

ESPN - Mel Kiper (4/13)

9. Evan Neal, OT, Alabama

This is another team that ends up with an ideal scenario. Veteran left tackle Duane Brown is still unsigned, so Neal could start from Day 1. It just makes too much sense. I'm not a huge believer that Drew Lock will be Seattle's quarterback answer for the long term, but Neal could be a stalwart on the left side for years to come.

The Draft Network - Keith Sanchez (4/13)

9. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

This pick just makes sense. Ahmad Gardner is a premier Cover 3 zone corner and the Seahawks and Pete Carroll are known for playing a primarily Cover 3 scheme. Gardner should bring a swagger and tenacity to the Seahawks' secondary that we haven't seen since Richard Sherman in his heyday when the Legion of Boom was leading this team to Super Bowl appearances.

NFL.com - Lance Zierlein (4/12)

9. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

Seattle has needs at cornerback, tackle and quarterback. After his strong pro day, Stingley is likely to carry the highest grade of the remaining talent at those positions.

CBS Sports - Will Brinson (4/12)

9. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

The Seahawks found Russell Wilson in the third round which is why I think it would surprise me if they pulled on one here in a thin class. It would be hilarious if they drafted an OL with one of the picks they got for Russell Wilson after all his complaints about being sacked in the last few years.

PFF - Anthony Treash (4/11)

9. Evan Neal, OT, Alabama

Neal's 85.8 PFF grade ranked third among all Power Five tackles last year, and he allowed just one pressure per game on average. It was his second consecutive 80.0-plus PFF grade, too, as he posted an 83.7 mark at right tackle in 2020.

The Alabama product is the model of consistency. And his physical tools are off the charts, evidenced by his No. 1 ranking on Bruce Feldman's annual Freaks List. With the Seahawks having to replace both starting tackles in Duane Brown and Brandon Shell, this is a dream scenario.

ESPN - Jordan Reid (4/11)

9. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

With plenty of draft capital over the next two years following the Russell Wilson trade, the Seahawks have an opportunity to reshape the roster on both sides of the ball. Gardner fits well into the defensive scheme and has the traits of the prototype they have coveted in previous years.

With the potential to be a lockdown corner, he could land in a situation in which he will be relied upon early.

CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson (4/11)

9. Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

We've been upfront about Wills: we have a second-round grade on him based on his body of work in college, but that doesn't mean teams looking for a quarterback won't take one a round or so before they should. Willis had a great week at the Senior Bowl and he then interviewed well in Indy. He's built like Russell Wilson but obviously in much rawer form. It appears Drew Lock is the starter (for now) in Seattle, which means Willis can learn by watching. He has the physical tools to be the best passer in this class, all he needs is experience.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

Previous updates:

New Orleans Saints 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 7.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft, we will update our New Orleans Saints Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the New Orleans Saints from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Saints:

ESPN - Mel Kiper (4/13)

16. Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa

Speaking of the Saints, I have a hard time believing the trade with the Eagles was to take a quarterback. Why wouldn't they try to move up higher? (Unless there's another move to come.) It's possible they think they are NFC contenders this season and could be put over the edge with two more starters. With that in mind, here's a tackle who could replace Terron Armstead on the left side. Penning is a nasty, physical blocker who is ready to play immediately.

19. Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama

Even if Michael Thomas comes back healthy, the Saints should address wide receiver with one of their two first-round picks. Williams would have been in the discussion to be the No. 1 wideout in this class, but he tore his ACL in the national title game in January and could miss a little time in 2022. He could be a superstar once he's healthy; he has explosive speed and was uncoverable for the Crimson Tide last season. ACL injuries aren't even close to career-ending anymore, so I don't see this as a risky pick. Williams is worth it.

The Draft Network - Keith Sanchez (4/13)

16. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

Many thought the Saints would "punt this season away" and start a rebuild. But with the trade to acquire this pick, I believe the Saints put the NFL on notice that they are competing to get in the playoffs. With this pick, I think their draft scenario manifests and they are able to select Charles Cross to slide him into the gaping hole that Terron Armstead created when he left for the Miami Dolphins.

19. Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama

It can't be stated enough that the Saints need to improve their receiving corps if they want to get the best out of Jameis Winston. With this pick, they take a gamble on what can be considered the biggest playmaker in this class in Alabama receiver Jameson Williams. Williams is still available due to his injury and if he can recover to 100%, the Saints have a true playmaker to pair with Michael Thomas.

NFL.com - Lance Zierlein (4/12)

16. Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

I'm sure New Orleans came into the draft expecting to take a left tackle or receiver with this choice, acquired in a trade earlier this month with the Eagles, but passing on Willis will likely be too difficult if he's there.

19. Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama

If New Orleans takes Willis at No. 16, it would only make sense to pair him with a speedy home-run hitter he could grow with over the long haul.

CBS Sports - Will Brinson (4/12)

16. Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa

Moving up in early April to snipe the Chargers on an OL is pretty absurd, but here we are. Losing Terron Armstead means the Saints need to reload at the position.

19. Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

Matt Corral is super popular in terms of mocks to the Saints. But with Jameis Winston set for 2022, Willis can be the guy of the future for the Saints.

PFF - Anthony Treash (4/11)

16. Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State

In the first edition of this mock, I had this pick traded to the Chicago Bears for a 2023 first-rounder. But then Saints general manager Mickey Loomis decided to give much more than that. In the end, New Orleans gave up Picks 18, 101 and 237 this year, along with their 2023 first-rounder and 2024 second-rounder, in exchange for Picks 16, 19 and 194 this year.

With their newly acquired first-round pick, New Orleans should go after Ohio State wide receiver Chris Olave, who has the wheels to be a deep threat at the next level and is one of the more refined route-runners in the class. He ranks first in the Power Five in deep receiving touchdowns over the last three seasons and stands at the 97th percentile in separation rate over that span.

19. Bernhard Raimann, OT, Central Michigan

New Orleans is in the market for a new left tackle after they were forced to let Terron Armstead walk in free agency.

While it may take some time to adjust to the NFL, Raimann is an incredibly promising prospect. He grew up in Austria, came to the USA as a foreign exchange student, and secured a scholarship at Central Michigan after one year of high school football. He started his career at tight end for two seasons before switching to tackle the past two seasons and notably earned PFF MAC Offensive Player of the Year honors for his performance in 2021.

Measuring in at 6-foot-7 and 305 pounds, Raimann earned a 94.3 PFF grade last season, putting up a 93.3 run-block grade and an 88.7 pass-block grade to boot. He was virtually flawless in pass protection over his last six games, too, with zero pressures allowed in that span.

ESPN - Jordan Reid (4/11)

16. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

Cross is the most polished pass-protector of this class of offensive tackles, but evaluators in the league have mixed opinions about his ceiling. Because of his inexperience as a run-blocker, he projects better to a team that wants to throw the ball heavily.

With Terron Armstead now in Miami, Cross can slide into the left tackle spot as a day one starter in New Orleans.

19. Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama

Williams would have been in contention to be the top wide receiver before he tore his ACL in the national title game in January. He has tremendous vertical speed that places stress on defenses.

In need of a wide receiver, the Saints could bet on him overcoming the injury as he said at the combine that the injury will take "five to seven months" to overcome. Pairing Williams with Michael Thomas gives the team a dynamic outside duo.

CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson (4/11)

16. Matt Corral, QB, Mississippi

Corral is our QB1 but we know he's not for everybody. That said, he fits the profile of the QB position is evolving into -- he's athletic, has a strong arm, and is tough. And if Sean Payton liked the idea of Taysom Hill in that role, Dennis Allen will love Corral's potential.

19. Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama

Williams tore his ACL in the national title game, but he's still one of the best players in this draft class and should be ready to contribute next October. And if not for the injury he's likely the first wideout off the board. The Saints gave up a lot to get an additional first-rounder this year and they could go in any number of directions. Adding a big-play wide receiver has to be high on the to-do list.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

Previous updates:

New York Giants 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 7.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft, we will update our New York Giants Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the New York Giants from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Giants:

ESPN - Mel Kiper (4/13)

5. Ikem Ekwonu, OT, North Carolina State

If the board shakes out this way, the Giants would have to be thrilled to get their pick of the top two offensive tackles. I have Ekwonu just slightly over Evan Neal, but it's tough to go wrong with either -- they are my Nos. 2 and 3 prospects in this class. Ekwonu answered every question about his pass-protection ability last season. If left tackle Andrew Thomas keeps improving, these two could form one of the NFL's best bookend pairings.

7. Jermaine Johnson, EDGE, Florida State

The Giants can get their tackle at No. 5 and then focus on their defense, which allowed 4.7 yards per play last season (31st in the NFL). Johnson had 12 sacks last season and was one of the most impressive prospects at the Senior Bowl in January. He already has a few veteran pass-rush moves and can be an instant starter. He also played a lot of outside linebacker for the Seminoles, so he has some versatility in Wink Martindale's defense. And if you're keeping track, this makes four edge rushers in the top seven picks.

The Draft Network - Keith Sanchez (4/13)

5. Ikem Ekwonu, OT, North Carolina State

Ikem Ekwonu's stock has been on the rise since the start of the 2021 season and peaked at the NFL Scouting Combine. At the combine, Ekwonu put on a show and showed that he has true athleticism as an offensive lineman.

The Giants have shown that they want to commit to Daniel Jones for at least one more year in hopes that he can develop and I believe that the addition of a player like Ekwonu can only help this cause.

7. Travon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

The Giants took an offensive lineman with their first pick and now they address the defensive line by selecting Travon Walker. Walker is a versatile defensive lineman that can align in multiple positions along the defensive line. Selecting a defensive lineman with this type of versatility will be the beginning of a rebuild and hopefully get the Giants back to the NFC prominence they had with guys like Justin Tuck, Osi Umenyiora, and Jason Pierre-Paul.

NFL.com - Lance Zierlein (4/12)

5. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

The Giants need more pass rush, and they'll hope to find just that with this two-way defender who boasts untapped rush potential.

7. Ikem Ekwonu, OT, North Carolina State

Ekwonu is a guard/tackle prospect with a healthy mean streak and exciting upside, if he can learn to play with more consistency in pass protection.

CBS Sports - Will Brinson (4/12)

5. Ikem Ekwonu, OT, North Carolina State

The Giants are in a great spot at five knowing their needs match up with the top players in this draft class. There's a lot of chatter about Joe Schoen wanting to trade down and get future draft picks and it might require moving from this pick if people want to get ahead of Carolina for a QB or OL. Moving off seven would obviously be their preference.

7. Jermaine Johnson, EDGE, Florida State

It's possible Johnson is gone before this -- the Jets have been rumored to be talking with him -- but either way a pass rusher with the Giants' second pick would have New York fans fired up about this draft.

PFF - Anthony Treash (4/11)

5. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

Gardner allowed just 131 yards across 14 games and 482 coverage snaps in 2021, a performance that will forever be known as one of the best ever seasons by a college defensive back.

Impressively, the 6-foot-3, 190-pounder did that while playing mainly on an island in press-man coverage. He closed out his three-year college career without allowing a single touchdown despite playing over 1,100 coverage snaps. New defensive coordinator Wink Martindale will be able to trust him to win on an island sooner rather than later.

7. Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia

With the Giants welcoming in Wink Martindale as the new DC, this Giants defense will be aggressive and could look to add more pressure. Creative pressure packages are key to Martindale's defensive success, and Dean comes from a system with the same philosophy. The Georgia off-ball linebacker was one of the best blitzers in college football last season.

Not only was Dean the highest-graded off-ball linebacker of 2021, but he's the only linebacker in the PFF College era to earn a 90.0-plus PFF grade in coverage and as a pass-rusher.

The Georgia product racked up 31 pressures and 15 passing stops in 2021, both of which ranked top-10 among Power Five linebackers. He also ranked sixth in the Power Five in pass-rush win rate (22.3%), allowed a first down at the lowest rate among linebackers (13.5%) and didn't surrender a single touchdown.

Ignore the size concerns with the 5-foot-11, 231-pounder. Dean is the real deal.

ESPN - Jordan Reid (4/11)

5. Ikem Ekwonu, OT, North Carolina State

The Giants could have four new starters along the offensive line in 2022. Ekwonu could play right tackle and pair with Andrew Thomas as bookends to build around. He brings physicality and nastiness to a front that sorely lacks that type of attitude, and he's a consistent player.

7. Travon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

Walker, a hot name in draft circles, is a massive end with unique physical traits. Teams in the top 10 could bank on his upside and potential and take him early, even if he had only 9.5 career sacks.

General manager Joe Schoen, who came from Buffalo, was in a regime that wasn't afraid of taking risky, high-ceiling prospects, as he played a part in the selections of Josh Allen and Greg Rousseau.

CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson (4/11)

5. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

Thibodeaux has game-changing talents and, frankly, he's been all over the board in our mock drafts, mostly because teams have differing opinions on him. They're no denying he's just about unstoppable when he's locked in and the Giants desperately need to upgrade their pass rushers.

7. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

Gardner is a long, physical corner who can run with any WR he goes up against. He didn't give up a single TD during his career and in '21 he was as close to shutdown as you're going to see in this class. The Giants have James Bradberry and Adoree Jackson as their top corners but there's not much experience behind them.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

Previous updates:

Detroit Lions 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 7.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft, we will update our Detroit Lions Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the Detroit Lions from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Lions:

ESPN - Mel Kiper (4/13)

2. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

Can I interest you in a 6-foot-3 corner with long arms and 4.41 40-yard dash speed who didn't allow a single touchdown in coverage in college? That's Gardner. The Lions have several needs and would likely jump at Aidan Hutchinson if he somehow fell here. If they can get something out of Jeff Okudah, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2020 draft who has played just 10 games in two seasons, they could have a much-improved secondary.

32. Lewis Cine, S, Georgia

The more I talk to people in the league, the more I think the Lions will stand pat on a quarterback with their three picks in the top 34. Jared Goff can be the starter in 2022, and if he struggles, chances are Detroit will be right back in the mix for the No. 1 overall pick, which it can use on a signal-caller. Cine is the fifth Georgia defender in the top 32 picks here (with more to come). He's a good cover safety who is rising after he ran a 4.37 40 at the combine.

The Draft Network - Keith Sanchez (4/13)

2. Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

I believe the Lions make the splash pick of the draft and take Malik Willis. Willis has shown to have a great arm combined with the ability to make big plays with his legs.

The Lions currently have Jared Goff, but it's time they upgrade the position and take a shot at a quarterback that has playmaking ability. Last year, Lions fans watched their former QB Matthew Stafford leave and win a Super Bowl in his first year, so they have to find their next guy and re-energize this fan base for the future.

32. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

With their first pick, the Lions drafted the leader for their offense in Willis. With this pick, they draft the leader of their defense in linebacker Devin Lloyd.

Lloyd is an extremely instinctual player who plays well against the run well, can drop in zone coverage to intercept the ball, and also rush the passer on third downs. He's a truly versatile linebacker.

NFL.com - Lance Zierlein (4/12)

2. Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan

Dan Campbell's squad fought hard all year in 2021. Adding Hutchinson at a position of need does nothing but bolster the culture the Lions are building.

32. Matt Corral, QB, Mississippi

I have a funny feeling that the Lions may get frisky and jump up the board for a QB at some point, but if they sit tight, Corral has plenty of talent to become their future starter.

CBS Sports - Will Brinson (4/12)

2. Travon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

Maybe the Lions consider a quarterback, but with Jared Goff remaining a fave of the front office it seems more likely to me they continue building depth and talent in the trenches.

32. George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue

Everyone assumes the Lions will pivot off the trenches but I'm not sure they're going to do that for at least another year.

PFF - Anthony Treash (4/11)

2. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

Thibodeaux isn't the most refined pass-rusher in this class, and opposing offenses spent a lot of time trying to scheme away from him. But, despite all that, the 6-foot-4, 251-pounder still earned a 91.5 pass-rush grade last year.

He boasts all the tools NFL teams desire on the edge and showed improvement throughout his college career. If he can continue on that path of refinement, he can reach NFL All-Pro status.

32. Jalen Pitre, S, Baylor

Slot corners are valuable pieces to the defense, and Pitre was one of the best slot corners in college football over the last two years at Baylor, producing a top-three slot coverage grade among Power Five defensive backs in that span.

The former Baylor Bear didn't allow a single touchdown in the slot while producing the second-most passing stops (20) and 11 combined plays on the ball. Pitre was also a stout run defender and an excellent pass-rusher, whether in the slot or on the occasions he moved closer to the ball at outside linebacker. He posted a 92.7 run-defense and 83.6 pass-rush grade in 2021.

Pitre has the skill set to be a more versatile player in the league than he was at Baylor, but at a minimum, he should be a strong slot defender. He has the physical instinct, quickness and processing ability to do so.

ESPN - Jordan Reid (4/11)

2. Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

As I wrote in my QB mock draft last week, either you love this idea or you're absolutely against it. Jared Goff is under contract for two more seasons, which would allow the Lions to bring Willis along slowly.

There's no guarantee that the franchise can position itself next year to be in contention for a top 2023 signal-caller. This is an ideal situation for Willis, as the team is set to have plenty of draft capital to continue to build the roster in the future.

32. Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia

At the controls of one of the best defenses in college football history, Dean is a magnetic Energizer bunny who doesn't stop. The Lions could stick to their board of taking the best prospect available here.

Dean would provide an instant vocal leader on a defense that lacks that quality right now. His physicality and infectious energy make him the exact type of player general manager Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell want to continue to build this roster.

CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson (4/11)

2. Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan

Hutchinson starred at Michigan and now he moves a few miles down the road to join the Lions. He's the best player in this class and talk that he has already reached his ceiling is just that. He's 21 and he's only going to get better.

32. Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

Pickett made the right decision to return to Pitt for the '21 season, and in the process, he worked himself into the first-round conversation. The question is where does he get selected because, depending on who you talk to, it could be anywhere from top-10 to bottom of Round 1.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

Previous updates:

Dallas Cowboys 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 7.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft, we will update our Dallas Cowboys Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the Dallas Cowboys from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Cowboys:

ESPN - Mel Kiper (4/13)

24. Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE, Penn State

McShay is getting tired of me talking up Ebiketie, but I'm a fan. I wanted to find a fit for him in Round 1. The Temple transfer really improved last season, putting up 9.5 sacks. He has a powerful lower body and knows how to use his hands. The Cowboys have to find a way to replace Randy Gregory, and Ebiketie could help. They could also target a guard or wide receiver here.

The Draft Network - Keith Sanchez (4/13)

24. Kenyon Green, IOL, Texas A&M

What seemed to be a complete offense last year looks like a completely different team this year with the loss of key players like Amari Cooper and La'el Collins. With this pick, the Cowboys draft OL Kenyon Green, a guy that can play multiple positions in this Dallas power run scheme.

NFL.com - Lance Zierlein (4/12)

24. Bernhard Raimann, OT, Central Michigan

The choice here could come down to Zion Johnson or Raimann. The latter is the better athlete and can play left guard or tackle, which gets him the nod.

CBS Sports - Will Brinson (4/12)

24. Tyler Smith, IOL, Tulsa

The Cowboys love drafting offensive linemen in the first round and quietly need to reload this unit after some serious attrition the last few years.

PFF - Anthony Treash (4/11)

24. Devonte Wyatt, IDL, Georgia

No Power Five interior defensive lineman earned a higher PFF grade in 2021. Wyatt also earned a grade above 80.0 both against the run and as a pass-rusher -- something no other player at the position in the Power Five accomplished.

The former Georgia Bulldog was the most impactful interior defender in the Power Five. That carried through the Senior Bowl, where he led all at the position in win rate during the one-on-ones.

ESPN - Jordan Reid (4/11)

24. Tyler Linderbaum, IOL, Iowa

The Cowboys must replace guard Connor Williams and provide competition for center Tyler Biadasz. Linderbaum is a hard-nosed run-blocker who can win by cutting off angles and punishing interior defenders with physicality.

He needs to get stronger to improve his anchor as a pass protector, but he's a significant upgrade over what Dallas has at left guard now.

CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson (4/11)

24. Tyler Linderbaum, IOL, Iowa

Tyler Biadasz was good at times last season but there's certainly room for upgrading the interior OL. And if Tyler Linderbaum is still on the board, this is a layup for the front office. Linderbaum is one of the best offensive linemen, even at center, and he could certainly go much higher than this.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

Previous updates:

Tennessee Titans 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 7.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2021 NFL draft, we will update our Tennessee Titans Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the Tennessee Titans from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

ESPN - Mel Kiper (4/13)

26. Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State

The Titans need to get faster at receiver next to A.J. Brown. That's not Robert Woods' game. Dotson, who ran a 4.43 40 at the combine, caught 91 passes last season, 33 coming from the slot. He would give Ryan Tannehill more easy throws because he can scoot after the catch. Tennessee could also target the best offensive lineman available with this pick. On my board, that would be center Tyler Linderbaum (Iowa), and he could play some guard.

The Draft Network - Keith Sanchez (4/13)

26. Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas

Last year, the Titans tried the Julio Jones project and it just didn't simply work out. This year, if they still want to contend for a Super Bowl run they need another receiving option. So with this pick, they draft Treylon Burks. Burks is a big receiver that excels at making contested catches down the field and should give Tannehill another option in the red zone.

NFL.com - Lance Zierlein (4/12)

26. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

Lloyd could be targeted well before this, but if he's still on the board, he's a better option than what the Titans have currently. He's a Mike Vrabel-level tough guy.

CBS Sports - Will Brinson (4/12)

26. Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati

This would be a pretty shocking pick but Ryan Tannehill isn't exactly young and Ridder's style of play could absolutely work in this offensive system.

PFF - Anthony Treash (4/11)

26. Skyy Moore, WR, Western Michigan

The highest-graded wide receiver of the 2021 college football season wasn't any of the Power Five top prospects -- it was Western Michigan's Skyy Moore.

The 5-foot-10, 195-pound receiver's 26 broken tackles after the catch tied for the most among wide receivers in 2021, and he ranked in the 95th percentile in separation percentage. Despite his smaller stature, Moore had no issue handling press coverage on the outside, ranking top-five in yards per route run on those reps last season at 3.58. The cherry on top is his strong hands -- the Western Michigan pass-catcher checked in with the largest hands of anyone at the Combine (10.25 inches) and dropped just three of his 125 targets in 2021 while catching eight of his 13 contested opportunities.

ESPN - Jordan Reid (4/11)

26. Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas

Burks is a jack-of-all-trades player who can thrive in many roles. After playing everything except offensive line as a sophomore at Arkansas, he gained more experience on the perimeter, showing flashes of his potential if he played solely as a receiver.

Tennessee has the exact type of offensive coordinator Burks will need in order to take advantage of his skill set. The Titans should upgrade the wide receiver room, and Burks has the traits to become a great option with Ryan Tannehill's playing style.

CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson (4/11)

26. Tyler Smith, IOL, Tulsa

Some NFL teams like Smith's upside enough to consider him in Round 1. We have a second-round grade on him but, either way, he had an impressive season at Tulsa where he was dominant run blocker who'll need to refine his pass sets, but he certainly has the athleticism to do it.

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Kansas City Chiefs 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 7.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft, we will update our Kansas City Chiefs Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the Kansas City Chiefs from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Chiefs:

ESPN - Mel Kiper (4/13)

29. Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson

The loss in free agency of cornerback Charvarius Ward shouldn't go unnoticed. He had developed into a really solid player. The Kansas City defense improved as the 2021 season went along, but it has to get deeper in the secondary. Booth is a smooth 6-foot corner with good ball skills who played both outside and in the slot in college.

30. George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue

No wide receiver? Let me explain. First, the Chiefs also have two second- and two third-round picks. They could take one (or two) wide receivers with those selections. This is a deep class, and they could find better value there. And second, defensive end is a need as well. If Karlaftis is on the board, he'd be an ideal end next to Chris Jones, who does his best work from the interior. Karlaftis didn't always get home to quarterbacks last season (only 4.5 sacks), but he created pressures in their face.

The Draft Network - Keith Sanchez (4/13)

29. Boye Mafe, EDGE, Minnesota

The Chiefs need defensive help. The AFC West is loaded with good quarterbacks and explosive players. So they either have to draft a defensive back or an edge rusher.

They decide to go edge rusher here. Boye Mafe shows flashes of being a dominant edge rusher, and with a year of development can turn into a double-digit a year sack guy.

30. Christian Watson, WR, North Dakota State

The Chiefs traded away what some may say is the most explosive receiver in the NFL in Tyreek Hill and seem to be taking a receiver-by-committee approach to this year. Christian Watson is 6-foot-4 and runs 4.3s 40, which should give Patrick Mahomes a fun new weapon to target down the field so he can continue to create explosive plays.

NFL.com - Lance Zierlein (4/12)

TRADE - 23. Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State

You didn't think GM Brett Veach was going to just sit and wait at the back of the draft with all that capital (12 total picks, including Nos. 29 and 30 and six within the first 103), did you?

30. Boye Mafe, EDGE, Minnesota

With receiver out of the way, the Chiefs turn to bolstering the edge. Mafe's explosiveness and power are exciting traits for defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo to mold.

CBS Sports - Will Brinson (4/12)

29. Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson

The Chiefs need WR help but not as much as people generally think. I'd bet they draft one with these picks but will potentially let the draft come to them.

30. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

Again, WR help is needed but the Chiefs also have a bad defense and added some guys at the position this offseason. They're not going to win the Super Bowl without more impact defensive players.

PFF - Anthony Treash (4/11)

29. Kyler Gordon, CB, Washington

Gordon may not have elite long speed, but he is an explosive and agile athlete with a high ceiling. He put up an 89.6 coverage grade in 2021 -- his first full season starting -- despite not being the most technically refined or instinctive corner. He still managed to produce at a borderline elite level in his last year at Washington, and he still has so much more room to grow.

30. Travon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

This is an unpopular opinion, but I am not comfortable with taking Walker any earlier than the end of Round 1.

The Georgia edge defender is in rare territory from a tools perspective. He clocked a 4.51-second 40-yard dash (97th percentile among edge historically), 35-inch vertical (76th), 10-foot-3 broad jump (85th), 4.32-second short shuttle (70th) and 6.89-second three-cone (93rd). He also has long arms that measure in at 35.5 inches.

But, from a technical standpoint, Walker is a risky bet. His pass-rush move arsenal is non-existent, with little to no natural feel. The 6-foot-5, 272-pounder relied on his length with the bull rush and long arm, but it still wasn't effective against college tackles, even with that advantage.

Despite playing for a historically good defense in 2021, the Georgia product still produced just a 66.1 pass-rush grade and an 11.2% win rate in his three years in Athens.

His lack of development while playing for an A-list program is a major concern. And while there's no denying what he can develop into with further top-notch coaching, it's likely going to be multiple years before Walker can fully maximize his physical gifts, if at all. A contender like Kansas City can take on this risk.

ESPN - Jordan Reid (4/11)

29. Boye Mafe, EDGE, Minnesota

An explosive and bendy edge rusher, Mafe could put his hand in the dirt or stand up as a 3-4 outside linebacker. His ability to shave the cup of the pocket and finish at the quarterback makes his traits appealing to the Chiefs, who are in need of consistent pass-rushers. He is also a strong-handed run defender and is consistent with slamming the door and pinning outside runs back inside.

30. Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State

In search of replacing Tyreek Hill, the Chiefs are likely to do it by committee instead of finding one player who can fully satisfy that role. Dotson has some of Hill's traits. A precise route runner, he's creative with a lot of his movements in order to gain separation.

Outside of his 5-foot-11 size, there aren't a lot of holes to Dotson's game. Along with Drake London, he has the biggest catch radius of any receiver in this class. It's routine for him to catch passes well outside of the strike zone and put his body into uncomfortable spots in order to haul in throws.

CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson (4/11)

29. Devonte Wyatt, IDL, Georgia

Unfortunately, Wyatt doesn't play WR. But he is another player who changed some minds with his Senior Bowl week and he continued to convince folks of his first-round talents by putting on a show at the combine. Incredibly quick off the snap and powerful once he gets going, he can be unstoppable when he's on his game. We love the idea of him lining up alongside Chris Jones and Frank Clark.

30. Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State

We like Dotson in the second round but the Chiefs aren't on the clock again until pick No. 50. Dotson only weighed in at 178 at the combine but he is a YAC machine who feels like he'll fit right into Andy Reid's offense.

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Carolina Panthers 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 7.0

Throughout the year and leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft, we will update our Carolina Panthers Mock Draft Roundup showing picks for the Carolina Panthers from several prominent sites and draft analysts.

The following are picks in recent mock drafts for the Panthers:

ESPN - Mel Kiper (4/13)

6. Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

Doesn't Carolina coach Matt Rhule have to take a swing on a quarterback here? The Panthers don't have second- or third-round picks. Rhule will enter the season on the hot seat, and this is his chance to buy some time with a high-ceiling rookie signal-caller. Willis is going to make some mistakes, but he will be fun to watch. He might nail a perfect deep ball to Robby Anderson and then throw a pick in the red zone on the next play. But he's going to keep getting better with more time, and Carolina does have some skill position talent to help him.

The Draft Network - Keith Sanchez (4/13)

6. Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

Head coach Matt Rhule is firmly on the hot seat and I believe that he needs to show his value as either an offensive mind or a leader of men. So with this pick, I believe Rhule hitches his wagon to Kenny Pickett--a quarterback that has good upside--in order to show that he actually has a plan for the Panthers and he knows how to construct a winning team.

NFL.com - Lance Zierlein (4/12)

6. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

The Panthers choose to add immediate help rather than draft a developmental quarterback. Cross may be more game-ready as a left tackle than Ickey Ekwonu would be.

CBS Sports - Will Brinson (4/12)

6. Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

Reportedly the "mutual disinterest" between the Panthers and Baker Mayfield is cooling off. If that's the case, then maybe a deal goes down and Carolina takes an OL instead. For now I'll have them sticking with Pickett at six thanks to the connections between the Pitt QB and Matt Rhule/David Tepper.

PFF - Anthony Treash (4/11)

6. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

Cross, Evan Neal and Ikem Ekwonu are all firmly in the OT1 conversation, but Cross gets my nod because of how well he projects as a pass protector.

The Mississippi State product improved by leaps and bounds this past season, putting up an 84.9 PFF grade after struggling to a mark of 60.7 the year before. After allowing 44 pressures in 2020, he gave up just 16 last season despite playing 145 more pass-blocking snaps.

ESPN - Jordan Reid (4/11)

6. Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

The Panthers' quarterback of the future isn't on the roster. Of all the signal-callers in this class, Pickett and Desmond Ridder (Cincinnati) are the two most ready to step into an NFL game and produce. With coach Matt Rhule having history with Pickett, this pick makes sense.

CBS Sports - Ryan Wilson (4/11)

6. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

QB is the easy choice here, after the Panthers missed out on Watson, but any passer selected here would be overdrafted. There are reports that owner David Tepper is high on Kenny Pickett but he's our QB4, and the reality is that Patrick Mahomes could be Carolina's QB and he'd struggle because the offensive line is in shambles. Which brings us to who we think best helps this team. Cross plays in Mike Leach's Air Raid offense, which means he's not asked to do a lot of run blocking. And he'll tell you that's one of the things he wants to improve, even though he was very good in that area last season. Either way, Cross' athleticism shines through and that, coupled with his strength, makes him a top-10 draft-day target.

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