The Daily Blitz: David Ojabo

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Monday, February 21, 2022

New York Jets 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 4.0

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

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

SI - Kevin Hanson (2/17)

4. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

Given Joe Douglas's preference to build through the trenches, it's very possible Ikem Ekwonu will make it three consecutive Jets' drafts with a first-round offensive lineman. For now, though, let's operate under the premise the Jets will start George Fant at left tackle, shift Mekhi Becton to right tackle and "throw a lot of money" at a free-agent guard, as predicted last month by SNY's Ralph Vacchiano.

A rangy playmaker with elite size (6' 4" and 219 pounds), Hamilton has the versatility to be used as a defensive chess piece and the coverage ability to erase top pass-catching tight ends. Hamilton had eight interceptions over three seasons in South Bend. Meanwhile, only the Raiders (six) picked off fewer passes than the Jets (seven) last season.

10. Jermaine Johnson, EDGE, Florida State

Later in this mock, you'll see four Georgia defenders, but is it possible that a former Bulldog will be selected before any of them? In his lone season after transferring from Georgia, Johnson led the ACC in sacks (11.5) and tackles for loss (17.5) and was named the conference's 2021 Defensive Player of the Year. After his stellar week at the Senior Bowl in Mobile, Johnson may have put himself in the top-10 mix come April.

Yahoo! Sports - Eric Edholm (2/17)

4. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

Part of us thinks GM Joe Douglas wouldn't draft a safety this high. But another part thinks they can use all the dynamic playmakers possible. And this position needs an overhaul, with Marcus Maye and Lamarcus Joyner both unrestricted free agents coming off significant injuries. They don't have anyone like Hamilton on the roster, and he could be special in Robert Saleh's defense.

10. David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan

We're not quite as high on Ojabo right now as others might be, but the Jets almost certainly will add multiple rushers this offseason. With time and development, Ojabo could be a special talent off the edge. The Jets might also consider OL or WR help here, depending on how free agency goes.

Draft Wire - Luke Easterling (2/17)

4. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

Landing Thibodeaux at this spot might have seemed impossible a few months ago, but it wouldn't be surprising at this point. If it happens, the Jets would get a huge steal at a position of need, landing an explosive edge defender with limitless potential.

10. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

After getting an elite pass rusher with their first pick, the Jets add another big-play machine for the secondary here. It might surprise some to see Gardner as the first corner off the board, but his rare combination of size, length and ball skills makes him more than worthy.

ESPN - Todd McShay (2/16)

4. Ikem Ekwonu, OT, North Carolina State

Ekwonu's size makes him tough to get around, he plays with the power to bury defenders, and he's a mauler in the run game. In fact, some people around the NFL even like him more than Evan Neal. Ekwonu would help New York protect Zach Wilson in the passing game and spring Michael Carter in the running game. The Jets allowed 53 sacks in 2021 (fourth most), but New York's offensive line issues aren't as massive as they seem. I think the team is one impact player away there. Morgan Moses played well last season, but he's a free agent due for a pay bump. Mekhi Becton, the Jets' 2020 first-rounder, has struggled to stay healthy but still has a ton of upside.

Given some unknowns here, Ekwonu's versatility matches what the Jets need. Coach Robert Saleh would have options with Ekwonu in the fold, including but not limited to bumping the rookie inside or sliding Becton to the right side. Alternatively, the Jets could consider Kayvon Thibodeaux to address the edge rush after generating just 33 sacks last year (tied for 28th).

10. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

The Jets went offense with their first four picks in 2021, and we just handed them an offensive tackle (Ikem Ekwonu) at No. 4. So yeah, this is defense all the way, especially with safety Marcus Maye facing free agency. The Jets could certainly get by with Bryce Hall and Brandin Echols at corner, but Stingley could be the steal of the draft if things go this way. The big question is whether the LSU product can return to form and produce as he did in his 2019 freshman year, when he had six interceptions. A left foot injury held him out of all but three games in 2021, but if he realizes his potential, Stingley would certainly improve a defense that gave up 8.0 yards per pass attempt and hauled in just seven interceptions in 2021.

Fox Sports - Rob Rang (2/16)

4. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

Branded a defensive guru, Jets coach Robert Saleh has to be upset that his team surrendered four times as many touchdown passes as it intercepted, the worst ratio in the league. The long-armed, silky smooth "Sauce" Gardner has the frame, name and game built for Broadway.

10. Travon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

After using their two first-round picks on offense last year (QB Zach Wilson, OG Alijah Vera-Tucker), the Jets should focus on the other side of the ball in this defensive-loaded draft. Walker's flashes were star-bright for the Bulldogs, but he wasn't the consistent dominator that his size and athleticism suggest.

This selection in the top 10 is certainly a roll of the dice, but Saleh was brought in to develop talents like Walker. If he hits, the UGA and Senior Bowl standout could be the star off the edge to turn a good linebacker corps into the AFC East's best.

USA Today - Nate Davis (2/15)

4. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

He arguably has a higher ceiling than Hutchinson but is currently a more unrefined product. In 30 games with the Ducks, the 6-5, 258-pounder had 19 sacks and 35½ tackles for loss. His burst and tools would be a boon to a Jets defense that's long lacked an elite pass rusher and can only hope veteran DE Carl Lawson (Achilles) will be ready to go in 2022.

10. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

New York, owner of the NFL's worst defense in 2021 (both in terms of points and yards allowed), would be wise to invest both of its top-10 picks on that side of the ball – and Stingley will almost certainly be under consideration at No. 4, too – and not give in to any temptation to get QB Zach Wilson more toys. (GM Joe Douglas has two second-round picks, so Wilson will get help eventually.) Stingley's talents as a cover man are undeniable and were apparent for the 2019 national champions, for whom he had six interceptions, earning All-American honors for his efforts. But foot surgery limited him to three games in 2021. Still, it would be hard for the Jets to bypass this kind of talent, especially if Stingley is still there at No. 10 and given the team's weakness at the position.

The Ringer - Danny Kelly (2/15)

4. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

The Jets's pass defense finished in the bottom three in passing yards (259 per game), yards per attempt (8.4), passer rating allowed (103.2), and interceptions (seven) last season. With Hutchinson and Thibodeaux off the board, Stingley makes a lot of sense. Opposite Bryce Hall, Stingley would be a massive boost to a defense that needs some playmakers.

TRADE - 20. Drake London, WR, USC

After picking up an extra few picks in a trade back with the Steelers, the Jets still get one of the top receivers in this class. London is a perfect complement to Corey Davis and Elijah Moore; he's a big-play X receiver who can give Zach Wilson a jump ball specialist and red-zone threat. The Jets need as many playmakers as they can get around Wilson, and London has the skill set to make an immediate impact.

The Draft Scout - Matt Miller (2/14)

4. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

Yes, there will be talk about poor work ethic and a lack of competitiveness, but turn on the tape and Thibodeaux was a dominant force for three seasons at Oregon. If he throttled down on a subpar Ducks team to protect his future in the NFL, it's hard to blame him or claim that he lacks the competitive juices to win the pros. The Jets should be thrilled that he's available here.

10. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

6'3" cornerbacks with sweet feet are hard to come by. That's why the Jets pull the trigger on Gardner even if head coach Robert Saleh's defenses have in the past featured non-premium picks at the position. In Gardner--who didn't allow a touchdown in college--Saleh just might see a young Richard Sherman.

NFL.com - Chad Reuter (2/14)

4. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

Hamilton missed the final six games of last season due to a knee injury, but that shouldn't be an issue as long as his medical exams check out. The former Irish star's height, agility and ball skills remind me of the Bengals' Jessie Bates.

TRADE - 20. Drake London, WR, USC

London's ankle injury won't dissuade teams from picking him early in the draft. Last year's second-round pick, Eljiah Moore, could do a lot of damage in the slot with the tall, agile London and a healthy Corey Davis on the outside for the Jets.

PFF - Mike Renner (2/14)

4. Ikem Ekwonu, OT, North Carolina State

Mekhi Becton and Ickey Ekwonu would present an incredibly imposing tackle duo. Ekwonu led all Power Five tackles in big-time blocks last season.

10. Drake London, WR, USC

London is quite easily the one receiver from this draft class who I'd want to pair with a young quarterback. Even when he's not open, London is open. He hauled in an NCAA-high 19 contested catches in only eight games last season.

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Atlanta Falcons 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 4.0

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

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

SI - Kevin Hanson (2/17)

8. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

Following his 2019 true freshman season, Stingley seemed destined to be the CB1 lock in this draft class, but he has played only 10 games since then and not at the same elite level. One of the youngest prospects in the draft (he turns 21 in June), the former five-star recruit has prototypical size and length, and elite athleticism and ball skills. If he reaches his potential at the next level, the duo of A.J. Terrell and Stingley will make it extremely difficult for opposing quarterbacks.

Yahoo! Sports - Eric Edholm (2/17)

8. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

The Falcons are in an interesting spot here, with no obvious pairing jumping out. But assuming they add pass-rush help in free agency, getting some depth at corner might not be a bad idea. Gardner and A.J. Terrell could make a very tough pair to throw against on the outside.

Draft Wire - Luke Easterling (2/17)

8. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

The Falcons could go in one of many different directions here, but you can never go wrong when you prioritize overall value and quality offensive line talent. Cross is barely scratching the surface of his potential, and was battle-tested against some of the nation's best competition in the SEC.

ESPN - Todd McShay (2/16)

8. Drake London, WR, USC

A team has used top-10 picks on pass-catchers in back-to-back drafts three times since 1967, so this might seem odd for a roster that just went 7-10. But the offense could lose five of the eight players who had at least 70 receiving yards last season to free agency, and it's possible the Falcons additionally look to trade Calvin Ridley, who played in five games last year while taking time off to focus on his mental health. London, meanwhile, was on his way to a massive campaign for USC before breaking his right ankle in October. He's a 6-foot-5 target who has the body control and contact balance to make plays over the middle, the speed to produce vertically and the instincts to create against different defensive looks.

The Falcons passed on a strong QB class at No. 4 last April to draft tight end Kyle Pitts, but it might decide to go that route now. Matt Ryan is their guy for 2022, but if they fall in love with one of the signal-callers, it's a good spot to draft an heir to sit and learn behind Ryan. Perhaps Pitt's Kenny Pickett could fit.

Fox Sports - Rob Rang (2/16)

8. Jermaine Johnson, EDGE, Florida State

The Falcons finished dead last in the NFL in sacks in 2021, and it wasn't close, as they took down opposing quarterbacks just 18 times in 17 games (the Eagles were next on the list with 29 sacks). With the top-rated edge rushers (Hutchinson and Thibodeaux) long gone by this point, Atlanta faces a fascinating decision here, as this class is talented and deep but not limitless.

The Falcons certainly know Johnson well, as he signed as a highly touted prep with the Georgia Bulldogs before transferring and starring at Florida State and, more recently, in the Senior Bowl.

USA Today - Nate Davis (2/15)

8. David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan

A native of Nigeria who grew up in Scotland, he had one tackle as a sophomore in 2020, so bit of an understatement to deem Ojabo raw. But what a breakout during his junior year, when the 6-5, 250-pounder erupted for 11 sacks -- though it certainly didn't hurt playing opposite Hutchinson. Atlanta, which hasn't had a player register even five sacks in the past two seasons, desperately needs a player who can bring the heat. The Falcons' 18 sacks in 2021 were 11 fewer than the next-worst team. And given they're in a bit of a rebuild situation, Ojabo should have a grace period to refine his skills.

The Ringer - Danny Kelly (2/15)

8. Tyler Linderbaum, IOL, Iowa

If the Falcons want to get the most out of Matt Ryan's final year or two with the team, they've got to do a better job of keeping him upright in the pocket. Linderbaum is a plug-and-play starter for this offense who would provide a boost to both the passing game and ground attack.

The Draft Scout - Matt Miller (2/14)

8. Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

The Falcons are the ideal situation for Malik Willis to thrive given the presence of Matt Ryan for the 2022 season. Willis can learn, acclimate and improve on a plan very similar to the one put in place for Trey Lance by the San Francisco 49ers. His arm talent and elusiveness as a runner are electric.

NFL.com - Chad Reuter (2/14)

8. David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan

Ojabo is just scratching the surface of his potential as a pass rusher, but he's not so raw that he can't make an impact as a rookie.

PFF - Mike Renner (2/14)

8. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

Pairing Stingley with A.J. Terrell would give the Falcons defense remarkable potential. Terrell is already one of the best shut-down corners in the league, while Stingley has been the same at the collegiate level. Over his college career, the LSU product broke up or picked off 26 of his 129 targets in coverage.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

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Sunday, February 20, 2022

Denver Broncos 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 4.0

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

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

SI - Kevin Hanson (2/17)

9. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

Will the Broncos use this pick (and more) to trade for Aaron Rodgers (or another quarterback)? Time will tell, but new Broncos coach (and ex-Packers offensive coordinator) Nathanial Hackett is reportedly "pushing hard to trade" for Rodgers. If the Broncos retain this pick (and don't draft a quarterback), Lloyd would give them a playmaker in the middle of the defense. Several of Denver's inside linebackers--Kenny Young, A.J. Johnson and Josey Jewell--are unrestricted free agents next month. The Pac-12's Defensive Player of the Year, the do-it-all former Ute ended 2021 with 110 tackles, 22 TFLs, eight sacks and four interceptions.

Yahoo! Sports - Eric Edholm (2/17)

9. Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

Why would the Broncos take Pickett if they passed on the likes of Justin Fields and Mac Jones a year ago? Well, the stakes and urgency have been raised, and Aaron Rodgers and other big-name veterans might not be available. Pickett would have a chance to start immediately and have success with Denver's allotment of pass-catching talent.

Draft Wire - Luke Easterling (2/17)

9. Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

The Aaron Rodgers rumors will persist throughout the offseason, but until it actually happens, quarterback will remain Denver's biggest need. Pickett may lack the high-end upside of Willis, but he's more pro-ready right now, and a team like the Broncos could draw connections between him and Joe Burrow.

ESPN - Todd McShay (2/16)

9. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

Will Denver end up with Aaron Rodgers? It's hard to project anything for the Broncos until they figure out the quarterback situation. They have had zero success drafting and developing QBs. Drew Lock deserves a shot to compete if they don't land a proven veteran, but no one is saying they're Super Bowl bound with the 2019 draft pick under center, especially in a division that features Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert and Derek Carr.

The defense got strong returns from Pat Surtain II in his rookie year, but there are definitely some weak spots on that side of the ball. The Broncos were bottom six in both pass rush win rate (31.3%, 32nd) and run stop win rate (27.8%, 27th). And linebackers Alexander Johnson, Josey Jewell and Kenny Young are all primed for free agency. Lloyd plays fast, is rangy and has great recognition skills. I have Georgia's Nakobe Dean ranked higher, but I'm hearing some teams like Lloyd a bit more. He's a plug-and-play starter who can be Denver's leader on defense.

Fox Sports - Rob Rang (2/16)

9. David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan

No one knows better than the Broncos that to contend in the arms race that is the AFC West, this club must get better play at quarterback. The draft class does not offer that kind of immediate impact, however, so expect Denver and new coach Nathaniel Hackett to try to acquire a veteran QB (Aaron Rodgers?). That would be better than gambling away a top-10 pick that could be used to restock a pass rush that is lacking due to the trade of Von Miller and Bradley Chubb's durability struggles.

Ojabo is raw but even more gifted athletically than his former teammate and the projected No. 1 overall pick, Hutchinson.

USA Today - Nate Davis (2/15)

9. George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue

Quarterback is this team's obvious need, but let's assume -- for now -- that GM George Paton finds another avenue to address Denver's hole under center. Paton also needs to replace departed OLB Von Miller's production for a defense that finished with a middling 36 sacks. This isn't to suggest Karlaftis is a similar player to Miller -- who is? -- but in two full seasons (2019, 2021) for the Boilermakers, he compiled 13 sacks, 32 QB hits and 64 hurries.

The Ringer - Danny Kelly (2/15)

9. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

The Broncos could go with a quarterback here, but after watching them pass on both Justin Fields and Mac Jones last year, I'm not convinced they'll like anyone in this year's class any better (and certainly not better than, say, Aaron Rodgers, who could be an offseason trade target). After building out their skill position corps over the past few years, Denver looks to beef up the offensive line with Cross, who fills a need at the right tackle spot. Both Bobby Massie and Cameron Fleming are slated for free agency.

The Draft Scout - Matt Miller (2/14)

9. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

The Broncos are more likely to solve their opening at quarterback through a trade or free agency; that opens the door for a rangy, athletic, attacking linebacker to fill a huge need on defense. Lloyd was a one-man wrecking crew for the Utes.

NFL.com - Chad Reuter (2/14)

9. Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

Pickett's double-jointed thumb should not distract people from his ability to lead an offense. The Broncos will appreciate his underrated athleticism and competitive nature.

PFF - Mike Renner (2/14)

TRADE - 20. Jermaine Johnson, EDGE, Florida State

Johnson is as NFL-ready as it gets in the draft class. He's at the very least a hard edge-setter and an every-down player and averaged over 60 snaps a game last season.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

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Saturday, January 22, 2022

Baltimore Ravens 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup

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

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

CBS Sports - Chris Trapasso (1/20)

14. Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

Gardner is the smooth, no-nonsense cornerback the Ravens will love to add to their man-heavy defense.

ESPN - Mel Kiper (1/19)

14. Tyler Linderbaum, IOL, Iowa

Injuries decimated the Baltimore roster in 2021, but center Bradley Bozeman had a solid season. The problem? He's now a free agent and could get more money on the open market. The Ravens could turn to the draft for his replacement, and if Linderbaum is on the board at No. 14, they would upgrade. Linderbaum is pro-ready right now -- he already has great technique and is already a great run and pass-blocker. This one makes a ton of sense.

Barring significant injuries again, Baltimore is well-positioned for another playoff run in 2022. It needs to keep Lamar Jackson clean in the pocket, and Linderbaum will certainly help there.

The Athletic - Dane Brugler (1/19)

14. Travon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

Good players just seem to fall to the Ravens in the draft, right? That is the case here because it wouldn't surprise me if Walker ends up being one of the best defensive players from this draft class. With players like Calais Campbell and Brandon Williams set to hit free agency, the Ravens' defensive line could look very different in 2022.

PFF - Austin Gayle (1/17)

14. Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington

What McDuffie lacks in size -- 5-foot-11, 195 pounds -- he makes up for in short-area quicks and polish. On 296 coverage snaps in 2021, he allowed just 16 catches from 36 targets for 111 yards and zero touchdowns, earning an impressive 88.7 PFF coverage grade in the process.

Baltimore Sun - C.J. Doon (1/14)

14. David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan

With aging veterans Justin Houston and Pernell McPhee hitting free agency and Tyus Bowser expected to miss significant time with an Achilles injury, the Ravens need a pass rusher. Like rookie Odafe Oweh, his former teammate at New Jersey's Blair Academy, the 6-5, 250-pound Ojabo is a raw prospect with outstanding athleticism and speed. He racked up 11 sacks and a program-record five forced fumbles this season.

Athlon Sports - Bryan Fischer (1/13)

14. Kenyon Green, IOL, Texas A&M

Keeping Lamar Jackson upright remains a priority and the way the Ravens' offensive line got hit with injuries this season makes bringing in somebody like Green with five-tool versatility a priority.

San Diego Union Tribune - Eddie Brown (1/13)

14. Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

You might want to constantly replenish the talent on your offensive line if running the football is your team's identity. Cross is a powerful blocker who can do damage at the second level in the run game with premium athleticism and his target-lock awareness. He developed into a dominant pass protector this season and could end up cracking the top-10 in April.

USA Today - Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz (1/12)

14. Tyler Linderbaum, IOL, Iowa

A singularly calamitous spate of injuries this past season makes the Ravens particularly difficult to read. But even after Lamar Jackson missed five games, it's readily evident that the team's protection is in disarray after the line allowed 57 sacks, the second-highest total in the NFL. Though true centers seldom earn this consideration -- the last to be taken in the top 15 picks was Steve Everitt to the Browns in 1993 -- Linderbaum is a uniquely talented blocker who can unlock even more possibilities in the Ravens' diverse run game.

For The Win - Charles McDonald (1/12)

14. Jordan Davis, IDL, Georgia

The Ravens grab a tank of a nose tackle here that gives them a great chance to have a dominant defense again with players returning from injury.

The Draft Network - Joe Marino (1/10)

14. Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa

The Ravens could a number of directions with this pick, but nothing can be more meaningful than adding to the offensive line with the return of a healthy Lamar Jackson and J.K. Dobbins in 2022. They need an answer at right tackle and Trevor Penning is a perfect fit.

A massive, road-grading blocker, Penning is the type of offensive lineman we've seen Baltimore gravitate toward in the past. He could help stabilize the tackle spot, especially if Ronnie Stanley returns to form after his latest injury.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

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Sunday, November 28, 2021

New York Jets 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 2.0

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

For a more inclusive lists of mock drafts for the New York Jets, check out our New York Jets Mock Draft Database.

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

CBS Sports - Edwards (11/25)

2. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

The Jets use the first of two first-round picks on LSU cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. New York has upgraded the offensive line and can now turn attention to other premier positions.

6. Ikem Ekwonu, OT, North Carolina State

Ikem Ekwonu is a polished run blocker that continues to improve in pass protection. New York selects their third first-round offensive lineman in as many years.

NBC Sports Chicago - Morgan (11/24)

2. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

Possessing NFL bloodlines dating back to his grandfather ( WR - Darryl Stingley / New England Patriots ), Stingley is an athletic prodigy with game altering, playmaking skills beyond his years. Blessed with a body type engineered to play cornerback ( 6-1, 195 lbs), Stingley combines long speed and short area quickness to shadow receivers on any level of the gridiron. A former receiver himself (six career touchdown receptions - Dunham H.S / Baton Rouge, LA), Stingley's enhanced ability to track passes makes him difficult to beat in coverage.

6. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

Hamilton has uncommon size for a safety (6-4 , 219 lbs), and exceptional athleticism buoyed with an explosive fluidity. New York will have to decide if re-signing starting safety, Marcus Maye is cost effective, considering his current contract pays him over 10 million, he'll want an increase in salary. Taking into account Hamilton's eight career interceptions and 16 passes defended, he could possibly tandem with a re-signed Maye and provide the Jets with a dynamic back end to their secondary.

NBC Sports Philly - Roche (11/23)

2. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

The Jets have a ton of needs, mainly on defense. Stingley is out for the season, but a player of this talent and athleticism (4.30 in the 40, 42-inch vertical) at a position of need would be foolish to overlook.

6. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

The Jets double up on secondary, tabbing the most versatile defensive player in the draft. Hamilton can tackle, he can cover, he excels wherever you put him on the field.

The Draft Network - Sanchez (11/22)

2. Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

The New York Jets defense has struggled due to injury and being void of talent. With this pick, the Jets select Kayvon Thibodeaux, an edge rusher that has elite athleticism that is capable of wreaking havoc on every down.

5. Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

Kyle Hamilton might be the pound-for-pound best football player in college football. His ability to play sideline to sideline against the pass and also being a formidable run defender makes him the best safety prospect coming out of college football in the past decade. The Jets take Hamilton with this pick and continue to add talented pieces to their defense.

PFF - Treash (11/22)

2. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

Stingley just might be the best all-around athlete in this class. At The Opening event in high school, Stingley posted a 4.3-second 40-yard and 42.0-inch vertical. He's the owner of one of the best seasons PFF College has seen since its inception in 2014 as a true freshman in 2019. That year, Stingley earned a 91.7 PFF grade while allowing a minimal 38% catch rate and combining for 21 interceptions plus pass breakups. Stingley's last couple of seasons have, unfortunately, been derailed by injury (only 289 coverage snaps played as opposed to 589 played in 2019), but he still performed admirably, allowing under a yard per coverage snap in that span.

Stingley is CB1 and should be a top-three pick next April.

5. George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue

Karlaftis -- who was born in Athens, Greece -- is the "Greek Freak" of college football. He is one of the most powerful defensive ends in the country and pairs that strength with arguably the best hand usage in the country and an explosive get-off that makes life tough on opposing offensive tackles. The 6-foot-4, 275-pound Boilermaker showed a lot of promise as an underclassman and is now maximizing his full potential as a true junior, as evidenced by his 90.1 pass-rush grade this season.

ESPN - Reid (11/17)

3. Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

After aiming to rebuild the offense during the first draft with Robert Saleh as the coach, general manager Joe Douglas and the Jets could invest on the other side of the ball this offseason. Stingley, who hasn't played since having foot surgery in early October, had six interceptions as a true freshman in 2019. He has a skill set and ceiling that is reminiscent of former Ohio State corner Marshon Lattimore, who was drafted No. 11 overall by the Saints in 2017. Stingley would be a clear improvement over New York's current corners.

10. David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan

Ojabo is the defensive prospect who has helped himself most this season, as he has 10 sacks and four forced fumbles in 10 games. It's just a one-year sample for the third-year sophomore, but he has starred on the other side of Aidan Hutchinson. Ojabo, a former high school teammate of 2021 first-rounder Odafe Oweh, is the exact type of prospect the Jets should covet to place alongside a healthy Carl Lawson in 2022. The Jets can fill both of their biggest need positions -- corner and edge -- with their two top-10 picks.

MORE TEAMS: All NFL Team Mock Draft Roundups

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New York Jets 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 1.0

New England Patriots 2022 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 2.0

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

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

CBS Sports - Edwards (11/25)

26. Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia

New England has leaned into its identity as a physical team that is just going to blow up zone blocking schemes. Dean is a missile that will eliminate the pullers from the equation.

NBC Sports Chicago - Morgan (11/24)

26. Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas

Burks is a good sized target who moves with surprising agility for a man his size (6-3, 232 lbs). The fluidity of his hip movements improves separation from defenders when pivoting and cutting on combo pass routes. Burks uses his frame to shield defensive backs from the ball when they challenge him on contested passes. The Patriots' rookie quarterback, Mac Jones is having an outstanding season so far, imagine how much better he'll become with the addition of Burks.

NBC Sports Philly - Roche (11/23)

26. Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas

Burks gives the Patriots what they desperately need: a big-time playmaking receiver to pair with Mac Jones. This guy has all the gifts, and shows up when it matters most. His effort this past weekend against Alabama: 8 catches, 179 yards, and 2 touchdowns against the Crimson Tide in the Razorbacks' near-upset.

The Draft Network - Sanchez (11/22)

26. David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan

Every year there is a prospect that catapults himself out of nowhere into a first-round worthy draft pick. This year it's David Ojabo. The Patriots love taking versatile linebacker/edge rushers and take Ojabo with this pick. Ojabo has only played football a few years but Bill Belichick will find him intriguing and believe that he can develop Ojabo's athletic traits into an impactful football player.

PFF - Treash (11/22)

26. Drake London, WR, USC

London was running away with the Biletnikoff Award, which is given annually to college football's top pass-catcher, before fracturing his right ankle in Week 9. Despite not playing a full season, he still might -- and should -- take home the award given his routine dominance before the injury. The 6-foot-5, 210-pound receiver -- who at one point was on the USC basketball team -- earned a 91.8 receiving grade this year. He dominated in one-on-one scenarios and put up monster numbers due to his physicality and ball skills. London totaled 19 contested catches and 22 broken tackles in eight games. The former is six more than any other Power Five wide receiver through Week 12 while the latter is the second-most.

ESPN - Reid (11/17)

23. Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

After the trade of Stephon Gilmore, cornerback and linebacker are likely the two biggest holes for New England entering the 2022 offseason. Lloyd is a versatile second-level defender who could provide value in multiple areas, and the Patriots don't have high-end options after Dont'a Hightower. Lloyd, who has 85 tackles, six sacks and three interceptions this season, could excel in a multiple-front defense that involves interchanging parts, and he'll pick up pressures as a blitzing pass-rusher as well.

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