2022 NFL Mock Draft: Run on receivers in the middle of round one
By Liam Gorman
17. Los Angeles Chargers: Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
After Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, the Chargers’ wide receiver depth is bare. Here they select Garrett Wilson, which would represent great value at the seventeenth overall selection. It would also give them that yard-after-catch dynamic in their offense that they are currently lacking at the unit.
18. Philadelphia Eagles: Daxton Hill, S, Michigan
Daxton Hill is a clear-cut, perfect fit for the Eagles. They have a massive need at free safety, and Hill found success in a versatile role for the Wolverines. He did everything from playing zone coverage to almost being a slot cornerback.
He did not have a lot of experience at deep-zone coverage but there is no reason why he could not adapt given his skillset. He would start day one and make the Eagles secondary instantly better.
19. New Orleans Saints: Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh
This is probably one of the more controversial picks of this mock draft. But if there is a chance to improve at the most important position in the sport the Saints should take that opportunity. Pickett is sliding on draft boards right now, but he still had an incredible 2021 season, throwing 42 touchdowns on just 7 interceptions to become a Heisman finalist.
Additionally, whatever concerns that exist about Pickett’s hand size can be minimized by playing in a dome in New Orleans and playing in the NFC South. I think it’s possible Pickett can be an upgrade over Winston, and this fit really makes sense, especially after selecting a wide receiver for Pickett earlier in the first round.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina
With Malik Willis off the board, I have the Steelers standing pat and selecting Sam Howell at 20. Howell is another player who has seemingly dropped behind other quarterbacks like Desmond Ridder and Matt Corral on draft boards, but I still think Howell should be considered over these two quarterbacks.
When Howell had talent around him in 2020, he put together an incredible season. Then in 2021 when the talent dropped off, he showed a willingness to participate in a completely different offensive system where a lot of designed runs were integrated in the offense. In addition to the production, Howell also has a high ceiling with both his mobility and arm talent. I think a stable environment like Pittsburgh can really maximize Howell’s strengths.
21. New England Patriots: George Pickens, WR, Georgia
Even after signing Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne last offseason, a true number one receiver remains a big need for the Patriots, as it had been for years. George Pickens has an elite catch radius and body control. Basically, his ball skills overall are excellent.
He has the potential to be that number one “X” receiver that the Patriots really need. If it wasn’t for the ACL injury he suffered last year, Pickens would surely be in contention to be the top receiver selected in the class.
22. Green Bay Packers: Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas
It would be disappointing for Packers fans if this mock draft scenario comes to fruition with all the receivers off the board by the first time they pick. Fortunately, they have a player in Burks who does have number one receiver upside. It’s true that Burks’ athletic testing left a lot to be desired, and he does have to clean up some aspects of his game like route running.
But, Burks’ tape showed someone who can be an elite playmaker with the ball in his hands and an incredible contested-catch receiver. Burks is a risk for the Packers, but it is one they need to take given the state of their receiving room.
23. Arizona Cardinals: Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE, Penn State
Admittedly, I am probably higher on Ebiketie than the consensus, having him drafted over players like George Karlaftis and Boye Mafe. Ebiketie is an incredibly talented player and was highly productive this past year. His swipe move to detach from blocks is probably the best in the class, and his bend isn’t awful. I think Ebiketie is the best option for the pass-rush starved Cardinals at this point in the draft.
24. Dallas Cowboys: Kenyon Green, G, Texas A&M
The Cowboys’ offensive line could use a new injection of talent, after multiple key departures this past offseason. Kenyon Green is one of the better offensive linemen in this class still sitting on the board for them. He can slot in at guard as a day one starter and be a scheme fit. He is a powerful player, who will immediately help the Cowboys’ run blocking.