NFL Aidan Hutchinson, Michigan Wolverines. (USA TODAY)
The NFL Draft in 2022 is just a few weeks away, and we’re taking a look at what the first round might look like after everything is said and done.
This year’s NFL Draft will be held in Sin City, as one of the most intriguing first rounds in recent memory will take place there. There have already been a slew of adjustments to the draft order, and more could be on the way as we get closer to the start of the draft.
We take a look at our most recent first-round mock draft now that the draft order has been set.
Aidan Hutchinson
Edge,Jacksonville Jaguars
As clubs continue to trade in and out, as well as up and down, in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft, there has been a lot of action. The Jacksonville Jaguars, who once again have the No. 1 overall pick, have been the only constant.
The Jaguars switch to defense in 2022 after going offensive last year, drafting quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who should thrive under Doug Pederson’s tutelage. Aidan Hutchinson is widely regarded as the consensus No. 1 overall choice, and the Jaguars desperately need a pass rusher.
Kyle Hamilton
Safety,Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions might use the No. 2 overall pick in a variety of ways, with some speculating that they will select a new quarterback. The darling of the 2022 draft cycle has been Malik Willis, but instead of drafting a quarterback, Detroit opts for perhaps the finest overall player in the class.
Kyle Hamilton, a Notre Dame safety who could be an All-Pro talent in his rookie season, is that player. Hamilton can go from sideline to sideline, has excellent closing speed, and would be a huge star in Detroit.
Ahmad Gardner
Cornerback,Houston Texans
After dealing Deshaun Watson to the Cleveland Browns, the Houston Texans now have two first-round picks in the 2022 NFL Draft. Last year, Davis Mills filled in admirably for Watson as a rookie, so I don’t think the organization will take a quarterback with the third overall choice.
Instead, the Texans signed Cincinnati star cornerback Ahmad Gardner, who has been considered the finest player in this draft class. Sauce is as good as it gets at one of the NFL’s most valuable defensive positions, so why not bring him here?