2022 NFL Draft tracker: Grading each pick with live updates

Follow Us
By 
·Updated:

Feb 14, 2022; Los Angeles, CA, USA; The NFL shield logo is seen at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Check this page continually for our updated 2022 NFL Draft tracker. It will be updated throughout the event with grades for each pick and potential blockbuster trades set to take place.

When is the 2022 NFL Draft?

The annual event will be live from the famed Las Vegas Strip starting Thursday evening and concluding Saturday afternoon.

ESPN, ABC and NFL Network will be live from the scene with the first round starting Thursday at 8:00 PM EST. Saturday’s action will include the second and third rounds starting at 7:00 PM EST. Meanhile, the final four rounds will start Saturday at 12:00 PM EST.

Related: Top 2022 NFL Draft prospects

Second round NFL Draft tracker and grades

33. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Logan Hall, DT, Houston

After trading out of Round 1, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers grab the defensive tackle who was likely atop their draft board. Logan Hall, an extremely athletic defensive tackle with nice versatility, provides depth for a team that still isn’t sure if Ndamukong Suh is returning.

34. Green Bay Packers (via Vikings): Christian Watson, WR, North Dakota State

It seems general manager Brian Gutekunst heard the frustrations from fans over Round 1. Christian Watson, a 6-foot-4 receiver brings the size and speed Green Bay loves at wide receiver. He needs to improve as a route runner, but Matt LaFleur can move him around the formation and he’ll provide a vertical threat for Aaron Rodgers. Fans will need to be patient, Watson is a better long-term addition than a 2022 impact player.

35. Tennessee Titans: Roger McCreary, CB, Auburn

One of the best cornerbacks in the SEC this past season, Roger McCreary drew matchups against many of the first-round weapons and contained them. He fell out of Round 1 due to arm length, but he’ll provide help on the boundary for the Titans’ secondary.

36. New York Jets (via Giants): Breece Hall, RB, Iowa State

After drafting Michael Carter a year ago, the New York Jets jumped up to select their leading rusher for years to come. Breece Hall, the No. 1 running back in the 2022 draft class, can play all three downs and his vision should allow him to be productive right away.

37. Houston Texans: Jalen Pitre, CB, Baylor

The Houston Texans are rebuilding their roster, they can upgrade at every position. Jalen Pitre was the heart of Baylor’s defense this past season and his instincts are phenomenal. He’ll be used everywhere in Houston, including deployed as a blitzer. A strong addition for the Texans’ defense.

38. Atlanta Falcons (via Giants): Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE, Penn State

The Atlanta Falcons needed an edge rusher, this was the worst pass-rush unit in the NFL. Arnold Ebiketie wins with a quick get-off and follows it with using leverage and power. He needs refinement, but the Falcons will provide him all the reps he needs.

39. Chicago Bears: Kyler Gordon, CB, Washington

With their first pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears ignored needs at wide receiver and offensive line help. Instead, the new regime is rebuilding the defense. Kyler Gordon could play in the slot or on the perimeter. He’ll see plenty of snaps early, but there’s even more long-term upside.

40. Seattle Seahawks: Boya Mafe, EDGE, Minnesota

One of the biggest risers in the pre-draft process, Boye Mafe is a project for NFL coaches. He brings explosiveness, a stout frame and powerful hands, Of course, the athletic traits that showed up in testing are the most exciting tool. He needs a year-plus of coaching, but there’s starting-caliber upside.

41. Seattle Seahawks: Kenneth Walker III, RB, Michigan State

After signing Rashaad Penny to a $5.75 million contract, the Seattle Seahawks are now spending a top-50 pick on a running back. Kenneth Walker was the best pure runner in the draft class, delivering explosive runs and an easy ability to either make defenders miss or break through tackles. He’s a very good player, but the fit is odd for a team that drafted a left tackle who is best in pass protection and already has Penny and Chris Carson.

42. Minnesota Vikings (via Colts): Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson

After trading down, the Minnesota Vikings jump back up to improve their secondary. Andrew Booth Jr. fell due to some injury issues in his past, but he’s an excellent corner in man coverage. Another plus, he brings nice ball skills and was only called for one pass interference in the last two years.

43. New York Giants (via Falcons): Wan’Dale Robinson, WR, Kentucky

The New York Giants seem to have a thing for slot receivers. Wan’Dale Robinson, 5-foot-8, is undersized but there’s no denying his explosiveness. and the athleticism he brings to the table can make him a YAC threat when given the football in space. Sterling Shepard or Ka’Darius Toney might not be long for New York.

44. Houston Texans (via Browns): John Metchie III, WR, Alabama

Viewed as a fringe first-round talent heading into December, John Metchie III suffered a torn ACL. The size and speed aren’t elite, but Metchie’s route-running made separation easy in college. As long as he can maintain that ability, moving easily on the surgically-repaired knee, Metchie offers WR2 upside.

45. Baltimore Ravens: David Ojabo, EDGE, Michigan

The Baltimore Ravens keep coming away with draft-day steals. David Ojabo is a top-20 prospect, but he fell after suffering a torn Achilles at the Michigan Pro Day. We might not see Ojabo until late in the 2022 season, if at all. Once he recovers, there’s a chance he could be groomed into becoming one of the best edge rushers from the draft class.

46. Detroit Lions: Josh Paschal, EDGE, Kentucky

A versatile edge defender, Josh Paschal recorded 38 tackles for loss or no gain in his career, per Pro Football Focus. He’s overcome a lot to get hear, including a 2018 cancer diagnosis. Now headed to the NFL, Paschal can be a nice rotational piece in Detroit’s front seven.

47. Washington Commanders: Phidarian Mathis, iDL, Alabama

The 6-foot-4, 310-pound defensive tackle, Phidariian Mathis is going to add a lot of power to Washington’s defensive interior. Alabama’s coaching staff refined his technique, giving him a shot to see the field plenty as a rookie. He can play multiple positions and was beloved by the Crimson Tide’s coaching staff.

48. Chicago Bears: Jaquan Brisker, S, Penn State

We’ll start with the positive. Jaquan Brisker is going to do a lot of things for the Chicago Bears defense. He brings instincts and speed to make plays against the run. He also holds up well in coverage, giving Chicago a well-rounded defender to help the secondary. All of this still doesn’t explain the Bears’ disregard for helping a bad offense.

49. New Orleans Saints: Alontae Taylor, CB, Tennessee

Height, length and speed. Alontae Taylor checks off a lot of things that scouts and coaches love. He’s also a former receiver, flashing the hands to help him snag some interceptions and make plays on the football. Expect Taylor to be a special teams ace while he refines his coverage skills.

50. New England Patriots (via Chiefs): Tyquan Thornton, WR, Baylor

After excelling on the track, Tyquan Thornton turned his focus to football. He ran a 4.28 40-yard dash, speed you don’t typically find from a 6-foot-2 wideout. The downside, his frame (181 lbs) will cause issues when faced with contact. He can be a rotational receiver at the next level.

Also Read:
Fastest 40 yard dash: Bo Jackson, Tyreek Hill among fastest NFL players ever

51. Philadelphia Eagles: Cam Jurgens, C, Nebraska

Meet the player who the Philadelphia Eagles hope will be the heir to Jason Kelce. Cam Jurgens is a high-end athlete for his position. He’s an ideal fit in a zone-blocking scheme and this is a great spot for him to learn for a year.

52. Pittsburgh Steelers: George Pickens, WR, Georgia

Either due to medical or maturity concerns, George Pickens slipped down in Round 2. The thing is, you can’t teach his frame, speed and physicality. With Kenny Pickett needing a physical receiver to throw the ball to in tight windows, Pickens could be that guy. He should also grow personally with Mike Tomlin as his coach.

53. Indianapolis Colts (via Vikings): Alec Pierce, WR, Cincinnati

With Pickens off the board, Alec Pierce stood out as one of the best wide receivers available. A favorite of quarterback Desmond Ridder, displaying the ability go up and get the football along with his skills at stretching a defense vertically.

54. Kansas City Chiefs (via NE): Skyy Moore, WR, Western Michigan

Capable of playing in the slot or on the outside, Skyy Moore can step in as the Chiefs’ fourth receiving option. He certainly isn’t one of the most athletic pass-catchers in the draft class, but he knows how to create early separation and there’s enough juice and elusiveness to make plays after the catch. In his prime, Moore could be a high-end No. 2 receiver.

55. Arizona Cardinals: Trey McBride, TE, Colorado State

Trey McBride isn’t your typical receiving threat at tight end. In 40 career games, he only scored 10 total touchdowns. With that said, he was the focal point of Colorado State’s passing attack last season with 1,121 receiving yards. The Cardinals might have a Zach Ertz/Dallas Goedert-like pairing at tight end.

56. Dallas Cowboys: Sam Williams, EDGE, Ole Miss

Sam Williams is an exciting pass rusher, bringing the flexibility and get-off that you typically find from first-round picks. But, per NFL.com’s Daniel Jeremiah, there are real off-field concerns with Williams that pushed him a lot further down draft boards. Of course, no one is surprised Dallas took a player with character issues.

57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (via Bills): Luke Goedeke, OL, Central Michigan

Following the retirement of Ali Marpet and the departure of Alex Cappa, Tampa Bay needed reinforcements on the offensive line. Luke Goedeke, a former tight end, plays with a nasty streak and that aggressive style of play can both help and hurt. Given the Bucs’ history of refining layers like this, it wouldn’t be a surprise if Goedeke later became a starter.

58. Atlanta Falcons: Troy Anderson, LB, Montana State

Troy Anderson earned All-Conference honors at both quarterback and linebacker during his collegiate career. In the NFL, he’s a linebacker who can be deployed in multiple ways. Motor, size and athleticism are the best traits he brings to the table.

59. Minnesota Vikings (via Packers): Ed Ingram, iOL, LSU

After devoting their early picks to defense, the Minnesota Vikings finally turn to the other side of the ball. Ingram allowed just two sacks in 2021, but there are issues with his reactions and lower body that might prevent him from being a quality starter.

60. Cincinnati Bengals (via Bills): Cam Taylor-Britt, CB, Nebraska

For a 5-foot-10 cornerback, Taylor-Britt plays with surprising physicality. He uses that approach and power to win at the line of scrimmage, pressing the receiver and getting them out of rhythm and he’s a good athlete. Given the Bengals’ need at cornerback, Taylor-Britt should see the field plenty in 2022.

61. San Francisco 49ers: Drake Jackson, EDGE, USC

A 6-foot-3 edge defender who right now is a better athlete than a football player. The San Francisco 49ers will want to add some muscle to his frame and he’s likely to start his NFL career as a situational edge rusher. With that said, the ease with which he moves and can get around a tackle makes him an appealing player for San Francisco.

62. Kansas City Chiefs: Bryan Cook, S, Cincinnati

The Chiefs just added a battering ram to their defense. Bryan Cook is incredibly physical, taking pride in being the ‘enforcer’ for his team. Combining that with his athleticism and football IQ, it’s easy to see why Kansas City identified Cook as another weapon for their secondary.

63. Buffalo Bills (via Bengals): James Cook, RB, Georgia

After J.D. McKissic backed out on the Buffalo Bills, the franchise wanted to find a pass-catching weapon for their backfield. James Cook fits that description. He’s a mismatch when used out of the backfield, giving Josh Allen another weapon.

64. Denver Broncos: Nik Bonitto, EDGE, Oklahoma

Good defenses can never have enough edge rushers. A 6-foot-3 pass rusher who ran a 4.54 40-yard dash, Denver will put Bonitto on the field in clear passing situations. It’s the role he’s meant to play in the NFL and he’ll create some problems for quarterbacks who can’t handle pressure.

Third round NFL Draft tracker

65. Jacksonville Jaguars: Luke Fortner, center, Kentucky

66. Minnesota Vikings: Brian Asamoah, LB, Oklahoma

67. New York Giants: Joshua Ezeudu, OG, North Carolina

68. Cleveland Browns: Martin Emerson, CB, Mississippi State

69. Tennessee Titans: Nicholas Petit-Frere, OT, Ohio State

70. Jacksonville Jaguars: Chad Muma, LB, Wyoming

71. Chicago Bears: Velus Jones, WR, Tennessee

72. Seattle Seahawks: Abraham Lucas, OT, Washington State

73. Indianapolis Colts: Jelani Woods, TE, Virginia

74. Atlanta Falcons: Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati

75. Houston Texans (via DEN): Christian Harris, LB, Alabama

76. Baltimore Ravens: Travis Jones, DT, Connecticut

77. Indianapolis Colts (via MIN): Bernhard Raimann, OT, Central Michigan

78. Cleveland Browns: Alex Wright, DE, UAB

79. Los Angeles Chargers: JT Woods, S, Baylor

80. Denver Broncos: Greg Dulcich, TE, UCLA

81. New York Giants: Cordale Flott, CB, Florida

82. Atlanta Falcons: DeAngelo Malone, EDGE, Western Kentucky

83. Philadelphia Eagles: Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia

84. Pittsburgh Steelers: DeMarvin Leal, DT, Texas A&M

85. New England Patriots: Marcus Jones, CB, Houston

86. Tennessee Titans (via LVR): Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

87. Arizona Cardinals: Cameron Thomas, DE, San Diego State

88. Dallas Cowboys: Jalen Tolbert, WR, South Alabama

89. Buffalo Bills: Terrel Bernard, LB, Baylor

90. Las Vegas Raiders (via TEN): Dylan Parham, OG, Memphis

91. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rachaad White, RB, Arizona State

92. Green Bay Packers: Sean Rhyan, OG, UCLA

93. San Francisco 49ers: Ty Davis-Price, RB, LSU

94. Carolina Panthers (via NE): Matt Corral, QB, Mississippi

95. Cincinnati Bengals: Zachary Carter, DE, Florida

96. Indianapolis Colts (via DEN): Nick Cross, S, Maryland

97. Detroit Lions: Kerby Joseph, S, Illinois

98. Washington Commanders: Brian Robinson Jr., RB, Alabama

99. Cleveland Browns: David Bell, WR, Purdue

100. Arizona Cardinals: Myjai Sanders, EDGE, Cincinnati

101. New York Jets: Jeremy Ruckert, TE, Ohio State

102. Miami Dolphins: Channing Tindall, LB, Georgia

103. Kansas City Chiefs: Leo Chenal, LB, Wisconsin

104. Los Angeles Rams: Logan Bruss, OG, Wisconsin

105. San Francisco 49ers: Danny Gray, WR, SMU

Check out our NFL Draft grades for Round 1 below

Who is attending the 2022 NFL Draft?

When checking in on our updated NFL Draft tracker, it’s important to be familiar with some of the big names that could be headed to your city. The league announced the prospects that it has invited to attend the annual event in Las Vegas. Here they are.

Related: Top takeaways from Round 1 of the 2022 NFL Draft

As each player comes off the board, we’ll provide our NFL Draft tracker with grades for all 32 first-round selections and trades that will take place.

2022 NFL Draft tracker (first-round picks)

1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Travon Walker, EDGE, Georgia

Aidan Hutchinson had been considered the top overall prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft leading up to the annual event. Despite this, Jacksonville went with a high-upside player in Walker who ascended the draft board in a big way.

Walker (6-foot-5, 272 pounds) opened eyes during the NFL Scouting Combine. But he lacked the pass-rush production we saw from Hutchinson with Michigan during the 2021 season. This is going to be a hit or miss pick for the Jaguars as they look to ovecome a disastrous two-year run.

2. Detroit Lions: Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan

Detroit went with hometown boy and consensus No. 1 overall prospect Aidan Hutchinson with the second pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-6, 265-pound EDGE rusher recorded 16.5 tackles for loss and 14 sacks for a top-ranked Wolverines defense in 2021. He’s going to add an elite-level pass-rush force to the mix for Dan Campbell and the Lions moving forward. This was a no-brainer of a pick.

3. Houston Texans: Derek Stingley Jr, cornerback, LSU

It was ahead of the 2021 season that most figured Stingley would be the first cornerback off the board. Apparently, injury issues did not impact the Texans’ decision-making process. What we do know is that he has a chance to be a true shut-down cornerback and anchor the Texans’ defense for the next half-decade. Not bad with the first of two first-round picks.

4. New York Jets: Sauce Gardner, cornerback, Cincinnati

It’s a passing league and the Jets simply don’t have an A1 cornerback. Well, enter Ahmad ‘Sauce’ Gardner, your new top cornerback in New York. He can’t remember the last time he allowed a touchdown and if Jets fans have the same problem in 2022 and beyond, it could be a rich future. We’ll see what happens with their next pick at No. 10, but this is a fine start.

5. New York Giants: Kayvon Thibodeaux, defensive end, Oregon

Many thought general manager Joe Schoen’s first big move would be to select an offensive tackle, but they have several needs. Landing Kayvon Thibodeaux, a player who was once viewed as the top overall prospect, has to be seen as a win. Putting a pass-rusher with sky-high potential across from Azeez Ojulari offers a bright future.

Related: Full 2022 NFL Draft order

6. Carolina Panthers: Ikem Ekwonu, offensive tackle, NC State

It’s true, GM Scott Fitterer needs to build an offensive line, but they also need a better quarterback, because despite what David Tepper says, Sam Darnold is not a “very good” QB. At the same time, getting a franchise left tackle is a great move in any draft, it doesn’t matter who’s under center, they need protection. Christian McCaffrey is on board with this pick too.

7. New York Giants (via Bears): Evan Neal, offensive tackle, Alabama

The G-Men are getting the hog mollies Dave Gettleman could only dream of. First landing one of the top pass-rushers in the draft with Thibodeaux at No. 5 and now Alabama’s Evan Neal to plug in at right tackle right away at No. 7, they’re nailing Day One. Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley might have a chance to breathe this season.

Also Read:
New York Giants got their dream draft with Kayvon Thibodeaux and Evan Neal

8. Atlanta Falcons: Drake London, wide receiver, USC

It’s hard to dislike this pick. The Atlanta Falcons had a desperate need to find a top receiver to pair with Kyle Pitts and now they found one of the best in the draft. Clearly their favorite among a talented crop of receivers in the 2022 draft class, Drake London gives Marcus Mariota or whoever a massive target at 6-foot-5 and can win the 50-50 battles all day.

9. Seattle Seahawks (via Broncos): Charles Cross, offensive tackle, Mississippi State

Finding your blindside protector is never a bad call, the Seattle Seahawks felt the same way after taking Charles Cross, who could be the best pass protector in the draft class. He certainly has the experience after playing in the Air Raid offense for Mike Leach at Mississippi State.

10. New York Jets (via Seahawks): Garrett Wilson, wide receiver, Ohio State

After flirting with nearly every established wide receiver that became available, general manager finally got Zach Wilson a new weapon with Garrett Wilson. With the speed to burn, the youngsters’ connection at the next level will be a dynamite pairing, especially with Elijah Moore being just as tough to cover. Add in a healthy Corey Davis and Wilson’s receiving corps looks a lot better in 2022.

Related: Updated NFL Draft rumors

11. New Orleans Saints (via Commanders): Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State

The New Orleans Saints receiving corps was one of the worst in the NFL last season. That’s no longer going to be a problem. After trading up, the Saints selected Ohio State receiver Chris Olave. One of the top weapons in college football this past season, Olave is an excellent route-runner with soft hands and excellent speed. He’ll be an excellent No. 2 option paired with Michael Thomas.

12. Detroit Lions (via Vikings: Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama

An unexpected move by the Detroit Lions. Seeing a run on wide receiver, Detroit made the most shocking move of the 2022 NFL Draft by jumping up for Jameson Williams. There’s an element of risk, given he suffered a torn ACL in the CFP National Championship Game. When healthy, he’s the WR1 in this class and will provide an amazing deep threat in Detroit’s offense.

Related: Winners and losers from first round of the 2022 NFL Draft

13. Philadelphia Eagles (via Texans): Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia

There are few things in life Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman loves more than trench players. Jordan Davis is one of the most athletic defensive linemen in NFL Combine history. Even if plays limited snaps, the 340-pound tackle moves like a linebacker. Alongside Fletcher Cox, Davis can thrive.

14. Baltimore Ravens: Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

The Baltimore Ravens wanted to improve at safety this offseason, so they signed Marcus Williams. Wanting to make this secondary even stronger, Baltimore lands Kyle Hamilton. Arguably a top-five talent in the 2022 NFL Draft, Hamilton’s size and range are unmatched in this class. He’s going to be a defensive Swiss Army knife, providing a massive boost to an already improving defense.

15. Houston Texans (via Eagles): Kenyon Green, iOL, Texas A&M

After picking up a few extra picks, the Houston Texans fortify their offensive line. Kenyon Green is incredibly versatile, having played four different positions on the Aggies’ offensive line. He’ll need to work on his hand placement and penalties were a big issues in 2021. With that said, he will help protect quarterback Davis Mills.

Related: Top quarterbacks in the 2022 NFL Draft

16. Washington Commanders (via Saints): Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State

Don’t let Jahan Dotson’s size (5-foot-11) fool you, he embraces contact and can make some absurd catches in traffic. He will primarily be a slot receiver at the next level, but the Washington Commanders needed more weapons to make the Carson Wentz experiment work. With all that said, taking Dotson 16th overall is a reach.

17. Los Angeles Chargers: Zion Johnson, OL, Boston College

Protect Justin Herbert. It was always going to be No. 1 priority for the Los Angeles Chargers. Zion Johnson can play multiple spots on the offensive line, but he’s best suited at guard. After surrendering just six pressures in 2021 (PFF), this is a strong move by Los Angeles to further solidify the OL.

18. Tennessee Titans (via Eagles): Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas

The Tennessee Titans didn’t want to pay A.J. Brown $100 million contract. In another stunning draft-night trade, Brown heads to the Philadelphia Eagles and a new weapon heads to the Titans’ offense. Treylon Burks drew some AJ Brown comps, but he’s an unfinished player who will need some time before he could become a No. 1 receiver. Ultimately, this is all about cap allocation for Tennessee.

Also Read:
Philadelphia Eagles trade for A.J. Brown, sending 18th pick to Titans

19. New Orleans Saints (via Eagles): Trevor Penning, OT, Northern Iowa

After trading up for their wide receiver, the Saints use their other first-round pick to keep adding to the offense. Following the departure of Terron Armstead, New Orleans needed a left tackle. Trevor Penning comes from a small program and he’s going to need a lot of work in pass protection. One thing he will bring, is complete nastiness as a run blocker and there are traits for this coaching staff to build upon.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

Kenny Pickett is staying in Pittsburgh. The Steelers want a modern quarterback who could bring some athleticism and will challenge Mitch Trubisky for the starting job. Coming off a breakout senior season as a redshirt senior, Pickett vaulted into the Round 1 conversation. He lacks upside, probably nothing more than a top-15 starter, but this could be a safe pick.

21. Kansas City Chiefs (via Patriots): Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington

While many focused on wide receiver, cornerback was the No. 1 among the Kansas City Chiefs draft needs. Trent McDuffie is versatile, athletic and one of the smartest defensive players in the 2022 NFL Draft. He’ll start immediately for the Chiefs and is a significant upgrade for this secondary.

22. Green Bay Packers (via Raiders): Quay Walker, LB, Georgia

After years of seemingly ignoring linebacker, the Green Bay Packers have turned it into a valued position. Quay Walker, at 6-foot-4, is one of the most violent players in this draft class. He’s bigger than Nakobe Dean and more athletic than Devin Lloyd. He is the prototypical build for an inside linebacker and will pair nicely with De’Vondre Campbell.

23. Buffalo Bills (from Ravens, via Cardinals): Kaiir Elam, cornerback Florida

Baltimore initially acquired this pick from Arizona for star wide receiver Marquise Brown before trading down two spots and collecting a mid-round selection. As for the Bills, they get that cornerback to team up with stud Pro Bowler Tre’Davious White moving forward. It was certainly a need for Buffalo. But we had a second-round grade on Elam. That doesn’t represent value.

24. Dallas Cowboys: Tyler Smith, offensive tackle, Tulsa

There was talk about Dallas moving up into the top-14 for a player at a target position. We also know that owner Jerry Jones was targeting an offensive tackle. Once that didn’t come to fruition, the Cowboys reached for a project offensive tackle we had at No. 48 on our big board. This was a major reach in Big D.

Dallas Cowboys draft grade: D-

25. Baltimore Ravens (via Bills): Tyler Linderbaum, center, Iowa

Technically, this was the selection acquired from the Arizona Cardinals for Marquise Brown. It came after a trade down a few spots. Boy, did Baltimore hit on this selection, too. Linderbaum has immediate All-Pro upside after starring within the confines of a pro-style blocking scheme with the Hawkeyes.

Baltimore Ravens draft grade: A+

26. New York Jets (via Titans): Jermaine Johnson, EDGE, Florida State

In yet another tremendous piece of drafting, Joe Douglas found defensive-minded head coach Robert Saleh that potential franchise edge rusher in Johnson. He was considered a high riser leading up to the draft with top-10 potential after showing out for Florida State. He has a real chance to start as a rookie and boasts double-digit sack potential. The cost was minor in trading up from the top of the second round.

New York Jets draft grade: A+

27. Jacksonville Jagiars (via Buccaneers): Devin Lloyd, linebacker, Utah

After a questionable No. 1 pick, the Jaguars hit a home run here. Many have compared to Lloyd 49ers All-Pro Fred Warner. He’s a sideline-to-sideline backer with a tremendous motor and above-average cover skills. Lloyd will be a Day 1 starter in Duval.

28. Green Bay Packers: Devonte Wyatt, defensive tackle, Georgia

Sensing a theme here for Green Bay? The Packers went with two defensive standouts from the defending champion Georgia Bulldogs. In Wyatt, they get an explosive defensive tackle who some have compared to Warren Sapp. While that’s far-fetched, the upside here is unlimited. However, there’s some questions about the Packers passing up on wide receiver with their two first-round picks.

Green Bay Packers draft grade: B

29. New England Patriots (from Chiefs, via Dolphins): Cole Strange, guard, Chattanooga

How far out of left field was this one? NFL Media indicated that Strange was roughly a third-round prospect. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams’ brass couldn’t help but laugh at the idea of New England picking up the small-school product. We’ll give Bill Belichick a pass due to his previous success, but this one was indeed strange (pun intended).

30. Kansas City Chiefs: George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue

Earlier in the pre-draft process, this former Boilermakers star was considered a top-15 lock. He didn’t test too well at the NFL Scouting Combine. With that said, we’re talking about an uber-productive player who fits a major area of need fo the Chiefs. It’s hard to knock the team for addressing two of its biggest needs with these first-round picks.

Kansas City Chiefs draft grade: A

31. Cincinnati Bengals: Daxton Hill, safety, Michigan

Cincinnati had an obvious need at safety. Jessie Bates had the franchise tag placed on him earlier this offseason and might not have a long-term future with the defending AFC champions. The issue here is that we didn’t even have Hill as one of our top-50 prospects.

Cincinnati Bengals draft grade: C-

32. Minnesota Vikings (via Lions): Lewis Cine, safety, Georgia

A record five defenders from one team went in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft. This culminated in Minnesota selecting a potential heir-apparent to Harrison Smith moving forward. However, this could also be seen as a reach.

Minnesota Vikings draft grade: C

Exit mobile version