Today, Ben Pawlak of The MVP Blog will be predicting all 32 first round picks of the 2022 NFL Draft. For each player, Ben will be assigning a “Next Level Projection” to predict the career trajectory for that player, and this prediction is broken down into a few categories, ranked below from best to worst:

Perennial All-Pro: This player will make multiple NFL All-Pro teams over the course of their career and will likely become an NFL Hall of Famer.

Perennial Pro Bowler: This player will make multiple NFL Pro Bowl teams over the course of their career an will become a star player in the NFL.

Solid Starter: This player will enjoy a long, successful career as a starting caliber player in the NFL.

Boom or Bust: This player could become a very good player in the NFL, but they just as well could fail to make a significant impact in the NFL.

Bust: This player will not live up to the hype in the NFL.

Without any further ado, here is the MVP Blog’s 2022 NFL Mock Draft.

1. Jacksonville Jaguars – Travon Walker, DE, Georgia

In a wild turn of events, all signs are pointing to Travon Walker as the top pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Walker tested very well at the NFL Combine, and it seems that the Jaguars fell in love with him as a result. Walker is a very talented player, but he did not have the college production of Aidan Hutchinson or Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Walker played on a much better defensive line than either of those guys. Scouting for the NFL Draft is an inexact science, but there’s nothing that can make picking Travon Walker at first overall make sense to me. This pick is a reach, and that’s putting it mildly.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

2. Detroit Lions – Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Michigan

Aidan Hutchinson is a defensive end who uses an elite pass rushing technique built on a unique blend of speed and power. He’s a very good athlete with a relentless motor, and he was by far the best defensive player in college football during the 2021/22 season. If the Lions have the chance to select their hometown hero with the second overall pick, I have no doubt that they’ll do it.

Next Level Projection: Perennial All-Pro

3. Houston Texans – Kayvon Thibodeaux, DE, Oregon

Kayvon Thibodeaux is a physical freak who has all of the talent required to become a premier edge rusher in the NFL. He’s a quick twitch athlete who blitzes the quarterback with skillful pass rushing moves. Selecting Thibodeaux would solve Houston’s desperate need to intensify their pressure on the opposing quarterback.

Next Level Projection: Perennial All-Pro

4. New York Jets – Ikem “Ickey” Ekonwu, T, North Carolina State

Ikem Ekonwu is an absolute force of nature in the trenches. He combines precise hand technique with an absurd amount of raw power. Ickey also has the athleticism to get out in front of the play, pancaking defenders to create massive holes in the run game. In terms of technique, Ekwonu is still very raw as a pass blocker, but his potential is sky high. The Jets could see that potential as too good to pass up on draft night.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

5. New York Giants – Charles Cross, T, Mississippi State

The Giants have needed a blindside blocker for quite some time now, and Charles Cross fits the mold perfectly. He allowed just one QB hit during the 2021/22 season. He has great footwork and he’s very nimble in pass protection. He’s a bit of a project player due to his shortcomings as a run blocker, but this is a risk that the Giants have to take if they want to build an elite offensive line in the years to come.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

6. Carolina Panthers – Malik Willis, QB, Liberty

Malik Willis is one of the more intriguing quarterback prospects that I have evaluated in recent years. On one hand, Willis has all of the tools to become a star quarterback. He has a strong arm which is relatively accurate, is a shifty runner, and has pretty good processing speed. On the other hand, he’s just 6’0″ tall, and despite his dominance and consistency in college, he wasn’t exactly playing top-tier competition at Liberty. He’s a walking question mark who will likely end up developing into a product of the environment of the team that drafts him. The Panthers coaching staff has been reluctant to commit to Sam Darnold as their QB1 for next season, so it wouldn’t surprise me if Carolina rolls the dice on Malik Willis with the 6th pick.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

7. New York Giants – Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

Sauce Gardner lives up to his awesome name. He was the best lockdown corner in college football during the 2021/22 season. Gardner possesses a unique blend of physical tools and pinpoint technique. When defending the route tree of opposing wideouts, Sauce is physical from start to finish, taking full advantage of his massive frame. His hips are a tad stiff in coverage, which could hamper his ability to stay connected to more agile receivers, but Sauce could very well wind up becoming one of the league’s best shutdown corners. The Giants defense could use a ball hawk in coverage to bolster their secondary, so look for them to take Sauce Gardner with either of their two top 10 picks in the first round of the NFL Draft.

Next Level Projection: Perennial Pro Bowler

8. Atlanta Falcons – Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame

The Falcons need all the help they can get on the defensive side of the football. Luckily for them, Kyle Hamilton is a jack of all trades who can do just about everything on defense. Hamilton is a defensive playmaker who is an expert at reading the quarterback to record interceptions and pass breakups. In addition, Hamilton is an expert at seeking out the ballcarrier, flying around the field with the control and destructive ability of a heat seeking missile.

Next Level Projection: Perennial All-Pro

9. Seattle Seahawks – Evan Neal, T, Alabama

In my opinion, Evan Neal is the best offensive lineman in this draft class. He might even become the best player in this draft class, and it’s easy to see why. At 6’8″ and 337 pounds, Neal is an absolute specimen even when compared to the most physically imposing tackles in the NFL today. He box jumps 48 inches, bench presses 475 pounds, and squats 650 pounds. He has started over 40 games for Alabama, and in those starts, he has shown footwork and blocking technique that is damn near perfect. It is very hard to find flaws in his game, but he could fall in the draft since teams reportedly are unsure as to whether he can become a blindside blocker at the next level. Regardless, I’m sold on Evan Neal, and the Seahawks should be as well.

Next Level Projection: Perennial All-Pro

10. New York Jets – Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State

Last season, Ohio State had the most talented wide receiver core in college football. While Chris Olave ultimately had the best season of the bunch, Garrett Wilson’s skillset translates better than Olave’s at the NFL level. He may not a surgical route runner like Olave, but Wilson’s combination of speed, athleticism, and hands is lethal. Further, his ability to make defenders miss tackles after the catch with an array of smooth moves adds another dynamic element to his game. The Jets have expressed a strong interest to find a true WR1 to help Zach Wilson develop, and Garrett Wilson might just be the best wide receiver of this utterly stacked wide receiver class.

Next Level Projection: Perennial Pro Bowler

11. Washington Commanders – Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU

Derek Stingley Jr. only has one full season of college production. During that 2019/20 season, he racked up 6 interceptions as true freshman at LSU. His 2020/21 season was ended by a foot injury which ultimately kept him out of the 2021/22 season as well, but he’s still regarded as one of the top cornerback prospects in this draft. Explosive, speedy, and stingy in coverage, Stingley could become an elite shutdown corner, but his draft stock is up in the air due to the injury that caused him to miss time in college. However, I can’t see him falling past the Commanders, a team which desperately needs to improve their secondary.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

12. Minnesota Vikings – Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington

The best word to use when it comes to Trent McDuffie’s style of play is fluid. McDuffie is a smooth operator who covers his matchup like white on rice. He stays in stride with even the fastest wide receivers by utilizing his outstanding control of his hips. These skills make him incredibly versatile, allowing him to play cornerback both in the slot and on the outside. While some scouts are concerned that he is relatively small for his position, I think that McDuffie is the most complete, pro-ready corner in the 2022 NFL Draft. If he’s on the board when the Vikings are on the clock, they’d be wise to take him.

Next Level Projection: Perennial All-Pro

13. Houston Texans – Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah

Devin Lloyd is the prototypical modern linebacker. Lloyd can do just about everything at a high level, whether that be rushing the quarterback, jumping short routes over the middle, or playing sideline to sideline coverage. However, despite his college production and impressive tape, he is a little undersized and has trouble getting around blocks once the play develops. The Texans might see his upside as too good to pass up.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

14. Baltimore Ravens – Tyler Linderbaum, C, Iowa

Tyler Linderbaum is the latest draft day installment in a long line of offensive lineman from Iowa. He doesn’t have the biggest frame, but he makes up for it with plenty of strength and aggression. He finishes his blocks with ease, but that’s not to say that he isn’t nasty in the run game. He is equally as adept as a pass blocker, so there’s little concern of his game not translating to the NFL. The Ravens need to do a better job for Lamar Jackson as a passer and a runner, and Linderbaum would definitely help fix that problem.

Next Level Projection: Perennial Pro Bowler

15. Philadelphia Eagles – Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama

If Jameson Williams wasn’t recovering from surgery to repair a torn ACL, he would be the consensus top wideout in the 2022 NFL Draft. While that injury does put his draft stock in question, the Eagles definitely need to upgrade their wide receiver core, and they can afford to take a risk by taking Williams. If he’s able to return to the form he showcased when he was healthy at Alabama, his elite blend of route running and speed could give opposing cornerbacks nightmares in the near future.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

16. New Orleans Saints – Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State

Chris Olave was arguably the best wide receiver in the country last season. His signature style revolves around his surgical route running ability, which allows him to get separation at all three levels in his route tree. He ran a 4.39 40 yard dash, which was quicker than most expected of him. While he might be asked to put more muscle on his slender frame to become more physical at the catch point, Olave has the highest floor of any wideout in the draft. The Saints need a receiver, and Olave could be their guy on draft night.

Next Level Projection: Solid Starter

17. Los Angeles Chargers – Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia

Jordan Davis possesses herculean size, and when he is able to get leverage in the trenches, that size makes him virtually impossible to stop. In college, he was an AP All-American, and he was a key reason why the Georgia Bulldogs won the National Championship. Further, his NFL combine performance was the stuff of legend. Davis measured 6’6″ and weighed 341 pounds, and yet he ran a 4.78 40 yard dash. Without a doubt, he’d become the day 1 starter at nose tackle for the Chargers, who  are looking to get bigger and meaner on the defensive line.

Next Level Projection: Perennial All-Pro

18. Philadelphia Eagles – Jermaine Johnson II, DE, Florida State

Jermaine Johnson II totaled 11.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss in 12 games for the Seminoles in the 2021/22 season, but it’s hard to see his game translating to the NFL level. His style is very physical and aggressive, but his burst off the edge is not where it needs to be for him to make a sizeable impact against elite offensive lineman. In addition, he’ll be a 23 year old rookie next year, and as an edge rusher, that doesn’t give him a lot of time to become quicker and twitchier off the edge. The Eagles definitely need an edge rusher from this draft, but unfortunately, when it comes to Jermaine Johnson II, I just don’t buy the hype.

Next Level Projection: Bust

19. New Orleans Saints – Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

NFL teams evaluating whether Pickett could become their franchise QB of the future will have to come to terms with the fact that he has very small hands for the position. Measuring in at 8.5 inches, Pickett’s hands would be the smallest of any starting QB in the NFL today by far. Further, since hand size became an official measurement for prospects in 1999, there has never been a successful NFL QB with hands under 9 inches. His style of play is high risk, high reward, so his rookie season could determine whether he can be trusted the undisputed QB1 for a team like the Saints. Personally, I just don’t think that Pickett is good enough.

Next Level Projection: Bust

20. Pittsburgh Steelers – Drake London, WR, USC

Drake London is an elite big play threat due to his immense size and top tier athleticism, going up and grabbing passes out of the air like a basketball player going after an offensive rebound. He’s an aggressive athlete who has elite body control in the air, but I’m not sold on his route running ability on the ground. He is definitely a raw prospect by wide receiver standards, but if any team can help him develop into an NFL star, it’s the Steelers.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

21. New England Patriots – Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida

Kaiir Elam is a raw prospect, but he possesses all the physical tools to become an elite cover corner in the NFL. After losing Stephon Gilmore and J.C. Jackson to free agency, the Patriots will be looking to replace them in the draft. Elam is 6’2″ and plays bigger than his already impressive size, unafraid to jam up receivers at the start of their route. He’s athletic enough to stay with receivers and make a play when the ball enters his catch radius. However, I have significant concerns with his technique. He uses his hands way too much, giving up devastating pass interference penalties downfield. He’s also a sloppy tackler and tends to rely on his athleticism in the absence of tackling technique. Elam needs to patch up these holes in his game as soon as possible, but his flaws are definitely fixable in the right coaching environment.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

22. Green Bay Packers – Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas

Treylon Burks could become Deebo Samuel. He could also become Laquon Treadwell. A physically imposing receiver who can line up just about everywhere on offense, Burks possesses size, physicality, footwork, and sure hands. This combination of physical traits and versatility is rare, but he lacks top end speed on his routes, and if he needs to end up in the right situation to properly utilize his talent. Green Bay would be a match made in heaven for team and player.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

23. Arizona Cardinals – George Karlaftis, DE, Purdue

George Karlaftis had a noticeable impact in just about every game he played at Purdue. He has great size for a pass rusher, and with that size comes natural power. However, he also has a wide array of pass moves which incorporate some speed and finesse into his game. Even though he lacks discipline and top-tier athleticism off the edge, he gives opposing offensive lineman fits due to his ruthless play style. The Cardinals lost Chandler Jones to free agency, and Karlaftis could step in as a natural replacement.

Next Level Projection: Solid Starter

24. Dallas Cowboys – Devonte Wyatt, DT, Georgia

Devonte Wyatt is an explosive athlete who oozes potential. He’s a very hard worker who is able to get to the quarterback, shedding blocks with power and finesse despite being a nose tackle. His college production leaves a little to be desired, but the foundations are there for him to become an impactful starter at the very least. The Cowboys could bolster their defensive line by taking Wyatt here.

Next Level Projection: Solid Starter

25. Buffalo Bills – Zion Johnson, G, Boston College

Zion Johnson is a former zero-star recruit who transferred to Boston College after starting his college football career at Davidson. Boston College has an impressive resume when it comes to developing offensive lineman, and Zion Johnson is their latest prospect. As a redshirt senior, Johnson was one of the best offensive lineman in the country in both pass protection and as a run blocker, and his burly frame ensures that he can be an immediate starter in the NFL. The Bills have been vocal about their desire to improve their offensive line to protect Josh Allen, so if Zion Johnson falls into their lap on draft night, I wouldn’t be surprised if they jump at the chance to select him.

Next Level Projection: Perennial Pro Bowler

26. Tennessee Titans – Trevor Penning, T, Northern Iowa

At 6’7″ and 325 pounds, Trevor Penning is a mountain of a man. He is a rugged, nasty blocker who is an incredible athlete. He is an intelligent player, calmly reading and reacting to edge rushers with expert control. While he’s not widely regarded as one of the best players in the draft, he has a very high ceiling and a relatively high floor as well. The Titans are currently undergoing a rebuild on their offensive line after losing some guys to free agency, and Penning could help expedite that process.

Next Level Projection: Perennial Pro Bowler

27. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia

Nakobe Dean is an instinctual playmaker who trusts those instincts to great effect. At Georgia, he racked up 72 tackles and 6 sacks in a season which ended in a National Championship. He boasts incredible speed, but he never over-anticipates whether he’s rushing the ballcarrier or sitting in coverage. His playstyle translates perfectly to the NFL, and a Buccaneers defense with Nakobe Dean would be a scary sight for any opposing offense.

Next Level Projection: Perennial Pro Bowler

28. Green Bay Packers – Tyler Smith, T, Tulsa

Tyler Smith has an NFL ready frame and massive hands to match. He lacks experience, entering the draft after his redshirt sophomore season at Tulsa, but his college tape is incredibly impressive. He is very aggressive at the point of attack as a blindside blocker, and his physical tools make his potential limitless. Green Bay could tap into that potential by taking him with this pick.

Next Level Projection: Boom or Bust

29. Kansas City Chiefs – Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State

Jahan Dotson put up very impressive numbers at Penn State, scoring 12 touchdowns in as many games during the 2021/22 season. He has the best hands in the draft and he’s incredibly shifty in the slot with an impressive array of short routes. While he doesn’t have the ceiling of other receivers in this draft class, Dotson could wear multiple hats for the Chiefs, particularly as a slot receiver and as a kick returner.

Next Level Projection: Solid Starter

30. Kansas City Chiefs – Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson

Andrew Booth Jr. is a physical cover corner with massive arms. He’s also an adept playmaker with impressive ball skills and a huge catch radius. While he excels against bigger deep-threat receivers, he struggles against smaller, shiftier ones. He’s also overaggressive in coverage and possesses underwhelming instincts, which is a horrible combination at the NFL level as it could lead to him making mistakes and giving up big plays as a result. I’m not exactly sold on Booth, but the Chiefs definitely need help in their secondary.

Next Level Projection: Bust

31. Cincinnati Bengals – Kenyon Green, G, Texas A&M

Kenyon Green’s ability to play pretty much everywhere along the line in college is a key reason as to why he’s regarded as a first round talent. His strength and power in the trenches has been evident during his time with the Aggies. However, his speed, agility, and lateral movement at the NFL Combine left a lot to be desired. As a result, Green best projects as a guard in the pros. Luckily for the Bengals, they’re desperate to shore up their interior offensive line to better protect their golden goose, Joe Burrow.

Next Level Projection: Solid Starter

32. Detroit Lions – Daxton “Dax” Hill, S, Michigan

Dax Hill can do a lot of different things for a defense. While listed at safety, he can line up as a slot corner or even a linebacker due to the unique blend of skills he possesses. He’s a strong, athletic defender who isn’t afraid to lay down some serious hits on the ballcarrier, but he also has the quickness and ball skills to track a receiver in coverage. Wherever an NFL defense wants to use him, Hill will be up to the task. Detroit will opt to take the best player available with the last pick of the first round.

Next Level Projection: Solid Starter

Who is your favorite prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft? Let us know in the comments below!

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Author: Ben Pawlak

Published: 4/28/22 at 6:40pm EST

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Sources/Works Cited:

Google Images, Google, https://images.google.com/imghp?hl=en.

“Official Site of the National Football League.” NFL.com, https://www.nfl.com/combine/.