2022 NFL Draft Weekend Predictions
1. Two quarterbacks are drafted in the first round
It's a weaker quarterback class than most years. There is no unanimous number one prospect at the position and most only think LIberty's Malik Willis and Pitt's Kenny Pickett should even be in consideration.
2. Either Jimmy Garoppolo or Baker Mayfield (but not both) gets traded and it will be on Day 2
Most of the talk on these two seems to be that there isn't really a market for them. However, sometimes that's when the deal is struck,. The truth is, we don't really know for sure. I don't think there's a market for both to be traded, but one will. Usually, these moves happen during day two.
3. Green Bay waits until after the first round to draft a receiver
Green Bay clearly needs to add help for Aaron Rodgers, but that has been the case for a few years now, and they never address it in the first round. Do I expect the Packers to add a receiver at some point in this draft? Yes. I just don't think they believe it's as pressing of a need as the rest of us do, so it may not be in the first round.
4. Most QB prospects land in the 3rd or 4th round
A weak quarterback class means many of the "top" prospects could be available later in the draft than they would be in normal years. There may not be a first round prospect, and the priority for the teams that could use a quarterback might not be as high and push signal-callers down the board.
5. Jameson Williams is the first receiver taken
This was a no-brainer before the ACL injury. Williams had a breakout year at Alabama and is one fo the most versatile receivers in this class, mostly because of his elite speed and fantastic route-running. He has the ability to change games, which makes him a top 10 prospect in my mind. Plus, he's reportedly ahead of schedule in his recovery from the injury.
6. Kenneth Walker III is the first RB taken (will not be in the first round)
Walker is the most complete back in this draft in my opinion with a slight advantage over Breece Hall. I think Walker is a tremendous fit for several teams and can make a difference from the get-go. Having said that, there is not a first-round prospect in this class, especially since no one really has a glaring need at running back when compared to other positions.
7. Seven WR drafted on the first night
This is just based on the depth of the receiver class and the needs of the teams in the first round. Philadelphia, Green Bay, Atlanta, Kansas City, Detroit, New Orleans, and the New York Jets are among the teams that need to add a top-end receiver.
8. Derek Stingley goes in the Top 5
The LSU corner had fallen because of injuries and inconsistencies, but teams have started to come around. Some even argue he's the best corner in this class. He's a lock for the top 10 at this point and could be the first corner off the board.
9. Kyle Hamilton drops
I like Hamilton but this is a case of the writing being on the wall. At one point, the Notre Dame safety was projected to be taken as early as No. 2 overall. After disappointing testing numbers during the draft process, Hamilton's status seems to be in question. I don't expect a huge fall, but he isn't a lock for the top 10.
10. 10 QBs Drafted
We know who the top six are but there are a few others who could hear their names on day three. I expect some of Jack Coan (Notre Dame), EJ Perry (Brown), Skylar Thompson (Kansas State), Bailey Zappe (Western Kentucky), and Kaleb Eleby (Western Michigan) to get drafted.
11. SEC has most players drafted
It's either going to be the SEC or the Big Ten. Two best conferences in college football. 50/50 shot.
12. A projected top 100 player slides to late Day 3 or goes undrafted
Another thing that happens every year, whether it be an injury or another reason. We've seen it happen with Vontaze Burfict, Amani Oruwariye, and a few others. Who will it be this year?
13. A punter or kicker is taken before the 5th round
San Diego State's Matt Araiza is the most likely candidate and is a unique talent. He served as both the placekicker and punter for the Aztecs and analysts have been enamored with his abilities. He's even punted the ball over 80 yards on multiple occasions. Specialists usually aren't considered game-changing prospects but Araiza is about as close as they get.