The hare got the best of the tortoise in Super Bowl LVI. Ironically, it was in come-from-behind fashion.
The Los Angeles Rams, starring as the rascally rabbit, defeated the slow-and-deliberate Cincinnati Bengals in a fascinating case study between completely opposite approaches to team-building.
The champion Rams haven't made a first round pick since trading up for quarterback Jared Goff in 2016. They turned "we're all-in" into a mantra by executing blockbuster trades for Jalen Ramsey, Matthew Stafford, Von Miller and Odell Beckham Jr. since 2019, and won't have a selection in April's draft until a likely compensatory pick at the end of the third round.
The Bengals' success has been centered around landing two of the best players in the last two drafts, Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase, while developing their homegrown talent and sprinkling in some solid free agent acquisitions along the way.
Clearly, both approaches worked — although I imagine the Bengals are a bit ahead of schedule — but it's all about execution.
It's now time for the other 30 teams to play catch-up and execute their plans. This will be our focus over the next three months.
MOCK PREAMBLE
This is an attempt at figuring out the best players available in this season's draft class, and which teams they'd match up well with considering the draft order courtesy of tankathon.com. The closer we get to draft day, the more I attempt to match what teams will actually do with their draft picks as opposed to what I believe they should do.
Last season, I was the fourth most accurate NFL draft prognosticator in print according to The Huddle Report. I'm tied for seventh overall (out of 133) over the past five years.
The NFL draft has become a nice appetizer before our main course in September. A mock version of said draft is meant to educate, and even entertain. At very least, it helps you pass the time.
Follow me on Twitter @UTEddieBrown so we can continue the conversation.
Here's my updated 2022 NFL mock draft, now through three rounds:
FIRST ROUND
1. Jacksonville (3-14) — Evan Neal, T, Alabama, Jr.
Before drafting Trevor Lawrence, the Jaguars selected an edge rusher in back-to-back drafts — K’Lavon Chaisson and Josh Allen — so auctioning the first pick off would make sense considering all of the holes on this roster. Until we have more clarity, the Jags get Neal. He is a physical specimen (6-foot-7, 350 pounds) who has improved every season in Tuscaloosa and thrived at both tackle positions and left guard. Top needs: OL, WR, LB
2. Detroit (3-13-1) — Aidan Hutchinson, Edge, Michigan, Sr.
The Lions have been near the bottom of the league in sacks and QB pressure rate the last three seasons, so I’m advocating for them to select either Hutchinson or Kayvon Thibodeaux. There simply isn’t a quarterback available worthy of this pick. Top needs: QB, WR, CB
3. Houston (4-13) — Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame, Jr.
Obviously, the Texans are far from being settled at the quarterback position, but this isn’t the place to solve that problem. Thankfully for them, every position is one of need. There’s been only one safety chosen with a top-five pick since 1992 (Sean Taylor in 2004). Hamilton exceeded high expectations before suffering a minor knee injury. At 6-foot-4, 220 pounds, the hybrid playmaker combines the versatility of Isaiah Simmons with instincts that are reminiscent of Hall of Famer Ed Reed. Top needs: QB, OL, DB
4. N.Y. Jets (4-13) — Kayvon Thibodeaux, Edge, Oregon, So.
The success of Robert Saleh’s defensive scheme is predicated on creating pressure on the quarterback without blitzing. Thibodeaux is a top tier athlete who wins with speed and has shown surprising coverage versatility. His ceiling is massively high, but it might take a few years for his technique and toolbox to catch up to his talent. Top needs: Edge, DB, LB
5. N.Y. Giants (4-13) — Ikem Ekwonu, T, NC State, So.
The Giants need to add toughness and athleticism to their offensive line. Ekwonu was the most dominant run-blocking tackle in the country this season — it really wasn’t close. I envision him thriving at tackle or guard in the NFL. Top needs: OL, Edge, LB
6. Carolina (5-12) — Charles Cross, T, Mississippi St., So.
This pick could very well be packaged with others to land Deshaun Watson or Aaron Rodgers this offseason. Otherwise, the Panthers need to consider moving down to target a quarterback — they’ve been connected to Kenny Pickett — or offensive lineman. Cross is a powerful blocker who can do damage at the second level in the run game with premium athleticism and his target-lock awareness. He developed into a dominant pass protector this season and could end up cracking the top-10 in April, despite this being a bit early for him. Top needs: QB, OL, LB
7. N.Y. Giants from Chicago (6-11) — Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah, Jr.
Passing on Micah Parsons could haunt the Giants for years. They haven’t drafted a linebacker in the first round since 1984 (Carl Banks), but Lloyd deserves serious consideration here. Lloyd can rush the passer (he had eight sacks), impact the run game and make plays in coverage — he had four interceptions this season. New defensive coordinator “Wink” Martindale would likely utilize Lloyd similarly to how the Cowboys use Parsons. Top needs: OL, Edge, LB
8. Atlanta (7-10) — David Ojabo, Edge, Michigan, Jr.
I don’t anticipate the Falcons being active in free agency with their salary cap issues, so that means addressing the pass rush here. After playing only 26 snaps for the Wolverines before his junior year, Ojabo was a revelation this season with 11 sacks and five forced fumbles. He has a surprising amount of moves for someone who has only been playing football for less than five years — he grew up playing soccer in Scotland. Ojabo needs some refinement to go with his impressive traits, but a successful showing at the combine could help him crack the top-10. Top needs: Edge, S, RB
9. Denver (7-10) — George Karlaftis, Edge, Purdue, Jr.
I expect the Broncos to make a significant push for Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson, so this might not end up being their pick. Karlaftis has been one of the most consistent pass rushers in the nation during his three seasons in West Lafayette. His inside-outside versatility, overwhelming power and special athleticism could make him a star at the next level. Top needs: QB, Edge, LB
10. N.Y. Jets from Seattle (7-10) — Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati, Jr.
The Jets haven’t had a cornerback in the Pro Bowl since Darrelle Revis in 2015. Gardner made it through the playoff loss to Alabama unscathed. He finished his collegiate career with 1,100-plus snaps with nine interceptions and zero touchdowns allowed. Top needs: Edge, DB, LB
11. Washington (7-10) — Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh, Sr.
The Commanders could lose some significant contributors to its offensive line in free agency, but there’s no bigger need than who will be handling the snaps. The Heisman finalist is most dangerous outside of the pocket when he goes off script. Pickett has good size, overall athleticism and solid arm talent, but needs to work on his anticipation throws and his comfort within the pocket. His hand size (or lack there of) has been a story, but he handled himself perfectly in Mobile at the Senior Bowl, where every team who interviewed him came away impressed. Top needs: QB, WR, CB
12. Minnesota (8-9) — Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU, Jr.
Patrick Peterson and Bashaud Breeland were only signed to one-year deals and neither played well enough to be asked back — Breeland was released in-season. Stingley features rare ball-tracking skills that make him a threat to take the ball away anytime it’s in his vicinity. As an 18-year-old, he produced one of the most impressive true freshman seasons in college football history in 2019. Durability has been a concern ever since. He’s a top-five talent, but there’s still a lot of questions surrounding him. Top needs: DB, G, Edge
13. Cleveland (8-9) — Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio St., Jr.
Linebacker will be a priority once again if the Browns lose Anthony Walker and Malcolm Smith in free agency, but they’re also in desperate need of some firepower at wide receiver after releasing Odell Beckham Jr. Wilson’s ability to threaten a defense at every level would pair nicely with Jarvis Landry, who is also a free agent in 2023. Top needs: WR, DL, Edge
14. Baltimore (8-9) — Tyler Linderbaum, C, Iowa, Jr.
You might want to constantly replenish the talent on your offensive line if running the football is your team’s identity. Starting center Bradley Bozeman is an unrestricted free agent and may have priced his way out of Baltimore. Drafting the Rimington Trophy winner and unanimous All-American would be a prudent move. Linderbaum was a multisport athlete in high school who earned multiple letters in wrestling, track, baseball and football. He’s a top-10 player in this draft class, but will likely be drafted later because he plays center. Top needs: OL, DB, DL
15. Philadelphia from Miami (9-8) — Drake London, WR, USC, Jr.
Drafting Jalen Reagor over Justin Jefferson remains a mystery to me. London led the nation in contested catches with 19 and he only played eight games after his season ended with a broken ankle. His size, athleticism, route-running and flair for the spectacular catch will make him a problem for defensive coordinators in the NFL. He’d pair nicely with DeVonta Smith and go along way in correcting the Reagor mistake. Top needs: WR, S, LB
16. Philadelphia from Indianapolis (9-8) — Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia, Jr.
It wasn’t long ago that the Eagles had three of the top 14 picks. They executed quite the turnaround, but no thanks to the front-seven. The Butkus Award winner is a dynamic blitzer who is capable of making plays all over the field. Georgia will be the most-represented program at the combine (early March) with 14 participants, three more than Alabama and Oklahoma, and a good showing by Dean will go a long ways in quieting all the murmurings about his size not translating well to the next level. Top needs: WR, S, LB
17. L.A. Chargers (9-8) — Jermaine Johnson, Edge, Florida St., Sr.
Only the Texans and Steelers allowed more rushing yards per game this season. Johnson is capable of being three-down player as a potentially elite run defender and an underrated pass rusher. Top needs: WR, T, Edge
18. New Orleans (9-8) — Matt Corral, QB, Mississippi, Jr.
The Saints are either drafting a quarterback or wide receiver in the first round. Corral is slightly undersized, but he’s a NFL-caliber playmaker with genuine arm talent. His X-rays were negative after he injured his ankle in a loss to Baylor in the Sugar Bowl. Top needs: QB, WR, G
19. Philadelphia (9-8) — Travon Walker, Edge, Georgia, Jr.
The Eagles former first-rounder Derek Barnett will test free agency, while veterans Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham could be on the chopping block. Walker brings inside-outside versatility and combines prototypical athleticism with a high motor (a rare combo). Top needs: WR, S, LB
20. Pittsburgh (9-7-1) — Malik Willis, QB, Liberty, Sr.
Ben Roethlisberger has opted for the gold watch (and likely gold jacket in five years). The buzz coming out of Mobile is the Steelers were crushing on Willis. His dynamic mobility and strong arm were certainly on display there. There are serious accuracy issues that will need to be ironed out in the NFL, but I’d trust Mike Tomlin and his staff to help Willis reach his full potential. Top needs: QB, OL, CB
21. New England (10-7) — Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida, Jr.
J.C. Jackson will be an unrestricted free agent and has likely priced himself out of the Patriots’ offseason plans. Elam is a 6-foot-2 corner with elite ball skills who fine-tuned his technique after an underwhelming sophomore season. His game is built on speed and physicality, which you normally don’t see in the same toolkit. Top needs: CB, Edge, WR
22. Las Vegas (10-7) — Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas, Jr.
The loss of Henry Ruggs will loom large this offseason. I expect the Raiders to pursue Davante Adams, Derek Carr’s college teammate, in free agency. Hunter Renfrow enjoyed a breakout season, but he’s not a true No. 1 wide receiver. If they miss out on Adams, you’re not going to find a better combination of size (6-foot-3, 225 pounds) and speed at wide receiver in this class. Burks is a vertical threat, but also features immense YAC ability — he broke 15 tackles on 66 receptions this season. Top needs: WR, DL, OL
23. Arizona (11-6) — Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama, Jr.
Who knows what is actually going on with Kyler Murray, but A.J. Green and Christian Kirk are both free agents following this season. Williams is a home run hitter with game-breaking speed. He’s also a weapon on special teams, as a returner — he returned two kicks for touchdowns in 2021 — and in coverage. The dynamic receiver injured his left knee against Georgia, but still grades out as a first-rounder if his rehabilitation remains on schedule. Top needs: WR, RB, TE
24. Dallas (12-5) — Logan Hall, DL, Houston, Jr.
The Cowboys need more pass rushers and Randy Gregory will likely leave in free agency. Hall’s bull-rush and swim move are nightmares for opposing offensive linemen. He’s has the size (6-foot-6, 275 pounds) and versatility to lineup just about anywhere. Top needs: LB, DL, TE
25. Buffalo (11-6) — Jordan Davis, DL, Georgia, Sr.
The Bills will look to reinforce both lines this offseason. At 6-foot-6, 340 pounds, the Outland and Bednarik trophy winner is an immovable object who could anchor the Bills’ run defense for years to come. Top needs: OL, CB, DL
26. Tennessee (12-5) — Trevor Penning, T, Northern Iowa, Jr.
David Quessenberry is a free agent and earned a pay raise this season while Taylor Lewan could end up being a cap casualty, leaving offensive tackle as a legit need. Penning finished tied for 10th in the Walter Payton Award voting, an award given to the most outstanding offensive player in Division I FCS. He faced superior competition in Mobile for the Senior Bowl and didn’t flinch. Top needs: Edge, WR, OL
27. Tampa Bay (13-4) — Devonte Wyatt, DL, Georgia, Sr.
Obviously, quarterback is an issue after Tom Brady’s retirement, but Jason Pierre-Paul, William Gholston and Ndamukong Suh are all free agents. Wyatt’s first step is as good as it gets in this draft class. His explosiveness and agility are elite for his size (6-foot-3, 315 pounds). Top needs: QB, DL, TE
28. Green Bay (13-4) — Bernhard Raimann, OL, Central Michigan, Sr.
The Packers utilized seven different offensive line combinations with nine different players taking meaningful snaps during the 2021 season. Raimann is surprisingly polished for only having two years of experience at tackle. The former tight end graded out as one of the best offensive lineman in the country last season, according to Pro Football Focus. He allowed zero pressures over his last six games. Top needs: WR, OL, LB
29. Miami from San Francisco (10-7) — Kenyon Green, OL, Texas A&M, Jr.
Offensive line has been a disaster for the Dolphins this season and I expect them to address it in the draft and free agency, where they will have a projected NFL-high $63.7 million. The former five-star recruit can play either guard or tackle at a high level — Green made starts at every single offensive line position except center this season. Top needs: RB, WR, OL
30. Kansas City (12-5) — Daxton Hill, DB, Michigan, Jr.
Defensive backs Tyrann Mathieu, Charvarius Ward and Mike Hughes are all up for new contracts while the Chiefs top priority in free agency is resigning their left tackle Orlando Brown Jr. Hill features a mix of athleticism, intelligence and instincts that will enable him to play every position in the defensive backfield. He will need to tamp down his tendency to gamble, but that’s part of being a playmaker sometimes. Top needs: T, Edge, S
31. Cincinnati (10-7) — Zion Johnson, OL, Boston College, Sr.
The Bengals’ offensive line has improved with a healthy Jonah Williams at left tackle, but the interior still needs to be addressed. Johnson is a team captain-caliber player who thrived at left tackle and guard, but he projects as an impact interior lineman in the NFL. He played center most of the week in Mobile, and was impressive, considering he had never played the position before. Top needs: OL, CB, TE
32. Detroit from L.A. Rams (12-5) — Chris Olave, WR, Ohio St., Sr.
If there’s a quarterback the Lions fall in love with, he’ll likely be selected here if he’s available. It’s rare you find a route technician with reliable hands who can also run as fast as Olave. He might have made it into the first round had he left school last year and it wouldn’t surprise me if he cracks the top-20. Top needs: QB, WR, CB
SECOND ROUND
33. Jacksonville — Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn St., Sr.
34. Detroit — Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina, Jr.
35. N.Y. Jets — Jaquan Brisker, S, Penn St., Sr.
36. N.Y. Giants — Cameron Thomas, Edge, San Diego St., Jr.
37. Houston — Kenneth Walker III, RB, Michigan St., Jr.
38. N.Y. Jets from Carolina — David Bell, WR, Purdue, Jr.
39. Chicago — Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington, Jr.
The Bears will need to add two cornerbacks this offseason so Jaylon Johnson won’t have to continue to chase top receivers all over the field. McDuffie plays bigger than his 5-11 frame. He’s one of the surest tacklers at the position in this draft class and his instincts are elite. Top needs: OL, WR, CB
40. Denver — Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati, Sr.
41. Seattle — Roger McCreary, CB, Auburn, Sr.
The Seahawks allowed 1,341 yards to the slot in 2021, the second-most in the NFL. McCreary simply doesn’t allow much separation and he’s battle-tested out of the SEC. He’s capable of thriving in man and zone. Top needs: OL, DB, WR
42. Washington — Jalen Tolbert, WR, South Alabama, Sr.
43. Atlanta — Breece Hall, RB, Iowa St., Jr.
44. Cleveland — Nik Bonitto, Edge, Oklahoma, Jr.
45. Baltimore — Perrion Winfrey, DL, Oklahoma, Sr.
46. Minnesota — Darian Kinnard, OL, Kentucky, Sr.
47. Indianapolis — Trey McBride, TE, Colorado St., Sr.
The Colts have an aging Jack Doyle at tight end with Mo Alie-Cox facing free agency. The 6-foot-4, 260-pound McBride had a highly-productive senior season — 1,121 yards on 90 receptions — and showcased significant blocking prowess along the way. Top needs: WR, OL, TE
48. L.A. Chargers — Jalen Pitre, DB, Baylor, Sr.
Both Michael Davis and Chris Harris Jr. — who is slated for free agency — struggled mightily in 2021. Pitre is a hybrid slot defensive back who is a physical run supporter with on-ball coverage skills. Top needs: WR, T, Edge
49. New Orleans — George Pickens, WR, Georgia, Jr.
50. Miami — Alec Lindstrom, C, Boston College, Sr.
51. Philadelphia — Lewis Cine, S, Georgia, Jr.
52. Pittsburgh — Nicholas Petit-Frere, T, Ohio St., Jr.
53. Las Vegas — DeMarvin Leal, DL, Texas A&M, Jr.
54. New England — Arnold Ebiketie, Edge, Penn St., Sr.
55. Arizona — Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson, Jr.
56. Dallas — Leo Chenal, LB, Wisconsin, Jr.
57. Buffalo — Kyler Gordon, CB, Washington, Jr.
58. Atlanta from Tennessee — Verone McKinley III, S, Oregon, So.
59. Green Bay — Quay Walker, LB, Georgia, Sr.
60. Tampa Bay — Carson Strong, QB, Nevada, Jr.
61. San Francisco — Myjai Sanders, Edge, Cincinnati, Jr.
The 49ers utilize a deep rotation of defensive linemen to keep their pass rush fresh. Sanders features great speed and explosiveness off the edge. He’ll need to add some muscle and finetune his focus to become an impact run defender. Top needs: CB, G, Edge
62. Kansas City — Drake Jackson, Edge, USC, Jr.
63. Cincinnati — Josh Jobe, CB, Alabama, Sr.
64. Denver from L.A. Rams — Daniel Faalele, T, Minnesota, Sr.
THIRD ROUND
65. Jacksonville — Christian Harris, LB, Alabama, Jr.
66. Detroit — Derion Kendrick, CB, Georgia, Sr.
67. N.Y. Giants — Jalen Wydermyer, TE, Texas A&M, Jr.
68. Houston — Jamaree Salyer, OL, Georgia, Sr.
69. N.Y. Jets — Brandon Smith, LB, Penn St., Jr.
70. Jacksonville from Carolina — Boye Mafe, Edge, Minnesota, Sr.
71. Chicago — Wan’Dale Robinson, WR, Kentucky, Jr.
72. Seattle — Max Mitchell, T, Louisiana, Jr.
73. Washington — Coby Bryant, CB, Cincinnati, Sr.
74. Atlanta — John Metchie III, WR, Alabama, Jr.
75. Denver — Damone Clark, LB, LSU, Sr.
76. Baltimore — Tariq Woolen, CB, Texas-San Antonio, Sr.
77. Minnesota — Kingsley Enagbare, Edge, South Carolina, Sr.
78. Cleveland — Travis Jones, DL, Connecticut, Jr.
79. L.A. Chargers — Christian Watson, WR, North Dakota St., Sr.
Watson would be an ideal replacement if Mike Williams bolts during free agency. Top needs: WR, T, Edge
80. Houston from New Orleans — Khalil Shakir, WR, Boise St., Sr.
81. N.Y. Giants from Miami — Smoke Monday, S, Auburn, Sr.
82. Indianapolis — Skyy Moore, WR, Western Michigan, So.
83. Philadelphia — Phidarian Mathis, DL, Alabama, Sr.
84. Pittsburgh — Mykael Wright, CB, Oregon, So.
85. New England — Chad Muma, LB, Wyoming, Jr.
86. Las Vegas — Sean Rhyan, OL, UCLA, Jr.
87. Arizona — Isaiah Spiller, RB, Texas A&M, Jr.
88. Dallas — Jeremy Ruckert, TE, Ohio St., Sr.
89. Buffalo — Rasheed Walker, T, Penn St., Jr.
90. Tennessee — DeAngelo Malone, Edge, Western Kentucky, Sr.
91. Tampa Bay — Isaiah Likely, TE, Coastal Carolina, Sr.
92. Green Bay — Dylan Parham, C, Memphis, Sr.
93. San Francisco — Marcus Jones, CB, Houston, Sr.
94. Kansas City — Zachary Carter, DL, Florida, Sr.
95. Cincinnati — Charlie Kolar, TE, Iowa St., Sr.
96. Denver from L.A. Rams — Dane Belton, S, Iowa, Jr.
