The Senior Bowl never fails to produce momentum for the prospects who handle their business in Mobile, Ala.
I've always maintained the week of practices were much more important than the actual game, since this is the first time most of these players have been coached up by NFL-caliber staffs.
The five players I believe helped their cause the most last week are:
— QB Kenny Pickett, Pittsburgh: Between Malik Willis' dynamic mobility and Pickett's apparently infant-sized hands, the fact that the Pitt signal-caller was the most consistent thrower throughout the week and absolutely aced his interviews seemed to get lost in the overall narrative.
— TE Jeremy Ruckert, Ohio State:Colorado State's Trey McBride is the best tight end in this draft class, but Ruckert has a chance to be selected on day two after displaying his impressive ball skills to go with his elite physical traits. He didn't really receive an opportunity to produce for the Buckeyes.
— OT Trevor Penning, Northern Iowa: Dominating at the FCS level, I saw enough in Penning to have him No. 50 on my latest Big Board. It was important to see him hold his own against stronger competition. His week started slow, but he improved every day while practicing with an edge — which will endear him to coaches — and could potentially help him sneak into the backend of the first round come April.
— Edge Jermaine Johnson, Florida State: I'm starting to think this class will be defined by how strong the defensive line group is. Johnson was already in the first-round conversation (No. 25 on my Big Board) after leading the ACC in tackles for loss and sacks, but after his standout performance last week, the narrative has shifted to how high could he go?
— DT Perrion Winfrey, Oklahoma: The former Iowa Western Community College transfer was a disruptive force throughout the week and produced a MVP performance in the game — five tackles, three tackles for loss and two sacks.
— BONUS: LB Troy Andersen, Montana State: Andersen's impressive athleticism translated perfectly to the step up in competition. He's only played the position for two years — he was previously a quarterback and running back — but if he continues to showcase this type of speed/range combination in his future workouts, he could land in the third round.
Part of my weekly mock preamble explains it 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 NFL.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 two 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 left and right tackle. Top needs: Edge, WR, DB
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, DB
3. Houston (4-13) — Ikem Ekwonu, T, NC State, So.
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. 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: QB, WR, OL
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) — George Karlaftis, Edge, Purdue, Jr.
Passing on Micah Parsons could haunt the Giants for years. 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: 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 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, but this might be a bit early for him. Top needs: QB, OL, LB
7. N.Y. Giants from Chicago (6-11) — Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah, Jr.
The Giants need to add toughness and athleticism to their offensive line, but the top offensive tackles are off the board and this may be too early for Tyler Linderbaum, based on his position. I know the G-Men haven’t drafted a linebacker in the first round since 1984 (Carl Banks), but Lloyd deserves serious consideration here. He can rush the passer (he had eight sacks), impact the run game and make plays in coverage — he had four interceptions this season. Pairing him with Karlaftis would be a boon for new defensive coordinator “Wink” Martindale. Top needs: OL, Edge, LB
8. Atlanta (7-10) — Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame, Jr.
There’s been only one safety chosen with a top-five pick since 1992 (Sean Taylor in 2004), but I don’t expect Hamilton to last very long if he isn’t drafted in that range come April. He 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. Hamilton would pair nicely with shutdown corner A.J. Terrell to create a very dynamic secondary. Top needs: WR, Edge, DB
9. Denver (7-10) — David Ojabo, Edge, Michigan, Jr.
I expect the Broncos to make a significant push for Aaron Rodgers, so this might not end up being their pick. 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. A successful showing at the combine could help him crack the top-10. 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) — Matt Corral, QB, Mississippi, Jr.
The Commanders could lose some significant contributors to their offensive line in free agency, but there’s no bigger need than who will be handling the snaps. 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, DB
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 a lot of questions. Top needs: CB, 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 could be drafted later because he plays center. Top needs: OL, CB, LB
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 a long 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. 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 a three-down player as a potentially elite run defender and an underrated pass rusher. Top needs: DL, WR, CB
18. New Orleans (9-8) — Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama, Jr.
The Saints are either drafting a quarterback or wide receiver in the first round. 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 is on schedule come April. Top needs: QB, WR, S
19. Philadelphia (9-8) — Travon Walker, Edge, Georgia, Jr.
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) — Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina, Jr.
Ben Roethlisberger has opted for the gold watch (and likely gold jacket in five years). Howell possesses impressive arm talent and proved he is a legitimate threat as a runner this season despite failing to meet big expectations. His playing style compares favorably to Baker Mayfield and his performance in Mobile shouldn’t hurt his draft stock. Top needs: QB, CB, T
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: DB, T, 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 purse 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) — Chris Olave, WR, Ohio St., Sr.
Who knows what is actually going on with Kyler Murray, but A.J. Green and Christian Kirk are both free agents following this season. 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: WR, OL, DB
24. Dallas (12-5) — Jaquan Brisker, S, Penn St., Sr.
The three players who played the most snaps at safety for the Cowboys this season are set to become free agents. Brisker is a polished, physical playmaker with few holes in his game. Top needs: LB, S, 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, LB, DL
26. Tennessee (12-5) — Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington, Jr.
The Titans will likely address wide receiver and the tight end position this offseason, but their leaky secondary has to be a priority as well. 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: CB, DL, WR
27. Tampa Bay (13-4) — Cameron Thomas, Edge, San Diego St., Jr.
Obviously, quarterback is an issue after Tom Brady’s retirement, but Jason Pierre-Paul, William Gholston and Ndamukong Suh are all free agents. Thomas was the most dominant pass rusher in college football outside of Ann Arbor. He racked up an FBS-leading 77 pressures this season and finished sixth with 29 run stops, according to Pro Football Focus. Top needs: QB, DL, OL
28. Green Bay (13-4) — Trevor Penning, T, Northern Iowa, Jr.
The Packers utilized seven different offensive line combinations with nine different players taking meaningful snaps during the 2021 season. Penning finished tied for 10th in the Walter Payton Award voting, an award given to the most outstanding offensive player in Division I FCS. Top needs: WR, DL, OL
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 $77.1 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, OL, LB
30. Kansas City (12-5) — Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn St., Sr.
Both Byron Pringle and Demarcus Robinson will be free agents after this season, with Mecole Hardman’s contract set to expire in 2023. Dotson features the game-breaking speed to beat defenses at all three levels and is good against press coverage despite his size (5-11, 185). He has very good hands and is a very capable blocker. Did skipping the Senior Bowl hurt his draft stock? Top needs: WR, Edge, DL
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, DB, LB
32. Detroit from L.A. Rams (12-5) — Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh, Sr.
If there’s a quarterback the Lions fall in love with, he’ll likely be selected here if he’s available. 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. He’s certainly the best value of the three quarterbacks I have going in the first round. Top needs: QB, WR, DB
SECOND ROUND
33. Jacksonville — Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson, Jr.
34. Detroit — Roger McCreary, CB, Auburn, Sr.
35. N.Y. Jets — Bernhard Raimann, OL, Central Michigan, Sr.
36. N.Y. Giants — Darian Kinnard, OL, Kentucky, Sr.
37. Houston — Daxton Hill, DB, Michigan, Jr.
38. N.Y. Jets from Carolina — David Bell, WR, Purdue, Jr.
39. Chicago — Perrion Winfrey, DL, Oklahoma, Sr.
I expect new GM Ryan Poles and head coach Matt Eberflus to retool a once-dominant defensive line this offseason. Winfrey’s Senior Bowl week will cause some talent evaluators to revisit their initial grades on the Sooner. Top needs: OL, WR, CB
40. Denver — Christian Harris, LB, Alabama, Jr.
41. Seattle — Kyler Gordon, CB, Washington, Jr.
The Seahawks allowed 1,341 yards to the slot in 2021, the second-most in the NFL. Gordon is an aggressive, uber-athlete who showed significant development in his technique this season. Top needs: Edge, CB, OL
42. Washington — Jalen Tolbert, WR, South Alabama, Sr.
43. Atlanta — Kenneth Walker III, RB, Michigan St., Jr.
44. Cleveland — Devonte Wyatt, DL, Georgia, Sr.
45. Baltimore — Nik Bonitto, Edge, Oklahoma, Jr.
46. Minnesota — Logan Hall, DL, Houston, Jr.
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, DB, OL
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: DL, WR, CB
49. New Orleans — Malik Willis, QB, Liberty, Sr.
50. Miami — Breece Hall, RB, Iowa St., Jr.
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 — Brandon Smith, LB, Penn St., Jr.
55. Arizona — Derion Kendrick, CB, Georgia, Sr.
56. Dallas — Drake Jackson, Edge, USC, Jr.
57. Buffalo — Josh Jobe, CB, Alabama, Sr.
58. Atlanta from Tennessee — Arnold Ebiketie, Edge, Penn St., Sr.
59. Green Bay — Kingsley Enagbare, Edge, South Carolina, 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 — Veron McKinley III, S, Oregon, So.
63. Cincinnati — Leo Chenal, LB, Wisconsin, Jr.
64. Denver from L.A. Rams — Daniel Faalele, T, Minnesota, Sr.
