And then there were two.
The Los Angeles Rams and Cincinnati Bengals will face off at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Feb. 13 in Super Bowl LVI.
Good thing for the Rams, considering they currently don't have a pick in the first two days of April's draft.
We're also in the midst of Senior Bowl practices in Mobile, Ala., with the game set for Saturday. The practices are much more important for these prospects than the game.
Some of the players will receive a legit boost in their draft stock following this weekend and it could go a long ways in sorting out the quarterback group, since most of them are participating.
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. Especially since there isn’t a quarterback available worthy of this pick. Top needs: QB, WR, DB
3. Houston (4-13) — Ikem Ekwonu, T, NC State, So.
NFL teams usually can’t help themselves when it comes to the quarterback position, but this is too high for a signal-caller in this draft class. Thankfully for the Texans, 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 G-Men 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. I know the G-Men 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. 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. If quarterback gets checked off their lists of needs, the pass rush becomes the top priority. 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 (that felt weird to type) 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. 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 are 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, OL, 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. 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. 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: 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.
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) — 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 performance in Mobile will impact his draft stock significantly. 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. Hunter Renfrow has enjoyed a breakout season, but he’s not a true No. 1 wide receiver. 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.
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 this fast. Olave might have slid 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 this side 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) — David Bell, WR, Purdue, Jr.
It’s very likely Davante Adams doesn’t stick around if Aaron Rodgers is elsewhere. Bell has gotten lost in the shuffle with the top available wide receivers, but his route-running is advanced and his YAC ability should make him an impact player early in his career. He definitely deserves first-round consideration. Top needs: WR, DL, G
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. Top needs: WR, Edge, DL
31. Cincinnati (10-7) — Daxton Hill, S, Michigan, Jr.
The Bengals’ offensive line has improved with a healthy Jonah Williams at left tackle, but the interior still needs to be addressed. Safety is the next pressing priority with Jessie Bates’ pending free agency. Hill is a premium athlete with rare speed and explosiveness for the position. He will almost certainly also be utilized as a nickel in the pros. Top needs: OL, DB, LB
32. Detroit from L.A. Rams (12-5) — Roger McCreary, CB, Auburn, Sr.
If there’s a quarterback the Lions fall in love with, he’ll likely be selected here if he’s available. Otherwise, they miss out on the top wide receiver talent in this exercise so I address another dire need. 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: QB, WR, DB
SECOND ROUND
33. Jacksonville — Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson, Jr.
34. Detroit — Carson Strong, QB, Nevada, Jr.
35. N.Y. Jets — Christian Harris, LB, Alabama, Jr.
36. N.Y. Giants — Darian Kinnard, T, Kentucky, Sr.
37. Houston — Kenneth Walker III, RB, Michigan St., Jr.
38. N.Y. Jets from Carolina — George Pickens, WR, Georgia, Jr.
39. Chicago — Trevor Penning, T, Northern Iowa, Jr.
Teven Jenkins and Cody Whitehair are locked in, but the other three offensive line spots are up for grabs. 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: OL, WR, CB
40. Denver — Brandon Smith, LB, Penn St., 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 — John Metchie III, WR, Alabama, Jr.
43. Atlanta — Breece Hall, RB, Iowa St., Jr.
44. Cleveland — DeMarvin Leal, DL, Texas A&M, Jr.
45. Baltimore — Martin Emerson, CB, Mississippi St., Jr.
46. Minnesota — Zion Johnson, OL, Boston College, Sr.
47. Indianapolis — Derion Kendrick, CB, Georgia, Sr.
There are some questions about Kendrick’s speed, but his wide receiver-like ball skills would shine in the Colts zone scheme. 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 — Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh, Sr.
50. Miami — Drake Jackson, Edge, USC, Jr.
51. Philadelphia — Lewis Cine, S, Georgia, Jr.
52. Pittsburgh — Nicholas Petit-Frere, T, Ohio St., Jr.
53. Las Vegas — Perrion Winfrey, DL, Oklahoma, Sr.
54. New England — Nik Bonitto, Edge, Oklahoma, Jr.
55. Arizona — Josh Jobe, CB, Alabama, Sr.
56. Dallas — Trey McBride, TE, Colorado St., Sr.
57. Buffalo — Daniel Faalele, T, Minnesota, Sr.
58. Atlanta from Tennessee — Arnold Ebiketie, Edge, Penn St., Sr.
59. Green Bay — Thayer Munford, OL, Ohio St., Sr.
60. Tampa Bay — Bernhard Raimann, OL, Central Michigan, Sr.
61. San Francisco — Myjai Sanders, Edge, Cincinnati, Jr.
Sanders features great speed and explosiveness off the edge to enter the league as a designated pass rusher. He’ll need to add some muscle and fine tune his focus to become an impact run defender. Top needs: CB, G, Edge
62. Kansas City — Devonte Wyatt, DL, Georgia, Sr.
63. Cincinnati — Alec Lindstrom, C, Boston College, Sr.
64. Denver from L.A. Rams — Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati, Jr.
