There have been constants atop mock drafts since the end of the 2021 NFL season. No quarterback was worthy of going No. 1 overall, and Oregon pass-rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux was among the top few picks.
In Pro Football Focus’ latest mock draft, Seth Galina has zero quarterbacks going in the first round. And Thibodeaux? He lasts until No. 8 overall.
Galina noted in his mock draft that there would be quarterbacks taken in the first round. Of course, there will be quarterbacks in the first round. Galina said he doesn’t have any of the 2022 draft-eligible quarterbacks with a first-round grade.
Thibodeaux landing at No. 8 is a surprise, but there are some concerns about the Oregon star. As for No. 1 overall, PFF has Jacksonville selecting Mississippi State offensive tackle Charles Cross.
Cross is an outstanding prospect, and when you picked a franchise quarterback last season, it makes sense to do all you can to protect him.
With no quarterback going to Washington, what does Galina have the Commanders doing at No. 11 overall? Picking a linebacker, which is the team’s second-biggest need.
The linebacker? Devin Lloyd of Utah.
This is another potential spot for a quarterback, but I’m just not ready to pull the trigger. Instead, Washington’s first pick nets one of the best all-around talents in the draft. Lloyd is an effective pass-rusher, coverage defender and run-stopper. Washington has been terrible at linebacker for almost five seasons and needs help at the position.
Let’s ignore the fact that Washington needs a quarterback, or let’s say it was addressed via trade. Lloyd is a phenomenal talent. If the Commanders could somehow land Lloyd, he would be the missing piece to the defense. He can play inside, giving Washington incredible speed at all three linebacker spots. Lloyd can cover, roam sideline to sideline, or rush the passer.
He’s an outstanding prospect.
