The top three teams in the 2022 NFL draft are somewhat mysterious.
The Jacksonville Jaguars already have a quarterback, but other roster needs are self evident. Who do they take at No. 1 overall?
The Detroit Lions could also use some help at anywhere but quarterback, which makes them wide open to any position.
Although the Houston Texans could use some help at edge rusher and in the secondary, NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah says that the Texans are still an enigma as to what they will do at No. 3 overall.
Jeremiah fielded a question during his conference call about the availability of Alabama tackle Evan Neal and NC State guard-tackle Ikem Ekwonu at No. 6 overall when the Carolina Panthers select, which led him to talk about how general manager Nick Caserio runs the operation inside NRG Stadium.
“I think one is going to be there,” said Jeremiah. “Houston is a true wildcard to me. They could go in any direction. You always try and talk to friends around the league, try and get a gut on a team, and usually your buddies will tell you, I think this player matches them or that player, maybe a couple guys, a couple options. I mean, Nick does a great job of keeping his cards close to the vest, because nobody in the league has any clue where Houston could be leaning or what they’re going to do. That to me is the true wildcard.”
If the Texans go with Ekwonu, it would give them flexibility to kick either 2019 first-round pick Tytus Howard or their new first-rounder inside at guard. If the Texans go with Neal, assuredly Howard would have to go back inside to guard.
Houston could fall in love with an edge rusher or a defensive back at No. 3 overall. If so, Carolina may have their pick of Ekwonu and Neal.
