2022 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Hutchinson goes first overall, Walker joins the Lions

NFL Draft week is finally here.

It’s been a long time coming, but we are now just days away from the opening selections in Las Vegas on April 28.

There is still a lot of discussion of who will land where and we’ve put together our second mock of the first round, which is based on the current draft order.

Here’s our opening ten picks predictions in the first round:

Round 1, 1st overall – Jacksonville Jaguars

AIDAN HUTCHINSON, EDGE, MICHIGAN

The favourite to go first overall, Aidan Hutchinson ends the uncertainty and confirms himself as the most sought after player out of college football.

The Jaguars need playmakers on both sides of the ball and the Heisman Trophy finalist will bolster their pass rush.

Round 1, 2nd overall – Detroit Lions

TRAVON WALKER, EDGE, GEORGIA

Travon Walker has unbelievable potential. His production levels at college weren’t incredible given the talent on show in Georgia, but he’s got exceptional athleticism and versatility.

The Lions will be disappointed to have missed out on Michigan native Hutchinson. But Walker is a standout defender who can go all the way in the NFL.

Round 1, 3rd overall – Houston Texans

EVAN NEAL, OT, ALABAMA

The Texans could go a number of ways here. GM Nick Caserio is having to build something from scratch in Houston, and developing a strong offensive line is a good way to start.

Evan Neal is possibly the most touted lineman in this year’s draft, who could still jump up to the first overall selection. He’d be a great pick for the Texans if he’s available.

Round 1, 4th overall – New York Jets

KAYVON THIBODEAUX, EDGE, OREGON

Thibodeaux has the potential to be as good as anyone in this draft class. If he’s available at fourth overall, New York shouldn’t think twice about this selection.

Robert Saleh gets his edge rusher and the Jets defense starts to look like an elite force.

Round 1, 5th overall – New York Giants

IKEM EKWONU, OT, NC STATE

The Giants are said to be huge fans of Ekwonu and considering their quarterbacks were sacked a combined 37 times last season, offensive line must be a draft priority.

He would not only help to protect Daniel Jones, but provide much needed support for Saquon Barkley and the run game in New York.

Round 1, 6th overall – Carolina Panthers

KENNY PICKETT, QB, PITTSBURGH

The Panthers drastically need to sort out their QB room ahead of next season. And it’s no secret that Panthers head coach Matt Rhule and Pittsburgh’s Kenny Pickett have a pre-existing relationship.

Pickett is the most NFL ready quarterback in this year’s quarterback class and should come in as a starter from day one. This selection makes a lot of sense.

Round 1, 7th overall – New York Giants

KYLE HAMILTON, S, NOTRE DAME

The Giants could go Kyle Hamilton or Ahmad ‘Sauce’ Gardner at 7th overall. There is also the possibility of trading down.

Both players would help to transform the mediocre secondary in New York, but Hamilton is a special talent who could be an All-Pro in his position very soon.

Round 1, 8th overall – Atlanta Falcons

DRAKE LONDON, WR, USC

Another team who in need of playmakers at almost every position, the Falcons have a number of options here.

But with Calvin Ridley suspended for 2022 and Russell Gage leaving for Tampa Bay, their wide receiver room is looking incredibly dry. Taking an elite playmaker in the draft, someone like Drake London, would be a wise move.

Round 1, 9th overall – Seattle Seahawks

JERMAINE JOHNSON II, EDGE, FLORIDA STATE

Seattle look set to give Drew Lock at chance in 2022, so it might not be wise drafting a new franchise QB this year.

It’s been far too long since they have had an elite edge rusher. Jermaine Johnson II would give the Seahawks playmaking ability both as a pass and run defender. He would be a brilliant addition for new defensive coordinator Clint Hurtt to work with.

Round 1, 10th overall – New York Jets

GARRETT WILSON, WR, OHIO STATE

The Jets have been linked with elite receivers the whole offseason, yet they always seem to come up short.

If they don’t deal for Deebo Samuel or DK Metcalf before April 28, Garrett Wilson, a speedy and productive wideout, would be a great option for the Jets.