Bulls get angry when they see the color red, human beings only use 10% of our brains and the NFL offseason.
All of these are popular modern myths.
The National Football League is always on. Exhibit A being this past week.
We seamlessly transitioned from the combine in Indianapolis, to Aaron Rodgers staying put in Green Bay to Russell Wilson being traded to Denver.
Then to Bobby Wagner being released in Seattle and Carson Wentz being dealt to Washington. Not to mention all the hullabaloo surrounding Calvin Ridley or Jerry Jones.
Bravo couldn't dream up a better reality series.
Indeed, an impressive combine was almost immediately relegated to the backburner upon completion after returning from a COVID-induced hiatus in 2021, but make no mistake, there are players who made (and lost) themselves money in Indy.
Below, is an attempt to make sense of these events within the context of next month's draft.
You know, until free agency reshuffles the deck next week.
MOCK PREAMBLE
This 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 tankathon.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 scaled back from three rounds until we get through the first wave of free agency:
FIRST ROUND
1. Jacksonville (3-14) — Ikem Ekwonu, T, NC State, So.
Many believe placing the franchise tag on Cam Robinson will preclude the Jaguars from selecting an offensive tackle with the first overall pick. Perhaps, but their entire offensive line graded out mediocre to poor in the run game this past season and Robinson wasn’t the only one facing free agency. Former All-Pro guard Andrew Norwell will likely command a hefty sum. Ekwonu was the most dominant run-blocking tackle in the Power-5 conferences this season — it really wasn’t close — and I envision him thriving at tackle or guard in the NFL. Top needs: OL, WR, LB
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, and there simply isn’t a quarterback available worthy of this pick. Hutchinson’s a high-floor prospect who wins with technique, strength and athleticism. It would take general manager Brad Holmes a nanosecond to turn this card in. Top needs: QB, WR, CB
3. Houston (4-13) — Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame, Jr.
Thankfully for the Texans, every position is one of need, so it’ll be hard to mess this up (even for them). There’s been only one safety chosen with a top-five pick since 1992 (Sean Taylor in 2004). Hamilton is a hybrid playmaker who combines the versatility of Isaiah Simmons with instincts that are reminiscent of Hall of Famer Ed Reed. Those who pick nits with his 4.59-second 40-yard dash at the combine are digging really deep for criticism. Top needs: QB, OL, DB
4. N.Y. Jets (4-13) — 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, nine interceptions and zero touchdowns allowed. Gardner’s combine was flawless. Top needs: Edge, DB, LB
5. N.Y. Giants (4-13) — Evan Neal, T, Alabama, Jr.
The Giants need to add toughness and athleticism to their offensive line. Neal is a physical specimen (6-foot-7, 350 pounds) who improved every season in Tuscaloosa and thrived at both tackle positions and left guard. Top needs: OL, Edge, LB
6. Carolina (5-12) — Charles Cross, T, Mississippi St., So.
The Panthers need to consider moving down if they’re targeting a quarterback in the first round — they’ve been connected to Kenny Pickett. Otherwise, it’s clear they need to upgrade the offensive line. Cross is a powerful blocker who developed into a dominant pass protector last season and could end up cracking the top-10 in April. Top needs: QB, OL, LB
7. N.Y. Giants from Chicago (6-11) — Kayvon Thibodeaux, Edge, Oregon, So.
Passing on Micah Parsons could haunt the Giants for years. 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. The narrative coming out of Indy was Thibodeaux came off as “cocky” in his interviews with teams. The same thing was said about Parsons last year. Top needs: OL, Edge, LB
8. Atlanta (7-10) — Travon Walker, Edge, Georgia, Jr.
I don’t anticipate the Falcons being active in free agency with their salary cap issues, so that means addressing the pass rush here. Walker offers premium versatility and immense power. He is an elite run defender, but will need to sharpen his technique to become a more consistent pass rusher. Top needs: Edge, S, RB
9. Seattle from Denver (7-10) — Devin Lloyd, LB, Utah, Jr.
I’ve been saying the Broncos would end up with either Aaron Rodgers or Russell Wilson, so the blockbuster trade wasn’t a surprise to me. However, the Seahawks releasing Bobby Wagner was. Lloyd can rush the passer (he had seven sacks), impact the run game and make plays in coverage — he had four interceptions this season. He’d be an ideal replacement for Wagner. Top needs: QB, Edge, LB
10. N.Y. Jets from Seattle (7-10) — Jermaine Johnson, Edge, Florida St., Sr.
The success of Robert Saleh’s defensive scheme is predicated on creating pressure on the quarterback without blitzing. Johnson is capable of being three-down player as a potentially elite run defender and an underrated pass rusher. Top needs: Edge, DB, LB
11. Washington (7-10) — Trevor Penning, T, Northern Iowa, Jr.
The Commanders dealt for Carson Wentz so I doubt they will invest this pick in the position. They could lose some significant contributors to its offensive line in free agency, which would knock wide receiver and cornerback down a notch on their list of priorities. Penning finished tied for 10th in the Walter Payton Award voting, an award given to the most outstanding offensive player in Division I FCS. He faced superior competition in Mobile for the Senior Bowl and didn’t flinch while showcasing his athleticism at the combine. Top needs: QB, WR, CB
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 still a lot of questions surrounding him. Top needs: DB, 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 will likely be drafted later because he plays center. Top needs: OL, DB, DL
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 along way in correcting the Reagor mistake. Top needs: WR, S, LB
16. Philadelphia from Indianapolis (9-8) — George Karlaftis, Edge, Purdue, Jr.
Eagles former first-rounder Derek Barnett will test free agency, while veterans Fletcher Cox and Brandon Graham could be on the chopping block. 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: WR, S, LB
17. L.A. Chargers (9-8) — Jordan Davis, DL, Georgia, Sr.
Only the Texans and Steelers allowed more rushing yards per game this season. At 6-foot-6, 340 pounds, the Outland and Bednarik trophy winner is an immovable object who could anchor the Chargers’ run defense for years to come. His 4.78-second 40-yard dash in Indy suggests there’s some potential as a pass disruptor as well. Top needs: CB, T, Edge
18. New Orleans (9-8) — Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh, Sr.
The Saints are either drafting a quarterback or wide receiver in the first round. 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. His hand size (or lack there of) has been a story, but he handled himself perfectly in Mobile at the Senior Bowl, and at the combine, where every team who interviewed him came away impressed. Top needs: QB, WR, G
19. Philadelphia (9-8) — Zion Johnson, OL, Boston College, Sr.
Jason Kelce can’t play forever. If he decides to start his Canton clock soon, I could see Landon Dickerson sliding over from guard to be his replacement. 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: WR, S, LB
20. Pittsburgh (9-7-1) — Malik Willis, QB, Liberty, Sr.
Ben Roethlisberger has opted for the gold watch (and likely gold jacket in five years). The buzz coming out of Mobile was the Steelers were crushing on Willis, much like they did with Najee Harris last year. Willis’ dynamic mobility and strong arm were certainly on display there and in Indy. There are serious accuracy issues that will need to be ironed out in the NFL, but I’d trust Mike Tomlin and his staff to help Willis reach his full potential. Top needs: QB, OL, CB
21. New England (10-7) — Chris Olave, WR, Ohio St., Sr.
My gut says Bill Belichick will go defense here, but the Patriots need to find Mac Jones a primary target. It’s rare a route technician with reliable hands can also run as fast as Olave, who 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: CB, Edge, WR
22. Las Vegas (10-7) — Devonte Wyatt, DL, Georgia, Sr.
The new Raiders brain trust comes from New England, where it’s a priority to build a strong front-seven. Wyatt’s first step is as good as it gets in this draft class. His explosiveness and agility are elite for his size (6-foot-3, 315 pounds). Top needs: WR, DL, OL
23. Arizona (11-6) — Jameson Williams, WR, Alabama, Jr.
Who knows what is actually going on with Kyler Murray, but A.J. Green and Christian Kirk are both free agents following this season. 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 remains on schedule. Top needs: WR, RB, TE
24. Dallas (12-5) — Nakobe Dean, LB, Georgia, Jr.
Leighton Vander Esch is an unrestricted free agent and the Cowboys need a linebacker who frees up Micah Parsons to focus primarily on rushing the passer. Murmurings about Dean’s size not translating well to the next level have hurt his draft stock. It certainly didn’t hurt the Butkus Award winner in the SEC, where the tape showed a dynamic blitzer who is capable of making plays all over the field. Top needs: LB, DL, TE
25. Buffalo (11-6) — Trent McDuffie, CB, Washington, Jr.
Levi Wallace is facing free agency and Tre’Davious White is currently rehabbing an ACL injury. 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: OL, CB, DL
26. Tennessee (12-5) — Bernhard Raimann, OL, Central Michigan, Sr.
David Quessenberry is a free agent and earned a pay raise this season while Taylor Lewan could end up being a cap casualty, leaving offensive tackle as a legit need. Raimann is surprisingly polished for only having two years of experience at tackle. The former tight end graded out as one of the best offensive lineman in the country last season, according to Pro Football Focus. He allowed zero pressures over his last six games of 2021. Top needs: Edge, WR, OL
27. Tampa Bay (13-4) — David Ojabo, Edge, Michigan, Jr.
Obviously, quarterback is an issue after Tom Brady’s retirement, but Jason Pierre-Paul, William Gholston and Ndamukong Suh are all free agents. 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. He has a surprising amount of moves for someone who has only been playing football for less than five years — he grew up playing soccer in Scotland. Ojabo will need some refinement to go with his impressive traits, but an impressive performance in Indy could lead to him being selected in the top-half of the first round. Top needs: QB, DL, TE
28. Green Bay (13-4) — Kenyon Green, OL, Texas A&M, Jr.
The Packers utilized seven different offensive line combinations with nine different players taking meaningful snaps during the 2021 season. 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: WR, OL, LB
29. Miami from San Francisco (10-7) — Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas, Jr.
The Dolphins could target Amari Cooper in free agency, but if they fail to land him, they definitely need a reliable target across from Jaylen Waddle. Burks is a vertical threat, but also features immense YAC ability — he broke 15 tackles on 66 receptions this season. Top needs: RB, WR, OL
30. Kansas City (12-5) — Daxton Hill, DB, Michigan, Jr.
Defensive backs Tyrann Mathieu, Charvarius Ward and Mike Hughes are all up for new contracts. Hill features a mix of athleticism, intelligence and instincts that will enable him to play every position in the defensive backfield. He will need to tamp down his tendency to gamble, but that’s part of being a playmaker sometimes. Top needs: T, Edge, S
31. Cincinnati (10-7) — Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida, Jr.
Pending free agent Eli Apple clearly wasn’t the answer at cornerback. 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: OL, CB, TE
32. Detroit from L.A. Rams (12-5) — Matt Corral, QB, Mississippi, Jr.
If there’s a quarterback the Lions fall in love with, he’ll likely be selected here. 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, but the injury kept him from throwing at the combine. He’ll be a “full-go” for his pro day on March 23. Top needs: QB, WR, CB
