2022 NFL mock draft: Super Bowl edition after the Rams win it all
By Brad Weiss
19. player. 54. . Cornerback. Philadelphia Eagles. Trent McDuffie
With their final of three first-round picks, the Philadelphia Eagles stay on the defensive side of the ball, adding Washington cornerback Trent McDuffie. Several cornerbacks could land in the first round, and in McDuffie, they get a playmaker with elite coverage skills.
Philadelphia’s secondary struggled in a big way last season, and a lot of that had to do with them getting no pressure up front. Adding McDuffie and edge rusher Travon Walker fill both voids, instant improving this team on that side of the ball.
player. 55. . Quarterback. Pittsburgh Steelers. Desmond Ridder. 20
This offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers saw franchise quarterback Ben Roethlisberger retire, leaving an incredible void at the most important position in sports. Big Ben led this franchise for nearly two decades, and with pick No. 20 overall, they look to replace him with a more mobile option.
Desmond Ridder is a player I believe will rocket up draft boards this draft season, as he led a non-Power 5 team to the College Football Playoff last season. He has a rocket for an arm, can hurt you with his legs and would be a real challenge to Mason Rudolph as the starter as a rookie.
New England Patriots. Andrew Booth Jr.. 21. player. 47. . Cornerback
The New England Patriots spent only one season on the outside looking in at the playoffs, as rookie quarterback Mac Jones led them back to the postseason this season. They are in good hands with Jones under center, and with this pick, they turn their attention in the first round to the secondary.
Andrew Booth Jr. is a player who could be the second cornerback off the board, but if he falls to No. 21 overall, the Patriots could land an immediate starter. New England does not have a ton of holes, but free agency should be interesting, as a lot of big-name players are hitting the market.
Las Vegas Raiders. Trevor Penning. 22. player. 28. . Offensive Tackle
The Las Vegas Raiders made it back to the playoffs for the first time since the 2016 season, and only the second time since 2002. However, despite their success, they decided to bring in a new regime, adding David Ziegler as general manager, and Josh McDaniels as head coach.
Now, after committing to Derek Carr this offseason, they need to improve the offensive line in front of him, which is why Trevor Penning is the pick at No. 22 overall. This guy showed a nasty streak at the Senior Bowl and would have a clear shot to start at right tackle immediately in Las Vegas.