PRZ NE-FL 2022 Mock Draft
Eight Man-1 and Eight-Man-2 State Finals Stars!
In this article:
In the fall I ran a "Mock Re-draft" as the NFL season was about to start. That turned out to be one of my favorite articles I’ve written to date, so I decided to bring it back as the NFL draft kickoff this weekend. For the draft pool, I used the Class of 2023 and the Top 10 players of the 2024 class as "early entrants." I tried to stay as close to the team needs as possible, but because of some of the picks were different it created a need that may not be present today. For example the Falcons do not have TE Kyle Pitts because of their selection of LB [player_tooltip player_id="147503" first="Devon" last="Jackson"], so a team need would be TE.
<strong><em><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-size: 1rem;">2023 players already in the league:</span></span></em></strong>
[player_tooltip player_id="217055" first="Zane" last="Flores"] - Jacksonville Jaguars
[player_tooltip player_id="226945" first="Gunnar" last="Gottula"] - Carolina Panthers
[player_tooltip player_id="217060" first="Maverick" last="Noonan"] - Denver Broncos
[player_tooltip player_id="227028" first="Sam" last="Sledge"] - Las Vegas Raiders
[player_tooltip player_id="180278" first="Beni" last="Ngoyi"] - Baltimore Ravens
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 1:</strong></span> Jacksonville Jaguars - [player_tooltip player_id="245573" first="Victor" last="Isele"], EDGE, 6’2" 220 lbs - Grand Island Northwest
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="217055" first="Zane" last="Flores"] - QB, [player_tooltip player_id="147831" first="Koa" last="McIntyre"] - S)
The Jaguars wanted an EDGE rushing machine and they got one in GI Northwest’s [player_tooltip player_id="245573" first="Victor" last="Isele"]. Victor provides a dominate presence on the edge with his combination of strength and speed. Isele has a very explosive first step that he combines with his nonstop motor to make backfields miserable. With 16 sacks and 33 tackles for loss in the past two seasons, Isele has the production to go with the measurables. He does a great job using his hands to rip through and disengage from offensive linemen. Adding Isele opposite of up-and-coming LB/EDGE defender Josh Allen would give the Jaguars a fearsome EDGE rushing duo. Victor is also highly effective against the run, which makes him a very valuable every-down defender that you can count on to get after the QB late in games or to blow up a RB in short and goal situations. Victor is a can’t-miss prospect with his high floor, higher ceiling type of talent!
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 2:</strong></span> Detroit Lions - [player_tooltip player_id="227064" first="Brock" last="Knutson"], OT, 6’7" 280 lbs - Scottsbluff
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="161740" first="Jake" last="Appleget"] - LB)
The Lions could go several different ways here, but without Penei Sewell, it might be smart to pick up one of the elite tackle prospects coming out of Nebraska. [player_tooltip player_id="227064" first="Brock" last="Knutson"] is a versatile tackle prospect that can start at either left or right tackle positions. He plays with a very tough mean streak and lives off of pancakes. Despite Brock’s tall 6’7" frame, he does a great job maintaining an even pad level and not getting stood up when he drops back in pass protection. He has quick feet and moves surprisingly well for someone his size. He loves to bring the fight to the defense when run blocking will continue blocking through the whistle. Overall, Brock fits the culture the Lons are trying to build with gritty, mean players that just love to get after it on the field. The QB situation in Detroit is shaky, but at least they won’t have to worry about their blindside protection with Knutson.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 3:</strong></span> Houston Texans - [player_tooltip player_id="169899" first="Daniel" last="Kaelin"], QB, 6’2" 195 lbs - Bellevue West
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(Last year’s picks: None)
With needs at essentially every position, the Texans decide to start with the most important one, quarterback. Houston picks up their franchise QB in Bellevue West star passer, [player_tooltip player_id="169899" first="Daniel" last="Kaelin"]. Daniel is a fast-rising sophomore prospect with one of the best arms in the state. Kaelin has impressed scouts across the country with his smooth release, accuracy, and sharp football IQ. Daniel only played in spots during the 2021 season but showed several flashes of the immense arm talent he holds. He threw for 693 passing yards on 50/82 passing attempts. His decision-making and ball security are among his top traits, as he threw five touchdowns to zero interceptions. Now they just need to get him a receiver...
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 4:</strong></span> New York Jets - [player_tooltip player_id="180280" first="Malachi" last="Coleman"], WR, 6'5' 185 lbs - Lincoln East
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147507" first="Caden" last="Becker"] - QB, [player_tooltip player_id="147818" first="LJ" last="Richardson"] - RB)
The Jets chose offensive weapons with their first two selections last year, and they continue to do so this year with the top overall prospect in the state. The best thing to do when you have a young QB is to surround him with playmakers, and Malachi is an elite playmaker with top-flight speed and game-breaking speed. Coleman is a very tall, big-bodied receiver with the length to create separation at the line of scrimmage and the catch radius to win a large portion of jump balls thrown his way. Once Malachi has the separation, he can turn on the jets and show off his deep threat ability. Coleman did this very well as he averaged 33 yards per reception on 17 catches for 561 receiving yards. He is a long strider that can turn a simple crossing route into a 30, 40-yard reception or touchdown. Malachi has huge upside as an EDGE defender, but I like that he fits the need at WR in a huge way, and it’s a good value pick here at 4th overall.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 5:</strong></span> New York Giants - [player_tooltip player_id="227083" first="Korver" last="Demma"], DE, 6’2" 225 - Gretna
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147988" first="Tyson" last="Money"] - WR)
The Giants add a huge need here with Gretna’s DE/EDGE [player_tooltip player_id="227083" first="Korver" last="Demma"]. Korver is a player that is quickly rising up recruiting boards and has made tons of noise after the 54 tackle, 8.5 sack season that he just had. He fires off like a bullet at the snap of the ball and shows a good amount of bend when he’s coming off the edge. He has swift hands that he uses very well to shake off blockers and adjust to counters. He always keeps his eyes up and his feet pumping, following the ball carrier wherever he goes. Even though he plays mostly defensive end, his frame and athleticism should open the doors for him to be used in creative ways as an OLB or EDGE rusher. This is a perfect pick-up for a team needing a boost in the sack/TFL department.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 6:</strong></span> Carolina Panthers - [player_tooltip player_id="217056" first="Abram" last="Scholting"], QB, 6’0" 180 lbs - Pierce
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(Last year’s pick: [player_tooltip player_id="226945" first="Gunnar" last="Gottula"]- OT)
It is hard to get a grip on what the Panthers will do with the pick in the real draft. In the NE-FL draft, it is a no-brainer. DRAFT YOUR QB! With several top QBs available, the Panthers choose the most experienced of the bunch in Pierce’s [player_tooltip player_id="217056" first="Abram" last="Scholting"]. Abram has been seeing varsity time since he was a freshman and gained the full-time role his sophomore year. Since being named the starter, he has led his teams to a combined 22-3 record with consecutive trips to the state championship, in which they won it all in 2020. His stats made a jump from sophomore to junior year, and overall, Abram seems to be hitting his stride as a QB. He threw for 2,265 passing yards, 30 touchdowns to 10 interceptions, and added 500 rushing yards on the ground. With a makeshift OL, the Panthers may need Scholthing’s scrambling ability. He moves very well in the pocket and can be very hard to bring down in the backfield. A team that desperately needs a winner gets a QB that has done that very well throughout his prep career.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 7:</strong></span> New York Giants - [player_tooltip player_id="227532" first="Mason" last="Goldman"], OT, 6’6" 240 lbs - Gretna
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The Giants doubled down on Gretna Dragons by addressing the other side of the trenches. The Giant’s season relies on the resurgence of Saquon and the emergence of Daniel Jones; neither will be able to get going if they don’t have adequate protection upfront. [player_tooltip player_id="227532" first="Mason" last="Goldman"] is a bookend tackle that plays with tons of intensity and is a devastating finisher. Mason moves very well for a big guy, and you can find him several yards downfield on running plays, attacking defenders in the second and third levels. In all situations, he is the aggressor that will bring the fight to someone instead of waiting for it to come to him. The addition of the Gretna big man should help the development of Jones and Barkley as they enter a make or break year.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 8:</strong></span> Atlanta Falcons - [player_tooltip player_id="180276" first="Benjamin" last="Brahmer"], TE, 6’6" 210 lbs - Pierce
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147503" first="Devon" last="Jackson"] - LB)
The Falcons never selected TE Kyle Pitts in our hypothetical NFL world, which leaves the offense bare at pass catcher. In comes TE/WR [player_tooltip player_id="180276" first="Benjamin" last="Brahmer"] who has incredible measurables and a decorated prep resume. The Husker commit is coming off of 63 receptions, 1,119 yards, and 14 receiving touchdowns as a junior. Brahmer stands at 6’6" with a very lengthy frame and an enormous catch radius. Benjamin is a versatile pass-catcher that can line up as a tight end, in the slot, and outside the hash marks while working all field levels. He can make short-distance catches and add on YAC, or he can burn defenses deep. With uncertainty at QB, he is a perfect safety blanket pass catcher that you can target in any scenario.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 9:</strong></span> Seattle Seahawks - [player_tooltip player_id="250051" first="Anthony" last="Rezac"], QB, 6'3" 180 lbs - Omaha Westside
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(Last year’s picks: NONE)
Same logic as the Carolina Panthers pick. It might make sense to build up your team in the real NFL draft if you’re not confident in a QB in the top ten. Not here we got just the man for the job. Westside’s [player_tooltip player_id="250051" first="Anthony" last="Rezac"] will become the heir apparent in Seattle after Russell Wilson’s departure. The Seahawks obviously liked who they had before and are looking for someone with similar traits. Rezac, although taller, shares some similarities with Wilson in that he moves extremely well in the pocket and can scramble outside of it to help give his receivers time. He throws very well on the run and can see the field very well. He has good throwing mechanics and throws a smooth ball with a nice spiral. Rezac will be a great starting point for Coach Carroll’s rebuild.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 10:</strong></span> New York Jets - [player_tooltip player_id="227550" first="Blayke" last="Moore"], S, 6’2" 205 lbs - Gretna
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The Jets have invested heavily on offense, now it’s time to show some love to the defense that ranked 29th against the run and 30th against the pass. The best way to do this is to draft one of the best, most physical centerfielders in the draft. Blayke is a hybrid player who can contribute to pass coverage and run support. He is an agile, fluid athlete with the speed and coverage skills to line up as a safety and nickel corner. He can fly all over the field and has a nose for the football, as shown by his 74 tackles and 5 interceptions (with a pick-six). Moore’s bigger frame allows coaches to use him in different defensive packages and have even asked him to step up in the box to defend the run. Blayke’s versatility will be a great asset to a defense that can use help in many ways.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 11:</strong></span> Washington Commanders - [player_tooltip player_id="180279" first="Kade" last="McIntyre"], WR/TE, 6’4" 205 lbs - Archbishop Bergan
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="163780" first="Brodey" last="Johnson"] - QB)
With their franchise QB Johnson going into his second year, it’s time to surround him with some weapons. The Commanders have a couple of good receivers with Terry McLaurin and Curtis Samuel, but the tight end position is hurting slightly. The selection of McIntyre here is with the intent to use him as a TE/WR. Kade can line up as the X, the Y, slot, and tight end spots. He is a big-bodied pass catcher that can take advantage of size mismatches and is often more athletic than the defender covering him. He has top-tier speed that can stretch the field. As a junior, he averaged 23.6 yards per reception while racking up 873 receiving yards on 37 receptions. Kade’s ability to high-point the ball and outjump the defender makes him incredibly valuable in the red zone and 50/50 balls.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 12:</strong></span> Minnesota Vikings - [player_tooltip player_id="240003" first="TJ" last="Fitzpatrick"], CB, 6’0" 160 lbs - Plattsmouth
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="157632" first="Shan" last="Acharya"])
The Vikings have invested heavily in first-round cornerbacks in recent drafts, only to receive sub-par results. Aaron Rodgers looks like he’s going to be in the NFC North for the rest of his career; the Bear’s QB [player_tooltip player_id="147508" first="Noah" last="Walters"] has a high ceiling as well. So taking a cornerback that can develop under Patrick Peterson would be extremely beneficial. TJ does a great job sticking to a receiver’s hips and uses his hands very well to disrupt timing. He is aggressive when the ball is in the air and even snagged 10 interceptions in 2021. He has a rangy corner that can close spaces quickly and has snap-quick instincts.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 13:</strong></span> Houston Texans - [player_tooltip player_id="169896" first="Dae’Vonn" last="Hall"], WR, 6’2" 175 lbs - Bellevue West
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It took a couple of lucky breaks and teams with more pressing needs for the stars to align for the Texans. On top of picking up their QB of the future at #3, the Texans surround him with his favorite target. [player_tooltip player_id="169896" first="Dae’Vonn" last="Hall"] is not just a familiar target for Kaelin, but an explosive one at that. Hall is one of the more polished players in the state, with extreme detail in his routes, breaks, and footwork. He is already one of the best route runners in the state and is effortless when he needs to create space. Dae’vonn is one of the best hands receivers and has the grip strength to hold on through contact. Pairing these two teammates together will help build a new winning culture in a franchise that needs one.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 14:</strong></span> Baltimore Ravens - [player_tooltip player_id="227047" first="Rocco" last="Marcelino"], DL, 6’5" 250 lbs - Creighton Prep
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="180278" first="Beni" last="Ngoyi"] - WR, [player_tooltip player_id="147852" first="Chance" last="Symons"] - DL)
The secondary is an area of concern for the Ravens, but it might be time to address an aging defensive line. [player_tooltip player_id="227047" first="Rocco" last="Marcelino"] is a player that embodies the Raven’s gritty, rough mentality. Rocco knows how to get after the ball and plays with high intensity. He is incredibly strong and gets a great push off the snap. Rocco is very athletic for a bigger guy and has a good amount of twitch to his game. The Ravens will also love Rocco’s versatility and ability to play the 3, 5, and 7 technique and his ability to change his approach against the blocker. He can use his quickness or generate a powerful bullrush. Combine him with EDGE monster [player_tooltip player_id="147852" first="Chance" last="Symons"] and the Ravens have a dominant DL duo for the next 10-15 years.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 15:</strong></span> Philadelphia Eagles - [player_tooltip player_id="227036" first="Jaylen" last="Lloyd"], WR, 5’ 10" 160 lbs - Omaha Central
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147504" first="Micah" last="Riley-Ducker"] - TE)
With Jalen Reagor failing to catch on in the Eagle’s offense, it’s time to surround QB Hurts with more reliable receivers. They have Goedert and [player_tooltip player_id="147504" first="Micah" last="Riley-Ducker"] as security blankets, but now they want to blow the top off of the secondary with [player_tooltip player_id="227036" first="Jaylen" last="Lloyd"]’s elite speed and athleticism. Lloyd adds another level to the offense as he gives Hurts a deep threat target and a receiver that can turn short passes into long gains. In 2021 he caught 20 passes for 441 receiving yards, 3 touchdowns, and an average of 22 yards per reception. He is still a little green, but he should be able to shake that as he gets more reps. Investing in a third consecutive first-round pass-catcher is hard, but Jaylen’s upside is well worth the selection.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 16:</strong></span> New Orleans Saints - [player_tooltip player_id="226986" first="Kellen" last="Steuben"]-Allen, OT/G, 6’2" 270 lbs - Bellevue West
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(Last year’s picks: Garret Oakley - TE)
Long-time bookend tackle Terron Armstead is now in Miami enjoying the sun. That leaves a glaring hole at the left tackle position. This is where Bellevue West mauler [player_tooltip player_id="226986" first="Kellen" last="Steuben"]-Allen comes in handy with the 16th pick. Kellen is a player that you can plug into the guard or tackle position, and he’s going to produce no matter what. He has great short-area quickness and can build up a ton of momentum. He is explosive when he makes contact and loves to finish his blocks violently. Kellen’s athleticism will be extra beneficial in the Saint’s offense, which likes to run screens and check down passes to Alvin Kamara. Kellen is great at moving downfield to continue looking for bodies to throw around. The QB situation is leaky with the presumed starter, Jameis, healing from a torn ACL so the selection of Steuben-Allen provides ease of mind that the blindside will be protected adequately.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 17:</strong></span> Los Angeles Chargers - [player_tooltip player_id="227031" first="John" last="Pargo Jr"], S, 5’10" 180 lb - Creighton Prep
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(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="151111" first="Gage" last="Griffith"])
Derwin James and [player_tooltip player_id="227031" first="John" last="Pargo Jr"]. as the Charger’s starting safeties should scare everyone in the AFC West. There were a few different avenues that the Bolts could’ve gone down, but with the QBs in their division, it is best to add a playmaker to the secondary. [player_tooltip player_id="227031" first="John" last="Pargo Jr"]. is a tough and gritty safety prospect with excellent ball skills and a nose for turnovers. He totaled 50 tackles while playing a versatile role in the secondary. What’s most impressive about his game is his ball skills. In 2021, he produced 4 interceptions and broke up 9 passes. John continued his ball-snagging ways on the punt return team where he added 4 blocked punts. Taking the ball away and limiting offensive scoring in a division like this is critical. Pargo is also a player that you can ask to step into the box and provide run support. He is a solid tackler with a sturdy frame that can lay a mean lick on the ball carrier. He’s a do-it-all safety similar to his counterpart in the Charger’s secondary.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 18:</strong></span> Philadelphia Eagles - [player_tooltip player_id="226974" first="Brock" last="Murtaugh"], S, 6’2" 205 lbs - Millard South)
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The Eagles already addressed the offense, so they should get some help to bolster up their defense, and which defense wouldn’t be happy with a hard-hitting box safety with excellent ball skills? Murtaugh is a smart player that can come in right away and play several roles for the Eagle’s defense. He has the mobility and fluidity to protect the deep zones. Brock is also an effective downhill defender with the size to step up into the box and lay the wood on some running backs. Murtaugh recorded 54 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 3 interceptions, 4 pass breakups, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery, showing he can do it all on defense.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 19:</strong></span> New Orleans Saints - [player_tooltip player_id="217057" first="Trey" last="Bird"], QB, 6’1" 160 lbs - Bennington
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/14908081/Trey-Bird" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/TreyBird9" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
The Saints traded back into the first round, and it would be hard to believe that it isn’t for a QB. Why not go ahead and scoop up one of the most efficient QBs in the state in Bennington’s [player_tooltip player_id="217057" first="Trey" last="Bird"]. Trey blew up onto the scene in 2021 when he led the Badgers to a Class B state championship. Along the way, Bird threw for 2,181 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and only 3 interceptions. He was very accurate and was especially impressive on his deep ball placement. One of the underrated aspects of Trey’s game is his mobility and ability to scramble, as he added 331 yards and 5 touchdowns on the ground. He is also very poised in the pocket and doesn’t shy away from big moments. Trey’s calm and cool demeanor would be a great fit in the Big Easy.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 20:</strong></span> Pittsburgh Steelers - [player_tooltip player_id="227066" first="Braeden" last="Stull"], QB, 6’3" 180 lbs - Scottsbluff
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/15997351/Braeden-Stull" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/StullBraeden" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147784" first="Christian" last="Meneses"] - RB)
The Steeler’s coaching and the front office have stated their preference for mobile quarterbacks, so with their first-round pick, they choose dual-threat [player_tooltip player_id="227066" first="Braeden" last="Stull"]. Braeden is an extremely athletic quarterback with huge upside as both a passer and rusher. He threw for 1,010 passing yards in his junior year and rushed for 1,210 yards with 29 total touchdowns (7 pass/22 rushing). He has great size and stands tall in the pocket. Even though Braeden rushed more than he threw, he still did a great job assessing the play before he would take off. Stull has tons of speed but is also very tough to bring down when he’s in the open field. He will fit right in with Steeler nation.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 21:</strong></span> New England Patriots - [player_tooltip player_id="250053" first="Caleb" last="Benning"], S, 5'11" - Omaha Westside
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/14473534/Caleb-Benning" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/CalebBenning1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147833" first="Luke" last="Johannsen"])
The things Bill Belichick could do with a smart, instinctive, rangy defensive back like Caleb?? The Patriots lack depth across the secondary and could use a smart player like Benning that can be utilized in the several unique defensive fronts that the Pats use. Benning is a very smart defensive back that is already starting to light offenses up. Benning recorded 68 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 4 interceptions, 6 pass breakups, and a fumble recovery during his sophomore year. He is excellent at reading and reacting to the play, then closing the space. If Belichick likes one thing, it’s good tacklers, and Benning does that at a high level.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 22:</strong></span> Green Bay Packers - [player_tooltip player_id="227001" first="Tre’Vionne" last="Brown"], WR - Omaha North
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/13341815/Tre-Brown" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/TrevionneB1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="157566" first="Grant" last="Guyett"] - WR)
The Packers FINALLY get Aaron Rodgers his weapons, and they got him a good one. Tre’vionne is a player that I think is severely underrated in this class and could have been picked as a defensive back or receiver. I like his potential as a receiver, especially when paired with Rodgers. Brown does a great job finding the soft spots in the defense and exposing them. He recorded 399 receiving yards on 17 receptions and averaged 23.5 yards per reception while playing the WR2 role. Brown’s best asset is his top-end speed that allows him to stretch defenses, and he has the burners to break away after the catch. Tre’vionne is twitchy with the ball in his hands and can make defenders look foolish in the open field. A great compliment to last year’s pick [player_tooltip player_id="157566" first="Grant" last="Guyett"].
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 23:</strong></span> Arizona Cardinals - [player_tooltip player_id="226993" first="Adonis" last="Hutchinson"], CB, 6’1" 170 lbs - Lincoln
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/13073743/Adonis-Hutchinson" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/adonisjh2" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147534" first="Will" last="Hubert"])
It would be wise to load up on corners with receivers like Deebo Samuel, Cooper Kupp, Allen Robinson, DK Metcalf, and Tyler Lockett. Lincoln’s [player_tooltip player_id="226993" first="Adonis" last="Hutchinson"] provides the Cardinals a true lockdown corner. He is a tall, lengthy corner with a quick backpedal and is really shifty with his feet. Adonis didn’t post crazy stats on the defensive side of the ball, but his tape speaks louder than stats. Quarterbacks seemed to prefer looking the other way instead of throwing it Huchinson’s way. He uses his hands extremely well and can get them between the ball and the receiver to break up catches. He not only gives the Cardinals a top-notch corner, but he is also very dangerous as a returner.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 24:</strong></span> Dallas Cowboys - [player_tooltip player_id="227074" first="Caleb" last="Kinkaid"], OLB/EDGE, 6’3" 225 lbs - North Platte
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/13263051/Caleb-Kinkaid" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Calebkinkaid99" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147506" first="Ernest" last="Hausmann"] - LB)
The offensive line would be a good choice here, but you can’t pass up on [player_tooltip player_id="227074" first="Caleb" last="Kinkaid"]’s impressive potential. He would be a good complementary piece across last year’s pick Hausmann. Caleb is a very explosive player that really caught on as an edge rusher in 2021. Kinkaid lived in the backfield with 10 sacks and 15 tackles for loss and made several backfields’ lives miserable. He racked up 79 tackles and 4 forced fumbles to show his all-around playmaking ability. He is really good at bending the edge and collapsing the pocket. Caleb’s motor is non-stop, and you can see him physically wear out tackles as the game advances. He has violent hands and is twitchy coming off the snap. Kinkaid is a player primed to make a huge jumping 2022, and there’s no better place to do so than in AT&T stadium for America’s Team.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 25:</strong></span> Buffalo Bills - [player_tooltip player_id="180286" first="Kyrell" last="Jordan"], WR, 5’8" 160 lbs - Bellevue West
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/15547584/Kyrell-Jordan" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/kyrellj1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147817" first="Dominic" last="Rezac"]- RB)
The Bills are a team that doesn’t have many needs. With a top 5 defense and one of the most explosive offenses in the league, they can afford a bit of a luxury pick here. What better luxury pick than the player that runs like a Lambo. Kyrell’s speed and twitch would elevate this offense and give them a true, speedy deep threat that they don’t have at the moment. Kyrell found his niche in the Bell West offense last year and came through for them in clutch moments. He caught 27 passes for 476 receiving yards and scored 3 receiving touchdowns. He is a very skilled receiver who does many of the little things very well. Jordan will be a player that offensive coaches can creatively work into different schemes.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 26:</strong></span> Tennesse Titans - [player_tooltip player_id="250285" first="Joel" last="Thomas"], OT, 6’4" 265 lbs - Columbus
<span style="font-size: 1rem;"><a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/14839159/Joel-Thomas" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/JoelThomas56" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a></span>
(Last year’s picks: Teitum Tuioti - DL)
You have to beef up the offensive line when you have the best running back in the league and operate with a "run first" mentality. Joel is a young offensive lineman that I like a lot. He has excellent size already, and he will only be a junior. Joel is turning into a very promising blocker with a high upside. Joel is very physical, moves very well, and is good at finishing his blocks. Thomas gets a great push and does very well driving his legs. He still has some rawness to his game, but he is very gritty and loves to bring it on the field.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 27:</strong></span> Tampa Bay Buccaneers - [player_tooltip player_id="227009" first="CharMar" last="Brown"], RB, 6’0" 200 lbs - Creighton
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/13206484/Charmar-Brown" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/BrownCharmar" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147851" first="Trevor" last="Brown"])
This pick is nit-picky as the Buccaneers don’t have many huge glaring needs, but they do need some upgrades at certain positions. One of them is running back, where the Bucs have seen some inconsistent play. It’s time to draft a running back that can run the ball on any down and take some of the load off of the 44-year-old QB. Running behind a solid offensive line, Charmar should continue his playmaking ways as a rusher. He has excellent field vision and anticipation for opening running lanes. Once the lane has opened, Charmar hits the hole hard and accelerates quickly into the open field. He broke out for 1,201 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns and was starting to catch on as a receiving back out of the backfield. Charmar has all the tools to be an excellent back at the next level.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 28:</strong></span> Green Bay Packers - [player_tooltip player_id="226961" first="Cayden" last="Echternach"], TE, 6’4" 240 lbs - Bellevue West
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/13282643/Cayden-Echternach" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/CaydenEchterna1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
The Green Bay Packers have decided to give Rodgers so many weapons he won’t know what to do with himself. On top of drafting Guyett last draft, Tre’vionne with their first pick, Green Bay is now also adding a tight end. The NFL has become an arms race with the team that has the best weapons, usually making the deepest playoff runs. Cayden provides a unique wrinkle to the offense. He is an athletic tight end with a great mix of size, speed, and power. He was not used heavily in the passing game at Burke, but don’t think his new team won’t take advantage of his extremely high upside.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 29:</strong></span> Kansas City Chiefs - [player_tooltip player_id="227033" first="Joe" last="Roll"], WR, 5’10" 180 lbs - Gretna
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/12956230/Joe-Roll" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeRoll12" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
The Chiefs replace a speedy, strong, deep threat receiver with another speedy, strong, deep threat receiver in [player_tooltip player_id="227033" first="Joe" last="Roll"]. [player_tooltip player_id="227033" first="Joe" last="Roll"] broke out in a big way in 2021 with 53 receptions, 877 receiving yards, and 8 touchdowns, all of which rank near the top among receivers. The Chiefs have a big body receiver in Juju; they need someone to stretch a defense and open up the middle of the field for Kelce and Juju. Roll and QB [player_tooltip player_id="217055" first="Zane" last="Flores"] formed one of the best deep-ball connections in the entire state. He is quick off the snap and does really well maintaining his speed and tracking the ball. Joe is not just a deep ball receiver either, he also does a great job working the short and intermediate game. Joe is a player that can catch a quick slant and has the vision and quickness to pick up extra yards after the catch. Joe is a player that will be a 1,000-yard receiver next year and every year with Patrick Mahomes gunning it to him.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 30:</strong></span> Kansas City Chiefs - [player_tooltip player_id="227027" first="Jeremiah" last="Truitt"], CB, 5’10" 165 lbs - Omaha Central
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/12954782/Jeremiah-Truitt" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/JeremiahTruitt1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
The Chiefs desperately needed help at two positions and were able to find hidden gems with consecutive picks. The Chiefs use their second first-rounder to select lockdown corner [player_tooltip player_id="227027" first="Jeremiah" last="Truitt"]. Truitt had a sneaky good junior season for the Central Eagles in which he only gave up 3 passes on the whole year. He has swift feet and a quick trigger when he needs to jam. When you match up with Truitt, there are no easy reps because he can flat-out scrap, especially when the ball is in the air. Jeremiah reacts very quickly and knows how to use his hands and body to force an incompletion. The AFC West gained a lot of firepower all over the place, so having a smart, quick player like Truitt is a necessity for the chiefs.
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 31:</strong></span> Cincinnati Bengals - [player_tooltip player_id="250255" first="Teddy" last="Rezac"], CB, 6’2" 185 lbs - Omaha Westside
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/14398901/Teddy-Rezac" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/teddyrezac" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
(Last year’s picks: [player_tooltip player_id="147502" first="Deshawn" last="Woods"] - OT)
The Bengals came extremely close to closing out an improbable Super Bowl run last year. The two biggest areas of concern come from the offensive line and the secondary, both of which started to crumble in the clutch during the big game. Rezac’s coverage skills would help the Bengals shore up the CB position alongside Chidobe Awuzie. [player_tooltip player_id="250255" first="Teddy" last="Rezac"] is a 2024 prospect that put together an excellent sophomore season and already looks like one of the top corners in the state. With 4 interceptions and 8 pass breakups, he is already one of the best at making plays on the ball. Teddy is a natural athlete that does an excellent job reading and reacting to the play. He is on the taller side for corners and uses his length well, especially when the ball is in the air. One aspect of Teddy’s game that is somewhat underrated is his tackling. Rezac is a sound tackler that can get low, wrap up, and drive his defender back. Could Teddy be the final piece to the puzzle?
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<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Pick 32:</strong></span> Detroit Lions - [player_tooltip player_id="227095" first="Kade" last="Pieper"], EDGE, 6’4" 240 lbs - Norfolk Catholic
<a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/12914100/Kade-Pieper" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hudl</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/PieperKade" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Twitter</a>
With the final pick of the first round, the Lions sneakily take what could be one of the biggest steals of the draft. [player_tooltip player_id="227095" first="Kade" last="Pieper"] is a monster on the defensive line that can do it all for the rebuilding Lions. Pieper has excellent size to pair with a non-stop motor and a violent streak. Kade totaled 118 tackles and recorded 7 sacks as a junior en route to helping Norfolk Catholic make it to the state championship. He has a long, lean frame with a lightning-quick first step which helps him create separation at the snap. Kade also showed lots of shiftiness at the line of scrimmage and can change up from power to speed rush with no problem. Overall this is a nasty player with a "bite kneecaps off" mentality that head coach Dan Campbell seeks.
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