With the 2022 NFL mock drafts flying, we take a look at five teams who could take a quarterback in the first round come April 28.
5. Washington Commanders
The Commanders invested a couple of Day 2 picks in acquiring Carson Wentz for 2022, but he doesn’t have a cent of guaranteed money in 2023 and beyond. Point being, Washington can move on from Wentz should he struggle tome a good impression on his third team in as many years. For the Commanders, there are other needs including more help on the offensive line and another linebacker. However, if there’s a good quarterback option when Washington comes on the clock, does it go for it?
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
Everybody understands that barring a stunning development, Mitch Trubisky isn’t the long-term answer for the Steelers. Instead, Trubisky is a bandaid while general manager Kevin Colbert figures out his next move. The Steelers pick at No. 20 overall. Is that somewhere that brings them Kenny Pickett, who played at Pittsburgh in college? Or does Pittsburgh need to make a move up the board?
3. Atlanta Falcons
The Falcons have to start somewhere. Right now, they have a stud tight end in second-year man Kyle Pitts. Literally every other position on the team, on either side of the ball, should be in play. However, Malik Willis is a tantalizing prospect with ample upside, and he grew up in Atlanta. He’s similar in style to Michael Vick — the franchise’s most iconic player — with a huge arm and incredible athleticism. Willis would be a great pick at No. 8 overall.
2. New Orleans Saints
For the Saints, their intentions were made clear on Monday with their blockbuster trade to acquire a second first-round pick this year. New Orleans now holds the Nos. 16 and 18 overall selections, giving general manager Mickey Loomis the ammunition to trade into the top-five spots. For New Orleans, the trade this week makes no sense if it doesn’t end with someone the Saints feel will provide them with a franchise quarterback.
1. Carolina Panthers
The Panthers are desperate for an upgrade at quarterback. If Carolina wins five games again, there’s a real chance head coach Matt Rhule is sticking a for-sale sign in the front yard. The Panthers are picking at No. 6 overall and whether they can land a franchise-caliber quarterback is unknown in what is considered a weak class at the position. But if they feel one is there, he’ll be the choice.
