While everyone loves mock drafts, have you ever wondered how to compile the most accurate one possible? As an amateur NFL Draft scout, it isn’t always obvious, but I’ve learned over the years that there are a handful of trustworthy reporters in the media who reveal a lot of draft-related nuggets in their articles, podcasts, and tweets that are quite helpful to building a great mock draft! With the NFL Combine in the rearview mirror and NFL Free Agency in full swing, there are many rumors swirling. Every so often, I will be sharing a handful of what I’ve read or heard from these analysts so you can be best prepared for the draft day!
Dane Brugler (The Athletic): The Cleveland Browns’ draft plan doesn’t change after the Amari Cooper trade. They could still go wide receiver in round 1.
Tony Pauline (Pro Football Network)- The New York Jets want Tulsa Offensive Tackle Tyler Smith in round 2 but he could go in round 1 to the Miami Dolphins or Tennessee Titans.
Bucky Brooks (NFL Network)- Cincinnati Quarterback Desmond Ridder could go round 1.
Daniel Jeremiah (NFL Network)- Georgia Defensive End Travon Walker goes before Oregon Defensive End Kayvon Thibodeaux and is in play at second overall to the Lions.
Lance Zierlein (NFL Network)- Michigan Defensive End Aidan Hutchinson is unlikely to go first overall and could slide.
Dane Brugler (The Athletic)- Would be surprised if Northern Iowa Offensive Tackle Trevor Penning didn’t go top 7.
Daniel Jeremiah (NFL Network)- Signs point to Aidan Hutchinson going first overall.
Peter King (NBC Sports)- Feeling is that Aidan Hutchinson goes first overall.
Albert Breer (Sports Illustrated)- Liberty’s Malik Willis is the QB1 favorite.
Tony Pauline (Pro Football Network)- Jets really like Arkansas Wide Receiver Treylon Burks and also like Trevor Penning.
Charlie Campbell (Walter Football)- Leaders for first overall are Hutchinson and LSU Cornerback Derek Stingley.
Lance Zierlein (NFL Network)- Iowa’s Breece Hall is a RB1 lock.
Sources
- Cover Image: https://www.cbssports.com/college-football/news/breece-hall-declares-for-2022-nfl-draft-iowa-state-star-running-back-ends-dynamic-career-with-cyclones/
