Category: Team Needs

NFL Draft Pick AnalySIS:
Chicago Bears

The State of the Bears:

With a new head coach in Matt Eberflus and a second year quarterback in Justin Fields, the Bears are in a transition period and need to find a clear direction. As a defensive-minded coach takes over, they will likely get back to the physical play the organization is known for.

After using their 2022 first round pick to move up and get Justin Fields, they will have to wait until pick No. 39 to make their first selection this year. They need to hit on solid starters and get some building blocks to put them in a position to take over a division that could be in flux in the very near future.

#39 Overall

David Ojabo – Edge – Michigan

Ojabo is an excellent athlete with the speed, range, bend, and flexibility to be a force as a pass-rush specialist, but he needs to get stronger and just see more reps in order to develop into an all-around player at the next level.

Ojabo gives the Bears their stud edge of the future and can afford to let him get back to full health after he tore his Achilles in the draft process.

Boye Mafe – Edge – Minnesota

Mafe has the hand use and freaky athleticism teams covet in edge defenders, but he will have to work on his pad level and round out his pass rushing plan of attack to reach his potential as a three-down starter.

Though he will be on the field in 2022, Mafe has a lot of refinement needed and could turn into an All-Pro if he fulfills his potential.

George Pickens – WR – Georgia

Pickens is a big-bodied, big-play threat whose hands, tracking ability and competitiveness will make him a consistent contributor, especially once he learns an NFL route tree and if he becomes more dynamic after the catch.

Pickens has the ability to contribute early on, as well as develop a relationship with Justin Fields that could turn into one of the best tandems in the league.

#48 Overall

DeMarvin Leal – IDL – Texas A&M

Leal is an athletic and agile defensive lineman at his size, who offers great versatility as a pass rusher but needs to work on his interior run defense to keep that flexibility on all three downs.

Getting pressure up the middle is needed in today’s NFL and Leal is as good as anyone doing so in this draft.

Perrion Winfrey – IDL – Oklahoma

Winfrey’s positional versatility, power, and pass rush ability will give him a chance to make an impact early on, but his body control and agility will need to improve for him to become a three-down player.

After terrorizing every opponent at the Senior Bowl, Winfrey showed he has skills that might mean his best football is ahead of him in a role more suited to what he does best.

#71 Overall

Nik Bonitto – Edge – Oklahoma

Bonitto is an athletic, rangy, bendy pass rusher who should excel at getting to the passer with his lack of strength and run game stoutness limiting him to just third downs early in his career at the next level.

If the Bears wait on an edge, Bonitto is a pass rush specialist that could step right into the shoes of Robert Quinn.

Justyn Ross – WR – Clemson

Ross has the combination of size, athleticism, and quick-twitch to contribute in a variety of ways in a receiving room at the next level, but must overcome injury and production concerns to do so.

After an all-world freshman season, injuries hindered Ross’s development, but the Bears can take a gamble in efforts to to have a true no. 1 option in a few years.

To learn more about the Bears and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 26, 2022
SIS NFL Draft Pick AnalySIS:
Green Bay Packers

The State of the Packers:

A wild offseason in Green Bay after falling short in the playoffs at the hands of the 49ers. Aaron Rodgers’ question marks were squashed when he was handed a large extension, but subsequent cuts had to be made to satisfy the contract requirements, with many familiar names leaving Green Bay, including star WR Davante Adams.

Green Bay needs WR desperately and has some gaps at RT and LB. The Packers have 4 picks in the first 2 rounds to address these issues. Could this be the year they finally take a WR in the first round?

#22 Overall

Treylon Burks – WR – Arkansas

Burks will have to improve as a sharp route separator as his tree expands moving forward, but his body control, catching skills, and competitive speed make him an impact player at all levels of the field.

Burks gives the Packers a highly athletic and alpha-type receiver to be their new #1.

Chris Olave – WR – Ohio State

Olave has the catch radius, catch skills, and tracking ability to be a threat at all levels of the field, but needs to become a cleaner route runner and get quicker out of breaks to take advantage of his full potential.

Olave is a well-rounded WR that can win at any level, filling the void left by Davante Adams’ departure.

Nakobe Dean – LB – Georgia

Dean is a smart, rangy linebacker who excels against the run and pass at all three levels of the field, but a lack of length, and inconsistencies as a tackler and disengaging blockers may prove difficult for him from time to time.

Dean’s smarts and speed would be a perfect complement to De’Vondre Campbell’s tackling ability, and likely becomes their green-dot wearer of the future.

#28 Overall

Jahan Dotson – WR – Penn State

Dotson’s size and toughness limit him in certain situations, but his explosiveness and body control allow him to make spectacular plays at all levels of the field.

Safe hands and an all-around game would give Rodgers reliability at one of the WR spots.

Tyler Smith – OT – Tulsa

Smith consistently puts defenders on the ground while using heavy hands and generating tons of movement in the run game, and while he should be tabbed as a starter, he needs to clean up the holding penalties and become a better space player.

Smith is a dominant run blocker, with good strength and athleticism. Would be a likely candidate to start at RT immediately.

Quay Walker – LB – Georgia

Walker’s ability to defend the run and play in zone coverage make him an intriguing prospect at his size and athletic profile, and if he can continue to improve his instincts, he has the potential to be a high-level starter at the next level.

Very similar to current MLB De’Vondre Campbell, Quay could sure up the linebacker room with high athleticism and a well-rounded game.

#53 Overall

Nicholas Petit-Frere – OT – Ohio State

Petit-Frere’s lateral mobility, innate athleticism, hand use, and pedigree are strong traits to bank on at the next level, but he’ll need to improve in pass protection and overall consistency to see time as a starter.

Great athlete, and comes with run game strength, and workable pass protection, all giving the line depth or a potential RT starter.

Tariq Woolen – CB – UTSA

Woolen’s gliding strides, elite athleticism, and superior length are difficult traits to teach, but he needs to match his play strength to his size and continue growing his natural coverage skills and comfortability to reach his high ceiling.

A future starter with great athleticism, solves the Packers’ corner depth issue while getting an impact player.

#59 Overall

David Bell – WR – Purdue

Bell needs to improve his route running separation skills, but his deep ball tracking and slippery ball carrying abilities should make for a multi-level threat and a reliable, alignment-versatile third option.

Bell’s downfield abilities with his awesome YAC skills would make for a dynamic weapon not currently seen in the Packers WR room.

Daniel Faalele – OT – Minnesota

Faalele has the gargantuan size and surprising athleticism teams salivate over in a potential tackle, but he will need to continue to improve his body composition and his foot quickness to reach his high potential.

Faalele being a giant, he could easily be an elite right tackle prospect, but needs to learn how to correctly use that size.

#92 Overall

Darrian Beavers – LB – Cincinnati

Beavers is a powerful, smart, and versatile linebacker that teams look for in the Mike position, but will need to work on his man coverage skills and become more consistent stacking and shedding to see time as a starter.

Beaver’s run game physicality and smarts to redplays and navigate trash would make an excellent MLB duo.

Coby Bryant – CB – Cincinnati

Bryant doesn’t have elite speed and needs to become a better tackler, but is an intelligent and athletic corner who has the field awareness and ball skills to be a long-time starter at the next level.

Bryant’s smarts and ball-skills will make him a day 1 starter, even when the Packers are invested in their current corners.

To learn more about the Packers and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 25, 2022
NFL Draft Pick AnalySIS:
New England Patriots

The State of the Patriots:

After failing to get past the Wild Card Round for the third year in a row, the Patriots will look to retool their team to get out of what has been uncharted territory in recent memory. After a highly successful 2021 draft, the Patriots and Bill Belichick will look to build upon that success in an ever improving AFC East division.

With losses in free agency and aging stars, the defensive side of the ball, especially in the back 7, is an area of concern that will need to be addressed in the draft.

On offense, finding second year quarterback Mac Jones a bona fide No. 1 receiver is crucial as well as retooling the team’s biggest strength from last season, the offensive line.

#21 Overall

Devin Lloyd – Will LB – Utah

Lloyd has the speed, aggressive mindset, pass rushing ability, and defensive playmaking ability teams crave in a Will linebacker, and if he continues to hone his craft within the box, he has a very high ceiling.

Lloyd’s versatility would fit perfectly into a Bill Belichick defense as he can make an immediate impact in coverage as well as rushing the passer.

Trent McDuffie – CB – Washington

McDuffie is a fluid athlete who has the speed, quickness, and transition ability to be a solid shutdown corner at the next level, though his size for the outside and limited on-ball production could be what holds him back.

Adding a plus athlete with the upside of a shut down defender who can also make an impact in the run game will contribute to filling the void of losing top cornerback JC Jackson.

Treylon Burks – WR – Arkansas

Burks will have to improve as a sharp route separator as his tree expands moving forward, but his body control, catching skills, and competitive speed make him an impact player at all levels of the field.

The Patriots have lacked production from a big bodied receiver after missing on former first round pick N’Keal Harry. Adding the toughness, ball skills, and big frame that Burks provides will give Mac Jones a great target in his offense.

#54 Overall

Tariq Woolen – CB – UTSA

Woolen’s gliding strides, elite athleticism, and superior length are difficult traits to teach, but he needs to match his play strength to his size and continue growing his natural coverage skills and comfortability to reach his high ceiling.

Woolen’s rare combination of athleticism and length will fit well in the Patriots versatile secondary. If he can develop his raw talent and can cash in on interception opportunities he can help fill the void of JC Jackson’s turnover production.

Chad Muma – Mike LB – Wyoming

Muma is an explosive player with ideal size and a motor that does not quit in order to make splash plays and contribute as a core special teamer, but he needs to refine his skills to make a consistent impact in all areas.

Adding a high motor, agile, tackling machine to the second level of the defense will allow this defense to take the next step. Muma’s athleticism in the run game will provide a big boost in what was at best a sufficient tackling team last year.

Darian Kinnard – OG – Kentucky

Kinnard is a big, strong blocker with a mauling mentality in the run game, but needs to refine his footwork, hand accuracy, and overall technique in the pass game to be an effective starter at the next level.

After losing both starting offensive guards from last season, the Patriots will have Michael Onwenu to fill one spot and will need to find a replacement opposite him. The Patriots were at their best when running the football and Kinnard figures to fit right in as his biggest strength is blocking upfield in the run game.

#85 Overall

Nik Bonitto – Edge – Oklahoma

Bonitto is an athletic, rangy, bendy pass rusher who should excel at getting to the passer with his lack of strength and run game stoutness limiting him to just third downs early in his career at the next level.

After signing Matt Judon in free agency last year, finding another stand-up pass rusher to fit in their 3-4 defense is important to the Patriots success. Bonitto’s athleticism and motor figures to fit well for the Patriots on third down and in definite pass situations.

Alec Pierce – WR – Cincinnati

Pierce has the size, speed, and big-play ability that teams want in an outside receiver, but his inability to consistently win 50/50 balls will limit his appeal to be a game-changing receiver.

Adding Alec Pierce to the offense would provide Mac Jones with a down the field option to an otherwise short and intermediate passing game.

Kerby Joseph – S – Illinois

Joseph is a rangy, ball-hawking deep safety who has the smarts and skills to be a starter at the next level, though he’ll become more of a threat if he gets a little more physical and is willing to mix it up more often.

Adding a ball-hawking defensive back now, will not only allow him to learn from Devin McCourty, but also help fill the turnover void left by the departed JC Jackson.

To learn more about the Patriots and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 25, 2022
NFL Draft Pick AnalySIS:
Cleveland Browns

The State of the Browns:

It’s been a rollercoaster of an offseason for the Browns. First, they tell Baker Mayfield he’s their quarterback then they pursue Deshaun Watson. Watson tells the Browns they are out of the running, then reverses course and chooses to sign with the Browns.

Now, the Browns have both Watson and Mayfield on the roster at quarterback, as Mayfield is still waiting to see where his next destination is going to be. Not to mention they’ve also signed Jacoby Brissett and Joshua Dobbs.

In the meantime, the rest of the roster isn’t in terrible shape. A few hits in this year’s draft and the Browns could be set up nicely for a big run in 2022. However, they don’t have a 1st-round pick. What they do have is three picks on Day 2, which is where a lot of the meat in this class is located. Let’s check out some options for their three Day 2 picks.

#44 Overall

Quay Walker – LB – Georgia

Walker’s ability to defend the run and play in zone coverage make him an intriguing prospect at his size and athletic profile, and if he can continue to improve his instincts, he has the potential to be a high-level starter at the next level.

Cleveland’s current linebacker room is young and talented, but adding Walker to the mix would give them more depth and versatility with him being in the mix for the Mike job by year 2.

Skyy Moore – WR – Western Michigan

Moore is a lightning-quick receiver with room to grow and the innate skills that allow him to be a dynamic playmaker for a creative offense at the next level, especially if his refinement and development go as planned.

The receiving corps has been spread a little thin since Odell Beckham was traded and Jarvis Landry left in free agency. Moore is a dynamic receiver who should step into a slot role right away and give Watson a strong weapon in the middle of the field.

Travis Jones – DT – UConn

Jones is a physical and technical defensive tackle who has the strength and hand use that transition to the NFL, though he needs to get more agile and improve as a pass rusher in order to see time on all three downs.

While Jones isn’t rated in our Top 101, he’s still growing as a pass rusher, and one has to think getting out of UConn and into an NFL room will be a huge step in the right direction for him. He should fight for rotational snaps on the interior D-line right away.

#78 Overall

Cole Strange – OG/OC – Chattanooga

Strange has the reactive athleticism to mirror defenders, consistent leg drive to move them, and the nastiness to finish through the whistle, but he’ll need to improve his balance, footwork, and awareness to maximize his potential.

The Browns are in very good shape at the guard position, but lack some interior depth. Strange is a versatile player who can fill any of the interior offensive line positions, whether that be at guard or center.

Josh Paschal – Edge – Kentucky

Paschal is a strong run defender and brings power as a pass rusher, but needs to get much more consistent and detailed with his pass rush plan in order to really be a three-down player at the next level.

Paschal wore a lot of hats on Kentucky’s defensive line, but lining him up at edge and letting him reduce down on occasion will be a huge benefit to the defensive front.

#99 Overall

Jelani Woods – TE – Virginia

Woods is an adequate receiver and blocker with the smarts and physicality to see time as a backup tight end, though he’ll need to get faster and improve his functional strength once he gets to the next level.

Woods went from rarely seeing passes in four years at Oklahoma State to having a breakout receiving campaign in his lone year at Virginia. Woods should bring another athletic option to the tight end room that still has David Njoku and Harrison Bryant.

Coby Bryant – CB – Cincinnati

Bryant doesn’t have elite speed and needs to become a better tackler, but is an intelligent and athletic corner who has the field awareness and ball skills to be a long-time starter at the next level.

The 2021 Jim Thorpe Award winner is somewhat forgotten behind his teammate Sauce Gardner, but Bryant is a smart corner who has plenty of instincts and ball skills to be productive at the next level.

To learn more about the Browns and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 25, 2022
NFL Draft Pick AnalySIS:
Tennessee Titans

The State of the Titans:

The Tennessee Titans secured the No. 1 seed in the AFC last year, but lost their 1st playoff game to the Bengals. Derrick Henry coming back from injury will be a welcomed sight, but losing Rodger Saffold creates a hole in their offensive line. Losing Jayon Brown and Rashaan Evans will also have the Titans looking to bolster their linebacker depth.

The skill positions are basically set, adding Robert Woods and Austin Hooper should help take pressure off of Henry.

The Titans are likely only a couple pieces away from being a threat in the AFC again and will look to improve their offensive line in the draft.

#26 Overall

Zion Johnson – Guard – Boston College

Johnson is a plug-and-play left guard at the next level with the anchor and hand usage to pass protect at a high level and the scheme versatility to excel in the run game.

The Titans have a hole at guard and Johnson can step in and start day 1. This isn’t the sexiest pick, but it works so well and Derrick Henry will be the first to welcome him.

Kenyon Green – Guard – Texas A&M

Green can have inconsistent hand placement and needs more refined technique against finesse rushers, but he is a physical and athletic guard with the footwork, sheer strength, and awareness to be a difference maker on the inside.

Green will immediately improve the offensive line and has all the traits teams look for in a zone-scheme guard.

#90 Overall

Marcus Jones – Cornerback – Houston

Jones is an excellent, fluid athlete with the speed, quickness, and mirror-match ability to excel at the next level, but his size and issues against bigger receivers may prove difficult to overcome from time to time.

Jones’ ability to be a starting slot cornerback and a kick returner should make him a valuable player in his first year.

Brian Asamoah – Linebacker – Oklahoma

Asamoah makes up for his lack of size and play strength with explosive speed, an alpha-dog mentality, and desire to enforce his will on his opponents on his way to claiming a starting spot at the next level.

The Titans lost some linebacker depth this offseason and Asamoah is a tone-setting linebacker that can elevate other players around him.

To learn more about the Titans and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 25, 2022
NFL Draft Pick AnalySIS:
Houston Texans

The State of the Texans:

There is not much positive to say going on in Houston, besides being free of the never-ending news cycle of Deshaun Watson rumors. Acquiring multiple years of extra draft picks, the Texans put themselves in a great spot to improve.

New head coach Lovie Smith looks to take a team in the bottom 5 of virtually all efficiency metrics, and turn it around.

Every position is a need for this team as they are certainly in “best player available” mode. Tytus Howard and Laremy Tunsil will be a capable blindside to incumbent QB Davis Mills, as well as Brandin Cooks as a No. 1 option, but both sides of the ball are desperate for talent.

#3 Overall

Kayvon Thibodeaux – Edge – Oregon

Thibodeaux is a game-changing pass rusher and strong run defender who plays with heavy hands and good leverage, though he needs to improve his flexibility and run a hotter motor to become a more complete player.

If a No. 1 overall talent is going to make it to pick number 3, Houston should spend no more than 30 seconds on the clock. The ceiling is too high.

Evan Neal – OT – Alabama

Neal is a young prospect with the rare combination of size and athletic ability that give him both a high floor and a Hall of Fame ceiling as a blind-side protector.

Even with Laremy Tunsil at left tackle, Neal’s versatility and athletic abilities are too high to pass on. Get him on the team and figure out alignment later.

#13 Overall

Jordan Davis – DT – Georgia

Davis is a powerful and physically imposing nose tackle with the ability to become a true game wrecker up the middle of the field as long as he improves his effort level and stamina.

The heart of a dominant defense, Davis’ play style and build requires a ton of opposing line attention. He would make all other rusher’s lives easier while dominating on run defense.

Jermaine Johnson II – Edge – Florida State

With his pass rush ability, strength, and power, Johnson should make an instant impact at the next level, though he needs to become more consistent across all areas of the game to hit his full potential.

A “best player available” selection for a team with virtually no pass rush. Johnson can step in Day 1 and play at an NFL level.

Garrett Wilson – WR – Ohio State

Wilson has the speed, route running, and ballcarrying traits that excite teams, and if he can work on attacking the ball when it’s in the air and improving his ability along the sideline, he will be a strong starter very early in his NFL career.

Wide receiver might not be a top priority, but a full audition for Davis Mills as a franchise QB requires more than just Brandin Cooks as a pass-catcher.

#37 Overall

David Ojabo – Edge – Michigan

Ojabo is an excellent athlete with the speed, range, bend, and flexibility to be a force as a pass-rush specialist, but he needs to get stronger and just see more reps in order to develop into an all-around player at the next level.

Give him all the time he needs to recover from the Achilles tear, and get a first round player at a massive discount.

Quay Walker – LB – Georgia

Walker’s ability to defend the run and play in zone coverage make him an intriguing prospect at his size and athletic profile, and if he can continue to improve his instincts, he has the potential to be a high-level starter at the next level.

Walker’s diverse skill set and high athletic potential make him an easy “BPA” style pick.

Sam Howell – QB – North Carolina

Howell has the arm strength, mobility, and improvisational skills to be productive at the next level, but his lack of eye discipline, pocket awareness, and footwork might make it tough for him to be more than a circumstantial starter.

Davis Mills may or may not be the answer to the Texans puzzle. But it isn’t often a QB with so much starting experience and production history is available in the 2nd round.

#68 Overall

Troy Andersen – LB – Montana State

Andersen’s versatility and FCS production may only be matched by his intangibles, but he’ll need to improve his play strength and continue growing his defensive comfortability to become more than a quality, position-fluid backup and special teamer.

A dominant FCS linebacker who has repeatedly dominated in different draft events. Yes, please.

Phidarian Mathis – DT – Alabama

Mathis’ excellent length and consistent snap-to-whistle effort will get him playing time at the next level, but he’ll need to better utilize that length and improve the power in his lower half to become the three-down starter his tools suggest he could be.

Mathis’ high work rate and competitiveness have led to excellent Total Points Ratings in both the run and pass game.

#80 Overall

Isaiah Spiller – RB – Texas A&M

Spiller is a playmaker who has the vision, speed, and COD ability to become an all-down player at the next level, though he’ll need to shore up the ball-security mistakes and improve in pass pro to hit his full potential.

Rather than a revolving door of veterans, the Texans can take a local hero and make him a centerpiece of an offense void of young talent.

Ed Ingram – OG – LSU

Ingram is gap-scheme-specific, and his limited athletic ability and finesse traits could hold him back if misutilized, but his pulling prowess, point-of-attack tenacity and power, and pass pro awareness should make him a starting-caliber NFL guard.

The Texans’ usage of a gap-scheme running front gives them a valuable startable guard in Ingram, one that other teams can’t fit as well.

To learn more about the Texans and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 22, 2022
NFL Draft Pick AnalySIS:
Denver Broncos

The State of the Broncos:

The Broncos have put together some solid, young pieces over the past few years, such as Javonte Williams, Jerry Jeudy, and Patrick Surtain II. With a solid roster, they’ve seemed to be just a quarterback away. After an injury-decimated season in 2020, they went and got Teddy Bridgewater to compete with Drew Lock. Unfortunately, they had another injury-decimated season in 2021.

However, with an offseason trade for Russell Wilson, things are looking back up in Denver. Now that they have their quarterback, one more strong draft class could help push them over the edge in the AFC West. Even without a 1st-round pick, they still have plenty of picks in this draft. Let’s take a look at some options the Broncos should look into on Day 2.

#64 Overall

Tre McBride – TE – Colorado State

McBride has the hands, catch radius and body control as a receiver with the willingness and competitiveness as a blocker to start at the next level, but inconsistent separation skills and run block effectiveness could hold him back.

The trade of Noah Fant brings uncertainty to the tight end room in terms of receiving. McBride is a hometown kid who would fill that need and please the fanbase.

Chad Muma – LB – Wyoming

Muma is an explosive player with ideal size and a motor that does not quit in order to make splash plays and contribute as a core special teamer, but he needs to refine his skills to make a consistent impact in all areas.

Muma is a versatile linebacker who will bring speed and range to the 2nd level of the Broncos defense, as he can learn behind Josey Jewell and then step in once his contract is up.

Nik Bonitto – Edge – Oklahoma

Bonitto is an athletic, rangy, bendy pass rusher who should excel at getting to the passer with his lack of strength and run game stoutness limiting him to just third downs early in his career at the next level.

Denver’s pass rush seemed to weaken after the Von Miller trade happened. Bonitto is an athletic pass rusher who has a lot of upside and can be paired opposite of Bradley Chubb.

#75 Overall

Abraham Lucas – OT – Washington State

Lucas is a big-bodied technician that wins with savvy and anticipation on the edge, though his lack of strength and athleticism will prevent him from being a consistent starter.

Right tackle is still a question mark and Garrett Bolles isn’t getting any younger. So, Lucas would be a good swing tackle to bring versatility and depth to the tackle position with the hope he can take over when the time comes.

Sean Rhyan – OT – UCLA

Rhyan is strong and powerful, generating push in the run game and using accurate hand placement in pass pro, but heavy feet, a lack of quickness, and the inability to redirect against pass rushers pencil him in as a backup swing tackle.

Rhyan is another swing tackle option who can even bump down to guard. With the question marks at right tackle, he could come in and be a solid backup and even fight for the job as a rookie.

Greg Dulcich – TE – UCLA

Dulcich isn’t the shiftiest route runner or most technically refined run blocker, but he’s a converted wide receiver with good competitive toughness and the strong all-around skill set of a potential starter.

Dulcich still needs to improve his blocking, but he already has plus catching and RAC skills. A player who could develop into a complete tight end would be welcomed after the Fant trade.

#96 Overall

Alontae Taylor – CB – Tennessee

Taylor has the speed, physicality, and cover skills to make an impact at the next level, with improvement playing off, with his transition, and his overall tackling ability in order to work himself into a starting role.

Taylor fits the Cover-2 zone scheme the Broncos are likely to run. Not only does he have the speed and ball skills to make plays against the pass, but he’s also a willing run supporter.

Justyn Ross – WR – Clemson

Ross has the combination of size, athleticism, and quick-twitch to contribute in a variety of ways in a receiving room at the next level, but must overcome injury and production concerns to do so.

Before Ross’s injury in 2020, he looked like a potential No. 1 receiver. While he still has starting-level traits, he’d be a perfect fit in the slot right away and help give Russell Wilson more firepower at the position.

Kerby Joseph – S – Illinois

Joseph is a rangy, ball-hawking deep safety who has the smarts and skills to be a starter at the next level, though he’ll become more of a threat if he gets a little more physical and is willing to mix it up more often.

Joseph is the speedy, rangy safety that teams look for who will fit perfectly into the team’s 2-high scheme, and he can even roam as the single-high or drop down into the slot given the play call.

To learn more about the Broncos and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 22, 2022
SIS NFL Draft Picks AnalySIS:
Detroit Lions

The State of the Lions:

The Lions seem to have finally found the right combination of GM and Head Coach. While their record didn’t show it, the team competed and was in most games during 2021. Brad Holmes’ first draft class was a success, highlighted by Penei Sewell falling to No. 7.

The roster is still in rough shape and has plenty of holes, but another good draft class in 2022 could really set this team up well for a run with strong, young talent as early as 2023. Some of the biggest needs are getting pass rush and secondary help on the defensive side and receiver help on offense. With four picks in the first 66 selections, they have a chance to pick up some solid talent.

#2 Overall

Aidan Hutchinson – Edge – Michigan

Hutchinson is the ideal modern NFL edge with a special blend of pass rush skills, athleticism, strength, hand use, and competitiveness that will make him a cornerstone player for an NFL franchise.

There is still a ton of uncertainty with the No. 1 pick. If Hutchinson isn’t the pick, the Lions would be wise to go for the “hometown” player and grab Hutchinson, who should have no issue producing double-digit sack totals early in his career.

Kayvon Thibodeaux – Edge – Oregon

Thibodeaux is a game-changing pass rusher and strong run defender who plays with heavy hands and good leverage, though he needs to improve his flexibility and run a hotter motor to become a more complete player.

If Hutchinson is gone, Thibodeaux is a great, next-best option. He’s arguably one of the most talented players in this draft class and has game-changing ability in both the pass and run games.

Kyle Hamilton – S – Notre Dame

Hamilton is a versatile safety who impacts all three levels of the field and is a rangy playmaker with the cover skills, speed, and athleticism to be an elite-level defender against both the run and pass.

Not many players are 6’4”, 220 lbs. and can run, range, and locate the ball like he can. Hamilton would bring true athleticism to a secondary that desperately needs it.

#32 Overall

Matt Corral – QB – Ole Miss

Corral is a mobile quarterback with great pocket awareness and athletic ability, but he must refine his spot-on accuracy to all levels and decision-making skills in order to become a reason you win games in the NFL.

While QB isn’t out of the question at No. 2, it feels like it would make more sense at No. 32. If Corral is still around, he’s a great developmental option who has a quick release and some dual-threat ability.

George Pickens – WR – Georgia

Pickens is a big-bodied, big-play threat whose hands, tracking ability and competitiveness will make him a consistent contributor, especially once he learns an NFL route tree and if he becomes more dynamic after the catch.

The receiving corps needs one more big-play option, and Pickens could be that guy. His blend of size, speed, and athleticism is rare.

David Ojabo – Edge – Michigan

Ojabo is an excellent athlete with the speed, range, bend, and flexibility to be a force as a pass-rush specialist, but he needs to get stronger and just see more reps in order to develop into an all-around player at the next level.

Ojabo was poised to go much higher than here before the unfortunate Pro Day injury. Taking him here gives the team a 5th-Year Option on a player who likely will be “redshirting” his rookie year anyway.

#34 Overall

Christian Watson – WR – North Dakota State

Watson is a quality receiver with the ability to take the top off the defense on any given snap, but needs to get stronger, improve his route running, and separate better in order to hit his potential.

Another receiver with a solid blend of size, speed, and athleticism, if he transfers his skill set to the NFL game he could be a solid piece moving forward.

Quay Walker – LB – Georgia

Walker’s ability to defend the run and play in zone coverage make him an intriguing prospect at his size and athletic profile, and if he can continue to improve his instincts, he has the potential to be a high-level starter at the next level.

Linebacker seems to have been a need for Detroit for years. Walker, one of the three Georgia linebackers, is versatile and can excel in both the run and pass game.

Lewis Cine – S – Georgia

Cine has very good tracking and ball skills with the speed and smarts to play on the back end, but his inconsistencies in run support and as a tackler may hold him back from reaching his full potential.

Cine is a versatile playmaker who flies all over the field and isn’t afraid to lay a big hit, something the new coaching staff craves.

#66 Overall

Nik Bonitto – Edge – Oklahoma

Bonitto is an athletic, rangy, bendy pass rusher who should excel at getting to the passer with his lack of strength and run game stoutness limiting him to just third downs early in his career at the next level.

The Lions need pass rush help. Bonitto is an athletic pass rusher who, once he gets a little bigger and stronger, will be a great option to stand up on the edge in Detroit.

Leo Chenal – LB – Wisconsin

Chenal is a fantastic athlete, a jackhammer in the run game, and an impactful blitzer against the pass, but he needs more coverage experience and quicker instincts to reach a true three-down, three-level ceiling.

Chenal is your classic thumping Mike linebacker. He needs to improve in coverage, but he’s going to play hard, play fast, and attack the line of scrimmage. Will fit perfectly into this locker room.

Cole Strange – OG – Chattanooga

Strange has the reactive athleticism to mirror defenders, consistent leg drive to move them, and the nastiness to finish through the whistle, but he’ll need to improve his balance, footwork, and awareness to maximize his potential.

While the Lions offensive line is in one of the better places it’s been in for a while, it never hurts to have depth. Strange is no stranger to playing multiple positions, and will fit in as a perfect interior backup.

To learn more about the Lions and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 21, 2022
NFL Draft Picks AnalySIS:
Minnesota Vikings

The State of the Vikings:

The Minnesota Vikings have a new head coach, Kevin O’Connell, and a new general manager, Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, looking to establish their new regime with a strong draft. The Vikings switched to a 3-4 defense, and while their edge pairing is strong, they need some reinforcements along the defensive line and at cornerback. Their offense is essentially set at the skill positions, but their offensive line could still use some work, particularly at guard.

#12 Overall

Derek Stingley Jr. – CB – LSU

Stingley has the man coverage, athleticism, and ball skills to be an NFL defense’s No. 1 cornerback, but his injury history and dip in on-field production since his freshman year are concerns that need to be vetted.

The Vikings have a glaring need at cornerback and have a former All-Pro in Patrick Peterson to help mold Stingley into the high-upside player he can become.

Kyle Hamilton – S – Notre Dame

Hamilton is a versatile safety who impacts all three levels of the field and is a rangy playmaker with the cover skills, speed, and athleticism to be an elite-level defender against both the run and pass.

Hamilton has been falling in recent projections, but he adds a ton of value on the back end of a defense and if the Vikings aren’t sold on Camryn Bynum as Harrison Smith’s running mate, the fellow Fighting Irishman offers a ton of value.

#46 Overall

DeMarvin Leal – DT – Texas A&M

Leal is an athletic and agile defensive lineman at his size, who offers great versatility as a pass rusher but needs to work on his interior run defense to keep that flexibility on all three downs.

With the Vikings moving to a 3-4, they need quality 5-techs who can handle the linemen and allow Danielle Hunter and Za’Darius Smith to rush the passer. Leal could be a great fit with quality run defenders all around him to help take some of the run burden off his shoulders.

Skyy Moore – WR – Western Michigan

Moore is a lightning-quick receiver with room to grow and the innate skills that allow him to be a dynamic playmaker for a creative offense at the next level, especially if his refinement and development go as planned.

Kevin O’Connell usually had three high-end receivers to work with while in Los Angeles and adding Moore to the Vikings offense would take them to another level. While K.J. Osborn did well in the role last year, Moore gives Cousins another explosive playmaker to utilize.

#77 Overall

Cole Strange – OG – Chattanooga

Strange has the reactive athleticism to mirror defenders, consistent leg drive to move them, and the nastiness to finish through the whistle, but he’ll need to improve his balance, footwork, and awareness to maximize his potential.

The Vikings had a revolving door of revolving doors at right guard last year, and Cole Strange could be a great fit. A small-school player who has the athleticism to work in a zone scheme and some much-needed nastiness.

Greg Dulcich – TE – UCLA

Dulcich isn’t the shiftiest route runner or most technically refined run blocker, but he’s a converted wide receiver with good competitive toughness and the strong all-around skill set of a potential starter.

One of the underrated players on the Vikings’ 2021 team was Tyler Conklin, and with him moving on to the Jets, the Vikings could look for his replacement here. Pairing him with Irv Smith would give the Vikings flexibility and keep their offensive dynamic.

To learn more about the Vikings and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 21, 2022
NFL Draft Pick AnalySIS:
Pittsburgh Steelers

The State of the Steelers:

The Steelers are at an interesting point for their franchise. They were able to take advantage of the expanded playoff last season by sneaking into the 7 seed in the AFC, before promptly getting sent back to Pittsburgh by the Kansas City Chiefs in the Wildcard round.

The retirement of long-time starter Ben Roethlisberger means the Steelers suddenly look more like a team that is entering a rebuild rather than the competitive team we have seen for the past number of years. The Steelers have three picks in the Top 100 and will be looking to inject their roster with some much needed talent and productivity.

#20 Overall

Matt Corral – QB – Ole Miss

Corral is a mobile quarterback with great pocket awareness and athletic ability, but he must refine his spot-on accuracy to all levels and decision-making skills in order to become a reason you win games in the NFL.

While the Steelers signed Mitchell Trubisky to a short-term deal and may be a candidate to trade up for a different quarterback, Corral offers a good scheme fit for Matt Canada’s offense that featured the second-highest usage of RPOs in the NFL last season.

Trevor Penning – OT – Northern Illinois

Penning is a physically dominant and imposing run blocker with an ideal frame for an NFL tackle, but he needs to keep developing his hand use and improve his pad level to round out his overall profile taking the big step up in competition.

Penning is a massive and mean mauler on the left side who would provide an upgrade over last year’s rookie starter Dan Moore and pair with right tackle Chukwuma Okorafor to help reestablish a strong offensive line.

Jahan Dotson – WR – Penn State

Dotson’s size and toughness limit him in certain situations, but his explosiveness and body control allow him to make spectacular plays at all levels of the field.

The Steelers face a lack of depth behind their top two starters, Dotson would bring explosiveness and inside/outside versatility to a wide receiver room that is in need of a reload.

#52 Overall

Travis Jones – NT – UConn

Jones is a physical and technical defensive tackle who has the strength and hand use that transition to the NFL, though he needs to get more agile and improve as a pass rusher in order to see time on all three downs.

Jones is a powerful nose tackle who could step in and help establish a defensive identity as the new anchor in the Steelers’ 3-4 defense that ranked dead last in the NFL in total rushing yards and yards per carry allowed.

Roger McCreary – CB – Auburn

McCreary projects best as a 3rd corner with good height, speed, and athleticism to play in the slot or out wide, and despite his short arms, he is at his best in press coverage.

Although the team recently added in free agency, a versatile player like McCreary would immediately beef up their cornerback depth while also possibly providing an upgrade over their current starters.

DeMarvin Leal – DT – Texas A&M

Leal is an athletic and agile defensive lineman at his size, who offers great versatility as a pass rusher but needs to work on his interior run defense to keep that flexibility on all three downs.

Leal may be relegated to only passing down work at first but would be a great long-term piece to develop behind the current veteran starters.

#84 Overall

Justyn Ross – WR – Clemson

Ross has the combination of size, athleticism, and quick-twitch to contribute in a variety of ways in a receiving room at the next level, but must overcome injury and production concerns to do so.

Ross is a good player and was very productive at the beginning of his career but finds himself sliding in draft boards due to recent injury history and subpar QB play.

Bryan Cook – S – Cincinnati

Cook is a strong, physical safety who has the tackling ability and zone awareness to be the first safety off the bench, but he needs to improve in man coverage and with his pursuit angles to get the bump to a starting role.

Cook would provide some much needed talent to the Steelers’ strong safety spot. He fits well as a player that can be moved around the field on defense next to star free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.

DeAngelo Malone – Edge – Western Kentucky

Malone is a freaky athlete with the quickness and pursuit ability to be an effective pass rusher at the next level, though he’ll need to get stronger, become a more consistent tackler, and refine his skills in order to maximize his overall skill set.

The Steelers have little edge depth behind Alex Highsmith and reigning DPOY T.J. Watt. Malone brings depth in the form of a growable and twitchy pass rusher.

To learn more about the Steelers and their needs, visit their team page on our NFL Draft website here.

April 20, 2022