The 2022 NFL Draft: A Look at the Teams and Their Draft Order
In a stunning upset, the Jacksonville Jaguars managed to defeat the Indianapolis Colts in the final game of the season, thus denying the Colts a spot in the AFC wild-card. Simultaneously, the Jaguars secured their own chances at obtaining the coveted #1 pick in the upcoming 2022 NFL Draft. With a dismal record of 3-14, the Jaguars find themselves at the bottom of the league standings.
The Jacksonville Jaguars: From Trevor Lawrence to the Top Pick
The Jacksonville Jaguars had the first overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft and selected quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Despite a disappointing season, Lawrence has shown promise and will continue to be the face of the franchise. With the top pick once again in 2022, the Jaguars have a range of options to consider.
They could choose to prioritize protecting Lawrence by selecting an offensive lineman. Alternatively, they might opt to bolster their defense with a top defensive prospect. The decision will undoubtedly shape the future of the team.
The Detroit Lions: Seizing Opportunities for Rebuilding
In another unexpected outcome, the Detroit Lions managed to secure a victory against the Green Bay Packers in Week 18. This win, however, did not improve their draft position as they maintained the second pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. Despite their struggles, the Lions have an additional asset in the form of a late first-round pick acquired through a trade with the Los Angeles Rams.
Back-to-Back Worst Records for the Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars have achieved the ignominious distinction of finishing with the worst record in the NFL for two consecutive seasons. This unfortunate result has granted them the top pick in the draft for the second year in a row. It is a testament to the challenges the team has faced and the importance of this draft for their future success.
Other Teams and Their Draft Positions
While the spotlight may be on the Jaguars and the Lions, other teams also have notable draft positions in the 2022 NFL Draft.
The Houston Texans: Eyeing the Future
The Houston Texans ended their season with a record of 4-13, earning them the third pick in the draft. However, their draft strategy may be influenced by the potential trade of quarterback Deshaun Watson before the draft. If they can successfully complete the trade, the Texans may acquire an additional first-round pick in 2022.
New York Jets and New York Giants: Multiple Top-10 Picks
Both the New York Jets and the New York Giants finished the season with a 4-13 record, resulting in two top-10 picks for each team in the first round of the draft.
The Giants, through a trade with the Chicago Bears, have secured the fifth and seventh overall picks in the 2022 NFL Draft. This trade has given them a valuable opportunity to address multiple areas of need within the team.
The Jets, on the other hand, hold the fourth pick and acquired the tenth pick from the Seattle Seahawks in the Jamal Adams trade. This trade included two first-round picks, one in 2021 and the other in 2022.
2022 NFL First Round Draft Order
- Jacksonville Jaguars (3-14)
- Detroit Lions (3-13-1)
- Houston Texans (4-13)
- New York Jets (4-13)
- New York Giants (4-13)
- Carolina Panthers (5-12)
- New York Giants (via Chicago 6-11)
- Atlanta Falcons (7-10)
- Denver Broncos (7-10)
- New York Jets (via Seattle 7-10)
- Washington Football Team (7-10)
- Minnesota Vikings (8-9)
- Cleveland Browns (8-9)
- Baltimore Ravens (8-9)
- Philadelphia Eagles (via Miami 9-8)
- Philadelphia Eagles (via Indianapolis 9-8)
- Los Angeles Chargers (9-8)
- New Orleans Saints (9-8)
- Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7-1)
- Philadelphia Eagles (9-8)
- Las Vegas Raiders (10-7)
- Miami Dolphins (via 9-8 SF)
- New England Patriots (10-7)
- Cincinnati Bengals (10-7)
- Arizona Cardinals (11-6)
- Detroit Lions (via LA Rams 12-5)
- Buffalo Bills (11-6)
- Dallas Cowboys (12-5)
- Kansas City Chiefs (12-5)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (13-4)
- Tennessee Titans (12-5)
- Green Bay Packers (13-4)
The Philadelphia Eagles: A Plethora of Picks
The Philadelphia Eagles find themselves in an enviable position, as they possess three first-round picks in the upcoming draft. Despite ending their season with a 9-8 record and securing an NFC wild-card spot, the Eagles acquired two additional picks through previous trades with the Miami Dolphins and the Indianapolis Colts involving Carson Wentz.
Conclusion
The 2022 NFL Draft holds significant stakes for many teams, particularly those with high draft positions. With their top picks, teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars, Detroit Lions, and Houston Texans have a chance to rebuild and reshape their rosters for future success. Exciting times lie ahead as players are selected and teams make strategic choices to address their specific needs and goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What time does the 2022 NFL Draft begin?
The first round of the 2022 NFL Draft will commence on April 28 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
2. How did the Philadelphia Eagles acquire three first-round picks?
The Philadelphia Eagles obtained their additional picks through trades involving Carson Wentz. The trades with the Miami Dolphins and Indianapolis Colts proved fruitful, granting the Eagles an advantageous position in the draft.
3. Which teams have multiple top-10 picks in the first round?
The New York Jets and the New York Giants both have two top-10 picks in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
4. Can the Houston Texans acquire an extra first-round pick?
The Houston Texans have the potential to acquire another first-round pick if they can successfully trade Deshaun Watson before the draft.
5. How will the draft position affect the future of the Jacksonville Jaguars?
The Jacksonville Jaguars, with their consecutive #1 draft picks in 2021 and 2022, have a crucial opportunity to shape their team’s future. Their decisions in this draft will have a significant impact on their ability to build a competitive roster around their talented young quarterback, Trevor Lawrence.
