Title: NFL Mock Draft with Trades: The Quarterback Conundrum
The National Football League (NFL) draft is an annual event that serves as the league’s most common source of player recruitment. Each team is given a position in the drafting order in reverse order relative to its record in the previous year, which means that the last place team is positioned first. The draft consists of seven rounds, with each team getting one pick in each round. However, the landscape of the draft can change dramatically with trades, and one of the most intriguing aspects of this process is where the quarterbacks will end up.
In recent years, the NFL has seen a surge in trades involving high draft picks, often with teams looking to secure a potential franchise quarterback. The 2021 NFL Draft was no exception, with five quarterbacks selected in the first round, three of which were chosen with picks acquired via trades.
The 2022 NFL Mock Draft is already generating buzz, particularly around the quarterback position. Here’s a look at potential landing spots for top quarterback prospects based on recent mock drafts and potential trades.
1. Detroit Lions: Malik Willis, Liberty
The Lions are in desperate need of a franchise quarterback after moving on from Matthew Stafford. Malik Willis, the dynamic quarterback from Liberty, could be their answer. Willis has shown great arm strength and mobility, making him a dual-threat quarterback that could potentially turn around the Lions’ fortunes.
2. Houston Texans: Sam Howell, North Carolina
With Deshaun Watson’s future uncertain, the Texans might be in the market for a new quarterback. Sam Howell from North Carolina could be an excellent fit. Howell is known for his strong arm and accuracy, and he could provide stability for a Texans team in flux.
3. Philadelphia Eagles (via Miami Dolphins): Spencer Rattler, Oklahoma
The Eagles acquired this pick from Miami in a trade and could use it to select Spencer Rattler from Oklahoma. Rattler has been inconsistent at times, but his arm talent and playmaking ability are undeniable. If Jalen Hurts doesn’t pan out, Rattler could be the future in Philadelphia.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers: Desmond Ridder, Cincinnati
With Ben Roethlisberger nearing the end of his career, the Steelers will likely be looking for his successor. Desmond Ridder from Cincinnati could be a great fit. Ridder is a dual-threat quarterback with a strong arm and good mobility, and he could thrive in Pittsburgh’s offense.
5. Washington Football Team: Matt Corral, Ole Miss
Washington could be in the market for a quarterback if Taylor Heinicke doesn’t prove to be the long-term answer. Matt Corral from Ole Miss could be an intriguing option. Corral has shown great accuracy and decision-making skills, and he could be a great fit in Washington’s offense.
Of course, these are just projections and the actual draft could play out very differently. Trades could shake up the order, and teams may have different evaluations of these quarterbacks. But one thing is certain: the 2022 NFL Draft will be an exciting event for fans, teams, and players alike.