2022 NFL Mock Draft: NY Jets build trenches, multiple surprises, and more

5. New York Giants: Sauce Gardner, CB, Cincinnati

Much like how the Jets love Ekwonu, the Giants seemingly feel the same way about Sauce Gardner. General manager Joe Schoen is looking for franchise cornerstones in his first draft with the organization.

He finds one here in a player who might have the best college tape of any cornerback I've ever seen. The future of James Bradberry grows murkier by the day as the Giants land a defensive stud.

6. Carolina Panthers: Kenny Pickett, QB, Pittsburgh

The Panthers shouldn't make this pick. If anything, they should be looking to trade down given their complete lack of Day 2 draft capital, or they could look to upgrade an offensive line that still needs a lot of work.

But my gut says they're going to go quarterback and most seem to agree that Pittsburgh's Kenny Pickett is at the top of their board. Pickett could compete with Sam Darnold for the starting job as the Panthers hope to finally hit on a QB.

7. New York Giants: Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State

There's so much smoke surrounding Charles Cross to the Giants that it almost feels like a lock to happen. Cross is a work in progress as a run blocker, but his upside in pass protection gives him a Pro Bowl ceiling in the NFL.

The Giants come away with a top offensive and defensive prospect as Joe Schoen begins a new era of Giants football. This would be an excellent draft for Brian Daboll's squad.

8. Atlanta Falcons: Drake London, WR, USC

The Falcons will likely address the quarterback position at some point in the draft, but I'd be surprised if it was in Round 1. They reportedly love Drake London and he has a good chance to be the first receiver off the board later tonight.

At nearly 6-foot-4, 220 pounds, London would provide the Falcons with a physical presence at wide receiver and help ease the loss of Calvin Ridley in a receiver room that needs a lot of work.