2022 NFL Mock Draft: NY Jets build around Zach Wilson, 3 QBs in the first round

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NY Jets, 2022 NFL Draft, Aidan Hutchinson / Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Evan Neal, OT, Alabama

It's rare that we reach February and we still have no clue who the No. 1 overall pick in the draft will be. Perhaps the picture becomes clearer in the coming weeks/months, but for now, my money is on the Jaguars going offensive line.

Evan Neal is a hulking offensive tackle prospect who can immediately step in as a day-one starter. The Jaguars opt to build around Trevor Lawrence instead of addressing their pass rush.

2. Detroit Lions: Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan

The Lions missed out on the first overall pick, but they might just be able to land the top prospect on their board regardless. Aidan Hutchinson is a premier pass-rusher prospect with the upside to become an All-Pro at the next level.

The Lions need blue-chip talents wherever they can get them and adding Hutchinson to a Lions pass rush that finished with the third-fewest sacks in 2021 will help immensely.

3. Houston Texans: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon

I don't fully buy the reports that Kayvon Thibodeaux is going to fall in the draft. While he seems to be firmly behind Hutchinson in the conversation for the top pass rusher in this class, I have a hard time believing he will fall out of the top five.

A strong performance at the NFL Combine should be enough to solidify Thibodeaux as one of the top talents in this draft class. The Houston Texans need premium players, and while Thibodeaux isn't Nick Bosa, he still has All-Pro potential.

4. New York Jets: Ikem Ekwonu, OT, NC State

The Jets could go in a few directions with this pick, but I think the best overall prospect at this spot might just be NC State's Ikem Ekwonu. Ekwonu is a plug-and-play starter who could realistically step in and play left tackle, right tackle, or right guard for New York.

The Jets aren't out on Mekhi Becton, but they clearly aren't sold on his future either. Adding Ekwonu gives the team another young offensive lineman to continue building around Zach Wilson.

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