Tue. Jun 6th, 2023

It’s time to go three rounds for The Sporting News’ 2022 NFL mock draft for one last time before the picks become real over the first two days on the nights of April 28 and April 29. Since TSN’s lone seven-round mock, there have been good reasons to shake up many of the projected selections, starting near the top of Round 1.

Some rumors are turning the corner toward reality, and some developments have players rising or falling based on the wants and needs of how all the teams are picking in order. In the end, the mock remains an exercise in trying to consider the myriad possibilities with most picks.

Jacksonville Jaguars (3-14)
Aidan Hutchinson, EDGE, Michigan (6-6, 260 pounds)
The Jaguars have been locked into taking the best defensive player available for a while and that won’t change as they go after the cornerstone for their new-look defense under coordinator Mike Caldwell. They have been setting up the relentless, explosive and sometimes dominant Hutchinson being the anchor, but don’t sleep on a late pivot to rising versatile stud Travon Walker.

Detroit Lions (3-13-1)
Travon Walker, DE/DT, Georgia (6-5, 272 pounds)
The Lions also feel like they’re going for defensive impact and the decision for Brad Holmes, Dan Campbell and Aaron Glenn will come down to the 3-4 hybrid playmaker Walker, do-everything safety Kyle Hamilton, or high-ceiling edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux. Walker can deliver in multiple spots for their front, from end to tackle to even outside linebacker at times.