2022 NFL Mock draft: Projecting first-round after free agency and trades

Earlier today, the Atlanta Falcons traded Matt Ryan to the Colts for an extra third-round pick in this year’s draft. That could lead some to believe the Falcons will use the No. 8 overall pick for a quarterback but I don’t see it. The strength of this QB class is its depth and the one sort of consensus first-round guy left is Demond Ridder. He’s athletic, accurate and has good size, plus athleticism. I would also expect him to be ready to play right away. And according to the Jimmy Johnson trade value chart, the Falcons could likely get this trade done with their 42nd overall pick and the Colts pick (82nd). Those picks are worth 650 points compared to the 600 points the No. 31 pick is worth. The Falcons could use their own pick which is even higher in the third round to sweeten the pot or both picks just to be sure they sneak in front of Detroit which could be eyeing Ridder too. Either way, Atlanta can get its QB of the future without having to expend that much draft capital, especially with an extra pick from Indy.

The Lions missed out on an attempt to draft Desmond Ridder who seems like a good fit, however, Detroit could be better off waiting for Sam Howell in the second round. Andrew Booth, a 6-foot, 190-pound corner with five interceptions over the past two seasons from Clemson is a good value. You can never have enough quality defensive backs and the Lions could use more.