Word on the street is Joel Embiid has cleared concussion protocols and is doing everything he can to suit up for Game 3 against the Heat. It comes across as poor taste that the 76ers can’t protect their star big man from himself.
I don’t pretend to be a physician, but I don’t remember ever hearing or reading of a broken face healing in a week. By not shutting Embiid down, the team is keeping the story alive that there is a possibility he could come back when suiting him up puts his career at risk. #21, reportedly was finally able to lift his phone to his head without the light from the screen bothering his injury, and somehow the 76ers are squeezing a lucky rabbit’s foot hoping Joel makes a supernatural recovery.
Perhaps the team is basing hope on their center coming back from an orbital fracture because he did it four years ago, but only after a three-week hiatus. It was dangerous then, but the idea now should be so far removed from the realm of possibility and anyone suggesting it doesn’t care for Embiid’s health. Injuries are a lamentable reality of the sport. Suck it up and come back next year.
It’s an unnecessary risk for Embiid to waste his time in this series, especially when factoring the danger of playing and how poorly his team is performing. Basketball is a contact sport. Suck it up and come back next year.
This team should have enough to cop a game, meanwhile, without Philly’s MVP candidate, the outfit has fallen into a 2-0 hole, with the spotlight of criticisms shining on Doc Rivers and James Harden. Rivers gave the start to Deandre Jordan, a veteran big-man waived by the Lakers in late February, for Games 1 & 2 and his club immediately suffered for it. Miami was quick to attack DJ through pick ‘n’ roll, pulling up from midrange when he dropped back to protect the rim. Considering the Heat’s versatility offensively, perhaps the operative move would have been starting Paul Reed and going smaller so Philly could Ice on Miami’s rim rolls.
As I sat through Philly’s post Game 1 presser, I thought I was hallucinating when I heard Rivers say he’d keep playing Jordan whether we liked it or not. The old adage, “Insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results,” is often misattributed to Albert Einstein but the point still stands.
Then there’s the Beard. His decline is Shaekesperean because he had a part in doing it to himself. He has not taken care of his body, and it’s likely a reason aside from age that he’s got no burst left. On a Game 2 possession where he forced a switch to get Max Strus on him at the top of the key, Harden opted to take a dribble pull-up triple instead of cutting left for a layup or possible trip to the line.
In the first game, the Bearded One was a non factor from the field in the second half, missing ¾ attempts. His only made a bucket was in the low post and his three misses came from the perimeter.
When I asked Harden what the Heat did schematically to prevent him from getting to the line at his normal clip, after Game 1, he said “Next question.”
I remember a version of the Beard who was must-see TV for three years. He had a linebacker’s body with deep range, a tight handle and an explosive first step. The man casually averaged 35 points a night between 2018-2020 while playing mainly in isolation, the toughest way there is to score because of the lack of ball movement. It’s difficult to accept that person is never coming back.
I originally called this series in five games favoring Miami but it’s possible it won’t stretch that long because the Heat have a counter for every scheme the 76ers deploy.
*****
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https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Embiid-photo.jpg464724Mateo Mayorgahttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgMateo Mayorga2022-05-06 14:01:112022-05-06 17:39:06Mateo’s Hoops Diary: The 76ers’ Shameful Handling of Embiid Situation
Upon hearing that Formula 1 planned to build a race track at Hard Rock Stadium, my reaction was to laugh at both the audacity and impossibility of it.
The simultaneous juxtaposition of skepticism and awe.
Hard Rock Stadium’s transformation from modern multi-purpose stadium at its inception, to soulless venue not fit for any purpose, to world class stadium rivaling the best on the planet is a story of Miami’s uncomfortable love affair with its sports stadiums.
Perhaps the meandering names of the stadium help best to signify just how unsettled the stadium has been for much of its existence. Over time, the stadiums name changed from venerating former Miami Dolphins owner Joe Robbie, to Pro Player Park, to Pro Player Stadium, to Dolphins Stadium, to Dolphin Stadium, to Land Shark Stadium, to Sun Life Stadium, and finally, to Hard Rock Stadium. As frequent and often worthless as some of those name changers were (they really needed to change Dolphins to Dolphin?), those changes are consistent with the stadium itself.
And yet as much attention is paid to the Dolphins’ on field futility, especially in light of the success of the Heat and Panthers, and the ascendency of Hurricanes’ Baseball, Basketball, and Football, not enough attention has been made to the transformation from an aimless stadium that didn’t seem suited for any purpose to the premier sports complex in the United States, if not the world.
A Boondoggle for Miami, A Boon for the Dolphins
The Marlins move out of what is currently known as Hard Rock Stadium and into the former site of the Orange Bowl is widely considered to be one of the most unpopular public policy decisions in Miami history. Politicians were recalled, but the damage was done. The historic Orange Bowl was laid to waste, the Hurricanes jettisoned to the county line, and Miami’s taxpayers were on the hook for a subsidies.
The entire city had soured on the concept of stadiums, and what was left was an aging stadium in Miami Gardens.
But a funny thing happened on the way to Hard Rock Stadium’s funeral.
The Dolphins resurrected it. For as much flak as they get for team’s lack of playoff success, it’s hard to imagine a more successful construction transformation than what has occurred here.
As the Marlins exited to Little Havana, the Dolphins were faced with a stadium that:
Had a poor fan experience with the seats too far from the field
Old video boards at either end of the stadium
Infamous orange seats that were weather worn
Oppressive heat that made fans not want to even go into the stadium
But what were they going to do? Move the actual foundational structure?
OH MY GOD THEY MOVED THE FOUNDATIONAL STRUCTURE
It was so audacious that when presented with this issue of the seats being too far from the field, the idea of actually moving the structure was not even something I thought possible. But lo and behold, they did it.
The video boards were replaced with modern ones at each of the stadium’s corners. The orange seats were replaced with a calming shade of aqua.
But surely those would fade in the oppressive heat. And the only thing more sacrilegious in Miami than getting “una colada sin azucar” is suggesting that football should be played indoors.
Ah, why not…we’ll cover just the seating areas and leave the field exposed, so the game is played outdoors, but the fans get the benefits of being covered. What was once a dilapidated, aging stadium that no one wants to play in, is now this:
This venue now comfortably hosts Super Bowls and College National Championship games.
First Football, Now the World
Miami has always been the home of the “5th Grand Slam” tennis tournament, what is currently called the Miami Open. And that tournament belonged to Key Biscayne.
But when lawsuits prevented the old Crandon Park complex from being upgraded, the tournament needed a new home. Ideally, they’d be somewhere on the water, much like Key Biscayne. If not, perhaps Brickell?
Surely not Miami Gardens? The literati of tennis wouldn’t want to make the trek out to the intersection of all highways repeatedly over a 2 week period. This was a non-starter from a location standpoint. It’s one thing to go out there 7 Saturdays and 8 Sundays a year, it’s very different to commute there on the regular.
At this point, we should know that “can’t” is not in the Dolphins’ vocabulary. And sure enough, the tournament was moved to Miami Gardens.
The stadium became an ideal center court, allowing patrons to use the luxury boxes. The parking lots were transformed into the “outer courts” and the tournament kept on chugging.
If you’ve read this far, you know what happened when the original plans to host the Miami Grand Prix at the Port of Miami fell through.
One of the interesting things I discovered about the track upon my arrival is that having the stadium here is actually a hindrance. I had assumed that the having a full stadium facility at a track would be advantageous. But Formula 1 is all about logistics, for transporting equipment to the track and for transporting equipment between different points of the track.
And the stadium gets in the way of the latter endeavor. This facility is “tight” with the need to wind the circuit around the structure. Some of the stadium is used, including for the Media Center where I’m currently sitting. But a lot of is not really usable space.
But what has been constructed here is truly a marvel. You cannot tell it was purpose-built in a parking lot. It feels like a permanent track, so much so that some Formula 1 veteran journalists I spoke to questioned whether this was actually a parking lot.
Hard Rock Stadium to the right, Formula 1 circuit to the left. Truly a model of engineering, and of dreams.
The Dolphins spoke this week of potentially hosting World Cup matches here in 2026, including the World Cup Final. At this point, we’d be foolish to doubt their ambition and ability.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/20220506_103833-scaled.jpg25601920Vishnu Parasuramanhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgVishnu Parasuraman2022-05-06 10:32:232022-05-06 15:47:29Miami’s Mecca of Sport | Hitting the Apex
There has become a myth of the second round quarterback in the scouting community.
The NFL draft has come and gone, and there were plenty of surprises, notably at the quarterback position. Among them, not a single quarterback was picked in the second round.
After Kenny Pickett was drafted by the Steelers at 20, the next QB didn’t go until 54 picks later, even though there were several who analysts believed were capable of going in round two.
There’s just one small problem: second round quarterbacks don’t exist.
I know it sounds like an odd — or maybe blatantly false — statement, but there is a case to be made. The success rate on round two signal-callers is pretty horrendous, and it all seems to lead to this one conclusion.
In order to come to that conclusion, however, there are a variety of different criteria. First, the types of quarterbacks and draftable skills. Second, the structure, and third, the history of these picks. Those three, when looked at together, bring a pretty shocking revelation that made me conjure up that statement above.
Drafting a Quarterback
Teams who find themselves drafting quarterbacks highly may be in a variety of spots, but there are three that are the most typical:
One of the league’s worst teams, holding a high draft pick.
Middling franchise, looking to make a change.
Top of the league, finding the protégé for an older (on the verge of retirement) leader.
When teams find themselves in any of these positions, they must find the traits they value in a quarterback. Among those are arm talent, rushing ability, composure, ability to read the field, and more. However, there are two categories that those fall into, which, for the sake of the argument are production and potential.
To put it simply, teams judge what a quarterback is right now versus what he could be in a few years.
Scenario One
The top guys usually have a combination of both. Trevor Lawrence, who went number one to the Jaguars last year, combined national championships and Heisman ballot appearances with a 6’6″ frame and a cannon of an arm. Thus, he went to a team that I would place in the first set of criteria. The Jaguars were easily one of the worst teams in the NFL, and thus received a generational talent.
Scenario Two
Those with one of the two traits, however, have a wide range of options. For a team that’s just good enough to be picking outside of the quarterback window, they might be willing to take a chance on a potentially huge swing in their franchises history. Kenny Pickett is a prime example of this. While he doesn’t have the strongest arm or the highest ceiling, his production last season was hard to ignore. The Pittsburgh Steelers, who were 9-7-1 last year, decided that he was worth it at 20.
Following that pick, there were other quarterbacks on the board, who, like Pickett, possessed one of the two main traits. Malik Willis, who some suspected may go as high as number two overall, had one of the highest ceilings in the draft, however, if he wasn’t going to go in the first, it seemed he wasn’t getting drafted until later on day 2.
Teams that fall in the third category (such as the Packers in 2020) have a tough decision. While they could take their chances on a high-potential pick like Jordan Love, it makes the most sense to maximize their championship window. Green Bay took that chance in 2020, and passed up elite talent because of it. Now, teams have learned from that mistake, while quarterbacks brunt the blow to their draft position.
Thus, Malik Willis, Matt Corral, Desmond Ridder, and all of the quarterbacks who many expected to go in round one, are now available in the dreaded first half of day two.
The Structure of the Second Round
On the typical draft boards, teams have a wide range of grades on prospects. It’s common to see someone who’s viewed as a top prospect by one team be a day two pick for someone else. Due to this disparity, many “first round talents” fall into the beginning of day two.
These players are quickly scooped up in what makes up roughly 25 percent of the round. This leaves the last 24 picks for guys truly viewed as round two prospects, which doesn’t leave much room for quarterbacks.
If a team would have believed in someone enough to draft them with those first eight picks, it’s unlikely he would have slipped to begin with. Teams rarely risk the opportunity of missing out their guy. This is why it’s common to see teams move up to 32. They guarantee themselves the player they want with an extra year of team control.
If a team wasn’t willing to take that chance, it’s unlikely they viewed them very highly. That idea is exactly what makes the second round the worst for the quarterback. Would a team take a player who, at the most important position in the sport, they aren’t fully invested in or comfortable with — especially when there is still high-end talent on the board?
The Last 24
Once you find your way out of those first eight picks, it becomes time for teams to ask themselves that question. As this draft has shown, the answer has been a resounding “no.” The later picks, which are usually the teams competing for playoff spots, would rather choose someone who can contribute right away. Bubble teams are always looking for their next big acquisition, and their philosophy is that is can come then.
Quarterbacks, as a result, usually fall by the wayside. However, there are some instances where they are picked. The results of which are rather interesting.
Modern History of the Second Round Quarterback
Over the last 20 years, there have been 20 quarterbacks selected in the second round. 20 different times, teams have weighed the ideas of production and potential, and in the last two decades, have determined it’s time to take a quarterback who likely only had one of those traits.
This week's draft tweet:
If you have a 2nd-round grade on a QB, you are saying there is almost no chance of him amounting to anything in the NFL pic.twitter.com/xzgGJMHQnY
Of those, the results are typically a failure of epic proportions. Kellen Clemens, Deshone Kizer, Drew Stanton, Chad Henne, Brian Brohm, John Beck, Jimmy Clausen, and Geno Smith all have more career interceptions than touchdowns, while Christian Hackenberg and Kyle Trask (who’s only in his second season) never played a recorded snap.
The other options aren’t great either. Tavaris Jackson, Brock Osweiler, and Kevin Kolb all showed some flashes, but never lived up to their selection.
Five of the remaining six are polarizing. Jalen Hurts has shown flashes, but fell apart in the playoffs. Drew Lock is still young, but was just traded by the Broncos and has been shaky. Jimmy Garoppolo was able to succeed in the Kyle Shanahan offense, but was just replaced and hasn’t shown an ability to transcend the system. Andy Dalton is a similar story, having rough stints in limited playoff appearances. Lastly, Colin Kaepernick led the 49ers to a Super Bowl appearance, but has been out of the league for the better half of the last decade.
This leaves Derek Carr, who, while having only one playoff appearance and zero playoff wins, has safely cemented a spot as the Raiders quarterback for eight years. He has made three Pro Bowls, and has continued to improve. Thus making him the only second round quarterback selected in the last 20 years who can safely be called a hit.
The Bottom Line on the Second Round Quarterback
The 2022 NFL Draft was a prime example of a philosophy at work. After a quarterback goes in the first round, teams have learned from mistakes of the past. Rather than picking signal callers with clear holes in their game in the following round, they’ve gone for contributors at other positions.
Several teams would love to have the next Derek Carr, but with that comes the chance of Brian Brohm or Deshone Kizer. Just like every other selection, the second round has it’s fair share of bust potential. However, it seems that the combination of quarterback traits, draft tendencies, and a simple history lesson will tell you that it simply isn’t the same.
General managers across the league will continue to take swings on quarterbacks, but when doing so, it’s important to look at the most glaring fact:
Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel
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https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/second-round-quarterback.png9111372Hussam Patelhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgHussam Patel2022-05-06 10:31:352022-05-06 10:31:35The Myth of the Second Round Quarterback
Formula 1 Thursdays are a bit odd. The track is ready. The teams are setting up. Everyone has arrived.
And yet, no cars have been driven competitively.
It’s the proverbial calm before the storm.
But for media, it’s actually the best chance to see the track, see the pit lane, and see everything that has gone into putting on a complex sporting event.
I will admit it is a bit strange to pull up to Hard Rock Stadium for this, the definition of worlds colliding.
Entering the grounds I immediately walked the wrong way, missed the entrance to the Media Center, and am pretty sure almost entered the Race Director’s booth. I’ve never been so much at home (in Miami, at the home of the Canes) and yet so out of my element.
Seeing the paddocks emblazoned with the famous names of Mercedes AMG, Red Bull, Ferrari, and, of course, McLaren, is like being in Formula 1 Fantasy Camp. But I suppress the urge to geek out and head into the Media Center, which is behind the Paddock.
A lot of different languages are being spoken, a lot people that know each other. I know no one. Foreigner at home, how Miami of me.
I take my seat in front of a series of screens where you can see the track, the FIA messages, and the timing screen, as well as the race itself. This will be my “home base.” First adjustment: the temperatures are in Celsius. Somehow, 54.4 degrees Celsius for the track temperature seems a lot more palatable than the 129.92 degrees Fahrenheit that translates to.
The Workshop & Track Tour
This is where the Pirelli meets the asphalt.
For a Miami Hurricanes’ fan to be escorted through the bowels of Hard Rock Stadium in and of itself is a treat.
But to then be whisked into the familiar Press Briefing Room was a level of surreality that was hard to fathom. If you’ve ever seen a Formula 1 press conference, you’ll know the scene, with the black curtain, the make shift podiums. But it still doesn’t prepare you for being in the room.
The other thing that struck me was the kindness of everyone that I encountered, both in the press, and even more so from those working for the FIA. After getting a brief introduction from Jason Jenkins of the Dolphins and a brief overview of F1’s history and this year’s driver’s lineup (for the uninitiated), we met Egbert Thamm. It was Egbert’s birthday and his 40th year working with Formula 1. To mark the occasion, Jason Jenkins presented him with a cake, from Publix, of course. Sometimes, you have to Miami.
I fully expected to get an earful about rules, regulations, and what we can’t do.
Instead, Egbert was warm and was focused on making sure we had a good experience. He openly said there are not a lot of regulations other than the safety ones (don’t try to enter the Pit Lane, don’t hop fences, etc.)
It was at this point that I realized how remarkable the people are that put an event like this together. Egbert has been in rooms like this thousands of times, and it must be easy to take it for granted. And yet he was engaging. Everyone we encountered was.
Before we knew it the workshop was over and we were whisked away to the highlight of the day, the track tour. We were driven in vans, and allowed to get out at several stops while the press officer gave us facts about the asphalt and potential graining, as well as answering questions about where photographers can shoot from, and how to avoid blocking TV cameras. There is so much planning and logistics that go into an event like this, and the fact that it comes across so seamlessly on TV is astounding.
Finally, we headed back to the paddock, where we were dropped off, ending the tour, and my “work” for the day.
What European Snobbery?
One of the interesting things about taking the track tour with fellow journalists and photographers is realizing how much time some of them have dedicated to the sport and importantly, how appreciative they were to be in Miami at this venue. Sometimes, we lose sight of the fact that people online are putting on a show. I fully expected to be inundated with churlish conceit. Instead, I traded stories about my local knowledge and the stadium (fortuitously, we’re at the home of the Canes) and received in trade stories about past experiences covering Formula 1.
Not a single critical word was said. Okay, that’s not entirely true. The water-less marina (we’re supposed to call it a “dry dock”) did get a few comments. But overall, the track received rave reviews ranging from “I can’t believe this is a car park” to “it’s a shame this isn’t permanent.”
It reminded me just how different the basement dwellers who get on Twitter Spaces and inundate the YouTube comments’ sections are from those that actually experience things and don’t take anything for granted. As the praise rolled in for our city, I took a sense of pride in it. This is just the beginning of the weekend as it hasn’t even really started yet. But you could sense that this was going to be a rousing success and when the circus eventually leaves town, it will build a platform from which to expand the reach of Formula 1 in Miami.
As my day wound down, I wandered the Paddock, taking photos, just basking in the glory of what we can accomplish in Miami. To the right, lay Hard Rock Stadium, which hosts Super Bowls. To the left, the garages for Formula 1 teams.
Miami, what a place. And after today’s calm, tomorrow, the storm will arrive in all its uproarious glory. Miami will be ready.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Screen-Shot-2022-05-05-at-10.18.04-PM.png288666Vishnu Parasuramanhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgVishnu Parasuraman2022-05-05 23:21:142022-05-05 23:21:14The Calm Before the Storm | Hitting the Apex
After a disappointing 4-2 Game 1 loss to the Washington Capitals, the Florida Panthers look to even the series at one game a piece tonight at FLA Live Arena.
Watching Game 1, I picked apart things I noticed from the Panthers game and came up with five things they need to do tonight to bounce back in the series.
Here’s tonight’s five keys to the Panthers’ success in Game 2.
Don’t give Washington looks on the power play
Game 1 couldn’t have started off any worse for the Panthers. Within the opening minute of the game they were short handed and subsequently handed the Capitals a two man advantage within the opening minutes of the game, which eventually led to the first Washington goal.
It’s to no one’s surprise that the Capitals have a scary power play. With one of the greatest goal scorers of all-time in Alex Ovechkin hovering over the left face-off circle, his patented one-timer is nothing but deadly.
Florida managed to keep Ovechkin goalless in Game 1, mostly because Sergei Bobrovsky had to stand on his head to stop the onslaught of chances from the Capitals all night.
The Panthers cannot take lazy, undisciplined penalties tonight, or ever, but being down 0-1 in the series and losing their home ice advantage makes it all the more crucial.
Stay out of the box.
Bobrovsky needs to repeat his Game 1 performance
One of the few bright lights from Tuesday’s lackluster team performance was the play of Sergei Bobrovsky.
The 33-year-old goalie had a lot of doubters heading into this year’s playoffs.
For the two previous postseasons, the $80 million man didn’t live up to his illustrious contract.
After a pretty good regular season in 2021-2022, he came out ready to win in Game 1. He was squaring up to shooters, robbing the Capitals point blank in high scoring areas and single handedly keeping Florida in the game early in the game.
All season the team was able to outscore their problems, but in Game 1, Bobrovsky held the team together while we waited for Florida’s offense to flip a switch, which they didn’t.
If Bobrovsky can repeat his performance from the opening game of the series and Florida wakes up, they’ll win tonight.
Unnecessary risks kill, don’t make them
First of all, yes it should have been an icing. Now that we got that out of the way, it doesn’t excuse the sloppiness from MacKenzie Weegar to try and make a move in the neutral zone instead of taking the safe play.
Weegar was the last man back, he turned the puck over and Washington scored. You cannot try and be cute with the puck with no defensive support, especially if you’re the last man back.
I won’t single out this one mistake as the end all for the Panthers in Game 1, it was a bad play; it lead to a tying goal and gave Washington momentum, but the whole team seemed to lack energy for a large part of the game. There was multiple turnovers by multiple players and it needs to be fixed.
Florida needs to be safe with the puck. Washington showed on Tuesday night they were really good at closing the passing lanes and clogging the zone when Florida got in. Dump the puck into the corner, push the puck towards net, reset, make the smart plays and outwork the Caps.
The big boys need to play big tonight
It was great to see Claude Giroux score in his first playoff game as a Panther, that’s why he was brought in. Playoff Sam Bennett has returned, that’s why Zito traded for him last season, these guys had a good track record on their previous teams of turning up in the postseason.
Florida’s success relies on the performance of their two star forwards, Aleksander Barkov and Jonathan Huberdeau. The regular season saw career years for both players in terms of offensive production; Panthers’ fans were waiting for them to continue that in Game 1, but that didn’t happen.
When the rest of the team isn’t going, the stars need to carry the load. If these two can’t get it going tonight either and the rest of the team follows suit, Florida is in trouble, for the series.
Barkov and Huberdeau are two of the best players in the world, but the best need to be the best in the playoffs too. Tonight they need to be on the after burners from the jump.
Test Vanecek
Washington had a goalie dilemma heading into this series, not having a clear cut No. 1 guy between Vitek Vanecek and Ilya Samsonov.
Vanecek got the nod and got the win Game 1, Florida definitely helped with that.
The historic offense from the regular season wasn’t testing him at all.
When the Panthers got some good quality shots on him, his rebound control didn’t look all that impressive. Florida rarely made him over around, there was no traffic in front of goal, he just had to stand tall in the crease because all the shots were getting cleared away after the initial save.
The lack of offensive creativity also had to do with how Washington collapsed into the zone and clogged the lanes. They let Florida enter the zone and essentially trapped the Panthers when they got into the zone, not letting them move the puck around.
The counter to that is enter the zone and fire the puck into net. Send forecheckers to crash the goal for rebounds and make Vanecek have to make a second or third save. When Bennett entered the zone and shot the puck off the rush, he sniped it past Vanecek. Carter Verhaeghe also had a great look where he fired the puck off the rush, beating everything except the cross bar. \
Florida made Vanecek’s life too easy, they need to pepper him tonight.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Cats-playpff.jpg1104828Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2022-05-05 18:55:172022-05-05 19:00:325 keys to Panthers Game 2 success against Washington Capitals
As the Formula 1 circus descends on Miami this week, my Formula 1 journey comes full circle.
Formula 1 is considered by many to be a European sport, an elitist sport, and an overseas sport. An “other” not directed at Americans. And European snobbery has been on full display this week as pot shots are taken at Miami, with the waterless marina reinforcing the confirmation bias that Miami as a location is plastic, artificial, part of everything that is wrong with “modern” Formula 1 as it continues to expand outside of its European roots and into a global sport.
Miami is an odd target for vitriol, though. The dichotomy of Miami as insular, prideful community that often defaults to an “us vs. them” mentality juxtaposed with the city’s status as an international melting pot will be on view this weekend. The barbs from across the pond sting, but we’ll do what Miamians do, which is respond acerbically while also opening our doors and throwing a hell of a party.
For many Miamians, the event will overshadow the sport. Some will attend and not watch another race. Others, however, will become new, lifelong fans. Miami as a sport destination has always been a bit of a Rubik’s Cube, holding potential if you just navigate the twists and turns in the correct order. La Liga famously tried to play a match here, hoping to tap into the Latin diaspora, bilingual community, and international flavor of the city. And Formula 1 is betting on those same forces intersecting with the party that is Formula 1 to bring new attention and growth to the sport in a market that on paper should be ripe for Formula 1 popularity.
Surely there will be several new fans of Formula 1 in Miami next week that don’t exist now. They will be introduced to a wonderful new world, and will look back on Miami as the place that opened their eyes to this sport, which is something I’m quite familiar with.
My love affair with Formula 1 did not start in Europe, or because I was drawn into the glitz and glamour. It started in Miami, at the University of Miami.
Friendship and Formula 1
As a freshman at the University of Miami, I met my best friend Roberto Barreto Filho. Roberto is Brazilian, hailing from the Amazonian city of Manaus. In college, we were randomly assigned as suite mates, and instantly bonded over a love of sports. Soccer was one of them, but he introduced me to a new sport, Formula 1.
And to his motorsport hero Ayrton Senna.
To new Formula 1 fans, Ayrton Senna is a mythical figure, something out of history books, the rote answer to the question of who is the most legendary driver in Formula 1 history. But go back a few decades and Senna was real, he was recent. The sport still had not gotten over his death. It was not unfathomable that he would even still have been racing at that point in the early 2000s had he not crashed at Imola. His shadow was seen in the sport. Roberto would regale me with tales of Senna winning races, driving with broken equipment, being pulled out of the car exhausted, barely able to walk. He would tell me of the time that Senna arrived home having clinched the World Drivers Championship and had the plane he was flying in escorted to the airport by the Brazilian Air Force.
There was no YouTube back then. We were relegated to tall tales and whatever random video clips we could download from the internet and play on RealPlayer. But pictures were readily available. And it was those pictures of Senna in the MP4/4 that not only hooked me into Formula 1, but into McLaren. The MP4/4 is still considered one of the greatest cars in Formula 1 history, and with Senna at the helm, it was unstoppable. I was introduced to the very different looking Mercedes powered McLaren of the late 90s/early 2000s and Mika Hakkinen, the Flying Finn. We would have endless debates about who was better, Michael Schumacher or Mika Hakkinen, with me, of course, taking up the cause of the McLaren man (in hindsight, Roberto was very right).
It’s hard to believe now, with the modern Formula 1 explosion, but back then, it was basically impossible to follow the sport in the United States. TV coverage was relegated to the fledging channel SpeedVision, and, when we were lucky, tape delays on Fox Sports. We’d find friends that had SpeedVision and watch at their houses, we’d scour the internet for articles and news of new developments to cars, of winter testing. There was not a lot of content, but what was available, we consumed.
And when Malaysia was added to the calendar, our ritual involved back-to-back races (in concert with the season opening Australia) that went on in the middle of the night, with the only thing keeping us awake being excitement and Red Bull. Long before Red Bull was competing and winning in Formula 1, it was fueling our sleepless commitment to the sport we loved.
But most of all, we longed for a race in Miami. We imagined mythical circuits in downtown, drawing on what at the time had been a recently run CART race in Bicentennial Park. But it never seemed real, just a dream. When Indy was added to the calendar, that all but killed the dream, especially when that race ended up being a flop (with the famous 2005 iteration signaling the death knell for the race, and at the time, seemingly Formula 1 in the United States).
It’s Coming Home
Fast-forward to present time, and that dream of a Miami Grand Prix is becoming a reality. The Formula 1 world has arrived in the 305, to put on an exhibition of man and machine, of elite skill and engineering, of mankind at its zenith.
The Formula 1 aristocracy might thumb their noses at us, simultaneously arguing that Formula 1 should be about the racing and not concerts and fake marinas while also ignoring the exciting track layout and themselves focusing on the sideshows. It’s easy for those that take this sport for granted, that have had it as a mainstay in their lives, accessible to them, to cast aspersions on us New Worlders. They don’t realize the sacrifice that it takes to follow a sport that is largely catering to European time zones and audiences. They fail to see that this sport belongs to everyone, and that one of the allures of it is that each locale puts its own spin on it, its own flavor.
Perhaps the non-locals would prefer the race was on the beach, or downtown. Somewhere water adjacent. Perhaps while they complain about the the race being too stereotypically Miami, they long for what they view Miami as, sand and ocean. Perhaps they want to see the port and the cruise ships. While poking fun at some of the attempts to mimic those experiences in Miami Gardens, perhaps the actual anger is their inability to see the cars fly past the Miami they see in movies and on postcards. And that is where they are missing the essence of Miami.
For this Miamian, there is nothing more quintessentially Miami than going to the place I’ve been to seemingly a million times to watch the Hurricanes play, and instead watching an obsession born on the campus that those same Hurricanes call home. That collision of worlds is a dream of mine, decades in the making. And that is Miami.
After steering my Formula 1 infatuation through gravel traps, runoffs, and slow pit stops, this week, Miami is Hitting the Apex.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/Hamilton.jpeg20481536Vishnu Parasuramanhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgVishnu Parasuraman2022-05-04 14:32:432022-05-04 14:32:43Friendship and Formula 1 at the Miami Grand Prix | Hitting the Apex
A historic season saw the Florida Panthers win their first President’s Trophy in franchise history, setting them up with home ice advantage for the entirety of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
The No. 1 seed Panthers (122 points) first round opponent will be the eighth seeded Washington Capitals (100 points), a team that is no stranger to the playoffs.
Panthers: 58-18-6, 122 points
Capitals: 44-26-12, 100 points
Regular Season Series: FLA 2-1-0; WSH 1-1-1
Washington won the Stanley Cup in 2018 and they haven’t missed the playoffs since 2014. However, the Caps haven’t been able to replicate their 2018 run, losing in the first round the last three seasons. The Panthers on the other hand haven’t won a playoff series since their run to the Finals in 1996.
This first-round matchup will see an explosive Panthers offense try to continue their regular season success against the Capitals.
Here is the series preview.
Offense
Looking at the offensive production of both teams, there is no question who is the better scoring team.
The Panthers scored 337 goals this season, making them the highest scoring team of the 21st century. Florida averaged a league high 4.11 goals per game, with six of their forwards scoring at least 20 goals this season, (Claude Giroux not included, he had 21 goals this season, 3 of those with the Panthers).
As a team, Washington ranked tenth in the league for goals scored with 270. Three of their players scored at least 20 goals, however only Alex Ovechkin surpassed the 25 goal mark, he had 50, marking the ninth time he’s hit that milestone in his career.
The Panthers easily have the offensive weapons to out score the Capitals this series, but Washington still has the ageless goal scoring machine of Alex Ovechkin on their side.
Forwards to watch
Florida: Jonathan Huberdeau had the greatest offensive season for a Florida Panther in franchise history. The 28-year-old superstar had a career-high 115 points in 80 games, enough to finish tied for second in NHL scoring with Johnny Gaudreau of the Calgary Flames. His 85 assists was a league high and the most by a left-winger in NHL history. Huberdeau’s craftiness with the puck and his ability to find open teammates was the driving force behind Florida’s high-octane offense. In Florida’s 2021 first-round playoff series against the Tampa Bay Lightning, Huberdeau led the team in scoring with 10 points (two goals, eight assists) in six games.
Washington: Alex Ovechkin’s ninth 50-goal season tied an NHL record shared by Mike Bossy and Wayne Gretzky. The 36-year-old veteran is no stranger to the playoffs; in 141 postseason games, the Capitals captain has 71 goals, 135 points. In 1,274 career games, Ovechkin scored 780 goals, putting him third all-time behind Wayne Gretzky and Gordie Howe. He will be the biggest offensive threat for the Capitals in this series.
Forward Depth
Florida: The forward depth of this year’s Panthers squad is by far their deepest team in the franchise’s 28 seasons. Florida’s third highest scorer this season was Sam Reinhart; he put up 82 points (33 goals, 49 assists) in 78 games. Reinhart spent a large portion of the year playing on the third line with Mason Marchment (47 points, 54 games) and rookie center Anton Lundell (44 points, 65 games). While the Panthers’ third-line would have no problem outscoring many teams’ top line, Florida’s top-six is even scarier.
Down the middle, Panthers’ captain Aleksander Barkov is one of the best two-way forwards in the league. The 2021 Selke winner had another impressive season, scoring a career high 39 goals while tallying 88 points in 67 games. Trying to play matchups against Barkov isn’t easy. The 6’3, 215 pound center dominates at both ends of the ice, is tough to get off the puck and had a faceoff win percentage of 56.9 in 2021-2022.
Sam Bennett (49 points, 71 games) has solidified the second-line center position since he arrived in South Florida at the trade deadline last season, while 20-year-old Lundell has been a great addition to the team’s center unit. The Panthers also have a secret weapon they can use in the faceoff circle. The trade deadline acquisition of Claude Giroux gave Florida a guy that had a 60.3 faceoff win percentage. While he plays wing for the Panthers, expect to see him taking a lot of draws with whatever line he is skating with in the series.
Washington: The Capitals have a playoff experienced forward group, with many of them having been around from their cup run in 2018. Evgeny Kuznetsov had his best season since the 2018, nearly putting up a point per game (78 points, 79 games). The 29-year-old Russian plays the No. 1 center role on the Caps and is paired alongside his fellow countryman, Alex Ovechkin (90 points, 77 games).
A healthy second-line for the Capitals has Nicklas Backstrom (31 points, 47 games) down the middle. While the 34-year-old Swede isn’t the same player he was in his prime, but he is the second most experienced player on the Caps and has amassed over 1,000 points in his NHL career.
In the faceoff circle Washington may struggle against Florida. Kuznetsov finished the year with a 43.8 faceoff win percentage while Backstrom wasn’t much better with a 46.4. Florida has two players (Barkov, Giroux) with a faceoff win percentage above 55.
Defense
Both teams have a back end that boasts top defenseman in the league. Washington’s John Carlson finished fifth in defenseman scoring with 71 points in 78 games. He will be the driving force of the Washington blueline. Washington’s backend also features Dmitry Orlov and Nick Jensen.
Florida has the likes of MacKenzie Weegar, Gustav Forsling and newly acquired Ben Chiarot holding down the fort as they wait for the return of Aaron Ekblad. The Panthers’ star defenseman was having a Norris Trophy caliber season until he was injured on March 18 against the Anaheim Ducks. Ekblad has been skating with the team but has not played since March 18 because of a lower-body injury. Panthers head coach Andrew Brunette said on Monday that Ekblad still hasn’t been cleared to return. Colby Guy of Florida Hockey Now, said that the Panthers “are hopeful he will be ready for Game 1, if not the end of the week.”
Florida’s defense loves to jump up in the rush and help create offensive chances . Washington’s defenseman will have the task of trying to hold back the Panthers lethal transition offense.
Defenseman to Watch
Florida: Gustav Forsling was one of the many great acquisitions made by Panthers general manager Bill Zito. Ever since he was picked up on waivers by Florida at the beginning of the 2020-2021 NHL season, Forsling has been a huge force on Florida’s blueline. When Aaron Ekblad went down with injury, Forsling and MacKenzie Weegar had to step up. Forsling’s speed allows him to often lead the Panthers transition offense off the rush. The Panthers were the best team in scoring off the rush this season and a lot of it came from their breakouts led by defenseman head manning the puck up the ice. With or without Ekblad this series, Forsling will eat up a lot of minutes for the Panthers.
Washington:Martin Fehervary isn’t the first name that stands out when you look at the Capitals roster, but his physical play is going to be a major key in counteracting Florida’s high-powered offense. Fehervary finished the season seventh in the league and first on Washington for hits with 251. Florida has their own hitting juggernaut in Radko Gudas, who led the league with 355 hits. Fehervary is projected to be paired alongside Carlson on Washington’s top line. While Carlson will be looking to provide offense for the Caps blueline, Fehervary is going to make his physical presence known to the Panthers’ forwards.
Goaltending
The biggest question mark for both team’s this series is their goaltending. For the Panthers, Sergei Bobrovsky is the Game 1 starter, with Spencer Knight backing him up. While the Capitals Game 1 starter is still unknown.
Florida: Two-time Vezina winner (2013,2017) Sergei Bobrovsky will be the man between the pipes for the Panthers in Game 1. Bobrovsky, 33, had a good season (39-7-3, 2.67 /.913)as the Panthers’ starter and looks to backstop the Panthers on what they’d hope to be a long playoff run.
The Russian netminder struggled to keep his job in last year’s first-round series against Tampa, starting only two of the six games, getting yanked in Game 4 and being a healthy scratch at the end of the series. He would hope to not have a repeat of last season and keep the net for the entire playoff run.
Spencer Knight, 21, had to jump into the starter’s crease last postseason, becoming one of three goalies Florida would use in the six games against Tampa. Knight had a solid first full season this year (19-9-3, 2.79/.908), and he turned his game up after spending a month in the AHL with the Charlotte Checkers back in February. If Florida needs Knight to come in, he will be ready.
Washington: Florida fans have debated all season whether it should be Bobrovsky or Knight’s net for the playoffs. In Washington, their goalie situation is even more up in the air.
The Capitals had two goalies start 39 games each this season, Vitek Vanecek (20-12-6, 2.67/.908) and Ilya Samsonov (23-12-5, 3.02/.896). The third goalie who made the trip to Sunrise is Zach Fucale, who played in 4 games this season with the Capitals (1-1-1, 1.75/.924). Fucale, 26, spent most of the season with the Hershey Bears in the AHL. In 31 games, he had a 11-5-5 record with a 2.62 goals-against average and a .896 save percentage. Fucale was recalled from Hershey yesterday.
We are just a day away from Game 1 and the Capitals haven’t announced their starter yet. The team had three goalies skating at Monday practice according to Samantha Pell of the Washington Post.
No matter who gets the go on Tuesday, expect the Capitals to have their netminders on a short leash.
Game On
Florida are the clear favorites heading into this series as the President’s Trophy winners. That doesn’t mean it will be smooth sailing for the Cats. Washington played Florida tough all year, with all three games being decided by one goal.
Game 1 will be Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. in Sunrise.
https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_4161.jpg7381170Alex Baumgartnerhttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgAlex Baumgartner2022-05-02 15:20:022022-05-02 15:33:202022 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Florida Panthers vs. Washington Capitals Preview
The public was expecting a fierce second round matchup between Miami and Philadelphia, but 76ers coach Doc Rivers royally screwed his club this time.
Joel Embiid’s orbital bone was fractured after taking a cheap elbow on a rip through by Pascal Siakam late in the fourth quarter Thursday in Toronto. Peculiarly, Embiid was still on the floor with less than five minutes left while his club was up 29 points when he took the smack. A Raptors comeback wasn’t probable, but I imagine Rivers kept his crew on the floor from all the PTSD he’s felt being reminded of his historical blown leads.
What’s up with that, Doc? Embiid was already powering through a torn ligament in his thumb on his shooting hand and playing through pain.
Philly was hellbent to start its opening round with Toronto and climbed to a 3-0 advantage following Embiid’s bullseye from the left wing to call game. Yet, the Raptors extended the tango to six outings and revealed cracks in Philadelphia’s armor before succumbing to a second half scoring run of 70-36.
While Miami was resting and waiting for their next rival, Rivers was candid after he felt some pressure amid a scrum of reporters at practice. On the topic of his chronicled failures, he characteristically threw some of his players under the bus, but this time it was those he shared a locker room with 19 years ago (2003).
“My Orlando team was the eighth seed,” Rivers said. “No one gives me credit for getting up against the Pistons who won the title… That was an eighth seed. I want you to go back and look at that roster. I dare you to go back and look at that roster and you would say what a hell of a coaching job.”
Aside from Rivers’ memory lapse (Pistons won the title the following season in 2004), his description of his Orlando team sounded a whole lot like “I had a bunch of scrubs under my wing.” It’s underhanded enough to demean former players after so much time away from them, but Rivers gassing himself up in the process like he’s some sort of basketball savant who minimizes his part in three straight losses is dishonorable.
Philly’s next matchup, Miami, took out Atlanta in five, in a closeout game without two starters. Defensively, the Hawks were not as formidable as the Raptors, but the Heatles contained the league’s second rated offense, holding their leading scorer (Trae Young) to 13 points less than his average and dropping his shooting efficiency 14% from the field.
Miami is capable of guarding the perimeter with length, versatile enough to switch defenders when a man is beat and quick to help on cuts or traps. Defending James Harden will not be the responsibility of one man for the Heat, but they have enough scoring options to sic Jimmy Butler on him for a large chunk of minutes without having to rely on having fresh legs for the other end.
Harden is having a rough postseason scoring from the field. He’s dropping an unimpressive 19 points a night on a 40% shooting in part because his explosive first step is gone. It could be his age, mileage, or that he’s not as slim as he used to be. Maybe it’s all three factors but in Round 1, the Raptors guarded Harden by sending help on cuts from a man sagging off the perimeter or picking him up outside with a longer player and baiting him into deep shots.
Without Embiid on the floor, the Heat will have more opportunities to send doubles and ice the Beard. With #21’s absence, Philly loses one of their best screeners who demands immediate attention on the roll and their best backline defender.
The Heat finished the regular season with the best paint protection in the league and are second in that category in the playoffs behind Milwaukee, only allowing 34.8 points in the paint, forcing their matchup to attack mostly from the perimeter. If Harden is pressured into taking most of his field goal attempts from outside the square, Philly won’t win a game this series.
The Heat’s coach Erik Spoelstra said after the Game 4 win in Atlanta that there isn’t a nine-man rotation, rather a “playoff rotation” with everyone on his mind. In the closeout match on Tuesday in Miami, Victor Oladipo was inserted for Butler (right knee inflammation) and Gabe Vincent started his second straight night in place of Kyle Lowry (hamstring).
‘Dipo looked like himself before his quad injury- an All-Star – dusting the opposition on the fastbreak and bursting into the interior in the half court. Vincent was effective bothering Young, taking time off the clock through full court press. Next round I expect to see the same coverage harassing Harden + sending blitzes his way on the perimeter.
Philadelphia is a talented team on paper when healthy but they need to build from the smackdown they laid on Toronto in the second half Thursday and take better care of the ball than they did in Games 4 & 5, somehow without their best player. But I don’t find it likely. The entire season Miami struck me as a contender and Philadelphia as a pretender even after they bartered for what’s left of the Beard.
A quick prediction before the series: Heat in Five.
****
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https://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/IMG_7322.jpg15042016Mateo Mayorgahttps://www.fivereasonssports.com/wp-content/uploads/FiveReasonsWebsiteLogo.svgMateo Mayorga2022-04-30 09:05:012022-04-30 09:05:01Mateo’s Hoops Diary: Heat vs. Sixers, Contenders vs. Pretenders
The 2022 NFL Draft kicked off last night in Las Vegas, Nevada. Its arrival comes highly anticipated as the NFL community found out which prospects were selected in the first round. Hussam Patel gives his 2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grades
Round 1 grades
1. Jacksonville Jaguars select EDGE Travon Walker
The first overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft and former five-star recruit has developed into a consistent EDGE rusher, consistently stopping the run. Walker is projected to be an impressive rookie making an impact as soon as Week 1.
How he fits: Jacksonville was in desperate need of a reliable edge rusher after not seeing much improvement from their front line last season. Walker’s size and force is a great addition for the Jaguars.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A
2. Detroit Lions select EDGE Aidan Hutchinson
The Lions took Aidan Hutchinson. He is comparable to a Bosa brother. He’s got a high floor similar to that of Patrick Kerney in Atlanta and Seattle. The Lions are getting a great player here with Hutchinson. This is a bit of a no-brainer. Hutchinson might be the best player in the entire draft.
How he fits: Aidan Hutchinson getting drafted by his hometown team just makes sense. Hutchinson is a great fit for the Jaguars and will instantly slot right into the starting defensive end role with the Lions. They will have a team captain type in him as well.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A+
3. Houston Texans select CB Derek Stingley Jr.
Often compared to two-time All Pro Stephon Gilmore, Stingley Jr. is sure to bring both speed and power to the Texans. After playing in just 10 games in the last three seasons, Stingley Jr. is ready to leave his mark on the field once again.
How he fits: The Texans have so many needs that nearly any pick was a good one. Stingley Jr. will bring serious explosiveness and a lot of potential to his new team.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B
4. NY Jets select CB Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner
Sauce Gardner is the best cornerback in the entire draft. The former Bearcat will be an instant starter for whoever selects him and be the best cornerback on that team. He’s a great fit for either zone or man teams and is one of the more physically-adept corners in the draft.
How he fits: Gardner would be an instant No. 1 corner in the Jets defense. He will instantly slot in at left corner to start for the next decade. Gardner fits not just value, but scheme here. In Robert Saleh’s defense, he’s going to be an instant star.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A
5. NY Giants select EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux
Before the 2021 season. Thibodeaux was widely regarded as the best player this draft. The powerful 21-year-old EDGE rusher from Oregon is best known for his explosive plays and NFL ready skill-set, with room to grow his pass rush abilities.
How he fits: The Giants have a lot of needs and it was never clear what direction they would go with their first pick. Thibodeaux seems like a BPA pick by the new front office regime in New York. Thankfully, his elite skill set will be a great fit in New York.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A+
6. Carolina Panthers select OT Ikem Ekwonu
Ikem Ekwonu is the best left tackle in the draft. He will be a 10-time Pro Bowl starter for the team that drafts him. He’s got the footwork, technique and overall nastiness to be a huge star in the league. He’s going to be that franchise left tackle that whoever draft’s him loves.
How he fits: Carolina just settled their left tackle position for the next 10 years. Ekwonu is also from North Carolina, so he’s going to be an instant star there. The Panthers made the right decision to solidify their line for the next few years.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A+
7. NY Giants select OT Evan Neal
Evan Neal was highly sought after for his patience and timing, bringing a lot of experience playing against elite talents in college.
How he fits: Offensive tackle was arguably the Giants biggest need this offseason and Neal is the best fit by a long shot. His impressive size and versatility is an instant upgrade in New York.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A+
8. Atlanta Falcons select WR Drake London
Drake London is a go-up-and-get-it kind of wide receiver. He’s a 6’4”, 220-pound monster who can get snag the ball out of the air. Teams will have trouble guarding him, especially in the red zone. However, injury history and lack of top end speed hurt his value. He should have gone later.
How he fits: London will be the top receiver for the Falcons for a long time. He’s a great wide receiver with a big body and should help Marcus Mariota get the passing yards he’ll need to get with Calvin Ridley out and the Falcons depth chart missing a true No. 1.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: C
9. Seattle Seahawks select T Charles Cross
Cross brings strong technique to the pro-level, demonstrating impressive control and maximizing his size.
How he fits: The Seahawks have been known for their inability to protect their quarterback, so taking an offensive lineman with their first pick should have been a no brainer. Cross is a great fit for Seattle as they try and rebuild their offense.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A-
10. NY Jets select WR Garrett Wilson
Garrett Wilson is arguably the third best wide receiver in the draft. He’s going to be a good fit for any offense because he can do a bit of everything. Similar to Calvin Ridley, he’s a smaller-in-frame kind of guy, but he’ll run all of the routes and has great yards-after-catch ability.
How he fits: The Jets go out and get their long-term No. 1 to fit with their quarterback they drafted just a season ago. Garrett Wilson fits in very well with the Jets and can do everything Mike LaFleur will ask him to do. The value is just a few picks off.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B
11. New Orleans select WR Chris Olave
Olave is a strong route runner that has drawn the eyes of NFL scouts for years. His 40-yard dash time paints the wrong picture, as he is consistently one of the fastest players on the field.
How he fits: After trading up five picks, the Saints instantly have one of the most dangerous wide receiver duos in the league. Olave’s route running combined with Michael Thomas’ ability to stretch the field makes this a great pick for Dennis Allen and his new staff.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A
12. Detroit selects WR Jameson Williams
Jameson Williams is the best wide receiver in the draft when he’s healthy. He’s one of the fastest players in football and is very similar to Tyreek Hill in how he wins. He can run all of the routes and burst through to the next level with no issues.
How he fits: Williams will be the No. 1 in Detroit with Amon-Ra St. Brown as the No. 2. The combination of these two guys will give Jared Goff a pair of receivers who win after the catch. He doesn’t have to be available right away either with the Lions in no position to win quickly.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A
13. Philadelphia Eagles select DT Jordan Davis
Davis possesses unbelievable athleticism, dominating the combine and proving his pro-ready abilities. His power and unbelievable size allow him the space to develop into an elite talent.
How he fits: Davis is a powerhouse by all accounts. His speed is undeniable, running a 4.78 40-yard dash at 341 pounds. His talent fits in nearly anywhere.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A
14. Ravens Select SS Kyle Hamilton
Kyle Hamilton is the best safety in the draft. He’s going to be one of the best safeties in the NFL. He is very similar to multi-time All-Pro Kam Chancellor in that he can play deep, play in the box or even blitz and be effective at it.
Let’s go, @kyledhamilton_!! It was incredible to witness this moment, but even more special knowing all the hard work and dedication that went into it. Can’t wait to see what’s next. pic.twitter.com/nSaOMTu8AO
How he fits: The Ravens just brought in Marcus Williams to be their true free safety, so Hamilton will play more of a strong safety in the box type role. The Ravens will have a great set of defensive backs and took arguably the best player in the entire class.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A+
15. Houston Texans select OT Kenyon Green
At 6’4” and 323 pounds, Green has the skill level to be a dominant starter his rookie season.
How he fits: The quarterback situation in Houston is in limbo so they might as well fit out the offensive line. Green is a great choice thanks to his undeniable potential stellar run blocking.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A
16. Commanders select WR Jahan Dotson.
Jahan Dotson is a pure speed guy. He can cut defenses with the ball in his hands, and he can beat them deep. He’s a bit smaller than the average wide receiver, but he doesn’t have to be a No. 1 in the NFL. Dotson projects best as a No. 2 wide receiver taking advantage of softer zones.
How he fits: Dotson will be the No. 2 in Washington behind Terry McLaurin. He’s more of a high second-round value than a mid-first round value. Washington wanted their guy though. The Commanders are giving new quarterback Carson Wentz some talent.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B
17. Chargers select DT Zion Johnson
The 6’3”, 312-pound offensive lineman was one of the stars of the Senior Bowl thanks to his sheer power. In the right scheme, Johnson has the talent to develop into a reliable starter.
How he fits: The Chargers offensive line is coming along nicely thanks their draft last year. Johnson is just the latest piece of an important puzzle to protect their franchise quarterback Justin Herbert.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B+
18. Titans Select WR Treylon Burks
Treylon Burks is a big, talented wide receiver who wins in the same kinds of ways that A.J. Brown does. The problem here is that A.J. Brown is now traded for this particular pick. Burks will be able to win against singles in the NFL often.
How he fits: Brown is the No. 1 receiver on the Titans, now. They will have to find a speedy option to pair with him because his top-end speed isn’t all that. However, he’s still a great pick for what they need with Brown not there anymore.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: C
19. Saints select OT Trevor Penning
After starting all 12 games in 2021, Penning is highly regarded as a first-year starter thanks to his unbelievable competitive drive and athleticism.
How he fits: After losing Terron Armstead in free agency, the Saints had a big hole to fill on the offensive line. Drafting Penning was the likely move.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B
20. Steelers select QB Kenny Pickett
Kenny Pickett isn’t even the best quarterback in the draft, and his small hands will be a hindrance to him at the next level. But teams will love him because he’s tall and can sling it deep. He has a lot of issues with his footwork, but he has a chance to be a star if the Steelers let him develop.
How he fits: Pickett will be the franchise quarterback for the Steelers for the next 10-15 years. He’s a guy who they can build around and be their long-term starter. Their speedy receivers will love this fit, as the former Pittsburgh product will let them run deep as much as they want.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: D
21. Chiefs select CB Trent McDuffie
Despite being below average in size, McDuffie is a consistent cornerback with the personal awareness to develop into a top tier talent.
How he fits: The Chiefs defense was their weakness in 2021 and after the loss of Tyrann Mathieu, they needed to pad their secondary and they chose to do so with a cornerback that nicely fits the culture in KC.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B-
22. Packers select LB Quay Walker
Quay Walker is a bit of a surprise pick but he’s definitely the most athletic linebacker in the draft this year. He’s someone who can play well next to De’Vondre Campbell in the middle of the Eagles defense. He can rush the passer from the interior and also play well in coverage.
How he fits: The Packers got a linebacker who doesn’t need to wear the green dot and be the captain of the defense in Walker. Walker has the talent to play second fiddle and still be an extremely effective linebacker within the defense.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B
23. Bills select CB Kaiir Elam
The Bills traded up into the first round to get, which was not needed. Elam, who had a rocky 2021. Despite his turbulent season, he showed improvement and a strong ability to take to coaching.
Hussam has #BillsMafia going Kaiir Elam at 25. We haven’t heard as much buzz lately for the Florida CB… what would you think? https://t.co/dgnvOWsVQa
How he fits: With Jordan Poyer, Micah Hyde, Ed Oliver, etc., etc., the Bills young defense is quickly turning into one of the best in the league. Elam is a nice rotational piece to a solid secondary.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: C
24. Cowboys select OT Tyler Smith
Tyler Smith is a beastly left tackle prospect from Tulsa. He’s got great footwork and can slot right in as a left tackle or a right tackle. Teams will have trouble getting by him at the next level because of his great anchor and solid frame overall.
How he fits: The Cowboys likely start out with Tyler Smith at right tackle. But over time, expect him to eventually replace Tyron Smith at the left tackle position. Tyler Smith has a long future ahead of him pushing people around in the NFC east.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B
25. Ravens select IOL Tyler Linderbaum
Linderbaum possesses the size and power needed to succeed in the NFL, bringing impressive footwork and control to the front line.
How he fits: The Ravens needed to address the center position after losing Bradley Bozeman in free agency. Linderbaum is highly regarded as the best center in the league, although he wasn’t the best player available for Baltimore.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: C+
26. NY Jets select EDGE Jermaine Johnson
Jermaine Johnson is John Abraham part two. He’s a great fit for any 3-4 or 4-3 defense and has a ton of speed, agility and intelligence in his pass rush. He’s a high character guy who will lead the defense and get guys around him playing better than expected.
How he fits: The Jets would instantly have a premier pass rusher to pair with Carl Lawson in their defense. Johnson is a monster who fits in perfectly with the defense that uses 4-3 and 3-4 concepts. They have their new pass rushing ace.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A+
27. Jaguars select LB Devin Lloyd
The former first-team Associated Press All-American and Pac-12 Defensive Player of the year is headed to Jacksonville after the Jaguars traded back in to the first round. Lloyd can play multiple positions but excels in pass rush situations.
How he fits: The Jaguars needed a linebacker to compliment Josh Allen and Foye Oluokun and Lloyd is a reliable option who has potential to develop into a great starter.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B
28. Packers select DL Devonte Wyatt
Devonte Wyatt is the best interior pass rusher in the draft. He has quick hands and creates havoc in the backfield and can destroy the interior of an offensive line. He was the best pass rusher on the national championship Georgia team and played all three downs.
How he fits: Wyatt will start right away next to Kenny Clark keeping blockers off of De’Vondre Campbell and earlier pick Quay Walker. He can create pressure on third downs and will help them dominate the line of scrimmage on defense.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A+
29. Patriots select IOL Cole Strange
Strange has a high football IQ with the ability to read plays early. His swiftness and agility makes him a strong choice on the offensive line.
How he fits: If any team can develop Strange into an elite player, its the Patriots. Now that they have found their next franchise quarterback in Mac Jones, surrounding him with a top tier offensive line has to be the priority. With the right coaching, Strange could develop into a reliable guard.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade:C
30. Chiefs select EDGE George Karlaftis
George Karlaftis is a talented pass rusher who fits in the 3-4 and the 4-3 looks that the NFL runs. With the Chiefs, he’ll be keeping his hand in the dirt where he can launch off and build quick speed off the line. He will be best as a complementary rusher in the NFL.
How he fits: With Frank Clark as the primary pass rusher, Karlaftis will be the secondary rusher in Kansas City. He’s a great value here as he’s a late first round talent. The Chiefs will be able to start him right away and have Mike Danna and Joshua Kaindoh rotate in behind him.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: A
31. Bengals select S Daxton Hill
Hill is a versatile player that brings a profound combination of speed and situational awareness. He is able to read defenses quickly and locate the ball with ease.
The Cincinnati Bengals pick Michigan Safety Daxton Hill at No. 31 overall.
How he fits: The Bengals did a great job in free agency filling many of their biggest roster holes giving them the chance to draft relatively freely. Hill’s talent allows him to play from many spots on the field. If utilized properly, he can be a massive addition to an already great roster.
2022 NFL Draft Round 1 grade: B+
32. Vikings select FS Lewis Cine
Lewis Cine is a talented all-around safety and should be an instant starter in the NFL. He’s a heady safety who could end up being a multi-time Pro Bowl player if he’s used in the deep safety role that he was used in while at college. He was a high second round value, so the value is good here.
How he fits: With Harrison Smith at strong safety in Minnesota, the Vikings get the perfect pairing for him. Cine will be able to patrol the deep third for the Vikings and could be a playmaker like Anthony Harris was when he was with them.
Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel
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Teams around the NFL make picks in the NFL Draft based on players’ talents and projections. Comparisons to others who have had success are a big part of the scouting process. Teams don’t look at players for what they are now, though, when they make these comparisons. They tend to try and tap what the highest level of potential could be.
So that’s what we’ll be doing here as well. However, there’s not just stylistic comparisons for players in how they play. There’s also physical comparisons for their athleticism. And that’s also part of the process, because that factors into the overall potential.
This mock is an NFL mock draft with player comparisons. It will also explore not just team needs but use a bit of the philosophy of the decision makers involved to try and select who fits their team the best.
Aidan Hutchinson vs. T.J. Watt at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Jacksonville Jaguars have needs all over the roster and taking the best players they can and letting it play itself out would be their best move. Aidan Hutchinson is arguably the best overall prospect and player in the draft despite his short arms. Much like another player with 32-inch arms in Patrick Kerney, he might be better off playing a 5-technique or 6-technique defensive end role in a 3-4 or a 4-3 than playing the true stand up edge in a 3-4.
In Jacksonville, he would have complementary edge rushers in Josh Allen and K’Lavon Chaisson to help him attack quarterbacks. On base sets, Hutchinson would be a great fit as a defensive end for the 3-4 looks since the Jaguars will be running a more offset 3-4 than a true two-gap 3-4. Then in nickel sets, rotating Hutchinson, Chaisson and Allen at edge rusher will help keep fresh rushers getting after the passer every play.
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No. 2 Detroit Lions: EDGE Travon Walker, Georgia
Stylistic Comparison: Bruce Smith
Physical Comparison: J.J. Watt
Travon Walker vs. J.J. Watt at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
As was noted before, these comparisons are being made for overall potential. Travon Walker didn’t shine as the primary pass rusher at Georgia, but he has all the tools to be great. He also had a selfless attitude about himself to let other players around him make the plays even if he didn’t. But in the pros, he’s going to be a star, and if he reaches his true potential, he could be the next Bruce Smith regardless of alignment.
Detroit would give him the perfect spot to really shine. He could play as a 4-3 defensive end who will sometimes 5-technique, but will primarily hold down the strong side of the defense while also being able to get after the quarterback with Charles Harris and the Okwara brothers. This would also let Brockers slide inside to a more 3-technique role that will serve the defense better as a whole. Walker should be a great fit for the Lions for the long term.
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Teams around the NFL make picks in the NFL Draft based on players’ talents and projections. Comparisons to others who have had success are a big part of the scouting process. Teams don’t look at players for what they are now, though, when they make these comparisons. They tend to try and tap what the highest level of potential could be.
So that’s what we’ll be doing here as well. However, there’s not just stylistic comparisons for players in how they play. There’s also physical comparisons for their athleticism. And that’s also part of the process, because that factors into the overall potential.
This mock is an NFL mock draft with player comparisons. It will also explore not just team needs but use a bit of the philosophy of the decision makers involved to try and select who fits their team the best.
Aidan Hutchinson vs. T.J. Watt at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Jacksonville Jaguars have needs all over the roster and taking the best players they can and letting it play itself out would be their best move. Aidan Hutchinson is arguably the best overall prospect and player in the draft despite his short arms. Much like another player with 32-inch arms in Patrick Kerney, he might be better off playing a 5-technique or 6-technique defensive end role in a 3-4 or a 4-3 than playing the true stand up edge in a 3-4.
In Jacksonville, he would have complementary edge rushers in Josh Allen and K’Lavon Chaisson to help him attack quarterbacks. On base sets, Hutchinson would be a great fit as a defensive end for the 3-4 looks since the Jaguars will be running a more offset 3-4 than a true two-gap 3-4. Then in nickel sets, rotating Hutchinson, Chaisson and Allen at edge rusher will help keep fresh rushers getting after the passer every play.
Kevin C. Cox via Getty Images
No. 2 Detroit Lions: EDGE Travon Walker, Georgia
Stylistic Comparison: Bruce Smith
Physical Comparison: J.J. Watt
Travon Walker vs. J.J. Watt at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
As was noted before, these comparisons are being made for overall potential. Travon Walker didn’t shine as the primary pass rusher at Georgia, but he has all the tools to be great. He also had a selfless attitude about himself to let other players around him make the plays even if he didn’t. But in the pros, he’s going to be a star, and if he reaches his true potential, he could be the next Bruce Smith regardless of alignment.
Detroit would give him the perfect spot to really shine. He could play as a 4-3 defensive end who will sometimes 5-technique, but will primarily hold down the strong side of the defense while also being able to get after the quarterback with Charles Harris and the Okwara brothers. This would also let Brockers slide inside to a more 3-technique role that will serve the defense better as a whole. Walker should be a great fit for the Lions for the long term.
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No. 3 Houston Texans: OT Evan Neal, Alabama
Stylistic Comparison: Leonard Davis
Physical Comparison: Cordy Glenn
Evan Neal vs. Cordy Glenn at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Texans have a need on the offensive line to help out their young quarterback and having a talented guard or tackle come in would really help build the infrastructure for the quarterback to succeed. Evan Neal has a ton of talent and can play either guard or tackle in the NFL. With Laremy Tunsil manning the most important spot on the line at left tackle, they can put Neal at either left guard, right guard or right tackle to have him help where needed.
Athletically, his film is very similar to Cordy Glenn’s. While Glenn didn’t have the best combine, he still had a successful career as an offensive lineman and should be considered the floor of what Neal could provide. Neal has the kind of talent that brings to mind Leonard Davis, a guy who played for the Cowboys and Cardinals at three separate spots and went to the Pro Bowl multiple times throughout his career.
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No. 4 New York Jets: EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon
Stylistic Comparison: Chandler Jones
Physical Comparison: Gaines Adams
Kayvon Thibodeaux vs. Gaines Adams at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Jets are on the path to a really good future if they can figure out the holes in their roster. Zach Wilson is bad, but they’ll have to figure that out in their own time before this staff loses their job. On the other side of the ball, they don’t have a primary pass rusher on the roster yet. Carl Lawson is a great complementary pass rusher and having that premiere pass rushing beast across from him will help. That’s where Kayvon Thibodeaux would come in.
The interior trio of Jonathan Franklin-Myers, Sheldon Rankins and Quinnen Williams will benefit greatly from an outside rusher. Thibodeaux is great as a pass rusher and has the athleticism to really set the outside edge. Much like Chandler Jones, he could lead a pass rush that would have quarterbacks running for their lives. Thibodeaux would instantly upgrade the Jets defense and this would be a perfect situation for him.
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No. 5 New York Giants: QB Malik Willis, Liberty
Stylistic Comparison: Warren Moon
Physical Comparison: Tyrod Taylor
Malik Willis vs. Tyrod Taylor at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
If your team doesn’t have a quarterback, you should go out and get one. The smoke of Malik Willis to the Giants isn’t out there, yet. But the fit just makes sense. Giants head coach Brian Daboll likes to take quarterbacks with the raw tools and make them great. Putting Willis with Tyrod Taylor and Daniel Jones in New York to learn from for a year and really develop into a pro is the right way to go. Willis would be an upgrade over Jones after his first year.
The comparison for Willis being Warren Moon may seem lofty. And he’s definitely a boom or bust type guy. Willis has all the same tools Moon had as a player. From the cannon arm to the mobility and intelligence in his reads, he can really develop into the right quarterback at an NFL level for any team. Daboll would love his tools and could mold him into an All-Pro the way he did with Josh Allen in Buffalo with the Bills.
Kenny Pickett vs. Teddy Bridgewater at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
I have a saying, “NFL teams do stupid things.” The Carolina Panthers are one of those teams that continually do stupid things. In this situation, the smart thing of getting a quarterback to try and keep the jobs of the GM and coach makes sense for the Panthers brass. Sam Darnold hasn’t worked out. Teddy Bridgewater hasn’t worked out. And ideally, the Panthers would understand that Pickett is probably a third or fourth round talent at best.
Pickett at his best would be a Joe Flacco level guy who’s a purgatory level quarterback of the likes of Andy Dalton who could potentially go unconscious one postseason and win a Super Bowl. He’s not a top five quarterback in the NFL potential guy, though. The Panthers will make a mistake in this draft, and that mistake will end up being Kenny Pickett at No. 6.
Wilfredo Lee / Associated Press
No. 7 New York Giants: OT Ikem Ekwonu, North Carolina State
Stylistic Comparison: Jake Matthews at LT/Joel Bitonio at LG
Physical Comparison: Rodger Saffold
Ikem Ekwonu vs. Rodger Saffold at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Giants have one piece on their offensive line that’s worth having start for them in Andrew Thomas out of Georgia. They did bring in Mark Glowinski, Jon Feliciano and Max Garcia in the offseason, but adding someone who can really solidify the left side of the line and that guy is Ikem Ekwonu. Adding a franchise quarterback and a starting left guard in the same draft will only strengthen the Giants for the long term.
Ekwonu is a very unique player because he can play either guard or tackle at level that would put him in the top 10 players at his position in the league. He’s got the size, strength, speed and technique to step right in and start. If Evan Neal wasn’t in this draft, he’d be the highest rated offensive lineman with no questions asked. Ekwonu, Andrew Thomas, and the best three of the remaining offensive linemen could give the Giants a solid overall line to work behind.
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No. 8 Atlanta Falcons: EDGE Jermaine Johnson, Florida State
Stylistic Comparison: John Abraham
Physical Comparison: Danielle Hunter
Jermaine Johnson vs. Danielle Hunter at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Atlanta Falcons need a true pass rusher. They have needs all over the roster and need to add to the roster in the best player available fashion. This is a situation where Jermaine Johnson would be a better fit for what the Falcons do than Kyle Hamilton or any of the quarterbacks remaining. Malik Willis would be the best fit at quarterback for them out of the entire group, but he was taken three picks ahead of them.
Johnson is a true weak-side defensive end or outside linebacker who could really make sense for the defense in Atlanta. He’d be a big upgrade to the Falcons pass rush off the edge. He would complement Grady Jarrett more than the current stable of pass rushers and has the potential to lead the entire group. He also has the local connection that could help the fan base support him early on as well. The Falcons have a lot of options and are the wild card of the draft.
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No. 9 Seattle Seahawks: S Kyle Hamilton, Notre Dame
Stylistic Comparison: Kam Chancellor
Physical Comparison: T.J. McDonald
Kyle Hamilton vs. T.J. McDonald at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Seattle Seahawks are in the middle of a full rebuild. They need a bit of everything, including a true defensive leader who can bring back the old ways of the Legion of Boom. And with Kyle Hamilton’s extremely high level of talent, it’s too tough to pass on him at this point for Pete Carroll. Hamilton will remind him as a true replacement to Kam Chancellor but he has a bit more athleticism than Chancellor. Carroll loves players like Hamilton.
Hamilton is the same kind of ball hawk that Chancellor was but also has that attitude and explosion in his tackles that the former Seahawk did as well. Teams love Hamilton, and it would be shocking to see him fall to nine. However, with him sitting there at nine, it would be very tough for the Seahawks to pass on the second coming of their biggest chess piece on their championship defense. Hamilton would be an instant star in Seattle until they draft a new quarterback.
Austin Perryman of MSU Athletics
No. 10 New York Jets: OT Charles Cross, Mississippi State
Stylistic Comparison: Laremy Tunsil
Physical Comparison: Taylor Decker
Charles Cross vs. Taylor Decker at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The New York Jets need to finish setting up their offensive line to try and have the best support system for last-year’s misguided quarterback selection of Zach Wilson. Charles Cross would be a great fit for the Jets as a true left tackle that would allow them to have Mekhi Becton play a more natural role at right tackle. They went out and got Laken Tomlinson in the offseason and Conner McGovern was a solid center for them in 2021.
The Jets could have the protection Wilson needs to succeed. The former BYU quarterback was at his best in college when the team protected him for his passes. New York makes sense for Cross and could really help them fix the team as a whole. Putting him Alijah Vera-Tucker on the offensive line would give the Jets a true pass blocking contingent that all fit the zone blocking scheme that Mike LaFleur is running there.
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No. 11 Washington Commanders: CB Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner, Cincinnati
Stylistic Comparison: Richard Sherman
Physical Comparison: Akhello Witherspoon
Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner vs. Akhello Witherspoon at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Washington Commanders have needs all over the roster, but with their current cornerback situation, they should love the idea of the super athletic Sauce Gardner falling to them. They have William Jackson III and Kendall Fuller, but Fuller profiles better as a free safety and Jackson is just one side of the field. Adding Gardner could really improve the Commanders defense as whole and would give them a true No. 1 cornerback.
Gardner has one of the best profiles for a cornerback prospect in years. He’s arguably the best cornerback prospect since Darrelle Revis with his combination of film, athleticism, length and overall attitude. Teams love his competitive fire. His football intelligence shows that he can play either nickel or either outside cornerback position in the NFL and be a playmaking defender. Gardner will be a multi-time Pro Bowl defender.
Mackenzie Miles / UGA Athletics
No. 12 Minnesota Vikings: NT Jordan Davis, Georgia
Stylistic Comparison: Dontari Poe
Physical Comparison: Dontari Poe
Jordan Davis vs. Dontari Poe at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Minnesota Vikings made their bones under Mike Zimmer with a great defense. However, with new coach Kevin O’Connell, things might be a bit different to where they would focus on the offensive side of the ball. With how this draft falls, the best pick for them will be the one that really makes the biggest impact on the field, though. Jordan Davis would transform any defense he joins, but few more than Minnesota.
The Vikings brought in Harrison Phillips and have Dalvin Tomlinson on the line already, but adding a true freak athlete at nose tackle could really help those two have more single blockers against them. Danielle Hunter and new addition Za’Darius Smith should also see fewer double teams than they would be projected to see at this time because of the space eating abilities Jordan Davis has shown in his time at Georgia and could translate into the pro game.
Joseph Maiorana / USA Today Sports
No. 13 Houston Texans: WR Garrett Wilson, Ohio State
Stylistic Comparison: Tyler Lockett
Physical Comparison: Devin Hester
Garrett Wilson vs. Devin Hester at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Texans need to really surround their future quarterback if it’s not Davis Mills with weapons. Mills had a solid rookie year, though and could be a solid quarterback for them. They have some solid receivers with Brandin Cooks and Nico Collins, but they don’t have a true No. 1 guy. While there is no premiere Julio Jones or A.J. Green level wide receiver in this draft, the two guys closest to that are Garrett Wilson and Drake London.
Wilson is very similar to Tyler Lockett as a deep threat who can attack the shorter areas as a yards-after-catch kind of guy. He’s very good as a true No. 1 who can help a team with contested catches as well. The best part of Wilson’s game though is his feel against zone defense. He knows how to find the soft spots and sit there. For a young quarterback, that’s what you need to help him succeed during the early stages of his development.
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No. 14 Baltimore Ravens: CB Derek Stingley, Louisiana State
Stylistic Comparison: Patrick Peterson
Physical Comparison: Trae Waynes
Derek Stingley vs. Trae Waynes at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Ravens General Manager Eric DeCosta comes from the Ozzie Newsome school of taking the best player available even if it’s a position of strength for your team. This is definitely another situation like that. However, when looking at the Ravens depth chart for 2023, the cornerback position stood out as a spot they could attack. Marcus Peters is going to be out of his contract and the need at cornerback will be prominent then.
Adding someone like Derek Stingley to the depth would be exceptionally intelligent and would allow the Ravens to have a talented player to replace the former Pro Bowl corner Peters. Stingley has all the tools to be the star of the Ravens defense at cornerback. His long-term potential is that of a Patrick Peterson. A true shut-down type corner would be the best way to describe the former LSU Tiger.
Kevin Reunard / USA Today Sports
No. 15 Philadelphia Eagles: CB Andrew Booth, Clemson
Stylistic Comparison: Darius Slay
Physical Comparison: Darius Slay
Andrew Booth vs. Darius Slay at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Speaking of Darius Slay, if you already have one, why not have two of them? Slay is one of the best all-around cornerbacks in the NFL and pairing him with a younger version of himself only makes sense. Andrew Booth fits in well with the Eagles as a starting cornerback across from Slay and should be an upgrade over 2021 fourth round pick Zech McPhearson. Booth has the same kind of tools and raw ability Slay had coming out.
However, his technique needs a lot of work. He’s better in man than Slay was early on, but he’s a malleable ball of clay at this point and should be able to pick up NFL coverage concepts easily. Booth has the potential to be a multi-time Pro Bowl player and could give the Eagles a second shut-down level cornerback if he reaches his potential sooner rather than later. The Eagles still have another first round pick later on to continue to add to their team.
University of Northern Iowa Athletics
No. 16 New Orleans Saints: OT Trevor Penning, Northern Iowa
Stylistic Comparison: Taylor Lewan
Physical Comparison: Robert Gallery
Trevor Penning vs. Robert Gallery at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Imagine losing one of the best left tackles of the last decade because the cap room just isn’t there. That’s what happened with the Saints in the 2022 offseason. So they traded their 2023 first round pick to get another first round pick and see if they could end up replacing him or potentially sending a package up for a quarterback. In this situation, they nab Trevor Penning who profiles as a 10-year starter at left tackle in the NFL.
As a player, he comes off like a fringe Pro Bowl starter the way that Taylor Lewan did. A powerful, nasty, quick offensive lineman who can pass block well and shows off the dawg that he is in the run game. Penning would instantly slot next to Andrus Peat on the left side and continue to give the Saints a well-rounded offensive line in all spots. Penning has the athleticism of a Robert Gallery, but his career should line up to be better.
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No. 17 Los Angeles Chargers: OL Tyler Linderbaum, Iowa
Stylistic Comparison: Chris Chester
Physical Comparison: Chris Chester
Tyler Linderbaum vs. Chris Chester at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Chargers need more offensive line help to protect franchise quarterback Justin Herbert. While they would have probably preferred a tackle like Trevor Penning, the best offensive lineman available is Tyler Linderbaum, a center from Iowa. Linderbaum athletically on film looks just like Chris Chester, a former long-time starter for Washington and Atlanta. Linderbaum can play any of the three interior spots.
On top of that, Linderbaum would be an instant competitor for the starting role at either guard spot and could help solidify the blind side for Herbert if he’s played on the left side. Linderbaum is a former wrestler as well, so his use of leverage should help him. Working with Rashawn Slater and Corey Linsley, the Chargers could have at least three NFL above average starters on a line that will need to hold up against the exceptional pass rushes that are in the AFC West.
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No. 18 Philadelphia Eagles: WR Drake London, Southern California
Stylistic Comparison: Keyshawn Johnson
Physical Comparison: Marques Colston
Drake London vs. Marques Colston at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Eagles first pick was on defense, but their second pick should be to find a complement to Devonta Smith at wide receiver. Smith is a smaller, faster receiver who’s better at finding the soft spots in the zone but doesn’t go up for contested catches as much. Drake London is the opposite of that. He’s a larger, stronger receiver who is going to attack the ball over the middle and win those contested catches that no one on the Eagles roster can get.
Adding London would also help the young quarterback that Philadelphia has in Jalen Hurts. London is a true No. 1 receiver, but he doesn’t need to be the No. 1 for the Eagles, and that will help his development. Combining London’s skills with the current corps should help the Eagles get more out of both Smith and London, but it should also open up the field a little better for Dallas Goedert as well. The tight end should see a lot more looks in the seams with London there.
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No. 19 New Orleans Saints: WR Jameson Williams, Alabama
Stylistic Comparison: Tyreek Hill
Physical Comparison: Tiquan Underwood
Jameson Williams vs. Tiquan Underwood at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The New Orleans Saints need a true deep option and speed option at wide receiver who can complement Michael Thomas. There are no better options there than Jameson Williams who is one of the fastest, smartest players out there. He was once buried on the Ohio State depth chart, but found his best production in a role at Alabama. There are few guys who can burn a defense like Williams can, and he just happened to be behind those at Ohio State.
That being said, Williams can do everything those guys can do, but he’s faster and understands the weak points of a defense better. The transfer did him well, because he can find seams to burst through after the ball is in his hands. That will help the Saints with their lack of explosion on offense. There are few quarterbacks who can complement a receiver that can burn a team as well as Williams can, but Jameis Winston has the arm to do it. The fit here is perfect.
Desmond Ridder vs. Joshua Dobbs at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Long-time quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers Ben Roethlisberger retired this past season, and the Steelers need to find his replacement. Desmond Ridder may not be a true No. 1 quarterback in the NFL, but he’s someone who should fit right in with the Steelers. He can learn how to be great with a solid coaching staff like Pittsburgh, and he has better overall tools than Mitch Trubisky and Mason Rudolph will ever have.
Ridder knows how to make the best out of a tough situation and has shown that he can lead a deficient team to great heights in Cincinnati. However, the NFL is a whole different game. There will be some growing pains and sitting for a season would be best for Ridder. The Steelers have a well-structured organization with the right coaches and some talent around the quarterback that knows how to get open and create with the ball in their hands.
Boston College Athletics
No. 21 New England Patriots: OL Zion Johnson, Boston College
Stylistic Comparison: Kevin Zeitler
Physical Comparison: Joel Bitonio
Zion Johnson vs. Joel Bitonio at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
The Patriots just traded away one of the best offensive linemen in the league in Shaq Mason. That opens up a massive hole for them at right guard, and they’ll need some talent to compete there. The best guard in the NFL draft is likely Zion Johnson. He’s got all the tools and compares best to another long-armed beast in Kevin Zeitler with the advanced physical tools of a Joel Bitonio. That’s a dangerous combination.
Bill Belichick is known for focusing on his offensive and defensive lines at the top of the draft historically, and Johnson won’t change that. Johnson slides right in between Trent Brown and David Andrews and should be a decade long starter the way Logan Mankins was for the Patriots. Add in the Boston connection, and there’s few guys who fit in as well for the Patriots as Zion Johnson does for Belichick’s crew.
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No. 22 Green Bay Packers: LB Devin Lloyd, Utah
Stylistic Comparison: Ryan Shazier
Physical Comparison: Dan Connor
Devin Lloyd vs. Dan Connor at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
There are few players who are as well-rounded at their position in the 2022 NFL draft as Devin Lloyd is. He’s one of the best all-around linebackers whether it is blitzing, covering zones or trying to slip into the backfield against the run. Lloyd has a ton of similarities to Dan Connor as an athlete, but he’s closer to a Ryan Shazier in his style of play. Shazier was a similar guy before his neck injury, and much like Lloyd, he had no trouble laying out opposing players.
The Packers are in a unique spot here. Sure, they have a need at wide receiver, but they also could use more defensive playmakers and have a second first round pick. And sure, De’Vondre Campbell was great in 2021, but they need more than just him in the middle level of their defense. Lloyd is a perfect complement to Campbell, and they could be a heart and soul type combination for that defense. Adding Lloyd to Campbell will strengthen a packers defense.
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No. 23 Arizona Cardinals: CB Trent McDuffie, Washington
Stylistic Comparison: Tre’Davious White
Physical Comparison: Desmond Trufant
Trent McDuffie vs. Desmond Trufant at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Trent McDuffie is a unique case in this draft. He had some real buzz before the combine as potentially the highest drafted cornerback. It’s calmed down recently, but he still has a high level of talent and is very similar to Desmond Trufant in his play as a corner who is equally adept in man and zone. He’s also similar to Tre’Davious White in that he’s a physical cornerback who can support the run just as well as the pass.
The team that ends up with McDuffie will end up with a great talent for the position, but he’s not exactly a shut down guy at the level of a Derek Stingley or Sauce Gardner. In this situation, the Cardinals should look at him heavily. Their starting cornerbacks are Jeff Gladney—a cast off due to off field issues—and Byron Murphy a second round pick. McDuffie would start on the outside in both nickel and base sets and give the Cardinals a specified piece to work with.
Adam Cairns / Columbus Dispatch
No. 24 Dallas Cowboys: WR Chris Olave, Ohio State
Stylistic Comparison: Terry McLaurin
Physical Comparison: Johnny Knox
Chris Olave vs. Johnny Knox at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Chris Olave is a very dynamic receiver who can align all over a formation and burn a defense deep or with yards after carry in the open space. He would be best on a team that has an option to help him by opening up the middle of the field for him to work. Much like Terry McLaurin, though, he is best when working with a group of talented receivers that will take pressure off of him being the primary playmaker every down.
The Dallas Cowboys traded away Amari Cooper to free up cap space to build their roster. But in doing so, they got rid of a major target for the talented Dak Prescott to throw to. Olave is a great value here at the latter part of the first round, and he fits in well with the Cowboys as either a slot receiver, outside receiver or option that aligns in the backfield at times in shotgun sets to create plays. The Cowboys should add Olave to Ceedee Lamb and Michael Gallup.
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No. 25 Buffalo Bills: DL Devonte Wyatt, Georgia
Stylistic Comparison: Warren Sapp
Physical Comparison: Amobi Okoye
Devonte Wyatt vs. Amobi Okoye at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Devonte Wyatt is a world disrupter on the interior of a defense. Much like Warren Sapp or Aaron Donald, he creates a ton of pressure on the interior of a defense and attacks quarterbacks and the run game equally as well. Physically, he compares well to Amobi Okoye who is one of the better athletes at the position of all time. Wyatt is a nasty pass rusher with violent hands and the ability to shed interior blocks against the run well.
The Buffalo Bills don’t have a ton of needs on their roster, but adding to their pass rush is never a bad idea. Wyatt could join Ed Oliver in the middle of a Buffalo defense that has already added Von Miller to create a formidable rush. Miller and Rousseau as part of the first wave with Wyatt and Oliver should be able to handle the speed and scrambling ability of the AFC’s best quarterbacks. The Bills should have a better defense with him on it.
Sam Craft / Associated Press
No. 26 Tennessee Titans: OL Kenyon Green, Texas A&M
Stylistic Comparison: Andrew Norwell
Physical Comparison: Darryl Williams
Kenyon Green vs. Darryl Williams at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Kenyon Green is a very athletic offensive lineman, but he’s not testing well, which is very similar to Darryl Williams, a former offensive tackle with the Panthers who moved to guard with Buffalo. Green is a better pass blocker than most of the players coming out this year and fits best as a guard at the next level. He is more of a powerful offensive lineman than a technician and should see his time spent holding the depth of the pocket against defensive tackles.
The Tennessee Titans lost their starting guard Rodger Saffold to the Buffalo Bills in the offseason after cutting him for cap reasons. Saffold was a long-term starter for them and would be tough to replace if there wasn’t a perfect fit like Green available out there. Green would start on the left side, though and allow the Titans to continue to have a nasty run game contingent on that side behind Green and long-time left tackle starter Taylor Lewan.
Justin Casterline / Getty Images
No. 27 Tampa Bay Buccaneers: EDGE George Karlaftis, Purdue
Stylistic Comparison: Demarcus Lawrence
Physical Comparison: Bradley Chubb
George Karlaftis vs. Bradley Chubb at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
George Karlaftis is an interesting case on film. He’s a true power pass rusher who gets to the quarterback by throwing the defensive end in front of him and has a limited pass rush set. Much like when Demarcus Lawrence was coming out, he’ll have to develop. But he has the athleticism to be great as shown by his physical comparison to Bradley Chubb. Teams will appreciate how well he can set the edge and should be very high on him.
The Buccaneers lost Jason Pierre-Paul during the offseason to free agency, but they could still bring him back. That or they can do the smarter thing and draft a guy with similar tools that can win in similar ways. Karlaftis has the bull rushing and run defending down pat. He will have to develop a set of moves to help him get to the quarterback, but the Buccaneers have the right support system to help him get there.
Chris McDill / Getty Images
No. 28 Green Bay Packers: WR Treylon Burks, Arkansas
Stylistic Comparison: Plaxico Burress
Physical Comparison: Justin Blackmon
Treylon Burks vs. Justin Blackmon at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
After trading away Devonta Adams this offseason, the Packers need someone who can make a difference as an outside receiver. They need someone who will fit in with Aaron Rodgers and can go up and get the ball when Rodgers throws into traffic. Since drafting Rodgers in 2005, the Packers haven’t drafted a wide receiver in the first round of the draft. They need to show that they can provide Rodgers with some support in his last years of his career and this would do that.
Treylon Burks may not be the best athlete at the position, but similar to Justin Blackmon, he makes it work. He wins in the same kinds of ways Plaxico Burress does, though. He’s more physical; he high-points the ball and catches defenders off-guard. He can find the soft spots in zones while in the red zone, and at his best, he can burn a defense deep with his route running and ability to create separation by running routes that throw off the men guarding him.
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No. 29 Kansas City Chiefs: WR Jahan Dotson, Pennsylvania State
Stylistic Comparison: Calvin Ridley
Physical Comparison: Davon Grayson
Jahan Dotson vs. Davon Grayson at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Jahan Dotson is being talked about as a potential first round pick because of his ability to create after the catch, and his exceptional route running. His ability to attack teams deep or in the soft spots of their scheme really helps boost his value. He may not be the biggest or strongest or fastest guy at the position, but he’s one of the toughest and can create big plays out of thin air. The Chiefs would absolutely love having him because of his west coast offense fit.
The Chiefs are in need of a wide receiver. Marques Valdes-Scantling is the only starting caliber wide receiver under contract after 2022. They’ll need to take a wide receiver who can fit in as one of Patrick Mahomes’ primary options in the passing game, and Dotson fits that very well. Dotson would start out as a No. 2 receiver to Valdes-Scantling and could develop into that true No. 1 for the Chiefs once he fully develops his game.
Michael Reaves / Getty Images
No. 30 Kansas City Chiefs: CB Kaiir Elam, Florida
Stylistic Comparison: Xavien Howard
Physical Comparison: Xavien Howard
Kaiir Elam vs. Xavien Howard at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Kaiir Elam is one of the best press cornerbacks in the draft in 2022. Elam has exceptional speed and agility and has shown that he can shut down a side when he’s able to press the receiver. The best player comparison for Elam is Xavien Howard, a multiple-time Pro Bowl cornerback known for being a great press cornerback. Adding Elam will help the Chiefs for the long term considering they don’t have any true No. 1 cornerback and no one under contract worth the role.
Elam would instantly start as the No. 1 cornerback for a depth chart that is currently highlighting Deandre Baker, Rashad Felton and L’Jarius Sneed. The Chiefs for the long-term do need that featured cornerback for the defense and bringing in Elam would give them that. A wild possibility for the Chiefs could be doubling up on wide receivers here as well with an extreme talent like George Pickens or Christian Watson to be another larger option for them.
University of Tulsa Athletics
No. 31 Cincinnati Bengals: OL Tyler Smith, Tulsa
Stylistic Comparison: Kelechi Osemele
Physical Comparison: Jamon Brown
Tyler Smith and Jamon Brown at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Tyler Smith was a tackle in college, but projects better as a guard in the pro level just like Jamon Brown and Kelechi Osemele were. They are his best professional comparisons as well. Brown was a solid, but unspectacular starter during his time and is probably the worst case scenario. Smith’s play is a bit nastier than Brown’s is, however. That’s where the Osemele comparison comes in. Osemele would destroy the competition just like Smith does.
The Bengals need a mauler on their offensive line to solidify the front next to Jonah Williams at left guard. With Jonah Williams at left tackle and bringing in La’El Collins at right tackle, the Bengals are finally getting a line built to protect one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL in Joe Burrow. Adding more competition at center and right guard would help build the line further, but Smith is that piece at left guard for years.
Chuck Cook / USA Today Sports
No. 32 Detroit Lions: QB Matt Corral, Mississippi
Stylistic Comparison: Christian Ponder
Physical Comparison: Andy Dalton
Matt Corral vs. Andy Dalton at the NFL Combine and Pro Days
Matt Corral is a quarterback who could sneak into the first round. The former Mississippi quarterback is a potential starter in the NFL. He’s able to read defenses well and has the moxie to be a leader, but there’s a lot missing with his accuracy and arm strength on his film. He’s got solid athleticism, but he’s not the best athlete. He comes off more like an Andy Dalton who can use the athleticism in the NFL to create passing lanes more than a true dual threat.
The Detroit Lions are in amazing need for the quarterback of their future. Especially one that fits in well with their star wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. The Lions currently have Jared Goff as their starter and a bunch of terrible replacement level players on the roster. They would do best to bring in a guy with a fifth year option that needs the development but has a ton of potential. That guy is Matt Corral.
Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor and Lead NFL Draft analyst at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel
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