2022 NFL Draft prospects: the top five offensive linemen
Beginning on 28 April, Las Vegas hosts the 87th annual NFL Draft. These are the most exciting offensive linemen up for selection in Sin City.
Ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft, which takes place in Las Vegas from Thursday 28 to Saturday 30 April, AS’ Uriel Parrilla looks over the top five offensive linemen who are available for selection.
1. Evan Neal
Alabama product Neal is the most exciting prospect in his position for the 2022 season. The 21-year-old, who is 6′8″ and weighs 337lbs, is projected to be selected among the first five picks, according to The Ringer. The only doubts surrounding the right tackle are his athletic capabilities, as he did not take part in the NFL scouting combine drills.
2. Ikem Ekwonu
During his time with North Carolina State, Ekwonu chiefly operated as a left tackle, but he also has experience as a left guard. The 21-year-old, who is 6′4″ and weighs 310lbs, could be picked among the top 10 overall, The Ringer estimates. At the scouting combine, Ekwonu boasted a time of 4.93 seconds in the 40-yard dash.
3. Charles Cross
The third best offensive lineman going into the Draft is the Mississippi State product. Cross, who plays on the left-hand side of the offensive line, is considered the best prospect when it comes to pass protection - but despite this, he may not be picked until the second half of the first round. Cross, who is 6′5″ and 307lbs, registered an impressive 4.95 seconds in the 40-yard dash.
4. Trevor Penning
The former Northern Iowa player could be the most athletic offensive tackle in the Draft. Measuring 6′7″ and weighing 325lbs, Penning is the quickest offensive linesman, clocking 4.89 seconds in the 40-yard dash. Another element to consider is that, despite being a left tackle, Penning can also shift across to the right.
5. Zion Johnson
The Boston College product is another offensive lineman in the Draft who is there to boost the left-hand side of the line. Given his qualities, Johnson promises to be an effective addition to the protection of a team’s rushing offence. In athletic terms, he’s the least impressive of the five: the 6′3″ and 325lb player ran the 40-yard dash in 5.18 seconds.