History has shown that not every NFL rookie will be counted on in his first season, but plenty will.
Some can even change the fortunes of a franchise, though we won’t know for probably a few years if anyone in this class is capable of such things.
Eight teams didn’t have a first-round pick in the 2022 NFL draft. For the 24 that did (obviously some with multiple picks), they’re hoping they’ve unearthed at least future starters, if not perennial Pro Bowlers.
Did the Jacksonville Jaguars get it right by picking linebacker Travon Walker No. 1? Can Aidan Hutchinson do more than Michael Jackson impressions for the Detroit Lions? Kenny Pickett looked great at times in the preseason, but is he the heir apparent at quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers? How much of a setback will Kayvon Thibodeaux’s MCL injury prove to be for the New York Giants?
We asked our NFL Nation reporters to keep a close eye on the first-round picks and how each fared this offseason. Here is our final preseason update on all 32 first-round picks.
Travon Walker, LB
How he has fared so far: Walker has a long way to go in terms of pass-rush moves, but he has done a good job of being disruptive with his quickness and strength. That was evident pretty quickly. He got to the quarterback on his first preseason snap in the Hall of Fame game (there was an iffy roughing the passer penalty) and had a sack on the next drive. He has multiple tackles for loss in the preseason, too. Once he develops some pass-rush moves and counters he’s going to be a problem for offenses. — Michael DiRocco
Aidan Hutchinson, DE
How he has fared so far: Inside the locker room, the rookie is earning high praise through his good old-fashioned work ethic. He arrives early, leaves late and pays attention to detail. Hutchinson will play and contribute immediately in Week 1 while trying to change the overall culture of the franchise as a Michigan native. Teammates and coaches have been impressed with his production all throughout…
Source : espn
