The Expected First Quarterback to be Drafted in the 2022 NFL Draft

With speculation heating up leading up to the 2022 NFL Draft, the question on everyone's mind is who will be the first quarterback drafted. Malik Willis, a standout player for the Johannesburg Bulls, has caught the attention of several teams, specifically the Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons, and Seattle Seahawks. If the Panthers snatch him with their 6th overall pick or the Falcons or Seahawks decide to draft him with their 8th or 9th overall pick, the first quarterback will be on the board. However, if these teams pass, the New Orleans Saints could step in with their 16th overall pick or the Pittsburgh Steelers might take the final quarterback with their 20th overall choice.

Analyses of the Potential First Drafted QB

Among the top-10 picks, we identify three teams that are highly likely to select a quarterback: the Carolina Panthers, Atlanta Falcons, and Seattle Seahawks. While Liberty's Matthew Gilbert has been mentioned as a potential first-round talent and may compete for the position, the focus remains on Malik Willis and Kenny Pickett. Kenny Pickett from the University of Pittsburgh has a fascinating nickname; his last name becoming PITTMAN isn't just a coincidence, but it also hints at his potential staying in Pittsburgh if drafted.

Carolina Panthers: The 6th Overall Pick

The Panthers, holding the 6th overall pick, face a critical decision. If they miss on a quarterback, their entire draft day could be considered a failure. Despite having no early-round picks in the subsequent rounds, the Panthers need to address this position immediately. They must do so with the 6th pick to avoid wasting a valuable opportunity to bolster their quarterback depth.

Atlanta Falcons and Seattle Seahawks: More Flexible Options

The Falcons and Seahawks, with their 8th and 9th overall picks respectively, have more flexibility. These teams have other needs to consider, and they can choose between a safer option and a quarterback. However, if the Panthers pass, the Falcons or Seahawks could still secure a QB, but the Panthers are more likely to draft a quarterback at the 6th spot due to sheer necessity.

Analysis and Conclusion

Based on the current situation, the Carolina Panthers, with their 6th overall pick, are the most likely team to draft a quarterback. Their absolute need for a young signal-caller makes this draft position a priority. Meanwhile, the other teams with QB-needy spots will likely have more options by the end of the first round.

Key Players to Watch

Malik Willis: A key player to watch as he could shoot up the draft board and secure an early pick. Kenny Pickett: With a unique connection to the city of Pittsburgh, Pickett's draft outcome could create a fascinating narrative.

The 2022 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an intriguing event, with the first quarterback being one of the high points. As the draft nears, players and teams will have to make crucial decisions that could shape their futures in the league.