2022 Mock NFL Draft Tracker: Version 3.0

Kyle Stackpole of CBS Sports

The predicted pick at No. 12: Ahmad Gardner, Cornerback, Cincinnati

New General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and his staff addresses the defensive side of the ball with the ever-confident and aggressive Ahmad Gardner to sure up the Vikings secondary.

Click here for Stackpole’s full mock draft.

The predicted pick at No. 12: Derek Stingley, Jr., Cornerback, LSU

After spending first-round picks on cornerbacks in 2015, 2018 and 2020, the Minnesota Vikings go back to the well here. In this case, such a move is both practical and laden with value.

As a true freshman, Stingley looked like a future top-five pick. He played as well as any defensive back ever has at his age during LSU’s national championship run.

However, potential concerns over a slight downturn in performance and a foot injury that prevented him from playing in all but three games this past season add a certain amount of risk.

The Vikings wouldn’t necessarily ask Stingley to step in and cover an opponent’s top receiver right away. [Patrick] Peterson could serve as an excellent mentor for Stingley if the Vikings re-sign him, helping the 20-year-old establish the right habits and learn how to be a professional at the onset of his NFL career.

Click here for Bleacher Report’s full mock draft.

Brentley Weissman of The Draft Network

The predicted pick at No. 12: Jermaine Johnson, Edge Rusher, Florida State

Jermaine Johnson stole the show in last week’s Senior Bowl and was arguably the best player in Mobile. He is coming off a dominant season at Florida State and offers a well-rounded game as an edge defender. He has very good length, get-off, bend, and has excellent power against the pass and run. He is truly a three-down edge whose best football is still ahead of him. The Vikings have needed more edge help for the last few years and finally got some here.

Click here for Weissman’s full mock draft.

Joe Marino of The Draft Network

The predicted pick at No. 12: Derek Stingley, Jr., Cornerback, LSU

Even though Rick Spielman and Mike Zimmer are no longer in the mix in Minnesota, the Vikings are still in need of cornerback help as recent investments have failed to pan out.

Derek Stingley, Jr., is an immensely gifted player that delivered an elite true freshman campaign. While his contributions since haven’t been comparable, the talent around him and injuries are key factors to consider. He has an extremely high ceiling should he find that 2019 form.

Click here for Marino’s full mock draft.

Bryan Fischer of Athlon Sports

The predicted pick at No. 12: Derek Stingley, Jr., Cornerback, LSU

As much as the new regime in place could do with a fresh start under center, this isn’t the class to risk a choice on a QB. Stingley has a top grade from many despite various issues the last two years and, if healthy, can slot in as the top corner almost right away as a rookie given his fluid movement skills.

Click here for Fischer’s full mock draft.