One of the biggest surprises from the 2022 NFL draft so far is the fact that Liberty quarterback Malik Willis is still on the board heading into Day 2.
While this year’s quarterback class has long been discussed as a weaker-than-normal group with more questions than answers, Willis’ skill set gives him the most potential of anyone in the group. That didn’t stop Pitt’s Kenny Pickett from being the only passer off the board Thursday night, landing with the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 20 overall.
So, why is Willis still on the board, despite many projections having him as a top-20 pick and first-round lock for months?
While his physical tools are off the charts, and he’s a highly intelligent player who should excel in the film room, Willis still might need some time in the league before he’s ready to start. He was dominant against lower-level competition, but struggled against his strongest opponents. His toughest test came against Ole Miss, when he was frustrated by tons of quarters coverage.
Willis will face even tougher and more complex defenses in the NFL, and it’ll take some time for him to learn how to manipulate them. He’s got elite arm talent and athleticism, which gives him superstar potential, but it might take more time than many teams are willing to give, especially for a first-round pick.
Teams picking in the first round who might have a need at quarterback clearly prioritized other positions where players might be able to make a more immediate impact, instead of spending their top pick on a quarterback who might not be able to start right away. While Pickett lacks Willis’ ceiling, his ability to be a Day 1 starter clearly appealed to the Steelers, and that might have been the case for other teams.
Willis could end up being a huge steal on Day 2 if he lands in the right situation, and those teams who passed on him might end up regretting their impatience down the road if he reaches his lofty potential.
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2022 NFL mock draft: Updated projections for 2nd, 3rd rounds
