Analyzing the Detroit Lions’ options with the No. 2 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft: Malik Willis, Travon Walker and more

It’s no secret the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft carries less value than in previous years. Last offseason, there were a handful of franchise quarterback prospects on the board, in addition to a few “generational” talents at other positions. The Detroit Lions have none of that on the table this year. That’s not to say there aren't skilled prospects to choose from, because there are, but the options aren’t “sure things” like in previous classes. 

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Here’s a look at the odds of who ends up going second overall in the 2022 NFL Draft:

Odds to be the No. 2 overall pick, via DraftKings Sportsbook

• Edge Aidan Hutchinson, Michigan Wolverines (+250)
• Edge Travon Walker, Georgia Bulldogs (+250)
• QB Malik Willis, Liberty Flames (+350)
• S Kyle Hamilton, Notre Dame Fighting Irish (+550)
• CB Ahmad Gardner, Cincinnati Bearcats (+1000)
• Edge Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon Ducks (+1200)
• T Ikem Ekwonu, North Carolina State Wolfpack (+1200)
• T Evan Neal, Alabama Crimson Tide (+1200)

*Odds as of the morning of March 31

Needless to say, the No. 2 pick is still a crapshoot. Detroit is keeping things close to the vest, and there’s always the chance they trade out of the selection. Let’s dive into all of the Lions' options with the second overall pick and examine the best- and worst-case scenarios.

THE FAVORITES

EDGE AIDAN HUTCHINSON, MICHIGAN WOLVERINES

Hutchinson getting bypassed at No. 1 overall and landing in the hands of the Lions would be a dream for the franchise. They’d sprint the card in faster than head coach Dan Campbell could down one of his 40-ounce coffees. 

The Michigan edge defender is the best prospect in this class and is fresh off a historic campaign with the Wolverines. He generated more PFF Wins Above Average (WAA) in 2021 than any other edge defender in the PFF College era, edging out extraordinary seasons from Chase Young, Joey Bosa and Nick Bosa.

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