2022 NFL Draft: Todd McShay makes George Pickens prediction ahead of Round 2

Even after six wide receivers were taken in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft on Thursday night, even more could be picked early on in the second round on Friday. One of those receivers that could go early in the second round of the NFL Draft is Georgia Bulldogs wideout George Pickens.

Following the first round of the NFL Draft, ESPN draft expert Todd McShay made a bold prediction for Day 2 involving Pickens. In McShay’s eyes, Pickens is the best wideout remaining on the board, and he will go early in the second round on Friday.

“Georgia receiver George Pickens will be the first wide receiver off the board,” McShay said. “He adjusts to the ball in the air so well, and I love the way he tracks the deep ball. He missed most of last season with a torn ACL in his right knee, but he is healthy and ready to make a big impact in the NFL.”

CLICK HERE to get 30% OFF your Georgia Bulldogs National Championship apparel

McShay actually had Pickens as a projected first-round pick, going at 30th overall in his latest mock draft before the opening round took place. That did not prove to be the case, though, and now Pickens will likely know where he will play next early on Friday night.

Pickens has gained steam late in the NFL Draft process

In 2019, Pickens began his collegiate career at Georgia, hauling in 49 receptions for 727 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging 14.8 yards per catch in 12 games. In 2020, he played in eight games and averaged 14.3 yards per catch with 36 receptions for 513 yards and six touchdowns. Pickens dealt with a torn ACL that forced him to miss most of the 2021 season. He returned late in the year and played in four games, bringing in five receptions for 107 yards and averaging 21.4 yards per reception.

When Pickens is selected on Friday, he can only add to an already impressive NFL Draft for Georgia. The Bulldogs had five defensive players taken in the first round on Thursday, setting a new NFL record. With Pickens and Nakobe Dean, among others, still available, the impressive draft night is likely to continue in the second round for the defending national champions.

The first five picks of the second round are currently owned by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Minnesota Vikings, Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, and Houston Texans.