A lot has been made of the Big 12’s lack of first-round selections in the 2021 and 2022 NFL drafts. While it was the second-straight draft without a first round pick from the Big 12, don’t expect that run to go to three straight drafts. The Oklahoma Sooners have a pair of players who’ve already seen some buzz in way-too-early 2023 mock drafts. Wide receiver Marvin Mims and offensive tackle Anton Harrison.
Looking ahead to the 2022 college football season, the Big 12 has a lot of talented players to watch this year. Bijan Robinson, Quentin Johnston, and Deuce Vaughn provide some high-end talent that could get the Big 12 multiple picks in the first round in 2023.
Kyle Kensing of Athlon Sports took a look at 10 players to watch in the Big 12 in 2022 ahead of the 2023 NFL draft and he included [autotag]Anton Harrison[/autotag] and [autotag]Marvin Mims[/autotag].
Here’s what Kensing had to say.
One big reason — literally and figuratively — to assume the Big 12 will not again be shut out of the NFL draft’s first round is Harrison. The star bookend for Oklahoma’s potent offense may well be the first tackle taken next year. – Kensing, Athlon Sports
Harrison is a bit of a surprise after starting just one season for the Sooners. He’s certainly a talented player, he just needs to put together a dominant 2022 to be considered the top offensive lineman in the draft like he was in Pro Football Focus’ mock draft.
Kensing is equally high on Mims who is looking for the first 1,000-yard season in his collegiate career.
The All-Big 12 selection and electrifying big-play threat could well be a top-10 pick come next spring. Mims maximized his opportunities in 2021, offering up a sampling of his explosiveness. In 2022, expect much more production from Mims as he gets to showcase more of his reliable hands, speed and ball IQ. – Kensing, Athlon Sports
Mims isn’t much of a surprise as the Sooners leading receiver over the last two seasons. He’s expected to have an even more productive year in 2022 as the lead guy in the receiving corps.
Despite the losses to the NFL and the transfer portal, Oklahoma has a talented roster that should have them in contention for the Big 12 and perhaps a spot in the College Football Playoff. For them to get back to the top of the conference, they’ll need big seasons from Mims and Harrison on the offensive side of the ball.
For the two Sooners to be in consideration in next year’s first-round, they’ll need to have big seasons as well.
[listicle id=60965]
Contact/Follow us @SoonersWire on Twitter, and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oklahoma news, notes, and opinions. Let us know your thoughts, comment on this story below. Join the conversation today.