The Jacksonville Jaguars kicked off the 2022 N.F.L. draft with a risky, counterintuitive selection that could mire the franchise at the bottom of the standings for years if it backfires.
In other words, it was a typical start to a typically unpredictable first round.
The Jaguars selected Georgia edge rusher Travon Walker with the No. 1 overall pick in the draft. Walker recorded a mere six sacks in the 2021 season for the College Football Playoff champions, but his 35.5-inch arms and outstanding results in athletic tests like the three-cone drill impressed scouts during the pre-draft process, prompting the Jaguars to choose him over higher-rated, more-accomplished prospects.