Speed, explosion, elusiveness and the ability to create in open space are key traits for today's NFL offenses, and we see plenty of that in the 2022 NFL draft class. Just look at the ridiculously fast 40-yard dash times turned in at the combine this year. Or go open up the tape on some of the top-tier players in the class. Good luck tackling some of these lightning-quick talents.
Whether it be on a deep shot to a receiver on a vertical route or a pop pass to someone on a jet sweep, NFL teams use speed and suddenness to their advantage, getting playmakers in open space so they can create. The 2022 All-Satellite team is littered with prospects who are tough to contain when they get some room to operate, and I ranked the best of the best.
This marks the 13th edition of this list, dating back to C.J. Spiller and the 2010 class. Past iterations have included the likes of Odell Beckham Jr., Brandin Cooks, Christian McCaffrey, Lamar Jackson, Tyler Lockett and Kyler Murray. The 2021 class was headlined by Jaylen Waddle, who showcased his explosiveness on multiple occasions as a rookie. The 2022 edition is packed full of talented receivers, including another Alabama pass-catcher atop the list. Here are the seven best prospects in space from this year's class.