Marvel and ESPN have joined together to craft some special comic covers for the 2022 NFL Draft. The publisher and sports organization have revealed special edition Marvel covers honoring the players potentially drafted to the NFL. These covers take inspiration from some of Marvel’s most iconic series and characters. As such, players Matt Araiza, Ikem “Ickey” Ekwonu, Aidan Hutchinson, and Malik Willis received the Marvel treatment.
What Do These 2022 NFL Draft Covers Look Like?
Earlier today, Marvel revealed the reimagined covers alongside their classic counterparts. The covers include new takes on classic Marvel moments featuring Thor, Hulk, and Captain America. Up first is Matt Araiza. The former San Diego State punter is stepping into the shoes of the Mighty Thor. The NFL hopeful replaces the God of Thunder on the 1966 cover of Thor #365 by Walt Simonson. While Thor swings down on his hammer in the original cover, Araiza is gearing up to kick a football.
Next up, tackle and recent Panthers pick Ickey Ekwonu is stepping in for the Incredible Hulk. The newly drafted player takes over for Bruce Banner’s alter ego on the cover of 2008’s Hulk #11 from Ed Mcguinness. While the Hulk stampedes across the iconic cover with his superhero pals behind him, Ickey speeds across the field, bolstered by his teammates.
Who Else Got the Marvel Treatment?
In addition to Araiza and Ekwonu, Aidan Hutchinson is making his Marvel debut. The All-American edge rusher was picked up by the Detroit Lions on Thursday. Now, he is taking over for another All-American. He replaces Captain America on the cover of 2002’s Captain America #4 by John Cassaday. While the original sees Steve Rogers raising his shield as he races towards the reader, Hutchinson is clutching a football as he speeds to the front.
Finally, American quarterback Malik Willis is the final football player to get a comic book makeover. The NFL hopeful is taking Tony Stark’s place on the cover of 2004’s The Invincible Iron Man #3 from Adi Granov. While Tony, in his Iron Man gear, holds his helmet in hand, Willis is instead holding a football helmet and matching Iron Man colors.
These covers are a great way to commemorate the 2022 NFL Draft and celebrate comics.
