Written by Christian Lysek
It finally happened. The draft was full of shocking selections, risers, fallers, babies, emotions, and misspellings. With the 2017 draft in the books, let's look how each team graded out.
Arizona Cardinals:
Round 1: Haason Reddick, LB, Temple
Round 2: Budda Baker, S, Washington
Round 3: Chad Williams, WR, Grambling State
Round 4: Dorian Johnson, OG, Pitt
Round 5: Will Holden, OT, Vanderbilt
Round 5: TJ Logan, RB, UNC
Round 6: Rudy Ford, FS, Auburn
The Cards started off their draft by selecting Haason Reddick. Reddick brings athleticism and versatility to the Cardinal's defense and will be a nice replacement for Kevin Minter. The Budda Baker selection was curious because he played the same slot corner/safety hybrid role in college that Tyrann Mathieu does now. Chad Williams was a reach, but he has considerable upside. Dorian Johnson was a nice value, as he could start day one at guard. Will Holden is a nice developmental tackle prospect and depth player. TJ Logan is the new backup running back who replaces Chris Johnson and Andre Ellington. Rudy Ford is injury prone but flashed potential when he was healthy at Auburn. Overall, the Cardinals drafted quite a few instant impact players that will help them rebound in 2017.
Favorite Pick: Haason Reddick
Least Favorite Pick: Chad Williams
Grade: B+
Atlanta Falcons:
Round 1: Takkarist McKinley, EDGE, UCLA
Round 3: Duke Riley, LB, LSU
Round 4: Sean Harlow, OG, Oregon State
Round 5: Damontae Kazee, CB, San Diego State
Round 5: Brian Hill, RB, Wyoming
Round 5: Eric Saubert, TE, Drake
The Falcons used their first pick on Takkarist McKinley, who fits like a glove in Dan Quinn's scheme. He is a tremendous athlete with speed, quickness, and a non-stop motor. He will make a nice pairing with Vic Beasley. Duke Riley was their next selection, and I see him as every bit as good of a prospect as Deion Jones was. Those two former Tigers will form an athletic duo built to stop modern NFL offenses. Sean Harlow will compete to fill in Chris Chester's offensive guard spot. Damontae Kazee will lock down slot corners and use his instincts to create turnovers. Brian Hill provides depth behind the Falcons two stud running backs and insurance in case one departs. Eric Saubert is a developmental tight end who can be an extra receiving threat for Matt Ryan. The Falcons took players that fit their scheme and filled their few holes with this draft.
Favorite Pick: Tak McKinnely
Least Favorite Pick: Brian Hill
Grade: B+
Baltimore Ravens:
Round 1: Marlon Humphrey, CB, Alabama
Round 2: Tyus Bowser, EDGE, Houston
Round 3: Chris Wormley, DL, Michigan
Round 3: Tim Williams, EDGE, Alabama
Round 4: Nico Siragusa, OG, San Diego State
Round 5: Jermaine Eluemunor, OL, Texas A&M
Round 6: Chuck Clark, FS, Virginia Tech
Marlon Humphrey was definitely a reach, but his attitude and play style definitely scream Raven. Tyus Bowser got a late rise as an EDGE prospect and fits the Raven's 3-4 scheme. Chris Wormley is a hard-working defensive lineman who can start on day one and have an impact. Tim Williams is one of the riskiest picks in the draft because of his lack of run support and frequent off-field issues, but he has some upside. Nico Siragusa is a road-grater who needs time to develop but could eventually start. Jermaine Eluemunor also needs time to develop, but he may one day fill for the departed Ricky Wagner at right tackle. Chuck Clark is an unexciting prospect, but one that can provide depth and contribute on special teams. Overall, I'm not a fan of this draft. It was full of reaches and boom-or-bust players. Worst of all, the Ravens failed to address their dire need at offensive skill positions. Prepare for more of the same Ravens this fall: a very good defense, coupled with an anemic, borderline unwatchable offense.
Favorite Pick: Chris Wormley
Least Favorite Pick: Tim Williams
Grade: D+
Buffalo Bills:
Round 1: Tre'Davious White, CB, LSU
Round 2: Zay Jones, WR, East Carolina
Round 2: Dion Dawkins, OL, Temple
Round 5: Matt Milano, LB, Boston College
Round 5: Nate Peterman, QB, Pitt
Round 6: Tanner Vallejo, LB, Boise State
The Bills traded down from the 10th overall pick to take Tre'Davious White, who should be a day one starter and Stephon Gillmore's replacement. Zay Jones is a sure-handed receiver who nicely complements the speed of Sammy Watkins. Dion Dawkins provides depth across the offensive line and should eventually start at tackle or guard. Matt Milano is an instinctive linebacker from a school known for producing hard working defenders. Nate Peterman was a steal, and he could be the Bills eventual franchise quarterback. Tanner Vallejo has good tape, but injuries have bogged down his career. Overall, the Bills had a very good draft. They found good value in each round and did so while trading down.
Favorite Pick: Nate Peterman
Least Favorite Pick: Tanner Vallejo
Grade: A
Carolina Panthers:
Round 1: Christian McCaffrey, RB, Stanford
Round 2: Curtis Samuel, WR, Ohio State
Round 2: Taylor Moton, OL, Western Michigan
Round 3: Daeshon Hall, EDGE, Texas A&M
Round 5: Corn Elder, CB, Miami
Round 6: Alex Armah, FB, West Georgia
Round 7: Harrison Butker, K, Georgia Tech
You either love the Panther's taking Christian McCaffrey or hate the choice. I personally love it. McCaffrey is a four down weapon who will be able to do everything the Panthers can possibly ask at a high level. The draft got weird from that point on. Curtis Samuel was a weird choice because he was a guy that was thought to be the man to get if you're team didn't get Christian McCaffrey. Since the Panthers did, it will be interesting to see how they use Samuel. My guess is that he will occupy the role once played by Ted Ginn. Their next pick made sense, as they need offensive line depth and Moton has starting tackle potential. Daeshon Hall was a good pick since the team needs EDGE rushers and Hall is a very good athlete, but I still felt as though Hall wasn't the best EDGE rusher on the board. Corn Elder was a great pick, as he can lock down the slot corner position and is a fearless defender for his size. Alex Armah is a fullback and one that I had never heard of until the Panthers took him. That pick was a reach. As was their selection of the kicker, as there were several players who should have gone much earlier still on the board (Isaiah Ford, Noah Brown, Kyle Fuller, Jack Tocho, Malachi Dupre) who play more important positions than kicker. The Panther's draft was all over the spectrum, with a few home run picks and some head-scratching ones as well.
Favorite Pick: Christian McCaffrey
Least Favorite Pick: Alex Armah
Grade: B-
Chicago Bears:
Round 1: Mitch Trubisky, QB, UNC
Round 2: Adam Shaheen, TE, Ashland
Round 4: Eddie Jackson, S, Alabama
Round 4: Tarik Cohen, RB, North Carolina A&T
Round 5: Jordan Morgan, OL, Kutztown
The Bears began day one by being swindled by a rookie general manager with no front office experience. It did not get better from there. With their first pick, they took Mitch Trubisky, a fine quarterback prospect and a player I like. There was no reason to trade up, though, so it sours the pick. Next, they took Adam Shaheen, a tight end from Ashland. I like Shaheen as a player, but taking a D-II player in round two is a reach. They actually got a decent value in Eddie Jackson, who fell to the fourth round due to injury concerns. He can compete for the starting free safety job this fall. Tarik Cohen is a fine player, but the Bears took him while Donnell Pumphrey was still on the board, which is so dumb it's stupefying. That's like picking Tyler Ulis instead of Isaiah Thomas during pick-up basketball. Jordan Morgan isn't a bad developmental prospect, but we are talking about a team that has one of the five best interior lines in football. Drafting a guard made no sense. Sorry Bears fans, you're team had a really bad draft.
Favorite Pick: Eddie Jackson
Least Favorite Pick: Tarik Cohen
Grade: D-
Cincinnati Bengals:
Round 1: John Ross, WR, Washington
Round 2: Joe Mixon, RB, Oklahoma
Round 3: Jordan Willis, EDGE, Kansas State
Round 4: Carl Lawson, EDGE, Auburn
Round 4: Josh Malone, WR, Tennessee
Round 4: Ryan Glasgow, DL, Michigan
Round 5: Jake Elliot, K, Memphis
Round 5: J.J. Dielman, OL, Utah
Round 6: Jordan Evans, LB, Oklahoma
Round 6: Brandon Wilson, ATH, Houston
Round 7: Mason Schrek, TE, Buffalo
If you had a friend that drank too much, would you have them go through rehab in a bar with a bunch of drunks? Of course not, because that is dumb. The Bengals apparently would disagree. They are one of those teams like the Jets that think they can draft and turnaround problem players even though they clearly cannot. This makes the Joe Mixon pick a terrible decision. The Bengals thought it would be a great idea to put him on the same time as the borderline psychotic Vontaze Burfict and the always problematic Adam "Pacman" Jones. Mixon needed to go to a team with established leadership, which isn't the Bengals, a team notorious for lacking any sort of self-control
As for the other picks, the Bengals did well. John Ross is now the fastest man in the league and will open up the passing game to Andy Dalton. Jordan Willis is a high-effort player who excels against the run and gets hustle sacks. Carl Lawson is the opposite. He is a pass rusher with questions about run support and injuries. Ryan Glasgow is a mean run stuffer with the genes to stay in the league. Josh Malone is a high upside receiver with size and speed. Jake Elliot fills a need, but I'm not sure why they took him and not Zane Gonzales. J.J. Dielman is a draft and develop guy who could eventually start at tackle. Jordan Evans is a quality depth piece at linebacker who can blitz. Brandon Wilson is a man without a position, but he has enough athletic upside to warrant this selection. Mason Schrek can back up the often injured Tyler Eifert.
Favorite Pick: Carl Lawson
Least Favorite Pick: Joe Mixon
Grade: C+
Cleveland Browns:
Round 1: Myles Garrett, EDGE, Texas A&M
Round 1: Jabrill Peppers, S, Michigan
Round 1: David Njoku, TE, Miami
Round 2: DeShone Kizer, QB, Notre Dame
Round 3: Larry Ogunjobi, DL, Charlotte
Round 4: Howard Wilson, CB, Houston
Round 5: Roderick Johnson, OT, Florida State
Round 6: Caleb Brantley, DL, Florida
Round 7: Zane Gonzalez, K, Arizona State
Round 7: Matthew Dayes, RB, North Carolina
The Browns had a potential franchise-altering draft. Myles Garrett is the cornerstone of the Browns new defense and has DPOY potential. Once Jabrill Peppers fixes his flaws, he has All-Pro potential as a safety. David Njoku had the highest upside of any tight end in this year's class. DeShone Kizer worries me because I can easily see him as a bust, but then again, he wasn't a bad second round value. Larry Ogunjobi is a high upside prospect who can play next to Danny Shelton on the defensive line. Roderick Johnson was a mess in college, but his tools are worth gambling on in this bad of a draft class for tackles, especially in the 5th round. Caleb Brantley is a very risky pick, but he was a round two prospect before his off-field incident. Zane Gonzalez was the best kicker in college last year and should immediately start for the Browns. Dayes is a quick and shifty running back with excellent route running, vision, and hands. He will be a nice change of pace back for Cleveland. Overall, this was a nice class for the Browns that could change the fate of this long-dead franchise.
Favorite Pick: Myles Garrett
Least Favorite Pick: DeShone Kizer
Grade: A-
Dallas Cowboys:
Round 1: Taco Charlton, EDGE, Michigan
Round 2: Chidobe Awuzie, CB, Colorado
Round 3: Jourdan Lewis, CB, Michigan
Round 4: Ryan Switzer, WR, UNC
Round 6: Xavier Woods, S, Louisiana Tech
Round 6: Marquez White, CB, Florida State
Round 7: Joey Ivie, DT, Florida
Round 7: Noah Brown, WR, Ohio State
Round 7: Jordan Carrell, DL, Colorado
The Cowboys went for the big name in Taco Charlton in the first round, and he should immediately boost their pass rush. Chidobe Awuzie is a first round talent. He is physical, big, and has nice ball skills. Also, a first round talent is Jourdan Lewis. While he may be only a slot corner, his ability to mirror routes is the best in the class. Ryan Switzer is a very good slot corner, but this pick is weird because they already have Cole Beasley. Xavier Woods and Marquez White were great values. Both can be starters at some point in the NFL. Joey Ivie was often injured, but he flashed while in Gainsville. Noah Brown has very little tape to go off of, but he has a very high ceiling due to his size and athleticism. Jordan Carrell with makes a quality depth piece. This was another scary good draft class for a team looking to contend for a Super Bowl in 2017.
Favorite Pick: Chidobe Awuzie
Least Favorite Pick: Ryan Switzer
Grade: A
Denver Broncos:
Round 1: Garrett Bolles, OT, Utah
Round 2: DeMarcus Walker, EDGE, Florida State
Round 3: Carlos Henderson, WR, Louisiana Tech
Round 3: Brendan Langley, CB, Lamar
Round 5: Jake Butt, TE, Michigan
Round 5: Isaiah McKenzie, WR, Georgia
Round 6: De'Angelo Henderson, RB, Coastal Carolina
Round 7: Chad Kelly, QB, Ole Miss
The Broncos addressed their atrocious offensive line by drafting Garrett Bolles. While he is older, he is extremely athletic and mean as all get out. He locked down a tackle spot for the Broncos. DeMarcus Walker is a guy I liked a lot more than others. He may not be an elite athlete, but he has violent hands, versatility, and a good motor. Carlos Henderson is the best YAC receiver in the class and he adds a new, dynamic layer for an offense that relies on deep bombs and breakaway runs. Brendan Langley has questions as to why he couldn't hold a starting job at Georgia, but he has considerable upside. Still, he was a reach. The Broncos then picked Jake Butt, who could be the next Jason Witten if he can come back from an ACL tear. Isaiah McKenzie was a weird pick because he is basically Carlos Henderson but a lot smaller. De'Angelo Henderson will make a nice third-down option and backup to CJ Anderson. Chad Kelly is a talented prospect with more baggage than a grocery store. Still, he is worth the Mr. Irelevent pick.
Favorite Pick: DeMarcus Walker
Least Favorite Pick: Isaiah McKenzie
Grade: C+
Detroit Lions:
Round 1: Jarrad Davis, LB, Florida
Round 2: Teez Tabor, CB, Florida
Round 3: Kenny Golladay, WR, Northern Illinois
Round 4: Jalen Reeves-Maybin, LB, Tennessee
Round 4: Michael Roberts, TE, Toledo
Round 5: Jamal Agnew, CB, San Diego State
Round 6: Jeremiah Ledbetter, EDGE, Arkansas
Round 6: Brad Kaaya, QB, Miami
Round 7: Pat O'Connor, EDGE, Eastern Michigan
The Lions had some of the worst linebackers in the league last year, but they fixed their woes by selecting two great linebackers built for the modern NFL in Jarrad Davis and Jalen Reeves-Maybin. Both have serious injury questions to answer, but they each have great upside and could be a terrifying duo when healthy. Teez Tabor will play across from Darius Slay, and while he had bad combine times, he had first round game film. Kenny Golladay was a reach, but he has size and upside. Michael Roberts will be a nice blocking tight end and red-zone threat. Jamal Agnew was part of a stellar San Diego State secondary and has starter potential in the NFL. Jeremiah Ledbetter is a great athlete whose tools need to be honed. Brad Kaaya fell like a boulder in this draft, but he gives the Lions a nice project quarterback to groom. Pat O'Connor has upside as an EDGE rusher and should immediately contribute on special teams. This was a strong draft filled some holes for the Lions, but the lack of a premier pass rusher to play with Ziggy Ansah holds the grade down.
Favorite Pick: Jalen Reeves-Maybin
Least Favorite Pick: Jeremiah Ledbetter
Grade: B+
Green Bay Packers:
Round 2: Kevin King, CB, Washington
Round 2: Josh Jones, S, NC State
Round 3: Montravius Adams, DL, Auburn
Round 4: Vince Biegel, LB, Wisconsin
Round 4: Jamaal Williams, RB, BYU
Round 5: DeAngelo Yancey, WR, Purdue
Round 5: Aaron Jones, RB, UTEP
Round 6: Kofi Amichia, OG, South Florida
Round 7: Devante Mays, RB, Utah State
Round 7: Malachi Dupre, WR, LSU
The Packers spent their first pick on Kevin King, an athletic marvel with great size and ball skills. Expect him to start day one in Green Bay. Josh Jones is Micah Hyde 2.0: a guy who can play free safety, strong safety, and corner. Montravius Adams was, in my opinion, the second best interior defensive lineman in this draft. He is a physical freak and should be unleashed with the Packers. Vince Biegel can rush the passer, drop into coverage, and stop the run. He will compete for a starting linebacker spot. Jamaal Williams is a violent runner with a great work ethic. I expect him to split carries with Ty Montgomery. DeAngelo Yancey has good size and speed, he just has played for a bad Purdue team for the past few seasons. Aaron Jones will make a good third down back and reserve behind Montgomery and Williams. Kofi Amichia isn't ready to start, but he gives the team more competition for departing TJ Lang's guard spot. DeVante Mays is a big bruising back who will probably make his money on special teams. Malachi Dupre was under utilized at LSU and should get a chance to live up to his potential this fall.
Favorite Pick: Montravius Adams
Least Favorite Pick: DeVante Mays
Grade: A
Houston Texans:
Round 1: Deshaun Watson, QB, Clemson
Round 2: Zach Cunningham, LB, Vanderbilt
Round 3: D'Onta Foreman, RB, Texas
Round 4: Julie'n Davenport, OT, Bucknell
Round 4: Carlos Watkins, DL, Clemson
Round 5: Treston DeCoud, CB, Oregon State
Round 7: Kyle Fuller, C, Baylor
The Texans moved up to select Deshaun Watson, and I really like the move. Of the first round quarterback talents in this draft, he is the only one remotely ready to start now. He could be the final piece that pushes this team into Super Bowl contention. Zac Cunningham is an athletic and versatile linebacker perfectly built for the modern NFL. He should succeed Brian Cushing at some point. D'Onta Foreman is a bruising back and the closest thing to Marshawn Lynch in a long time. He will make a fearsome backfield with the lightning quick Lamar Miller. Julie'n Davenport is far from ready to smart due to his small school pedigree, but he has all of the tools to be a starting tackle in the NFL. Carlos Watkins fell unexpectedly far on draft night, but he will make a nice rotational piece and will make another fine edition to a loaded defense. Treston DeCoud is a long corner, but he needs to get heavier and better against the run. Kyle Fuller is a mean center who will provide depth to the offensive line.
Favorite Pick: Zach Cunningham
Least Favorite Pick: Treston DeCoud
Grade: B+
Indianapolis Colts:
Round 1: Malik Hooker, S, Ohio State
Round 2: Quincy Wilson, CB, Florida
Round 3: Tarell Basham, EDGE, Ohio
Round 4: Zach Banner, OL, USC
Round 4: Marlon Mack, RB, UCF
Round 4: Grover Stewart, DL, Albany State
Round 5: Nate Hairston, CB, Temple
Round 5: Anthony Walker Jr., LB, Northwestern
The difference between the Ryan Grigson era of drafts and the Chris Ballard era of drafts is night and day. Ballard started off his draft by picking Malik Hooker, a top ten talent and turnover machine, with the 15th pick. He followed that up by getting Quincy Wilson, a round one talent and arguably the second-best corner in the draft, in the second round. Those are two cornerstones that should go a long way to fixing the Colts secondary. Tarell Basham was a productive pass rusher in the MAC who could be the team's sack leader in the next few seasons. If this draft has a flaw, it would have to be the choice of Zach Banner. He is too unathletic to play tackle and too big to play guard. I just don't see where he fits unless he cuts a lot of weight. Marlon Mack reminds me of Tiki Barber and he will make an intimidating thunder-lightning combo with Frank Gore until Gore retires. Grover Stewart is a mammoth of a man from a tiny school. He an amazing set of physical tools and could develop into a monster on the field. Nate Hairston is still learning how to play corner after transitioning from wide receiver, but he has the physical ability and tools to contribute on special teams and add depth. Anthony Walker Jr. was a productive linebacker for three years at Northwestern, and he could win a starting job this season if he can prove himself in coverage. This Colt's draft was a breath of fresh air from the awful Ryan Grigson drafts. This is a class that could very quickly turn this team around.
Favorite Pick: Quincy Wilson
Least Favorite Pick: Zach Banner
Grade: A
Jacksonville Jaguars:
Round 1: Leonard Fournette, RB, LSU
Round 2: Cam Robinson, OL, Alabama
Round 3: Dawuane Smoot, EDGE, Illinois
Round 4: Dede Westbrook, WR, Oklahoma
Round 5: Blair Brown, LB, Ohio
Round 7: Jalen Myrick, CB, Minnesota
Round 7: Marquez Williams, FB, Miami
Leonard Fournette signifies a culture change in Jacksonville. With the Jacksonville defense being stacked on paper, drafting Fournette shows that the Jaguars are trying to emulate the control the clock style of play the Cowboys and Seahawks use. Fournette can be given practically an unlimited number of carries a game. He is a freak and a slam-dunk pick. Cam Robinson has awesome potential due to his size and athleticism, but his off the field issues, constant penalties, and inconsistent game film give him a high bust potential. Dawuane Smoot is a speed rusher who experienced a dip in production in 2016, but the potential is there. Dede Westbrook is an undersized but speedy receiver with college production. Unfortunately, his off the field issues, size, and age make me hate this pick. Blair Brown is an athletic linebacker who dominated the MAC, but the Jaguars are already loaded at linebacker. Jalen Myrick is one of the fastest players in the draft who should add depth and special team's ability to the Jags. Marquez Williams will pave the way for Leonard Fournette in certain packages.
Favorite Pick: Leonard Fournette
Least Favorite Pick: Dede Westbrook
Grade: C-
Kansas City Chiefs:
Round 1: Patrick Mahomes, QB, Texas Tech
Round 2: Tanoh Kpassagnon, DL, Villanova
Round 3: Kareem Hunt, RB, Toledo
Round 4: Jehu Chesson, WR, Michigan
Round 5: Ukeme Eligwe, EDGE, Georgia Southern
Round 6: Leon McQuay III, S, USC
The Pat Mahomes selection was one of my least favorite of this draft. The Chiefs have a great all around roster filled will depth. This team could compete for a Superbowl now, and yet, the gave up their first round pick this year, next year, and some change for an air raid system quarterback who, if he doesn't bust, might take so long to develop all of the Chief's best players like Eric Berry and Justin Houston may be out. Tanoh Kpassagnon looks like Groot and has great potential as a run stopper and pass rusher. Kareem Hunt is lightning quick and almost never fumbles the ball. Jehu Chesson is a receiver the Chiefs will probably have to manufacture touches for. Ukeme Eligwe is a small school athletic marvel with good potential to develop behind the Chief's bevy of pass rushers. Leon McQuay made the interception to help win the Rose Bowl, but he needs refinement in order to compete for a starting position. This Chiefs draft is based entirely off of potential, which seems odd for a team that needs impact players right now.
Favorite Pick: Tanoh Kpassagnon
Least Favorite Pick: Pat Mahomes
Grade: C-
Los Angeles Chargers:
Round 1: Mike Williams, WR, Clemson
Round 2: Forrest Lamp, OL, Western Kentucky
Round 3: Dan Feeney, OG, Indiana
Round 4: Rayshawn Jenkins, S, Miami
Round 5: Desmond King, CB/S, Iowa
Round 6: Sam Tevi, OL, Utah
Round 7: Issac Rochell, EDGE, Notre Dame
The Chargers spent the first few picks of the draft getting help for Phillip Rivers. Mike Williams gives Rivers a big target who can grab 50-50 balls and adjust to tough passes. Forrest Lamp will solidify and tackle or guard spot for the next several years. He was a first round talent whom the Chargers were fortunate to land. Dan Feeney was a second round value who will lock up on of the starting guard spots on the offensive line. Lamp and Feeney will protect Phillip Rivers and rip open holes for Melvin Gordon. Rayshawn Jenkins is a fast, mean enforcer who will compete for a starting safety spot. Desmond King can play safety or corner. He has great ball skills and is a solid tackler against the run. Sam Tevi should get time to develop and eventually start as a tackle. Issac Rochell is a decent prospect who gives effort but doesn't excel in any one area.
Favorite Pick: Forrest Lamp
Least Favorite Pick: Issac Rochell
Grade: A
Los Angeles Rams:
Round 2: Gerald Everett, TE, South Alabama
Round 3: Cooper Kupp, WR, Eastern Washington
Round 3: John Johnson, S, Boston College
Round 4: Josh Reynolds, WR, Texas A&M
Round 4: Samson Ebukam, LB, Eastern Washington
Round 6: Tanzel Smart, DL, Tulane
Round 7: Ejuan Price, EDGE, Pitt
The Rams set out to do two things this draft: get weapons for Jared Goff and load up on defense. Gerald Everett is a small school tight end who moves like a wide receiver and blocks with effort. Cooper Kupp excelled as a slot and possession receiver for four seasons at Eastern Washington. He will give Goff a reliable safety blanket to throw to. John Johnson can play safety or corner. He will minimize the loss of either TJ McDonald or Janoris Jenkins. If Cooper Kupp is the safety blanket, Josh Reynolds is the home run threat. He is a tall, lanky wide receiver with great hands and game speed. Samson Ekuban is a high upside prospect who needs time to develop. Tanzel Smart is an absolute bull and should provide nice depth in the front seven. Ejuan Price is a productive but undersized pass rusher from Pitt. Think Elvis Dumerville lite. The Rams had a good draft. It isn't franchise-altering, but it was solid.
Favorite Pick: Josh Reynolds
Least Favorite Pick: Samson Ebukam
Grade: B
Miami Dolphins:
Round 1: Charles Harris, EDGE, Missouri
Round 2: Raekwon McMillan, LB, Ohio State
Round 3: Cordrea Tankersley, CB, Clemson
Round 5: Issac Asiata, OL, Utah
Round 5: Davon Godchaux, DL, LSU
Round 6: Vincent Taylor, DL, Oklahoma State
Round 7: Isaiah Ford, WR, Virginia Tech
Charles Harris is explosive, but he needs some refinement to be a true pass rushing stud. Good thing he will get to learn under Cameron Wake, one of the most explosive rushers in the league and a perennial Pro-Bowler. Raekwon McMillan will start day one for the Dolphins and should strengthen a very weak linebacking corps. Cordrea Tankersley had a very unexpected draft day slide. I thought he was a round two talent. He could lock up a starting role next to Byron Maxwell. Issac Asiata will compete for the starting left guard spot now that Laremy Tunsil is moving to tackle. Davon Godchaux is a physical monster who needs a fire lit under him to become the productive player he can be. Vincent Taylor will lock up a rotational spot as a run-stuffer. Isaiah Ford should have been drafted much higher than this spot. He will be a good option behind DeVante Parker, Jarvis Landry, and Kenny Stills. The Dolphins effectively addressed their needs and made more steps to becoming a playoff contender.
Favorite Pick: Charles Harris
Least Favorite Pick: Vincent Taylor
Grade: A-
Minnesota Vikings:
Round 2: Dalvin Cook, RB, Florida State
Round 3: Pat Elflien, OL, Ohio State
Round 4: Jaleel Johnson, DL, Iowa
Round 4: Ben Gedeon, LB, Michigan
Round 5: Rodney Adams, WR, South Florida
Round 5: Danny Isidora, OG, Miami
Round 6: Bucky Hodges, TE, Virginia Tech
Round 7: Stacey Coley, WR, Miami
Round 7: Ifeadi Odenigbo, EDGE, Northwestern
Round 7: Elijah Lee, LB, Kansas State
Round 7: Jack Tocho, CB, NC State
The first Viking's pick didn't come until the second round, but it was well spent. Dalvin Cook is an explosive runner who will make a fearsome duo with Latavius Murray. Pat Elflien can play center or guard. He is an experienced starter who should be able to contribute immediately. Jaleel Johnson is a high upside player who gives the Vikings a backup plan if Sharif Floyd's injury forces him to retire. Ben Gedeon is a very instinctive linebacker who will compete with Emmanuel Lamur for a starting linebacker spot. Rodney Adams has good size and speed. He will make a good third or fourth receiver option. Danny Isidora will provide depth and compete for a starting role. Bucky Hodges is basically an over-sized slot receiver with a very high ceiling. Stacey Coley should have been picked before Rodney Adams in my opinion. He is a very solid prospect who performed well working with Brad Kaaya, a similar passer to Sam Bradford and Teddy Bridgewater. Ifeadi Odenigbo is a pure upside prospect who can get a rotational and special teams role. Elijah Lee will also compete for a starting linebacker spot and will serve on special teams. Jack Tocho probably should have gone earlier than this spot. He has good size and upside. This was a good draft for the Vikings. They got excellent value with almost every pick.
Favorite Pick: Pat Elflien
Least Favorite Pick: Rodney Adams
Grade: A-
New England Patriots:
Round 3: Derek Rivers, EDGE, Youngstown State
Round 3: Antonio Garcia, OT, Troy
Round 4: Deatrich Wise, EDGE, Arkansas
Round 6: Conor McDermott, OT, UCLA
The Patriots did not make their first selection until round three, where they picked Derek Rivers. I'm not as high on Rivers as others are, but he has the athleticism and tools coaches love. Antonio Garcia needs to gain strength, but he has great length and moves well for a large man. Deatrich Wise has condor-esq arms and good athleticism, but he needs lots of coaching in order to even scratch the surface of his potential. Connor McDermott moves well and has a good frame, he just needs to prove pro edge rushers will not manhandle him like Myles Garrett did when they went head to head.
Favorite Pick: Antonio Garcia
Least Favorite Pick: Deatrich Wise
Grade: B-
New Orleans Saints:
Round 1: Marshon Lattimore, CB, Ohio State
Round 1: Rayn Ramczyk, OT, Wisconsin
Round 2: Marcus Williams, S, Utah
Round 3: Alvin Kamara, RB, Tennessee
Round 3: Alex Anzalone, LB, Florida
Round 3: Trey Hendrickson, EDGE, Florida Atlantic
Round 6: Al-Quadin Muhammed, EDGE, Miami
The Saints hit a home run with their selection of Marshon Lattimore. He is a true lock down corner prospect who should have a great career with the Saints. Ryan Ramczyk will probably replace Zach Strief on the right side of the line. He will do a nice job keeping Drew Brees upright as he gets older. Marcus Williams is a ball hawk who should help prevent chunk plays from happening. Alvin Kamara is a weird selection since the Saint's backfield already has Adrian Peterson and Mark Ingram, but he may seize the starting job. Alex Anzalone has an injury history, but when he is healthy he shows great athleticism and instincts. Trey Hendrickson is on my draft crush team. He is a high motor player who will crack the Saint's rotation as a rookie. Al-Quadin Muhammed has talent, but he also has numerous off the field issues and hasn't played football in over a year.
Favorite Pick: Marshon Lattimore
Least Favorite Pick: Al-Quadin Muhammed
Grade: B
New York Giants:
Round 1: Evan Engram, TE, Ole Miss
Round 2: Dalvin Tomlinson, DL, Alabama
Round 3: Davis Webb, QB, Cal
Round 4: Wayne Gallman, RB, Clemson
Round 5: Avery Moss, EDGE, Youngstown State
Round 6: Adam Bisnowaty, OT, Pitt
The Giants fixed their tight end woes by selecting Evan Engram....maybe. The problem with Engram is that he is more of a massive slot receiver than an actual tight end. It will be interesting to see how Engram is used by Ben McAdoo. Dalvin Tomlinson is a solid run-stuffing tackle who should effectively replace Jonathan Hankins. Davis Webb is a very talented quarterback prospect who gives the Giants a man to develop into Eli Manning's replacement. Wayne Gallman is a violent runner who should get a fair share of carries as a rookie. Avery Moss is a high upside prospect with production. He just needs to adjust to NFL competition. Adam Bisnowaty is a solid tackle prospect who I think could start sooner than most think. This was a decent draft for the Giants, but I'm not sure they did enough to get over the hump and be a Super Bowl contender.
Favorite Pick: Davis Webb
Least Favorite Pick: Avery Moss
Grade: B-
New York Jets:
Round 1: Jamal Adams, S, LSU
Round 2: Marcus Maye, S, Florida
Round 3: ArDarius Stewart, WR, Alabama
Round 4: Chad Hansen, WR, Cal
Round 5: Jordan Leggett, TE, Clemson
Round 5: Dylan Donahue, EDGE, West Georgia
Round 6: Elijah McGuire, RB, Louisiana-Lafayette
Round 6: Jeremy Clark, CB, Michigan
Round 7: Derrick Jones, CB, Mississippi
Jamal Adams is the best strong safety prospect since Eric Berry. Getting him was a home run pick for the Jets. Marcus Maye seems like an odd pick after selecting a safety in the first round, but having two versatile and interchangeable safeties is a major advantage for the Jets. ArDarius Stewart is a high effort player who needs to learn the nuances of being a receiver. Chad Hansen isn't an athletic marvel, but he wins 50-50 balls and is a deep threat. Jordan Leggett has effort questions, but his talent is undeniable. Dylan Donahue is a small school project player with high upside. Elijah McGuire is a decent back, I just don't see the upside. Jeremy Clark has great size, he just needs to recover from the ACL tear he suffered last fall. Derrick Jones is a long, explosive prospect who the Jets can develop. The Jets didn't fill all of their needs, but with a depth chart as barren as theirs, going with the best player available was a sound strategy.
Favorite Pick: Jamal Adams
Least Favorite Pick: Elijah McGuire
Grade: B
Oakland Raiders:
Round 1: Gareon Conley, CB, Ohio State
Round 2: Obi Melifonwu, S, UCONN
Round 3: Eddie Vanderdoes, DL, UCLA
Round 4: David Sharpe, OL, Florida
Round 5: Marquel Lee, LB, Wake Forest
Round 7: Shalom Luani, S, Washington State
Round 7: Jayen Ware, OT, Alabama State
Round 7: Elijah Hood, RB, UNC
Round 7: Treyvon Hester, DL, Toledo
This class centers on Gareon Conley. If he is innocent, this pick is a steal. If not, it was a waste. I personally think that the first round is way too risky to select a player accused of rape, but that's just me. Obi Melifonwu is a versatile, athletic freak who, with some coaching, could greatly improve this porous secondary. Eddie Vanderdoes hasn't been healthy much, but when he is, he is a high-end nose tackle. David Sharpe needs to drop some weight, but he has starting potential at every spot on the offensive line. Marquel Lee is an aggressive linebacker who could start his rookie year. Shalom Luani isn't a great tackler and is undersized, but he has good ball skills and good be used on special teams. Jayen Ware is very raw, but he has enough physical tools to provide depth along the offensive line. Elijah Hood is a power back who will be added to the rotation for the Raiders. Treyvon Hester is a high upside pick to solidify the defensive line. This class has great potential, but it could also be terrible in a few years.
Favorite Pick: Obi Melifonwu
Least Favorite Pick: Gareon Conley
Grade: C-
Philadelphia Eagles:
Round 1: Derek Barnett, EDGE, Tennessee
Round 2: Sidney Jones, CB, Washington
Round 3: Rasul Douglas, CB, West Virginia
Round 4: Mack Hollins, WR, UNC
Round 4: Donnel Pumphrey, RB, San Diego State
Round 5: Shelton Gibson, WR, West Virginia
Round 5: Nate Gerry, S/LB, Nebraska
Round 6: Elijah Qualls, DL, Washington
Derek Barnett is one of my favorite players in the draft. I question how the Eagles will use him because they are already loaded at the EDGE position, but I trust Jim Schwartz will find a way to unleash Barnett. Sidney Jones may have to red-shirt the 2017 season due to injury, but in a few years, he may be the best corner from this class. Rasul Douglas isn't an athletic marvel, but he has a great nose for the ball and will help against the run. Mack Hollins has great potential to be a good receiver in the future, but for now, he is a special teams and red zone player. Donnel Pumphrey will be the successor to Darren Sproles. Shelton Gibson has wheels for days and could finally solve the Eagle's deep threat problem that has plagued them since the loss of DeSean Jackson. Nate Gerry will play a Deone Bucannon role for the Eagles as a monster back. Elijah Qualls is a run-stuffing defensive tackle who is strong as an ox. This draft wasn't bad, but I doubt this class will immediately turn around the Eagles.
Favorite Pick: Shelton Gibson
Least Favorite Pick: Mack Hollins
Grade: B-
Pittsburg Steelers:
Round 1: TJ Watt, EDGE, Wisconsin
Round 2: JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR, USC
Round 3: Cameron Sutton, CB, Tennessee
Round 3: James Connor, RB, Pitt
Round 4: Josh Dobbs, QB, Tennessee
Round 5: Brian Allen, CB, Utah
Round 6: Colin Holba, S/LS, Louisville
Round 7: Keion Adams, EDGE, Western Michigan
I mocked TJ Watt to the Steelers in each article I wrote. I think he is a perfect fit and should solve their EDGE issues. JuJu Smith-Schuster is another pick that screams Steeler. He is a strong receiver, get valuable YAC, and blocks with effort. Cameron Sutton has great football instincts, he just needs to stay healthy. James Connor is a big running back who shows determination like none other. He will make a very good backup to Le'Veon Bell. Josh Dobbs is a borderline genius quarterback who could develop into Big Ben's successor. Brian Allen is a long corner with high upside. Colin Holba is a long snapper, which the Steelers do need. He could have been a priority free agent signing though. Keion Adams was a productive rusher in the MAC, he just needs to prove he can hang with the big dogs.
Favorite Pick: TJ Watt
Least Favorite Pick: Colin Holba
Grade: B+
San Fransisco 49ers:
Round 1: Solomon Thomas, EDGE, Stanford
Round 1: Reuben Foster, LB, Alabama
Round 3: Ahkello Witherspoon, CB, Colorado
Round 3: CJ Beathard, QB, Iowa
Round 4: Joe Williams, RB, Utah
Round 5: George Kittle, TE, Iowa
Round 5: Trent Taylor, WR, Louisiana Tech
Round 6: DJ Jones, DL, Ole Miss
Round 6: Pita Taumoepenu, EDGE, Utah
Round 7: Adrian Colbert, S, Miami
John Lynch stole the Bear's cookies by acquiring three extra picks to get the player they wanted. Solomon Thomas is a versatile, explosive player who, combined with DeForest Buckner and Arik Armstead, gives the 49ers an identity. The 49ers then traded back into the first round to acquire one of the five best players in the draft. Reuben Foster is a wildcard, but if he can remain healthy, he will be a force for the Niners. Ahkello Witherspoon is a long corner with excellent cover skills. CJ Beathard is a questionable pick, because he has one of the lowest ceilings in this class. I don't see him being much more than a backup. Joe Williams is extremely talented, and if he is over his retirement issues (which I think he is), he could be a gem. George Kittle is a very good blocking tight end who was underutilized as a receiver. Expect him to get more chances in the pros. Trent Taylor is a shifty slot receiver with solid hands. DJ Jones is an athletic defensive lineman and nice rotation piece. Pita Taumoepenu is a tweener, but he should at least find a role in special teams. Adrian Colbert is a good athlete who will also find a special teams role. The 49ers had the best first three picks of the entire draft. The rest of it was hit or miss, but the top end talent they got is undeniable.
Favorite Pick: Solomon Thomas
Least Favorite Pick: CJ Beathard
Grade: A-
Seattle Seahawks:
Round 2: Malik McDowell, DL, Michigan
Round 2: Ethan Pocic, OL, LSU
Round 3: Shaquill Griffin, CB, UCF
Round 3: Delano Hill, S, Michigan
Round 3: Nazair Jones, DL, UNC
Round 3: Amara Darboh, WR, Michigan
Round 4: Tedric Thompson, S, Colorado
Round 6: Michael Tyson, S, Cincinnati
Round 6: Justin Senior, OL, Mississippi State
Round 7: David Moore, WR, East Central
Round 7: Chris Carson, RB, Oklahoma State
The first pick of the Seahawks draft was Malik McDowell, a top-10 player from a talent standpoint and a day three pick based on production. If Pete Carroll can let a fire under him, McDowell can be a Pro-Bowler. The Seahawks spent their second pick on versatile lineman Ethan Pocic, who can line up at all five spots on the line. Combine star Shaq Griffin was the next pick. He is a long corner with great athleticism and has a chance to start on day one. Delano Hill is like Kam Chancellor in that he is a box hitter built for intimidation. Nazair Jones is a run stuffing defensive lineman who is lucky to even be playing football due to a disease that prevented him from walking in high school. Amara Darboh escaped civil war in Africa to become a star receiver at Michigan. He will make a nice weapon for Russell Wilson. Tedric Thompson is a ball-hawking free safety from the gold mine that is the Colorado secondary. Michael Tyson can play corner or safety and contribute. Justin Senior isn't ready to start but is versatile and experienced. David Moore is a D-II athlete with potential. Chris Carson is a bruising back and a good athlete. This draft was ok, but the Seahawks have the worst offensive line in the league and they barely did anything to fix it.
Favorite Pick: Ethan Pocic
Least Favorite Pick: Michael Tyson
Grade: C-
Tampa Bay Buccaneers:
Round 1: OJ Howard, TE, Alabama
Round 2: Justin Evans, S, Texas A&M
Round 3: Chris Godwin, WR, Penn State
Round 3: Kendell Beckwith, LB, LSU
Round 4: Jeremy McNichols, RB, Boise State
Round 5: Stevie Tu'lkolovatu, DL, USC
I get that Malik Hooker and Jonathan Allen fell due to injury concerns, but OJ Howard falling is a true mystery. He is the best tight end prospect since Vernon Davis, and I see him having an excellent career for the Bucs. Justin Evans needs to clean up his angles, but he is already better than Chris Conte, so that's a plus. Chris Godwin doesn't offer much after the catch, but he does have a tremendous ability to high-point the ball and win 50-50s. Kendell Beckwith, when healthy, is a fast, mean linebacker who fits the Buccaneer mold. Jeremy McNichols is a quicker than fast runner who looks to be a healthier version of Doug Martin. Stevie T is a classic nose tackle who will help against the run.The Bucs found instant impact players in every round and might have the pieces in place to win their division.
Favorite Pick: OJ Howard
Least Favorite Pick: Chris Godwin
Grade: A
Tennessee Titans:
Round 1: Corey Davis, WR, Western Michigan
Round 1: Adoree' Jackson, CB, USC
Round 3: Taywan Taylor, WR, Western Kentucky
Round 3: Jonnu Smith, TE, Florida International
Round 5: Jayon Brown, LB, UCLA
Round 6: Corey Levin, OG, Chattanooga
Round 7: Josh Carraway, EDGE, TCU
Round 7: Brad Seaton, OT, Villanova
Round 7: Khalfani Muhammed, RB, Cal
This was an odd draft. Corey Davis is a good player, but picking him at number 5 was a reach, especially with Mike Williams still on the board. Adoree' Jackson is a great athlete, but he is unrefined and needs work before he can start. Taywan Taylor brings speed to the receiving corps and has good upside, especially if he can bulk up a little. Jonnu Smith is a tough-as-nails tight end with excellent receiving skills. Jayon Brown replaced Myles Jack last season and did admirably. He can compete for a starting role. Corey Levin gives depth to a strong offensive line. Josh Carraway is a long, skinny EDGE rusher to develop behind Brian Orakpo and Derrick Morgan. Brad Seaton is another depth piece for a strong offensive line. Khalfani Muhammed is undersized, but he is fast as hell and quick as lightning. This draft had lots of reaches and upside players, but it wasn't terrible by any means.
Favorite Pick: Jonnu Smith
Least Favorite Pick: Adoree' Jackson
Grade: C-
Washington Redskins:
Round 1: Jonathan Allen, DL, Alabama
Round 2: Ryan Anderson, EDGE, Alabama
Round 3: Fabian Moreau, CB, UCLA
Round 4: Samaje Perine, RB, Oklahoma
Round 4: Montae Nicholson, S, Michigan State
Round 6: Chase Roullier, OC, Wyoming
Round 6: Robert Davis, WR, Georgia State
Round 7: Josh Harvey-Clemmons, S, Louisville
Round 7: Joshua Hosely, CB, Auburn
The Redskins got extremely lucky and had Jonathan Allen, a top 10 player, fall to pick 17. He may have shoulder concerns, but he will be good for at least a few years of dominance in the trenches. Ryan Anderson was productive at Alabama, but he will have to prove he has the athleticism to keep up with the pros. Fabian Moreau is coming off of a torn pec, but he is a high upside cover man to could start as a third corner. Samaje Perine is a muscled-out bruiser who should beat out Matt Jones and Fat Rob Kelly for the starting role in Washington. Montae Nicholson is an upside pick who lays the wood on some plays and cowers away on others. Chase Roullier is a solid technician who can play center or guard. Robert Davis has tremendous size and athleticism. He plays like discount Calvin Johnson. Josh Harvey-Clemmons is a monster-back safety/linebacker hybrid who will compete with Montae Nicholson and Su'a Cravens for the starting strong safety spot. Joshua Hosely was a four-year starter for the Tigers. He just needs to stay healthy to provide depth. This draft would get an A if it were not for the Nicholson and Clemmons selection because Su'a Cravens will be a stud and I don't think they will see the field much.
Favorite Pick: Jonathan Allen
Least Favorite Pick: Montae Nicholson
Grade: B
