Arizona Cardinals: B+
Round 1, Pick No. 8: Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson
Round 3, Pick No. 72: Josh Jones, OT, Houston
Round 4, Pick No. 114: Leki Fotu, DT, Utah
Round 4, Pick No. 131 (from Texans): Rashard Lawrence II, DT, LSU
Round 6, Pick No. 202 (from Patriots): Evan Weaver, LB, California
Round 7, Pick No. 222: Eno Benjamin, RB, Arizona State
Despite needing an offensive lineman, Arizona bypassed on Tristan Wirfs and Mekhi Becton in order to scoop up the most versatile defensive prospect in the draft. It’ll be wildly interesting to see how the Cardinals opt to utilize Isaiah Simmons. One thing’s for sure: The defense suddenly has the look of a unit that is much improved. Simmons joins a cast of elite talents in Chandler Jones, Budda Baker, and Patrick Peterson. Both Josh Jones and Leki Fotu look like value picks as well. Each should contribute next season.
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Atlanta Falcons: C
Round 1, Pick No. 16: A.J. Terrell, CB, Clemson
Round 2, Pick No. 47: Marlon Davidson, DL, Auburn
Round 3, Pick No. 78: Matt Hennessy, C, Temple
Round 4, Pick No. 119: Mykal Walker, LB, Fresno State
Round 4, Pick No. 134 (from Ravens): Jaylinn Hawkins, S, California
Round 7, Pick No. 228 (from Buccaneers through Eagles): Sterling Hofrichter, P, Syracuse
Needing defensive help, Atlanta took Clemson DB A.J. Terrell with the No. 16 pick. We think this is a bit of a reach, particularly with the likes of Patrick Queen, CeeDee Lamb, and K’Lavon Chaisson still on the board. Marlon Davidson has talent, though is beset by both conditioning issues and a lack of consistency. He’s a nice ‘hit’ if he can stay in shape. However, Davidson is far from a sure thing (which isn’t assuring as a second-round pick). Keep an eye on fourth-round pick Jaylinn Hawkins from Cal. He can be a fixture on special teams from the jump.
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Baltimore Ravens: A
Round 1, Pick No. 28: Patrick Queen, LB, LSU
Round 2, Pick No. 55 (from Patriots through Falcons): J.K. Dobbins, RB, Ohio State
Round 3, Pick No. 71 (from Chargers through Patriots): Justin Madubuike, DT, Texas A&M
Round 3, Pick No. 92: Devin Duvernay, WR, Texas
Round 3, Pick No. 98 (comp pick from Patriots): Malik Harrison, LB, Ohio State
Round 3, Pick No. 106 (comp pick): Tyre Phillips, G, Mississippi State
Round 4, Pick No. 143 (comp pick): Ben Bredeson, G, Michigan
Round 5, Pick No. 170 (from Vikings): Broderick Washington Jr., DT, Texas Tech
Round 6, Pick No. 201 (from Bills through Vikings): James Proche, WR, SMU
Round 7, Pick No. 219 (from Dolphins through Vikings): Geno Stone, S, Iowa
LSU LB Patrick Queen and Baltimore is a match made in heaven. Queen is fast, physical, and uber competitive. He’ll come in right away as an impact starter. From there, all four of their third-round picks (Justin Madubuike, Devin Duvernay, Tyre Phillips, Malik Harrison) are highly-gifted athletes. Duvernay in particular could turn out to be a starting receiver down the line. Second-round selection J.K. Dobbins figures to complement RB Mark Ingram quite well. Not only did Baltimore enhance its depth, but it got a nice injection of talent across the board.
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Buffalo Bills: B
Round 2, Pick No. 54: A.J. Epenesa, DE, Iowa
Round 3, Pick No. 86: Zack Moss, RB, Utah
Round 4, Pick No. 128: Gabriel Davis, WR, UCF
Round 5, Pick No. 167: Jake Fromm, QB, Georgia
Round 6, Pick No. 188 (from Browns): Tyler Bass, K, Georgia Southern
Round 6, Pick No. 207 (from Ravens through Patriots): Isaiah Hodgins, WR, Oregon State
Round 7, Pick No. 239 (from Vikings): Dane Jackson, CB, Pittsburgh
It was a somewhat quiet draft for the Bills. However, they got great value for a few of their picks. Second-round selection DE A.J. Epenesa had first-round talent. Duly, sixth-round choice WR Isaiah Hodgins likely would’ve been (at worst) a second-rounder next year had he returned to school. Nabbing Jake Fromm in the fifth, and underrated Utah RB Zach Moss in the third were smart moves.
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Carolina Panthers: B
Round 1, Pick No. 7: Derrick Brown, DT, Auburn
Round 2, Pick No. 38: Yetor Gross-Matos, DE, Penn State
Round 2, Pick No. 64 (from Chiefs through Seahawks): Jeremy Chinn, S, Southern Illinois
Round 4, Pick No. 113: Troy Pride, CB, Notre Dame
Round 5, Pick No. 152: Kenny Robinson, S, West Virginia
Round 6, Pick No. 184: Bravvion Roy, DT, Baylor
Round 7, Pick No. 221: Stantley Thomas-Oliver, CB, Florida International
Needing to retool the interior of its defensive line, Carolina did well to nab the draft’s best defensive tackle in Derrick Brown. Yetur Gross-Matos adds further to Carolina’s collection of young defensive linemen. Brown, Gross-Matos, and last year’s first-round pick Brian Burns are a nice nucleus to work with. All seven of Carolina’s picks came on the defensive side of the ball. New head man Matt Rhule is clearly emphasizing a retooling of the highest order. If there’s one sleeper pick, fourth-rounder Troy Pride would be it. The corner from Notre Dame is a plus-athlete, and was always around the ball in South Bend.
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Chicago Bears: C
Round 2, Pick No. 43 (from Raiders): Cole Kmet, TE, Notre Dame
Round 2, Pick No. 50: Jaylon Johnson, CB, Utah
Round 5, Pick No. 155 (from Browns through Bills and Vikings): Trevis Gipson, DE, Tulsa
Round 5, Pick No. 163: Kindle Vildor, CB, Georgia Southern
Round 5, Pick No. 173 (from Ravens through Rams, Dolphins and Eagles): Darnell Mooney, WR, Tulane
Round 7, Pick No. 226 (from Raiders): Arlington Hambright, G, Colorado
Round 7, Pick No. 227 (from Colts through Dolphins and Eagles): Lachavious Simmons, OT, Tennessee State
With nine TEs already on the roster, Chicago went out and drafted a 10th with a second-round pick? We get that Cole Kmet might be the best tight end in the draft, but there were other pressing needs to fill (such as the offensive line). Of all of Chicago’s picks, second-round DB Jaylen Johnson is our favorite. Assuming he can stay healthy, he might be one of the draft’s biggest steals (regardless of position).
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Cincinnati Bengals: B-
Round 1, Pick No. 1: Joe Burrow, QB, LSU
Round 2, Pick No. 33: Tee Higgins, WR, Clemson
Round 3, Pick No. 65: Logan Wilson, LB, Wyoming
Round 4, Pick No. 107: Akeem Davis-Gaither, LB, Appalachian State
Round 5, Pick No. 147: Khalid Kareem, DE, Notre Dame
Round 6, Pick No. 180: Hakeem Adeniji, OT, Kansas
Round 7, Pick No. 215: Markus Bailey, LB, Purdue
Burrow was the no-brainer choice here. Cincinnati must surround Burrow with enough support to succeed. We’ve seen how a lack of skill/talent/offensive line functionality has led to other young signal-callers struggle. Tee Higgins immediately should become a starter alongside A.J. Green and John Ross. After that, Cincinnati drafted a bunch of guys who project as depth players rather than starters. However, this draft was clearly about Burrow and his potential to lead the team heading into the future.
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Cleveland Browns: A-
Round 1, Pick No. 10: Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama
Round 2, Pick No. 44 (from Colts): Grant Delpit, S, LSU
Round 3, Pick No. 88 (from Saints): Jordan Elliott, DT, Missouri
Round 3, Pick No. 97 (comp pick from Texans): Jacob Phillips, LB, LSU
Round 4, Pick No. 115: Harrison Bryant, TE, Florida Atlantic
Round 5, Pick No. 160 (from Colts): Nick Harris, C, Washington
Round 6, Pick No. 187 (from Cardinals): Donovan Peoples-Jones, WR, Michigan
Wills is a slam dunk selection for Cleveland. Though he has the versatility to kick inside if needed, he’ll likely start out protecting Baker Mayfield’s blindside as the starting left tackle. Wills is both nasty and athletic. After that, Cleveland did very well to nab a pair of LSU products — DB Grant Delpit and LB Jacob Phillips. Phillips in particular has the look of a guy too many people slept on. Though a bit undersized, fifth-round pick Nick Harris has the look of a guy who’ll be a longtime pro. The Washington product is technical, smart, and nasty at the point of attack.
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Dallas Cowboys: A
Round 1, Pick No. 17: CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma
Round 2, Pick No. 51: Trevon Diggs, CB, Alabama
Round 3, Pick No. 82: Neville Gallimore, DT, Oklahoma
Round 4, Pick No. 123: Reggie Robinson II, CB, Tulsa
Round 4, Pick No. 146 (comp pick from Eagles): Tyler Biadasz, C, Wisconsin
Round 5, Pick No. 179 (comp pick): Bradlee Anae, DE, Utah
Round 7, Pick No. 231: Ben DiNucci, QB, James Madison
In typical Dallas fashion, it took the best player available. CeeDee Lamb wasn’t necessarily a need, but it can’t hurt for an offense needing to keep pace with other juggernauts (New Orleans, San Francisco, Tampa Bay) in the NFC. Lamb immediately makes Dallas’ offense more dynamic in terms of having a guy who is a master at YAC. Jerry Jones did an excellent job later in the draft — particularly when grabbing Tyler Biadasz and Bradlee Anae in the fourth and fifth rounds, respectively. Trevon Diggs is a bit raw, though he has all the traits one would want in a Pro Bowl corner. Third-rounder Neville Gallimore also has the upside to potentially start from Day 1.
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Denver Broncos: A
Round 1, Pick No. 15: Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama
Round 2, Pick No. 46: K.J. Hamler, WR, Penn State
Round 3, Pick No. 77: Michael Ojemudia, CB, Iowa
Round 3, Pick No. 83 (from Steelers): Lloyd Cushenberry, C, LSU
Round 3, Pick No. 95 (from 49ers): McTelvin Agim, DT, Arkansas
Round 4, Pick No. 118: Albert Okwuegbunam, TE, Missouri
Round 5, Pick No. 178 (comp pick): Justin Strnad, OLB, Wake Forest
Round 6, Pick No. 181 (from Redskins): Netane Muti, G, Fresno State
Round 7, Pick No. 252 (comp pick): Tyrie Cleveland, WR, Florida
Round 7, Pick No. 254 (comp pick): Derrek Tuszka, DE, North Dakota State
Courtland Sutton now has a very nice complement in the form of Jerry Jeudy. The Alabama star should help Drew Lock out — particularly on short-to-intermediate routes. Jeudy is arguably the most polished receiver in this draft. Credit John Elway for also adding Penn State speedster K.J. Hamler and Mizzou TE Albert Okwuegbunam to the fold. All of a sudden, Denver’s offense is loaded with potentially elite skill players. Also, don’t sleep on third-round pick McTelvin Agim. Often overlooked at Arkansas, he can play all over the defensive line.
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Detroit Lions: B
Round 1, Pick No. 3: Jeff Okudah, CB, Ohio State
Round 2, Pick No. 35: D’Andre Swift, RB, Georgia
Round 3, Pick No. 67: Julian Okwara, LB, Notre Dame
Round 3, Pick No. 75 (from Colts): Jonah Jackson, G, Ohio State
Round 4, Pick No. 121 (from Raiders): Logan Stenberg, G, Kentucky
Round 5, Pick No. 166 (from Eagles): Quintez Cephus, WR, Wisconsin
Round 5, Pick No. 172 (from Seahawks through Lions, Patriots and Raiders): Jason Huntley, RB, New Mexico State
Round 6, Pick No. 197 (from Cowboys through Dolphins and Colts): John Penisini, DT, Utah
Round 7, Pick No. 235 (from Eagles through Patriots): Jashon Cornell, DT, Ohio State
Detroit did quite well with its first two picks. Each come from proven programs — and are immensely competitive. Jeff Okudah will take over for Darius Slay, and D’Andre Swift will immediately be a third-down threat. Middle-round picks Julian Okwara, Logan Stenberg, and Jonah Jackson may all be asked to contribute sooner than later.
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Green Bay Packers: D
Round 1, Pick No. 26 (from Texans through Dolphins): Jordan Love, QB, Utah State
Round 2, Pick No. 62: A.J. Dillon, RB, Boston College
Round 3, Pick No. 94: Josiah Deguara, TE, Cincinnati
Round 5, Pick No. 175: Kamal Martin, LB, Minnesota
Round 6, Pick No. 192 (from Raiders): Jon Runyan, G, Michigan
Round 6, Pick No. 208 (from Titans): Jake Hanson, C, Oregon
Round 6, Pick No. 209: Simon Stepaniak, OT, Indiana
Round 7, Pick No. 236 (From Bills through Browns): Vernon Scott, S, TCU
Round 7, Pick No. 242 (From Ravens): Jonathan Garvin, DE, Miami
Green Bay’s first-round selection was an interesting pick, to say the least. After watching rival Minnesota draft a stud receiver (Justin Jefferson), Green Bay traded into the first round to… draft another quarterback? Aaron Rodgers can’t be too pleased by the fact he (once again) received no help in the first round. Jordan Love might turn out to be a stud, though it won’t be anytime soon. In the second round, why draft a running back (A.J. Dillon) when you’ve already got a quality rusher in Aaron Jones? While tight end Josiah Deguara might turn out to be decent, this was a very disappointing effort by the Green Bay braintrust.
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Houston Texans: C
Round 2, Pick No. 40 (from Cardinals): Ross Blacklock, DT, TCU
Round 3, Pick No. 90: Jonathan Greenard, OLB, Florida
Round 4, Pick No. 126 (from Rams): Charlie Heck, OT, North Carolina
Round 4, Pick No. 141 (comp pick from Dolphins): John Reid, CB, Penn State
Round 5, Pick No. 171: Isaiah Coulter, WR, Rhode Island
Houston nabbed TCU DT Ross Blacklock in the second round. This is good value, as some had the quick tackle being drafted in the first round. Blacklock plays bigger than his size indicates, and should be a disruptive player. Other than that, it was a rather ho-hum draft for the Texans (who continue to get slammed over the DeAndre Hopkins deal).
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Indianapolis Colts: B+
Round 2, Pick No. 34 (from Redskins): Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
Round 2, Pick No. 41 (from Browns): Jonathan Taylor, RB, Wisconsin
Round 3, Pick No. 85 (from Eagles via Lions): Julian Blackmon, S, Utah
Round 4, Pick No. 122: Jacob Eason, QB, Washington
Round 5, Pick No. 149 (from Lions): Danny Pinter, G, Ball State
Round 6, Pick No. 193: Robert Windsor, DT, Penn State
Round 6, Pick No. 211 (from Chiefs through Jets): Isaiah Rodgers, CB, UMass
Round 6, Pick No. 212 (comp pick from Patriots): Dezmon Patmon, WR, Washington State
Round 6, Pick No. 213 (comp pick from Patriots): Jordan Glasgow, LB, Michigan
The Colts’ scouting department apparently loved the Pac-12 this past season — as four of their picks came from the conference. Second-round pick Michael Pittman Jr. might end up being a major steal. While not exactly the same sort of athlete, there are some comparisons to Mike Evans. Jonathan Taylor should be a nice change-of-pace back for the often-injured Marlon Mack. Also, don’t be shocked if third-round pick Julian Blackmon plays an integral role this year for the Colts. He was coached up quite well at Utah under Kyle Whittingham.
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Jacksonville Jaguars: A
Round 1, Pick No. 9: C.J. Henderson, CB, Florida
Round 1, Pick No. 20 (from Rams): K’Lavon Chaisson, OLB, LSU
Round 2, Pick No. 42: Laviska Shenault, WR, Colorado
Round 3, Pick No. 73: Davon Hamilton, DT, Ohio State
Round 4, Pick No. 116: Ben Bartch, OT, St. Johns
Round 4, Pick No. 137 (from 49ers through Broncos): Josiah Scott, CB, Michigan State
Round 4, Pick No. 140 (comp pick from Bears): Shaquille Quarterman, LB, Miami
Round 5, Pick No. 157 (from Falcons through Ravens): Daniel Thomas, S, Auburn
Round 5, Pick No. 165 (from Rams): Collin Johnson, WR, Texas
Round 6, Pick No. 189: Jake Luton, QB, Oregon State
Round 6, Pick No. 206 (from Seahawks): Tyler Davis, TE, Georgia Tech
Round 7, Pick No. 223: Chris Claybrooks, CB, Memphis
Jacksonville hit it out of the park with their first three picks. DB C.J. Henderson was a fast riser leading up to the draft. He’s got all the traits necessary in order to become a Pro Bowler. Somehow, K’Lavon Chaisson fell to Jacksonville at No. 20. He’s easily one of the best pass-rushing prospects in this draft. In the second round, the Jags got a first-round talent in WR Laviska Shenault. He’s eerily similar to current SF WR Deebo Samuel.
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Kansas City Chiefs: B+
Round 1, Pick No. 32: Clyde Edwards-Helaire
Round 2, Pick No. 63 (from 49ers): Willie Gay Jr., LB, Mississippi State
Round 3, Pick No. 96: Lucas Niang, OT, TCU
Round 4, Pick No. 138: L’Jarius Sneed, DB, Louisiana Tech
Round 5, Pick No. 177: Mike Danna, DE, Michigan
Round 7, Pick No. 237 (from Patriots through Broncos and Titans): Thakarius Keyes, CB, Tulane
Kansas City made everyone collectively groan when it drafted talented LSU running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire at the end of the first round. Cat-quick and battle tested, Edwards-Helaire will be a nightmare to defend against — particularly on third down coming out of the backfield. Willie Gay has a chance to immediately impact KC’s two-deep at linebacker. OT Lucas Niang is also a player with considerable upside.
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Las Vegas Raiders: B-
Round 1, Pick No. 12: Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama
Round 1, Pick No. 19 (from Bears): Damon Arnette, CB, Ohio State
Round 3, Pick No. 80: Lynn Bowden, RB/WR, Kentucky
Round 3, Pick No. 81 (from Bears): Bryan Edwards, WR, South Carolina
Round 3, Pick No. 100 (comp pick from Patriots): Tanner Muse, LB, Clemson
Round 4, Pick No. 109 (from Lions): John Simpson, G, Clemson
Round 4, Pick No. 139 (from Buccaneers through Patriots): Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech
The Las Vegas Raiders opted to take three receivers among their first four picks. While Henry Ruggs has the highest upside of any receiver in this class, Las Vegas may end up kicking itself down the line by passing on both CeeDee Lamb and Jerry Jeudy. Damon Arnette — projected by many to be an early third-round/late second-round pick — was taken at No. 19. This regime has been guilty of reaching on players, and Arnette is the latest example of that. However, we do love the pick of WR Lynn Bowden in Round 3 — as well as DB Amik Robertson in the fourth round.
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Los Angeles Chargers: B+
Round 1, Pick No. 6: Justin Herbert, QB, Oregon
Round 1, Pick No. 23: Kenneth Murray, LB, Oklahoma
Round 4, Pick No. 112: Joshua Kelley, RB, UCLA
Round 5, Pick No. 151: Joe Reed, WR, Virginia
Round 6, Pick No. 186: Alohi Gilman, S, Notre Dame
Round 7, Pick No. 220: K.J. Hill, WR, Ohio State
Will Justin Herbert start right away? That’s the big question for the Chargers. In all likelihood, it probably would make sense for him to sit a bit behind Tyrod Taylor. However, there’s no guarantee that LA will have the patience for such a plan. LB Kenneth Murray immediately will be a starter for this team (as well as an upgrade at linebacker). UCLA running back Josh Kelley — one of the nation’s most underappreciated backs — could make a push to be the second back behind Austin Ekeler. Lastly, the Chargers got great value with WR K.J. Hill in the seventh round.
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Los Angeles Rams: C+
Round 2, Pick No. 52: Cam Akers, RB, Florida State
Round 2, Pick No. 57 (from Texans): Van Jefferson, WR, Florida
Round 3, Pick No. 84: Terrell Lewis, OLB, Alabama
Round 3, Pick No. 104 (comp pick): Terrell Burgess, S, Utah
Round 4, Pick No. 136 (from Dolphins through Texans): Brycen Hopkins, TE, Purdue
Round 6, Pick No. 199: Jordan Fuller, S, Ohio State
Round 7, Pick No. 234: Clay Johnston, LB, Baylor
Round 7, Pick No. 248 (comp pick from Texans): Sam Sloman, K, Miami (Ohio)
Round 7, Pick No. 250 (comp pick from Texans): Tremayne Anchrum, G, Clemson
We didn’t love the Rams’ draft. There were a few spots in which we felt like LA reached — particularly with WR Van Jefferson in Round 2, and Brycen Hopkins in Round 4. Cam Akers essentially will be slotted in as the team’s No. 1 back. He’ll forever be linked to J.K. Dobbins, who went two picks later to Baltimore. Terrell Lewis could end up being a third-round steal. The Alabama product is strong at the point of attack, and does possess some positional flexibility.
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Miami Dolphins: B
Round 1, Pick No. 5: Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama
Round 1, Pick No. 18 (from Steelers): Austin Jackson, OT, USC
Round 1, Pick No. 30: Noah Igbinoghene, CB, Auburn
Round 2, Pick No. 39: Robert Hunt, G, Louisiana
Round 2, Pick No. 56 (from Saints): Raekwon Davis, DT, Alabama
Round 3, Pick No. 70: Brandon Jones, S, Texas
Round 4, Pick No. 111 (from Dolphins through Texans): Solomon Kindley, G, Georgia
Round 5, Pick No. 154 (from Jaguars through Steelers): Jason Strowbridge, DE, North Carolina
Round 5, Pick No. 164 (from Cowboys through Eagles): Curtis Weaver, OLB, Boise State
Round 6, Pick No. 185: Blake Ferguson, LS, LSU
Round 7, Pick No. 246 (from Chiefs): Malcolm Perry, WR, Navy
The Dolphins got their man in Tua Tagovailoa. He may have to wait a year to play. Ultimately, the grade of this draft will depend on how good he is. The rest of Miami’s draft was hit-or-miss. We liked the selections of Robert Hunt and Austin Jackson — though were perplexed by the picks of Raekwon Davis and Noah Igbinoghene. Spending a first-round pick on a corner after paying both Byron Jones and Xavien Howard doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. While Davis is massive, he’s also stiff and rather sluggish.
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Minnesota Vikings: A-
Round 1, Pick No. 22 (from Bills): Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
Round 1, Pick No. 31 (from 49ers): Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU
Round 2, Pick No. 58: Ezra Cleveland, OT, Boise State
Round 3, Pick No. 89: Cameron Dantzler, CB, Mississippi State
Round 4, Pick No. 117 (from Buccaneers through 49ers): D.J. Wonnum, SE, South Carolina
Round 4, Pick No. 130 (from Saints): James Lynch, DT, Baylor
Round 4, Pick No. 132: Troy Dye, LB, Oregon
Round 5, Pick No. 169 (from Saints): Harrison Hand, CB, Temple
Round 5, Pick No. 176: K.J. Osborn, WR, Miami
Round 6, Pick No. 203 (from Saints): Blake Brandel, OT, Oregon State
Round 6, Pick No. 205: Josh Metellus, S, Michigan
Round 7, Pick No. 225 (from Jets through Ravens): Kenny Willekes, DE, Michigan State
Round 7, Pick No. 244 ( from Packers through Browns and Saints): Nate Stanley, QB, Iowa
Round 7, Pick No. 249 (comp pick): Brian Cole II, S, Mississippi State
Round 7, Pick No. 253 (comp pick): Kyle Hinton, G, Washburn
Minnesota got its man in WR Justin Jefferson. The LSU star was said to be Asst. Coach Gary Kubiak’s favorite receiver in the draft. OT Ezra Cleveland has good lateral quickness, and his frame will allow him to add more weight. Surely he’ll be a building block for the future. Lastly, fourth-round picks Troy Dye and D.J. Wonnum each have a real shot at making the roster.
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New England Patriots: C
Round 2, Pick No. 37: Kyle Dugger, S, Lenoir-Rhyne
Round 2, Pick No. 60 (from Ravens): Josh Uche, LB, Michigan
Round 3, Pick No. 87: Anfernee Jennings, LB, Alabama
Round 3, Pick No. 91 (from Seahawks through Texans and Raiders): Devin Asiasi, TE, UCLA
Round 3, Pick No. 101 (comp pick from Jets): Dalton Keene, TE, Virginia Tech
Round 5, Pick No. 159 (from Raiders): Justin Rohrwasser, K, Marshall
Round 6, Pick No. 182 (from Lions through Colts): Michael Onwenu, G, Michigan
Round 6, Pick No. 195 (from Broncos): Justin Herron, OT, Wake Forest
Round 6, Pick No. 204 (from Texans): Cassh Maluia, LB, Wyoming
Round 7, Pick No. 230 (from Falcons): Dustin Woodard, C, Memphis
In classic Bill Belichick form, the Pats traded out of the first round to accumulate picks. NE reached for a D-2 safety (Kyle Dugger) at pick No. 37. Defenders Josh Uche and Anfernee Jennings were selected in rounds two and three, respectively. TE Devin Asiasi has a diverse skill-set and could be a considerable steal considering where he was picked. However, NE negated the value there by taking a kicker in the fifth round (Justin Rohrwasser) — and one who has already come under fire for controversial tattoos.
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New Orleans Saints: B+
Round 1, Pick No. 24: Cesar Ruiz, C/G, Michigan
Round 3, Pick No. 74 (from Browns): Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin
Round 3, Pick No. 105 (comp pick from Vikings): Adam Trautman, TE, Dayton
Round 7, Pick No. 240 (from Texans): Tommy Stevens, QB, Mississippi State
Though New Orleans only had four picks, it made the most of them. First-round selection Cesar Ruiz is one of the better interior offensive linemen in this draft. He has the versatility to play both guard and center at a high level. From there, the Saints took two players in the third round (TE Adam Trautman, LB Zach Baun) with second-round grades. Don’t be shocked to see Trautman in particular become a favored target of Drew Brees. Baun has some nice value as a pass rusher off the edge.
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New York Giants: C
Round 1, Pick No. 4: Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia
Round 2, Pick No. 36: Xavier McKinney, S, Alabama
Round 3, Pick No. 99 (comp pick): Matt Peart, OT, UConn
Round 4, Pick No. 110: Darnay Holmes, CB, UCLA
Round 5, Pick No. 150: Shane Lemieux, G, Oregon
Round 6, Pick No. 183: Cam Brown, OLB, Penn State
Round 7, Pick No. 218: Carter Coughlin, DE, Minnesota
Round 7, Pick No. 238 (from Saints): T.J. Brunson, LB, South Carolina
Round 7, Pick No. 247 (comp pick): Chris Williamson, CB, Minnesota
Round 7, Pick No. 255 (comp pick): Tae Crowder, LB, Georgia
We can’t fault the Giants for trying to get Daniel Jones some help. However, it appears as if New York could’ve traded down and still grabbed Andrew Thomas. Isaiah Simmons and his defensive versatility may have been a better long-term fit. Xavier McKinney dropped all the way to the second round over concerns about his athleticism. OT Matt Peart has some ability — though is a project (the same can be said for fourth-round pick Darnay Holmes). Though we like seventh-round selection of Carter Coughlin, there are a lot of question marks about this draft for the G-Men.
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New York Jets: B-
Round 1, Pick No. 11: Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville
Round 2, Pick No. 59: Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor
Round 3, Pick No. 68 (from Giants): Ashtyn Davis, S, California
Round 3, Pick No. 79: Jabari Zuniga, DE, Florida
Round 4, Pick No. 120: Lamichal Perine, RB, Florida
Round 4, Pick No. 125 (from Bears through Patriots): James Morgan, QB, Florida International
Round 4, Pick No. 129 (from Patriots through Ravens and Patriots): Cameron Clark, OT, Charlotte
Round 5, Pick No. 158: Bryce Hall, CB, Virginia
Round 6, Pick No. 191: Braden Mann, P, Texas A&M
The Jets swung for the fences on their first two picks. Mekhi Becton has the potential to be an All-Pro OL. Just as easily, he could be out of the league in four years. New York must be diligent in getting him into as good of shape as possible. Duly, Denzel Mims is a guy who can take the top off an opposing defense (though there are questions as to why he dropped towards the end of the second round). Both Lamichal Perine and Jabari Zuniga appeared to be reaches. Of all the picks the Jets had, we like third-rounder Ashtyn Davis the best.
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Philadelphia Eagles: C
Round 1, Pick No. 21: Jalen Reagor, WR, TCU
Round 2, Pick No. 53: Jalen Hurts, QB, Oklahoma
Round 3, Pick No. 103 (comp pick): Davion Taylor, OLB, Colorado
Round 4, Pick No. 127: K’Von Wallace, S, Clemson
Round 4, Pick No. 145 (comp pick): Jack Driscoll, OL, Auburn
Round 5, Pick No. 168 (from Patriots): John Hightower, WR, Boise State
Round 6, Pick No. 196 (from Bears): Shaun Bradley, LB, Temple
Round 6, Pick No. 200 (from Eagles through Bears): Quez Watkins, WR, Southern Miss
Round 6, Pick No. 210 (from 49ers): Prince Tega Wanogho, OT, Auburn
Round 7, Pick No. 233 (from Bears): Casey Toohill, OLB, Stanford
The decision to take WR Jalen Reagor over both Justin Jefferson and Brandin Aiyuk was met with some skepticism. Reagor is more in the mold of a DeSean Jackson. However, there are questions as to whether he can become a true No. 1 receiver. Selecting Jalen Hurts in the second round was somewhat bizarre considering the team just re-signed Carson Wentz to a lofty contract. Even if he’s going to play the ‘Taysom Hill role’ in Philly, is Hurts really worth a second-round selection?
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Pittsburgh Steelers: B
Round 2, Pick No. 49: Chase Claypool, WR, Notre Dame
Round 3, Pick No. 102 (comp pick): Alex Highsmith, OLB, Charlotte
Round 4, Pick No. 124: Anthony McFarland Jr., RB, Maryland
Round 4, Pick No. 135 (from Titans through Dolphins): Kevin Dotson, G, Louisiana
Round 6, Pick No. 198: Antoine Brooks Jr., S, Maryland
Round 7, Pick No. 232: Carlos Davis, DT, Nebraska
Despite not having a first-round pick, Pittsburgh did well to select Notre Dame WR Chase Claypool. A fantastic athlete at nearly 6-foot-5, Claypool should be a nice toy for Ben Roethlisberger to utilize — particularly on shots down the sidelines. Fourth-round pick OG Kevin Dotson has a chance to be a starter at some point during his career. The pick of RB Anthony McFarland Jr. was a bit puzzling considering his injury history. However, this was a solid draft for Pittsburgh.
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San Francisco 49ers: A
Round 1, Pick No. 14 (from Buccaneers): Javon Kinlaw, DT, South Carolina
Round 1, Pick No. 25: Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State
Round 5, Pick No. 153 (from Dolphins): Colton McKivitz, OT, West Virginia
Round 6, Pick No. 190 (from Falcons through Eagles): Charlie Woerner, TE, Georgia
Round 7, Pick No. 217 (from Lions): Jauan Jennings, WR, Tennessee
San Francisco crushed this draft on a number of fronts. It replaced the departed DeForest Buckner with an absolute athletic freak in Javon Kinlaw. SF then traded back into the first round to nab one of the draft’s most prolific receivers in Brandon Aiyuk. The front office then brilliantly traded for All-Pro OT Trent Williams (at the cost of two mid-round picks). All the while, the team was able to save a ton of money by essentially swapping Buckner and Emmanuel Sanders for these two players. Each should have a prominent role on what will be a loaded 49ers’ team next season.
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Seattle Seahawks: C+
Round 1, Pick No. 27: Jordyn Brooks, LB, Texas Tech
Round 2, Pick No. 48: Darrell Taylor, DE, Tennessee
Round 3, Pick No. 69 (from Panthers): Damien Lewis, G, LSU
Round 4, Pick No. 133: Colby Parkinson, TE, Stanford
Round 4, Pick No. 144: DeeJay Dallas, RB, Miami
Round 5, Pick No. 148 (from Redskins through Panthers): Alton Robinson, DE, Syracuse
Round 6, Pick No. 214 (comp pick): Freddie Swain, WR, Florida
Round 7, Pick No. 251 (comp pick from Dolphins): Stephen Sullivan, TE, LSU
It’s hard to question Seattle’s draft record under Pete Carroll — particularly on the defensive side of the ball. However, we did like Patrick Queen better than Jordyn Brooks (who went one pick ahead of Queen). Brooks made a ton of plays for Texas Tech. However, he has some lingering shoulder issues which could prove to be problematic. We wish second-round pick Darrell Taylor was a bit more polished. However, we do like what Seattle did in the third round by getting mauler OG Damien Lewis out of LSU. Fourth-round pick TE Colby Parkinson has a chance to be an impact player down the line as well.
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Tampa Bay Buccaneers: B+
Round 1, Pick No. 13 (from Colts via 49ers): Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa
Round 2, Pick No. 45: Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Minnesota
Round 3, Pick No. 76: Ke’Shawn Vaughn, RB, Vanderbilt
Round 5, Pick No. 161: Tyler Johnson, WR, Minnesota
Round 6, Pick No. 194: Khalil Davis, DT, Nebraska
Round 7, Pick No. 241 (from Seahawks through Patriots): Chapelle Russell, OLB, Temple
Round 7, Pick No. 245 (from 49ers): Raymond Calais, RB, Louisiana-Lafayette
This was a top-heavy draft for the Bucs. On one hand, Wirfs was an absolute steal at No. 13. He’ll immediately slot in as the team’s starting RT. Duly, Antoine Winfield Jr. is a high I.Q. player with a ‘bigger than his size indicates’ playing style. We love both of those picks. However, the rest of the draft simply graded out as ‘meh’ — particularly the Ke’Shawn Vaughn pick.
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Tennessee Titans: C+
Round 1, Pick No. 29: Isaiah Wilson, OT, Georgia
Round 2, Pick No. 61: Kristian Fulton, CB, LSU
Round 3, Pick No. 93: Darrynton Evans, RB, Appalachian State
Round 5, Pick No. 174: Larrell Murchison, DT, N.C. State
Round 7, Pick No. 224 (from Browns): Cole McDonald, QB, Hawaii
Round 7, Pick No. 243: Chris Jackson, S, Marshall
Tennessee essentially took a second-round talent in the first round (Isaiah Wilson) and a first-round talent (Kristian Fulton) in the second round. Each player — though possessing high-end talent — has consistency issues. We loved the pick of RB Darrynton Evans. He adds considerable juice and quickness to a group featuring the ultimate hammer in Derrick Henry. In fact, Evans might be one of the most underrated backs in this draft.
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Washington Redskins: B
Round 1, Pick No. 2: Chase Young, DE, Ohio State
Round 3, Pick No. 66: Antonio Gibson, WR, Memphis
Round 4, Pick No. 108: Saahdiq Charles, OT, LSU
Round 4, Pick No. 142 (comp pick): Antonio Gandy-Golden, WR, Liberty
Round 5, Pick No. 156 (from Broncos through 49ers): Keith Ismael, C, San Diego State
Round 5, Pick No. 162 (from Steelers through Seahawks): Khaleke Hudson, LB, Michigan
Round 7, Pick No. 216: Kamren Curl, S, Arkansas
Round 7, Pick No. 229 (from Broncos): James Smith-Williams, DE, N.C. State
Washington drafted perhaps the most talented player in this draft. That alone is a major win. Young has the look of a guy who can come in immediately and notch 10+ sacks. From there, explosive athlete Antonio Gibson was taken in the third round. He should have a role on next year’s team. However, many question the selection of LSU OL Saahdiq Charles in the fourth round. He battled through some disciplinary issues in Baton Rouge, and some teams took him off their board entirely. Washington had to have been sure about him in order to spend a fourth-round pick on the jumbo athlete. Fifth-round pick Khaleke Hudson has a chance to be a special teams dynamo right away.
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