NFL Draft Grades for Each Team

The NFL Draft wrapped up last Saturday with the Tennessee Titans making the 253rd and final selection of the draft when they took cornerback Kalan Reed from Southern Miss. I have had a few days to study each team’s draft class and overall I feel most teams did fairly well. Obviously it is too early to name any of these players “busts”, so grades are based more on the value of their picks and how teams addressed their needs.

Arizona Cardinals, Grade: B

Round(Overall) Player Name, Position

1(29) Robert Nkemdiche, DT

3(92) Brandon Williams, CB

4(128) Evan Boehm, C

5(167) Marqui Christian, S

5(170) Cole Toner, OT

6(205) Harlan Miller, CB

(Traded second round pick to Patriots for Chandler Jones)

Getting Nkemdiche at 29 could end up being a huge value pick for Arizona if he can get his off-field issues under control. The Cardinals made a similar selection in the 2013 draft when they took troubled safety Tyrann Mathieu in the third round. That has worked out handsomely for them as Mathieu is now a two time First Team All-Pro and was a defensive MVP candidate this past season until tearing his ACL in December. Nkemdiche could yield similar results if he gets the right support around him. I also like the pick of Evan Boehm at center. The Cardinals needed help at center and Boehm has the potential to step in and start from day one for them. Toner and Williams were also solid additions to the team as well as trading their second round pick for Chandler Jones to further help their pass rush. How Nkemdiche pans out ultimately will decide how this draft class is viewed.

Atlanta Falcons, Grade: C-

1(17) Keanu Neal, S

2(52) Deion Jones, OLB

3(81) Austin Hooper, TE

4(115) De’Vondre Campbell, OLB

6(195) Wes Schweitzer, OG

7(238) Devin Fuller, WR

It’s no secret that I was not fond of Atlanta’s picks due to them seemingly reaching for every pick at the top of their class. Don’t get me wrong, I like Keanu Neal in Atlanta, coach Dan Quinn gets his guy that can be their Kam Chancellor but I had Neal as a borderline first rounder so taking him mid-first round was not a great value move. Atlanta did not have many picks in this draft so by moving back in the first and still getting Neal the Falcons could have added some picks that they could have then used to address their defensive line. Jones was a huge reach for me as well, as I had him as a mid to late rounder (4th to 7th round) so the second round was way too high for me. The lack of picks and reaches on some players hurts Atlanta’s grade here but Neal and Hooper could end up having fairly solid rookie years.

Baltimore Ravens, Grade: A

1(6) Ronnie Stanley, OT

2(42) Kamalei Correa, DE

3(70) Bronson Kaufusi, DE

4(104) Tavon Young, CB

4(107) Chris Moore, WR

4(130) Alex Lewis, OT

4(132) Willie Henry, DT

4(134) Kenneth Dixon, RB

5(146) Matt Judon, DE

6(182) Keenan Reynolds, QB/RB/WR

6(209) Maurice Canady, CB

Baltimore GM Ozzie Newsome worked his magic by moving down and accumulating picks yet still getting the guys he wanted. Newsome remains one of the top drafting general mangers in the NFL and this year was no different. With the 6th overall pick Baltimore added a very athletic tackle in Ronnie Stanley who could hold down the edge for the next 10 years in Baltimore. On Day 2, Newsome added two talented edge rushers to the defensive line, which was arguably their biggest need going into the draft. With an unprecedented FIVE fourth round picks, Baltimore again added more help to the offensive and defensive lines and a major steal in RB Kenneth Dixon who is second on the NCAA all-time career touchdown list. Who is first in all-time touchdowns in NCAA history? None other than the Baltimore Ravens sixth round pick Keenan Reynolds who has 88 compared to Dixon’s 87 touchdowns. Reynolds will likely be a WR in the NFL and/or a wildcat QB but he can be used like the Jaguar’s Denard Robinson who is simply listed as “offensive weapon” on their roster. This was another great draft for Baltimore and they even added DE Victor Ochi as an undrafted free agent (UDFA) so many of their picks should see time on the field fairly early.

Buffalo Bills, Grade: A-

1(19) Shaq Lawson, DE

2(41) Reggie Ragland, ILB

3(80) Adolphus Washington, DT

4(139) Cardale Jones, QB

5(156) Jonathan Williams, RB

6(192) Kolby Listenbee, WR

6(218) Kevon Seymour, CB

I am a little higher than everyone else on this class but I really like what Buffalo did in this draft. Lawson seemed to be their guy from the outset and he should fill in nicely for the recently released Mario Williams. Buffalo’s inside linebackers last year were awful, so getting Reggie Ragland in the second round was one of the biggest steals in the draft to me. Concerns about an enlarged aorta and maintaing his speed after getting bigger are likely what caused Ragland to fall to Buffalo. Watch any of Alabama’s games last year and Ragland immediately stands out as a downhill thumper in the run game and Rex Ryan should love him. Adolphus Washington also should help add some depth to the defensive line, RB Jonathan Williams should do the same to the running back pool, and Listenbee is a burner in the passing game. Cardale Jones is another intriguing pick as well. Jones would have likely gone in the top 10 had he declared for the draft last year, so nabbing him in the fourth round could work out very well for Buffalo. Jones has a cannon for an arm and needs to focus on his consistency to make his mark in this league, but will have time to sit and develop behind Tyrod Taylor. I bumped Buffalo up from an B+ to an A- for adding Oklahoma LB Erik Striker as an UDFA to further bolster their linebacking corps.

Carolina Panthers, Grade: C

1(30) Vernon Butler, DT

2(62) James Bradberry, CB

3(77) Daryl Worley, CB

5(141) Zack Sanchez, CB

7(252) Beau Sandland, TE

Coming off a 15–1 regular season and a Super Bowl appearance the Carolina Panthers did not have many holes to fill. The obvious glaring need was at cornerback, where they were thin even before losing All-Pro Josh Norman to the Washington Redskins. Carolina took three CBs and they will get snaps even if they are not entirely ready to do so due to the overall lack of talent in that spot. Vernon Butler was a good addition as well, more so for the future than right away in Carolina. The Panthers will have to make decisions on their stacked defensive line in the next couple seasons as guys like Kony Ealy will look to get paid and Carolina likely will not be able to pay all of them.

Chicago Bears, Grade: A+

1(9) Leonard Floyd, OLB

2(56) Cody Whitehair, OG

3(72) Jonathan Bullard, DL

4(113) Nick Kwiatkoski, LB

4(124) Deon Bush, S

4(127) Deiondre’ Hall, S

5(150) Jordan Howard, RB

6(185) DeAndre Houston-Carson, CB

7(230) Daniel Braverman, WR

I have already raved about the top picks for Chicago, so it is no surprise that this was my top draft class from top to bottom. I liked every single move that Chicago made and the clear theme was defense. Floyd and Bullard should become immediate contributors and I expect Whitehair to help out the offensive line as well. The secondary got some depth too with Bush, Hall (who I really like), and Houston-Carson. Somewhat unsurprisingly, the Bears released veteran safety Antrel Rolle a couple days after the draft opening the door for the young guys to get on the field. Jordan Howard was a good addition to go with last year’s pick Jeremy Langford as they try to replace the production of long-time Bears starter Matt Forte. This Bears class may not immediately yield dividends but in a couple years from now we could be talking about how this was the draft that helped restore the Chicago Bears defense to dominance.

Cincinnati Bengals, Grade: B-

1(24) William Jackson III, CB

2(55) Tyler Boyd, WR

3(87) Nick Vigil, LB

4(122) Andrew Billings, DT

5(161) Christian Westerman, OG

6(199) Cody Core, WR

7(245) Clayton Fejedelam, S

It was no secret that the Bengals needed a wide receiver early in this draft. Unfortunately for them, the run on wide receivers started a pick early with the Washington Redskins, leaving Cincinnati without a viable first round receiver to take. The Bengals opted to take the top cornerback on the board and got their wide receiver in round two in Tyler Boyd. Boyd had an excellent career at Pittsburgh and is a great route runner. He may not have been the guy they wanted but is still a good addition. One of the most perplexing slides in the draft was of projected first rounder Andrew Billings. Billings apparently fell due to him only being a two-down player but no matter how he is viewed, the fourth round is incredible value for him. The interior of the Bengals line is getting older and Billings should be ready to step in when the current players do eventually leave in free agency or retire. Cody Core is an interesting project for the Bengals as well. Core was outshined at Ole Miss by Laquon Tredawell, but Core is big guy with big play ability that could wind up being a surprise in this draft.

Cleveland Browns, Grade: B

1(15) Corey Coleman, WR

2(32) Emmanuel Ogbah, DE

3(65) Carl Nassib, DE

3(76) Shon Coleman, OT

3(93) Cody Kessler, QB

4(99) Joe Schobert, OLB

4(114) Ricardo Louis, WR

4(129) Derrick Kindred, S

4(138) Seth DeValve, TE

5(154) Jordan Payton, WR

5(168) Spencer Drago, OT

5(172) Rashard Higgins, WR

5(173) Trey Caldwell, CB

7(250) Scooby Wright III, LB

The Cleveland Browns had tons of holes they needed to attempt to fill going into the draft. With 14 picks they certainly were able to strengthen two particular areas of weakness, their wide receiving corps and defensive line. The five pass catchers completely overhaul the receiving corps from last year that was headlined by Travis Benjamin who bolted (no pun intended) for the San Diego Chargers in free agency. In the trenches, Ogbah and Nassib can help get after the passer and on the offensive line Coleman and Drago provide depth where Joe Thomas may be on his way out. Cody Kessler was an interesting choice in the third round out of USC. He has pinpoint accuracy but there does not seem to be a whole lot of potential there. While Kessler doesn’t project to be anything better than average in the NFL (certainly too high for the third round), I like him in Cleveland and see him as a viable backup to either Robert Griffin III or Josh McCown. The most interesting selection in this class was Arizona LB Scooby Wright III with the fourth to last pick in the draft. In 2014, Wright was an All-American and the Pac-12 Defensive Player of the Year but a knee injury last year and worries over his size essentially destroyed his draft stock. If Wright’s rehab goes well and he can find a role that best suits him he could wind up being a massive steal for the Browns.

Dallas Cowboys, Grade: B+

1(4) Ezekiel Elliot, RB

2(34) Jaylon Smith, LB

3(67) Maliek Collins, DT

4(101) Charles Tapper, DE

4(135) Dak Prescott, QB

6(189) Anthony Brown, CB

6(212) Kavon Frazier, S

6(216) Darius Jackson, RB

6(217) Rico Gathers, TE

The cowboys went for the splashy pick at 4th overall when they took Ohio State RB Ezekiel Elliot. Elliot is a special talent and that is clearly evident if you watch him in the 2015 Championship Game against Oregon. Elliot could do serious damage behind the Cowboys offensive line as they look to replicate the success they had with DeMarco Murray in 2014. Jaylon Smith was in line to be a top five selection before destroying his knee in the Fiesta Bowl. Smith likely will not play this season but if he comes back and gets to where he was, this class could be elevated to an A- or even an A depending on what he can do when he returns to the field. The Cowboys biggest need coming into the draft was their defensive line after Randy Gregory was suspended to start the year, leaving their already thin line without a key player. Charles Tapper and Maliek Collins should both be valuable additions to the line and have the opportunity to contribute right away. Another big need was a backup quarterback since Tony Romo has been injured in various capacities over the last few seasons and has missed a lot of games. The Cowboys have had to roll out guys from Brandon Weeden to Stephen McGee as backups, derailing many seasons for Dallas. Dak Presoctt made huge strides as a passer this past season at Mississippi State and if he continues to develop should be ready to replace Romo when he goes down with injury or eventually retires. Dallas’ last pick was a project pick when they took former Baylor basketball player Rico Gathers. Gathers has good athletic ability due to his basketball background and could be next in the long line of basketball players turned matchup nightmares on the field.

Denver Broncos, Grade: B-

1(26) Paxton Lynch, QB

2(63) Adam Gotsis, DT

3(98) Justin Simmons, S

4(136) Devontae Booker, RB

5(144) Connor McGovern, OG

6(176) Andy Janovich, FB

6(219) Will Parks, S

7(228) Riley Dixon, P

The success of this class will be directly correlated to how quickly Paxton Lynch develops into a starter for the Broncos. Lynch will have to work on being under center, but he is in a very good position to succeed early if called upon. As we have seen in the past with guys like Russell Wilson, Joe Flacco, and Ben Roethlisberger, having a strong defense behind a young QB can yield positive results early. Luckily, the Broncos had the top ranked defense last year and Lynch will be going into a good system where he can develop into a franchise quarterback. Adam Gotsis has been compared to Derek Wolfe and should be a backup this year, as does Simmons who was gaining steam as one of the top safety prospects. The Broncos got an absolute gift in Devontae Booker falling to them in the fourth round. Booker hurt his knee at Utah last season and had a heavy workload but he should fit right into the Broncos run game that was spotty at times last year.

Detroit Lions, Grade: B

1(16) Taylor Decker, OT

2(46) A’Shawn Robinson, DT

3(95) Graham Glasgow, C

4(111) Miles Killebrew, S

5(151) Joe Dahl, OT

5(169) Antwione Williams, CB

6(191) Jake Rudock, QB

6(202) Anthony Zettel, DT

6(210) Jimmy Landes, Long Snapper

7(236) Dwayne Washington, RB

The Lions offensive line was a mess last year but it got some help in this draft. Decker should start from day one and the feeling is current tackle, Riley Reiff, will leave in free agency next year. Joe Dahl and Graham Glasgow also will help to bring some stability to the Lions offensive line. I also liked the selection of Miles Killebrew who is a big thumper from Southern Utah. Their best value pick was Alabama DT A’Shawn Robinson at 46th overall and is likely the heir apparent to veteran Haloti Ngata, who will be 33 years old by the end of next season. Dwayne Washington was a surprising pick towards the end of the seventh round but could help a running game that has been one of the worst in the NFL. Washington has had issues with fumbling but is an excellent receiver and has good speed that could add another element to Detroit’s running back corps.

Green Bay Packers, Grade: B-

1(27) Kenny Clark, DT

2(48) Jason Spriggs, OT

3(88) Kyler Fackrell, LB

4(131) Blake Martinez, LB

4(137) Dean Lowry, DE

5(163) Trevor Davis, WR

6(200) Kyle Murphy, OT

The Green Bay Packers went out over the weekend and quietly had themselves a very solid draft. Many predicted the Packers to snag an inside linebacker early so Clay Matthews could move back to his more natural outside role. When Myles Jack fell, I assumed that they would pounce but instead they passed and took DT Kenny Clark. Clark should compete for a starting job due to BJ Raji retiring so there are snaps available for him. In the second round the Packers traded up and took Indiana OT Jason Spriggs. Spriggs is an athletic guy who can immediately be slotted in the rotation for Green Bay. The Packers did finally get their inside linebacker in the fourth round in Stanford LB Blake Martinez. I do not know if Martinez is ready to start right away but I would not be entirely shocked if he did either. Green Bay added Kyle Murphy in the sixth round to provide further depth on the line. For some reason the Green Bay offensive line is always dealing with injuries so you can never have too many offensive lineman.

Houston Texans, Grade: B

1(21) Will Fuller, WR

2(50) Nick Martin, C

3(85) Braxton Miller, WR

4(119) Tyler Ervin, RB

5(159) KJ Dillion, S

5(166) DJ Reader, NT

The Hosuton Texans added some serious speed this draft and one player who will be happy about these picks is wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Hopkins had a breakout year last year for Houston, but due to the lack of help around him he was often double teamed. Will Fuller and Braxton Miller should help solve that issue. Neither are perfect, Fuller had drop issues at Notre Dame and Braxton Miller has only been playing wide receiver for roughly a year, but they can alleviate the focus on Hopkins. Tyler Ervin was a bit of a surprise, after being taken over guys like Devontae Booker and Kenneth Dixon. However, Ervin should has ridiculous speed that contrasts well with recently signed running back Lamar Miller as that duo look to replace oft-injured RB Arian Foster. Nick Martin can be a stalwart on the offensive line for years to come and KJ Dillion was a nice addition to the secondary as well.

Indianapolis Colts, Grade: B

1(18) Ryan Kelly, OG/C

2(57) TJ Green, S

3(82) Le’Raven Clark, OT

4(116) Hassan Ridgeway, DT

4(125) Antonio Morrison, ILB

5(135) Joe Haeg, OT

7(239) Trevor Bates, LB

7(248) Austin Blythe, C

Going into the draft, Indianapolis’ offensive line needed help BAD and they addressed it in a big way. First they were able to grab Alabama center Ryan Kelly at 18th overall. Kelly did not allow a sack in pass protection last year and he is an absolute mauler in the run game. Kelly can play guard as well but I expect him to be the starter at center from day one for the Colts. In the third round the Colts got Texas Tech OT Le’Raven Clark who many projected would go late first or early second round, so there is value there. Clark has an 85(!)-inch wingspan and could challenge for a starting spot as well. Indianapolis then got another value pick in NDSU OT Joe Haeg in the 5th round to provide further depth on the offensive line. Colts QB Andrew Luck is likely thrilled with the commitment to protecting him and the Colts will attempt to rebound from last year’s disappointing 8–8 season.

Jacksonville Jaguars, Grade: A

1(5) Jalen Ramsey, CB/S

2(36) Myles Jack, LB

3(69) Yannick Ngokue, DE

4(103) Sheldon Day, DT

6(181) Tyrone Holmes, OLB

6(201) Brandon Allen, QB

7(226) Jonathan Woodard, DE

This was my number two ranked class, behind only the Chicago Bears. Similarly to Chicago, the major theme for the Jaguars was defense. After adding CB Prince Amukamara, DE Malik Jackson, and S Tashaun Gipson in free agency, Jacksonville somehow someway landed two of the top three defensive players in this draft. The Jags took cornerback Jalen Ramsey at 5th overall and due to a bad knee and the draft gods smiling upon them, UCLA LB Myles Jack fell all the way to them at 35th overall. I had Jacksonville taking Jack at 5th but snagging him at 35 may end up being one of the biggest steals in the draft. There obviously are concerns about his knee and how long he will be able to play football, but for now, with a chip on his shoulder, I expect Jack to wreak havoc on the NFL in Jacksonville’s revamped defense. Later in the draft, Jacksonville was able to add two more potential contributors in DE Yannick Ngokue and DT Sheldon Day. Their lone offensive pick of the draft was Arkansas QB Brandon Allen, who fell due to his small hands but I expect to immediately challenge Chad Henne for the backup spot behind Blake Bortles. With the free agent additions, this year’s defensive picks, and the return of Dante Fowler (last year’s third overall pick), I expect the Jaguars to compete for a playoff spot in the relatively weak AFC South.

Kansas City Chiefs, Grade: C

2(37) Chris Jones, DL

3(74) KeiVarae Russell, CB

4(105) Parker Ehinger, OG

4(106) Eric Murray, CB

4(126) DeMarcus Robinson, WR

5(162) Kevin Hogan, QB

5(165) Tyreek Hill, WR

6(178) DJ White, CB

6(203) Dadi Nicolas, DE

Kansas City traded out of the first round but were still able to get a first round talent in an area of need at 37th overall. They took Mississippi State defensive lineman Chris Jones, who burst on the scene as a first rounder rather late in the process. With Dontari Poe about to go into free agency, having a backup plan in Jones is a very good option. The Chiefs lost CB Sean Smith in free agency so KeiVarae Russell could step in and partner with last year’s first round pick Marcus Peters right away. After those two picks, there was not a whole lot that catches your eye. Dadi Nicolas is an athletic freak but needs some time to develop and will likely move to linebacker. DeMarcus Robinson could also be a nice addition to a long lacking wide receiver corps if he can get his off-field issues under control. The more surprising pick was Stanford QB Kevin Hogan. While it was no secret that Kansas City could be potentially targeting a quarterback in this draft, it seems odd considering they have last year’s pick in Georgia QB Aaron Murray and former Tennessee QB Tyler Bray. I personally do not think Hogan is better than Bray but at the moment it seems Bray is the odd man out in KC and quite possibly Murray too if the Chiefs decide to only roll with two quarterbacks this season.

Los Angeles Rams, Grade: B

1(1) Jared Goff, QB

4(110) Tyler Higbee, TE

4(117) Pharoh Cooper, WR

6(177) Temarrick Hemingway, TE

6(190) Josh Forrest, ILB

6(206) Mike Thomas, WR

The Rams offense has been lacking for a long time and after seemingly getting the running game figured out with Tom Gurley last year, their focus turned to the passing game. Los Angeles had to give up a considerable amount to move up and take Jared Goff but he could be well worth it. He was my top player in the draft and I believe he is the answer to the Rams QB situation. The Rams added a variety of pass catchers for Goff and they have the potential to make Los Angeles’ passing game take a big step forward. Tyler Higbee should replace Jared Cook who left in free agency, but first he must deal with a list of charges stemming from an alleged assault back in April. Pharoh Cooper was a long time standout at South Carolina and gives Goff a good target on the outside or in the slot. Mike Thomas could develop into another solid target as well but he will likely see limited snaps this year behind Tavon Austin, Kenny Britt, and Cooper.

Miami Dolphins, Grade: B+

1(13) Laremy Tunsil, OT

2(38) Xavien Howard, CB

3(73) Kenyan Drake, RB

3(86) Leonte Carroo, WR

6(186) Jakeem Grant, WR

6(204) Jordan Lucas, SS

7(223) Brandon Doughty, QB

7(231) Thomas Duarte, TE

After a video surfaced of Laremy Tunsil smoking from a gas mask bong just minutes before the draft, the top prospect began to slide once the draft began. No one knew exactly how far he would fall but those questions were answered when Miami took him 13th overall. The Dolphins had to be thrilled to get one of the top players in the draft in a position of need all the way down at 13th. Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill has been one of the most sacked quarterbacks in the NFL since he took over as starter, and Tunsil should help address those issues right away. With two good tackles already in place, I would suspect that Ja’Wuan James would kick inside guard and Tunsil would stay at tackle. Kenyan Drake was one of my favorite pass-catching running backs in this draft and he should compliment Jay Ajayi well as they look to replace Lamar Miller. Grant may not see a ton of time this year on the field, but Leonte Carroo could see time as the fourth wide receiver and could be a surprise contributor this year. One of my favorite late round picks was Western Kentucky QB Brandon Doughty. He is a project, there is no question about that, and he may not even make the roster, but he has the potential to be better than any of the backups Miami currently has on its roster.

Minnesota Vikings, Grade: A-

1(23) Laquon Treadwell, WR

2(54) Mackensie Alexander, CB

4(121) Willie Beavers, OT

5(160) Kentrell Brothers, LB

6(180) Moritz Boehringer, WR

6(188) David Morgan, TE

7(227) Stephen Weatherly, OLB

7(244) Jayron Kearse, S

For the second year in a row the Minnesota Vikings had themselves a very good draft. The Vikings landed Laquon Treadwell in the first round, who many considered the top wide receiver in the class. Treadwell should be the perfect big-bodied receiver for Teddy Bridgewater to throw to, as the Vikings work to progress their passing game. In the second round the Vikings were able to get Clemson’s Mackensie Alexander who fell due to him recording zero interceptions in his college career. Despite the low numbers, Alexander should be in the cornerback rotation this season or even provide depth at the safety spot. In the seventh round the Vikings were able to add Alexander’s teammate, Jayron Kearse, who will provide some youth at safety for the Vikings. Kentrell Brothers gives them some depth at linebacker and is trying to be next in a long line of talented pass rushers to come out of Mizzou. Then there is the feel good story of German WR Moritz Boehringer who tore up the German Football League last year for the Swabisch Hall Unicorns. He will need time to develop but could become another quality target for Bridgewater as he has similar measureables to Tampa Bay WR Mike Evans and ran a 4.43 40-yard dash at his pro day.

New England Patriots, Grade: C+

2(60) Cyrus Jones, CB

3(78) Joe Thuney, OG

3(91) Jacoby Brissett, QB

3(96) Vincent Valentine, DT

4(112) Malcolm Mitchell, WR

6(208) Kamu Grugier-Hill, OLB

6(214) Elandon Roberts, ILB

6(221) Ted Karras, OG

7(225) Devin Lucien, WR

Looking at this draft class, really only name stands out and that is CB Cyrus Jones. With no first round pick due to Deflategate that is somewhat understandable but there is just not a whole lot I like in this draft class. I was a big fan of Jones but the second round is a bit high as he was projected as a 3rd-5th rounder. Thuney does help address their offensive line that struggled last year after being ravaged by injuries, and Mitchell can provide some depth to their wide receiving corps. Perhaps the most puzzling pick to me was the selection of NC State QB Jacoby Brissett in the third round. I had Brissett pegged as a late round pick and there were much better options still on the board (Connor Cook?). The other question is why a quarterback that high? Tom Brady’s Deflategate suspension was recently reinstated but they have Jimmy Garoppolo as a back up if the suspension does not get overturned (again). There is a chance they could be preparing for the possibility of losing Garoppolo in free agency or if they decide to trade him later on (like they did with Ryan Mallett) but I just don’t get this pick. I will give Bill Belichick the benefit of the doubt on this draft class, but as of now it does not really stand out.

New Orleans Saints, Grade: B-

1(12) Sheldon Rankins, DT

2(47) Michael Thomas, WR

2(61) Vonn Bell, S

4(120) David Onyemata, DT

7(237) Daniel Lasco, RB

New Orleans only had five picks in the draft but they made them count. Sheldon Rankins was linked to the Saints for awhile and he should be an impact player on a Saints defense that has struggled for the last few seasons. In the second round, New Orleans grabbed Ohio State wide receiver Michael Thomas who will join a receiving corps looking to replace Saints receiving legend Marques Colston. At the end of the second, New Orleans traded back into the second to get Thomas’ Ohio State teammate Vonn Bell. With Kenny Vacarro and Jairus Byrd firmly in place as the starters, Bell will have time to get acclimated to the NFL. Byrd has an injury history so having Bell as an insurance policy is smart on behalf of the Saints. Onyemata and Lasco were depth selections but they could be key reserves for the Saints if injuries do arise.

New York Giants, Grade: B

1(10) Eli Apple, CB

2(40) Sterling Shepard, WR

3(71) Darian Thompson, S

4(109) BJ Goodson, OLB

5(149) Paul Perkins, RB

6(184) Jerell Adams, TE

Despite having few picks in this draft I really like what the Giants did. The players the Giants were targeting at 10th overall were taken before they could pick so they were essentially forced to take Eli Apple. The pick of Eli Apple was a reach which is what ultimately holds the grade for this class back but I think Apple will fit well in New York. Sterling Shepard should be immediately involved in the wide receiver rotation after Rueben Randle left in free agency, and Eli Manning works best in three-receiver sets. Thompson and Apple add to the secondary that was historically bad last year and Goodson joins a linebacking corps that was injury ravaged last year. Perkins and Adams offer good value as well and should provide more depth for the Giants on offense.

New York Jets, Grade: C

1(20) Darron Lee, LB

2(51) Christian Hackenberg, QB

3(83) Jordan Jenkins, OLB

4(118) Juston Burris, CB

5(158) Brandon Shell, OT

7(235) Lac Edwards, P

7(241) Charone Peake, WR

This draft class has some big names in it, but outside of linebacker did the Jets really improve anywhere else? Hackenberg will be thrown into the revolving door that has been the New York Jets QB position, and will compete with Geno Smith, Bryce Petty, and possibly Ryan Fitzpatrick for the job. Hackenberg is not ready and will likely need time to acclimate to the NFL so they will need to wait for this pick to pay off. Peake was a good value pick in the 7th but he is also buried on the depth chart behind Eric Decker, Brandon Marshall, and Devin Smith. The Jets did make two of my top UDFA signings in Duke K Ross Martin and Utah P Josh Hackett but both will have to win their respective kicking battles in the preseason to secure roster spots.

Oakland Raiders, Grade: C+

1(14) Karl Joseph, S

2(44) Jihad Ward, DE

3(75) Shilique Calhoun, DE

4(100) Connor Cook, QB

5(143) DeAndre Washington, RB

6(194) Cory James, OLB

7(234) Vadal Alexander, OG

Similar to Atlanta, I felt that Oakland’s first two picks were reaches despite being good fits for the team. Connor Cook should battle with Matt McGloin for the backup spot and could be flipped in the future for a draft pick. Vadal Alexander had a surprising fall all the way to the seventh round but gives the Raiders some depth on an offensive line that is getting up there in age. DeAndre Washington does not really fix the running back situation in Oakland but next year’s class is loaded at running back and I would not be surprised to see them take one early next year. The Raiders could be a surprise playoff contender this year especially if Amari Cooper and Derek Carr continue to develop their connection on offense.

Philadelphia Eagles, Grade: B-

1(2) Carson Wentz, QB

3(79) Isaac Seumalo, OL

5(153) Wendell Smallwood, RB

5(164) Halapoulivaati Vaitai, OT

6(196) Blake Countess, CB

7(233) Jalen Mills, FS

7(240) Alex McCalister, DE

7(251) Joe Walker, ILB

Carson Wentz is the big headliner in this class but he should sit behind Daniels and Bradford for the year to help develop. Unfortunately, in today’s NFL young quarterbacks do not get to sit very long and develop. Once either of the guys in front of Wentz struggles, people will be calling for Wentz to start and I do not see this team as a playoff squad with or without him starting. The Eagles did add some help totheir offensive line. Seumalo has experience at all three positions on the line and will likely start the year at guard for Philadelphia. Vaitai will be a depth piece for now, but Jason Peters is 34 years old so Vaitai will see the field sooner rather than later. Smallwood is an interesting pick and could contribute to a running back group that last year was extremely disappointing. He does have some off-field questions that need to be addressed but for the most part he should be fine. Outside of the Eagles first two picks, their best pick may have been taking LSU safety Jalen Mills in the seventh round. Walter Thurmond is no longer with the team and is contemplating retirement so there are minutes to be had at the safety position in Philadelphia. As with Denver, Wentz’s development and contributions will ultimately decide the fate of this draft class, but there are plenty of other names to watch as well.

Pittsburgh Steelers, Grade: B

1(25) Artie Burns, CB

2(58) Sean Davis, CB

3(89) Javon Hargrave, DT

4(123) Jerald Hawkins, OT

6(220) Travis Feeney, OLB

7(229) DeMarcus Ayers, WR

7(246) Tyler Matakevich, OLB

This group may end up being a sneaky good draft class for the Pittsburgh Steelers. They were likely coveting William Jackson III or Eli Apple in the first round but both were gone by the time they picked. Artie Burns is still a nice consolation prize and should compete for a starting spot this season primarily because there is no one else to challenge him for it. Sean Davis is being moved to safety but he could be in line for some time this year as well. Hargrave was a guy who started garnering attention at the East-West Shrine Game and Senior Bowl and getting him in the third round is fairly good value. Travis Feeney is another name to watch as well. At the University of Washington he was a relentless pass rusher (watch him versus USC this year) who fell likely due to his size and an iffy shoulder. He may not see many minutes as a linebacker this season but he very well could be a special teams standout in his rookie year. DeMarcus Ayers also could step into the wide receiver rotation this year with Martavis Bryant suspended for the entire for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.

San Diego Chargers, Grade: B+

1(3) Joey Bosa, DE

2(35) Hunter Henry, TE

3(66) Max Teurk, C

4(102) Joshua Perry, ILB

5(175) Jatavis Brown, OLB

6(179) Drew Kaser, P

6(198) Derek Watt, FB

7(224) Donovan Clark, OG

The Chargers surprised every one when they took Ohio State DE Joey Bosa 3rd overall, but the pick makes a lot of sense for San Diego. Bosa should help a defense that struggled mightily in a variety of spots last year. Hunter Henry was the top tight end in the draft by a healthy margin and will look to take over for the rapidly aging Antonio Gates in San Diego. Henry may not have a huge impact this year, but could see an increased role in the coming seasons. Max Teurk can also be a guy to come in and immediately compete for the starting job. Joshua Perry will look to help provide depth to an inside linebacker corps that had a subpar year as will Jatavis Brown on the outside. Drew Kaser is the only punter on the roster so he seems to be the likely starter there as well. Lastly, Derek Watt, the brother of Texans DE JJ Watt, will look to block for last year’s first round pick, Melvin Gordon, who had a subpar rookie year. The Chargers had a good draft and it will be interesting to see how they all mesh together in San Diego.

San Francisco 49ers, Grade: C+

1(7) DeForest Buckner, DL

1(28) Joshua Garnett, OG

3(68) Will Redmond, CB

4(133) Rashard Robinson, WR

5(142) Ronald Blair, DE

5(145) John Theus, OT

5(174) Fahn Cooper, OT

6(207) Jeff Driskel, QB

6(211) Kelvin Taylor, RB

6(213) Aaron Burbridge, WR

7(249) Prince Charles Iworah, CB

I wrote after the first round how much I liked San Francisco’s first two picks but looking through the other nine picks nothing really stands out as being a big help this season or even next season. Driskel is a recognizable name but he was terrible at Florida but had a good year at Lousiana Tech after transferring. I do not see him supplanting Blaine Gabbert as the backup anytime soon so he is a project. Redmond could help the secondary and Theus and Cooper provide depth on the offensive line but likely are a year or two way from starting. This is a wait and see class for San Francisco which is not necessarily a bad thing as they were not going to catch Seattle, Arizona, or even Los Angeles this season anyway.

Seattle Seahawks, Grade: B+

1(31) Germain Ifedi, OL

2(41) Jarran Reed, DT

3(90) CJ Prosise, RB

3(94) Nick Vannett, TE

3(97) Rees Odihambo, OG

5(147) Quinton Jefferson, DE

5(171) Alex Collins, RB

6(215) Joey Hunt, C

7(243) Kenny Lawler, WR

7(247) Zac Brooks, RB

There were two clear objectives for Seattle’s draft class: address the offensive and defensive lines and to find a replacement for recently retired RB Marshawn Lynch. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll has already said that first round pick Germain Ifedi will play right guard this year but I expect him to move to tackle in the following seasons. As for Odihambo, he is extremely raw and injury-prone but very athletic and according to Carroll has the chance to land a starting spot this year. Hunt can play guard but will likely be a backup for the next couple seasons. On the defensive side, Reed was a projected first rounder so getting him in the mid-second round is a major steal. Reed doesn’t offer much in terms of pass rush but he is excellent against the run, similar to long-time Seahawk Branadon Mebane who signed with the Chargers in the offseason. On the other hand, Quinton Jefferson’s strength is rushing the passer so he will compliment Reed well. Marshawn Lynch is not easy to replace but Prosise provides a solid pass catching option out of the backfield and should compliment last year’s breakout star, Thomas Rawls, well. Collins is much more similar to Marshawn Lynch and will be another reliable option for the Seahawks in the backfield. Kenny Lawler is an intriguing pick to me, who plays somewhat similar to Jermaine Kearse and is an interesting late round flier. The battle for Russell Wilson’s backup spot may come down to the UDFA signings of Oregon QB Vernon Adams and TCU’s Trevone Boykin and the local kid Jake Heaps is a long shot. I’d give the edge to Adams right now as he mostly resembles Wilson’s style of play but that will be a storyline to watch in rookie minicamp.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Grade: C+

1(11) Vernon Hargreaves III, CB

2(39) Noah Spence, DE

2(59) Roberto Aguayo, K

4(108) Ryan Smith, CB

5(148) Caleb Benenoch, OT

6(183) Devante Bond, OLB

6(197) Dan Vitale, FB

This grade hurts because I loved the first two picks Tampa made in this draft but not much happened after that. There has been a lot of uproar about the Buccaneers moving up to take a kicker in the second round. While I was not crazy about the move either, the value of kickers has risen since they moved the extra point back and Aguayo does not miss from inside 40 yards (literally…he was 49 of 49 at Florida State) so he should bring stability to the position for Tampa Bay. I fully expect Aguayo to be a top kicker in this league but the second round is a big gamble for a position where there are plenty of serviceable players always available.

Tennessee Titans, Grade: B-

1(8) Jack Conklin, OT

2(33) Kevin Dodd, OLB

2(43) Austin Johnson, DT

2(45) Derrick Henry, RB

3(64) Kevin Byard, S

5(140) Tajae Sharpe, WR

5(157) LeShaun Sims, CB

6(193) Sebastian Tretola, OG

7(222) Aaron Wallace, OLB

7(253) Kalan Reed, CB

I really do not know how I feel about this class. After the first round, I wrote how well the Titans did to move down then up and still get the guy they reportedly coveted the entire time. After day two, I condemned them for wasting their picks. Looking back, I like the Henry and Dodd picks more now and the additions of Tretola and Sharpe give the Titans some depth at positions of need. Byard could be a starting safety this year after Michael Griffin was cut earlier in the offseason and no one else on the roster seems poised to take advantage. The Titans added two cornerbacks which they desperately needed but I do not know if either is really better than who they have now but that will be a position to watch during training camp. The Titans are still not ready to be a playoff contender, but with two first round picks (their own and the Rams’ pick) next year, the Titans can look to add more starter-quality players next draft.

Washington Redskins, Grade: B+

1(22) Josh Doctson, WR

2(53) Su’a Cravens, LB/S

3(84) Kendall Fuller, CB

5(152) Matthew Ioannidis, DT

6(187) Nate Sudfeld, QB

7(232) Steven Daniels, ILB

7(242) Keith Marshall, RB

The Washington Redskins surprised everyone when they took Josh Doctson 22nd overall. With both DeSean Jackson and Pierre Garcon heading into contract years, having Doctson as a backup plan in case one or both walk in free agency is a solid option. Cravens is another intriguing pick as he is projected as a hybrid linebacker safety. I do not know exactly where he fits in to this defense but he could be an exciting addition. Before the season started, Kendall Fuller was a projected first rounder before tearing his ACL. If Fuller can fully recover and get back to where he was this could end up being a massive steal for Washington. Sudfeld is an interesting project for Washington. He has the measurables but still needs to further develop the other aspects of his game before he will be ready to compete for the backup spot.