2024 NFL Draft: Grading all 32 teams
What do you mean the draft is already over?
The 2024 NFL Draft somehow is already over. More than a year of scouting and hundreds of hours culminated in three days of dramatic action. Now that all the dust has settled, let’s recap every draft class and assign initial grades as we break down the newest NFL players.
This is just an exercise I’m doing for fun. I understand that you can’t really grade a class until you’ve seen it on the field for several years, but I like this kind of content. I needed to review all of the classes anyway, and this gave me an excuse to do it.
My class grades lean heavily on how I evaluated prospects going into the draft. I also take a look at coaching and scheme fits as well as the number of quality starters or rotational players teams added.
Arizona Cardinals: Gotta draft them all!
4. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR Ohio State
Big Board Rank: 1
Position Rank: 1
27. Darius Robinson, Edge Missouri
Big Board Rank: 39
Position Rank: 6
43. Max Melton, CB Rutgers
Big Board Rank: 48
Position Rank: 7
66. Trey Benson, RB Florida State
Big Board Rank: 42
Position Rank: 1
71. Isaiah Adams, G Illinois
Big Board Rank: 55
Position Rank: 3
82. Tip Reiman, TE Illinois
Big Board Rank: 138
Position Rank: 7
90. Elijah Jones, CB Boston College
Big Board Rank: 113
Position Rank: 16
104. Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, S Texas Tech
Big Board Rank: 114
Position Rank: 8
138. Xavier Thomas, Edge Clemson
Big Board Rank: 173
Position Rank: 18
162. Christian Jones, RT Texas
Big Board Rank: 93
Position Rank: 13
191. Tejhaun Palmer, WR UAB
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
226. Jaden Davis, CB Miami
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
Best Value: Christian Jones
Favorite Pick: Isaiah Adams
Grade: A+
Giving the Cardinals an A+ might seem like I’m going easy since they were handed Marvin Harrison Jr., but they drafted three other projected starters and made up for reaching on Tip Reiman by nabbing Christian Jones in the fifth round. Elijah Jones and Dadrion Taylor-Demerson aren’t projected to start, but they will likely contribute as rookies.
Atlanta Falcons: Huh?
8. Michael Penix Jr., QB Washington.
Big Board Rank: 68
Position Rank: 5
35. Ruke Orhorhoro, IDL Clemson
Big Board Rank: 90
Position Rank: 7
74. Bralen Trice, Edge Washington
Big Board Rank: 87
Position Rank: 10
109. Brandon Dorlus, IDL Oregon
Big Board Rank: 127
Position Rank: 11
143. JD Bertrand, LB Notre Dame
Big Board Rank: 216
Position Rank: 14
186. Jase McClellan, RB Alabama
Big Board Rank: 259
Position Rank: 21
187. Casey Washington, WR Illinois
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
197. Zion Logue, IDL Georgia
Big Board Rank: 288
Position Rank: 27
Best Value: None
Favorite Pick: Bralen Trice
Grade: F
The Falcons drafted an old quarterback prospect with a history of major injuries to eventually be the heir to an old quarterback coming off a major injury. This isn’t Jordan Love or Patrick Mahomes. Michael Penix Jr. is almost my age! Add in reaching for Ruke Orhorhoro, securing no guaranteed talent after the fourth round, and a risky bid on Bralen Trice, and you have the worst draft in the class.
Baltimore Ravens: They can’t keep getting away with this!
30. Nate Wiggins, CB Clemson
Big Board Rank: 12
Position Rank: 2
62. Roger Rosengarten, RT Washington
Big Board Rank: 78
Position Rank: 12
93. Adisa Isaac, Edge Penn State
Big Board Rank: 63
Position Rank: 7
113. Devontez Walker, WR North Carolina
Big Board Rank: 69
Position Rank: 16
130. T.J. Tampa, CB Iowa State
Big Board Rank: 66
Position Rank: 8
165. Rasheen Ali, RB Marshall
Big Board Rank: 129
Position Rank: 9
218. Devin Leary, QB Kentucky
Big Board Rank: 235
Position Rank: 11
228. Nick Samac, C Michigan State
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
250. Sanoussi Kane, S Purdue
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
Best Value: T.J. Tampa
Favorite Pick: Ali, Isaac, & Walker
Grade: A
As a Steelers fan, I despise Baltimore’s draft strategy. They land so many quality prospects by doing absolutely nothing. This grade would be an A+, but only Nate Wiggins and Roger Rosengarten are projected to start. However, I expect we’ll see contributions from Rasheen Ali, Adisa Isaac, and Devontez Walker in the second half of the season.
Buffalo Bills: Defense and trenches
33. Keon Coleman, WR Florida State
Big Board Rank: 23
Position Rank: 5
60. Cole Bishop, S Utah
Big Board Rank: 97
Position Rank: 6
95. DeWayne Carter, IDL Duke
Big Board Rank: 119
Position Rank: 10
128. Ray Davis, RB Kentucky
Big Board Rank: 146
Position Rank: 11
141. Sedrick Van Pran-Granger, C Georgia
Big Board Rank: 153
Position Rank: 6
160. Edefuan Ulofoshio, LB Washington
Big Board Rank: 145
Position Rank: 8
168. Javon Solomon, Edge Troy
Big Board Rank: 174
Position Rank: 19
204. Tylan Grable, LT UCF
Big Board Rank: 240
Position Rank: 25
219. Daequan Hardy, CB/NB Penn State
Big Board Rank: 233
Position Rank: 32
221. Travis Clayton, G England
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
Best Value: Edefuan Ulofoshio
Favorite Pick: Sedrick Van Pran-Granger
Grade: B
Only getting one wide receiver in a class loaded with them felt like a missed opportunity for the Bills. I don’t dislike any of the picks they made, I’m just not sure how many long-term starters are coming out of this class. I would bump this grade to an “A” if Cole Bishop, Keon Coleman, and Sedrick Van Pran-Granger start as rookies and DeWayne Carter and Javon Solomon take regular snaps.
Carolina Panthers: Saving Bryce Young
32. Xavier Legette, WR South Carolina
Big Board Rank: 35
Position Rank: 10
46. Jonathon Brooks, RB Texas
Big Board Rank: 52
Position Rank: 2
72. Trevin Wallace, LB Kentucky
Big Board Rank: 94
Position Rank: LB5
101. Ja'Tavion Sanders, TE Texas
Big Board Rank: 105
Position Rank: 2
157. Chau Smith-Wade, CB Washington State
Big Board Rank: 236
Position Rank: 33
200. Jaden Crumedy, IDL Mississippi State
Big Board Rank: 215
Position Rank: 21
240. Michael Barrett, LB Michigan
Big Board Rank: 268
Position Rank: 20
Best Value: Ja'Tavion Sanders
Favorite Pick: Xavier Legette
Grade: B-
I don’t think taking Xavier Legette with the last pick in the first round was a reach. That doesn’t worry me. What does worry me is Carolina failing to add meaningful talent late while also taking risky shots on a running back with a torn ACL, a developmental linebacker, and a slot-only tight end.
Chicago Bears: A new era in the Windy City
1. Caleb Williams, QB USC
Big Board Rank: 2
Position Rank: 1
9. Rome Odunze, WR Washington
Big Board Rank: 5
Position Rank: 3
75. Kiran Amegadjie, LT Yale
Big Board Rank: 53
Position Rank: 11
122. Tory Taylor, P Iowa
Big Board Rank: 110
Position Rank: 1
144. Austin Booker, Edge Kansas
Big Board Rank: 85
Position Rank: 9
Best Values: Austin Booker & Rome Odunze
Favorite Pick: Kiran Amegadjie
Grade: A+
An A+ is probably rich since Chicago walked into one of the five best quarterback prospects of the past decade, but I think getting Rome Odunze puts this class over the top. That’s two of my top five players in this draft! Kiran Amegadjie and Austin Booker have long-term starting potential, and Tory Taylor is technically counted as a starter.
Cincinnati Bengals: Big risk, bigger reward
18. Amarius Mims, RT Georgia
Big Board Rank: 4
Position Rank: 1
49. Kris Jenkins, IDL Michigan
Big Board Rank: 54
Position Rank: 4
80. Jermaine Burton, WR Alabama
Big Board Rank: 56
Position Rank: 13
97. McKinnley Jackson, IDL Texas A&M
Big Board Rank: 99
Position Rank: 8
115. Erick All, TE Iowa
Big Board Rank: 156
Position Rank: 9
149. Josh Newton, CB TCU
Big Board Rank: 151
Position Rank: 23
194. Tanner McLachlan, TE Arizona
Big Board Rank: 212
Position Rank: 11
214. Cedric Johnson, Edge Ole Miss
Big Board Rank: 187
Position Rank: 20
224. Daijahn Anthony, S Ole Miss
Big Board Rank: 282
Position Rank: 20
237. Matt Lee, C Miami
Big Board Rank: 239
Position Rank: 11
Best Value: Jermaine Burton
Favorite Pick: Amarius Mims
Grade: A
A lot could go wrong with this class. Amarius Mims might never be healthy. Kris Jenkins might never develop a pass rush plan. Jermaine Burton might be off the team in two years. Erick All also has a significant injury history. But if even three of Cincinnati’s top six picks hit from this class, they will be ABSOLUTELY GOLDEN. The ceilings for the guys they picked are insanely high.
Cleveland Browns: Drafting 2025 & 2026 starters
54. Michael Hall Jr., IDL Ohio State
Big Board Rank: 32
Position Rank: 3
85. Zak Zinter, G Michigan
Big Board Rank: 71
Position Rank: 6
156. Jamari Thrash, WR Louisville
Big Board Rank: 86
Position Rank: 18
206. Nathaniel Watson, LB Mississippi State
Big Board Rank: 219
Position Rank: 16
227. Myles Harden, CB South Dakota
Big Board Rank: 224
Position Rank: 28
243. Jowon Briggs, IDL Cincinnati
Big Board Rank: 226
Position Rank: 23
Best Value: Jamari Thrash
Favorite Pick: Any of the top three
Grade: A-
No first round pick? No problem. Michael Hall Jr. is arguably the second-best pass rushing interior player in this class, and Zak Zinter will be a starter once he returns from injury. I also think Jamari Thrash could be a starting slot option by the end of his rookie contract, but maybe I’m alone on that island.
Dallas Cowboys: Party like it’s 1995
29. Tyler Guyton, RT Oklahoma
Big Board Rank: 22
Position Rank: 7
56. Marshawn Kneeland, Edge Western Michigan
Big Board Rank: 36
Position Rank: 5
73. Cooper Beebe, G Kansas State
Big Board Rank: 44
Position Rank: 1
87. Marist Liufau, LB Notre Dame
Big Board Rank: 194
Position Rank: 11
174. Caelen Carson, CB Wake Forest
Big Board Rank: 89
Position Rank: 12
216. Ryan Flournoy, WR Southeast Missouri State
Big Board Rank: 248
Position Rank: 33
233. Nathan Thomas, LT Louisiana
Big Board Rank: 242
Position Rank: 26
244. Justin Rogers, IDL Auburn
Big Board Rank: 232
Position Rank: 24
Best Value: Caelen Carson
Favorite Picks: Cooper Beebe & Marshawn Kneeland
Grade: A-
The Cowboys got back to rebuilding the trenches with this draft, and they added a really good corner in Caelen Carson later on. Nathan Thomas and Justin Rogers were two massive bodies they took late to really beef up the trench play. I am a little worried that Tyler Guyton and Marshawn Kneeland are developmental players with a long way to go before reaching their ceilings.
This class’ grade is contingent on Cooper Beebe starting as a rookie. If he somehow ends up not playing at center over Brock Hoffman, the grade quickly drops to a B or even a B- considering the reach on Marist Liufau and emphasis on developmental prospects.
Denver Broncos: Bo no!
12. Bo Nix, QB Oregon
Big Board Rank: 77
Position Rank: 7
76. Jonah Elliss, Edge Utah
Big Board Rank: 92
Position Rank: 11
102. Troy Franklin, WR Oregon
Big Board Rank: 24
Position Rank: 6
145. Kris Abrams-Draine, CB/NB Missouri
Big Board Rank: 74
Position Rank: 11
147. Audric Estime, RB Notre Dame
Big Board Rank: 108
Position Rank: 8
235. Devaughn Vele, WR Utah
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
256. Nick Gargiulo, C South Carolina
Big Board Rank: 264
Position Rank: 13
Best Value: Troy Franklin
Favorite Picks: Troy Franklin & KAD
Grade: B
If I hold my hand up to the computer screen and pretend Bo Nix wasn’t picked at 12th overall, this class would likely receive an “A” or “A-.” Denver did a great job identifying value late. If the coaching knows what they’re doing, they might even squeeze two starters out of players they added outside of the top 75 picks. Sadly, the Bo Nix pick does exist, and Denver wagered their future on a quarterback I never even considered going in the first round.
Detroit Lions: Brad Holmes enters cheat code mode
24. Terrion Arnold, CB Alabama
Big Board Rank: 13
Position Rank: 3
61. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB/NB Missouri
Big Board Rank: 70
Position Rank: 8
126. Giovanni Manu, OT British Columbia
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
132. Sione Vaki, S/RB Utah
Big Board Rank: 195
Position Rank: 15
189. Mekhi Wingo, IDL LSU
Big Board Rank: 115
Position Rank: 9
210. Christian Mahogany, G Boston College
Big Board Rank: 106
Position Rank: 7
Best Values: Christian Mahogany & Mekhi Wingo
Favorite Pick: Terrion Arnold
Grade: A+
Trading up for Terrion Arnold was a brilliant move by Brad Holmes, who has rebuilt the Lions in just a few seasons. The work he’s done in the secondary alone over the past two years is amazing. I don’t care for the Giovanni Manu or Sione Vaki picks at all, but grabbing Christian Mahogany and Mekhi Wingo late was fantastic.
Green Bay Packers: Now playing your favorite college hits
25. Jordan Morgan, LT Arizona
Big Board Rank: 31
Position Rank: 8
45. Edgerrin Cooper, LB Texas A&M
Big Board Rank: 46
Position Rank: 1
58. Javon Bullard, S Georgia
Big Board Rank: 60
Position Rank: 3
88. MarShawn Lloyd, RB USC
Big Board Rank: 84
Position Rank: 5
91. Ty'Ron Hopper, LB Missouri
Big Board Rank: 171
Position Rank: 9
111. Evan Williams, S Oregon
Big Board Rank: 175
Position Rank: 12
163. Jacob Monk, C Duke
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
169. Kitan Oladapo, S Oregon State
Big Board Rank: 137
Position Rank: 10
202. Travis Glover, LT Georgia State
Big Board Rank: 209
Position Rank: 22
245. Michael Pratt, QB Tulane
Big Board Rank: 91
Position Rank: 8
255. Kalen King, CB Penn State
Big Board Rank: 179
Position Rank: 26
Best Value: Michael Pratt
Favorite Picks: Kitan Oladapo & Michael Pratt
Grade: B+
It feels like the Packers just went to a bunch of random college towns and asked local students who they thought were good on the football team. This is just a collection of fun, productive college players with a mix of builds and styles. None of them are stars, but they all have high levels of competency. Also, Michael Pratt is going to take Sean Clifford’s job.
Houston Texans: I guess…it’s fine
42. Kamari Lassiter, CB Georgia
Big Board Rank: 72
Position Rank: 10
59. Blake Fisher, RT Notre Dame
Big Board Rank: 147
Position Rank: 16
78. Calen Bullock, S USC
Big Board Rank: 82
Position Rank: 4
123. Cade Stover, TE Ohio State
Big Board Rank: 125
Position Rank: 5
188. Jamal Hill, LB Oregon
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
205. Jawhar Jordan, RB Louisville
Big Board Rank: 250
Position Rank: 19
238. Solomon Byrd, Edge USC
Big Board Rank: 221
Position Rank: 26
247. Marcus Harris, IDL Auburn
Big Board Rank: 192
Position Rank: 18
249. LaDarius Henderson, LT Michigan
Big Board Rank: 214
Position Rank: 23
Best Value: Marcus Harris
Favorite Pick: Calen Bullock
Grade: C
Houston got two, maybe three, starters out of the 2024 class. I see Blake Fisher significantly differently than the NFL, which really drags down my grade. There are some solid players in this group, but I don’t see a guaranteed hit. They all might just be role players or backups in a few years.
Indianapolis Colts: Chris Ballard will re-sign them all in 2028
15. Laiatu Latu, Edge UCLA
Big Board Rank: 14
Position Rank: 2
52. Adonai Mitchell, WR Texas
Big Board Rank: 16
Position Rank: 4
79. Matt Goncalves, LT Pittsburgh
Big Board Rank: 117
Position Rank: 14
117. Tanor Bortolini, C Wisconsin
Big Board Rank: 144
Position Rank: 5
142. Anthony Gould, WR Oregon State
Big Board Rank: 189
Position Rank: 30
151. Jaylon Carlies, S Missouri
Big Board Rank: 205
Position Rank: 16
164. Jaylin Simpson, S Auburn
Big Board Rank: 165
Position Rank: 11
201. Micah Abraham, CB Marshall
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
234. Jonah Laulu, IDL Oklahoma
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
Best Value: Adonai Mitchell
Favorite Pick: Laiatu Latu
Grade: B+
The Colts drafted two of my top 20 players in the class and proceeded to reach (according to my big board) on all of their remaining selections. That’s fine though because Laiatu Latu and Adonai Mitchell are studs. I also think Matt Goncalves is a great swing tackle who might eventually land a starting guard job.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Ah, another Trent Baalke classic
23. Brian Thomas Jr., WR LSU
Big Board Rank: 25
Position Rank: 7
48. Maason Smith, IDL LSU
Big Board Rank: 163
Position Rank: 13
96. Jarrian Jones, NB Florida State
Big Board Rank: 112
Position Rank: 15
114. Javon Foster, LT Missouri
Big Board Rank: 150
Position Rank: 18
116. Jordan Jefferson, IDL LSU
Big Board Rank: 217
Position Rank: 22
153. Deantre Prince, CB Ole Miss
Big Board Rank: 271
Position Rank: 36
167. Keilan Robinson, RB Texas
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
212. Cam Little, K Arkansas
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
236. Myles Cole, Edge Texas Tech
Big Board Rank: 198
Position Rank: 21
Best Value: Brian Thomas Jr.
Favorite Pick: Jarrian Jones
Grade: D+
Apparently, the Jaguars only scouted the southern region of the country this year. Their heavy emphasis on LSU and Florida products has burned them in the past, and many of their picks are developmental prospects. Jarrian Jones is probably the most pro-ready of the bunch. There’s a lot of pressure on the Jaguars coaching staff to help these guys take meaningful strides.
Kansas City Chiefs: Draft the athletes, all the athletes
28. Xavier Worthy, WR Texas
Big Board Rank: 41
Position Rank: 11
63. Kingsley Suamataia, LT BYU
Big Board Rank: 38
Position Rank: 9
131. Jared Wiley, TE TCU
Big Board Rank: 132
Position Rank: 6
133. Jaden Hicks, S Washington State
Big Board Rank: 47
Position Rank: 2
159. Hunter Nourzad, C Penn State
Big Board Rank: 98
Position Rank: 4
211. Kamal Hadden, CB Tennessee
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
248. C.J. Hanson, G Holy Cross
Big Board Rank: 220
Position Rank: 13
Best Values: Jaden Hicks & Hunter Nourzad
Favorite Pick: Jared Wiley
Grade: A-
Kansas City doesn’t care about measurables or character because they have a winner, and winning fixes everything (until the SMU product with several red flags you drafted last year crashes on the highway while street racing). Kingsley Suamataia can push Wanya Morris, Jaden Hicks can push Bryan Cook, Hunter Nourzad is one of the best backup centers in the game, and Jared Wiley might eventually take over for Travis Kelce. It’s a good group, although I am worried about the lack of size in Kansas City’s receiving room if/when Rashee Rice gets suspended.
Las Vegas Raiders: Day 3 value to the rescue
13. Brock Bowers, TE Georgia
Big Board Rank: 6
Position Rank: 1
44. Jackson Powers-Johnson, C Oregon
Big Board Rank: 19
Position Rank: 1
77. Delmar Glaze, LT Maryland
Big Board Rank: 140
Position Rank: 15
112. Decamerion Richardson, CB Mississippi State
Big Board Rank: 169
Position Rank: 25
148. Tommy Eichenberg, LB Ohio State
Big Board Rank: 122
Position Rank: 7
208. Dylan Laube, RB New Hampshire
Big Board Rank: 176
Position Rank: 14
223. Trey Taylor, S Air Force
Big Board Rank: 276
Position Rank: 19
229. M.J. Devonshire, CB Pittsburgh
Big Board Rank: 158
Position Rank: 24
Best Value: M.J. Devonshire
Favorite Pick: Jackson Powers-Johnson
Grade: B
The Raiders didn’t draft a single “bad” player. I have positive views on all the prospects they selected. I’m just not sure how all of the puzzle pieces fit together yet. I need to see this class in action before really determining its worth.
Los Angeles Chargers: In Herbert (and Harbaugh), we trust
5. Joe Alt, LT Notre Dame
Big Board Rank: 10
Position Rank: 3
34. Ladd McConkey, WR Georgia
Big Board Rank: 26
Position Rank: 8
69. Junior Colson, LB Michigan
Big Board Rank: 59
Position Rank: 2
105. Justin Eboigbe, IDL Alabama
Big Board Rank: 180
Position Rank: 15
137. Tarheeb Still, CB Maryland
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
140. Cam Hart, CB Notre Dame
Big Board Rank: 133
Position Rank: 19
181. Kimani Vidal, RB Troy
Big Board Rank: 177
Position Rank: 15
225. Brenden Rice, WR USC
Big Board Rank: 124
Position Rank: 22
253. Cornelius Johnson, WR Michigan
Big Board Rank: 157
Position Rank: 25
Best Value: Brenden Rice
Favorite Pick: Junior Colson
Grade: A
I was not a fan of the Justin Eboigbe or Tarheeb Still selections, but the Chargers added plus value at all of their other picks. Taking an offensive tackle in the first round and a receiver in the second round was absolutely the right strategy this year, and I think Jim Harbaugh brought home the right Michigan players to immediately support his new team.
I much rather would’ve seen Los Angeles take a receiver at 105 or 137 than make the picks they did. I like the late shots on Cornelius Johnson and Brenden Rice, but those guys were available in the seventh round for a reason. Javon Baker in the fourth round or Bub Means in the fifth round really would’ve rounded out the wide receiver room better.
Los Angeles Rams: Did you hear that Aaron Donald retired?
19. Jared Verse, Edge Florida State
Big Board Rank: 11
Position Rank: 1
39. Braden Fiske, IDL Florida State
Big Board Rank: 79
Position Rank: 6
83. Blake Corum, RB Michigan
Big Board Rank: 75
Position Rank: 3
99. Kamren Kinchens, S Miami
Big Board Rank: 88
Position Rank: 5
154. Brennan Jackson, Edge Washington State
Big Board Rank: 154
Position Rank: 15
196. Tyler Davis, IDL Clemson
Big Board Rank: 196
Position Rank: 19
209. Joshua Karty, K Stanford
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
213. Jordan Whittington, WR Texas
Big Board Rank: 170
Position Rank: 28
217. Beaux Limmer, C Arkansas
Big Board Rank: 155
Position Rank: 7
254. KT Leveston, G Kansas State
Big Board Rank: 210
Position Rank: 12
Best Value: Beaux Limmer
Favorite Pick: Jordan Whittington
Grade: B+
The Rams keep dumping young talent onto their roster, and it’s amazing. I don’t know how many players they still have under contract from five years ago, but it can’t be many. The roster turnover has worked in Los Angeles’ favor, and they continued the process this year with four quality picks in the top 100 and some late Day 3 steals.
This class isn’t an “A” because I’m not more than two of these picks become starters as rookies. There are a lot of great rotational or depth pieces in this group, but few sure-fire contributors.
Miami Dolphins: Welcome to the 2024 Florida Track & Field State Championship
21. Chop Robinson, Edge Penn State
Big Board Rank: 21
Position Rank: 3
55. Patrick Paul, LT Houston
Big Board Rank: 51
Position Rank: 10
120. Jaylen Wright, RB Tennessee
Big Board Rank: 83
Position Rank: 4
158. Mohamed Kamara, Edge Colorado State
Big Board Rank: 128
Position Rank: 14
184. Malik Washington, WR Virginia
Big Board Rank: 81
Position Rank: 17
198. Miami Dolphins: Patrick McMorris, S Cal
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
241. Tahj Washington, WR USC
Big Board Rank: 164
Position Rank: 27
Best Value: Malik Washington
Favorite Picks: Malik Washington & Tahj Washington
Grade: B
I want to see the averaged Relative Athletic Score (RAS) for the players Miami selected this year. They stayed true to character by adding a ton of excellent athletes with great bend, burst, and speed. I’m a little worried about why Malik Washington and Tahj Washington fell so far, but hopefully the two slot receivers prove evaluators wrong.
I wanted to give Miami a higher grade, but they don’t have a guaranteed starter in the whole class. Patrick Paul is going to redshirt until Terron Armstead inevitably gets hurt. Chop Robinson will probably start, but that could change when Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips return. Mohamed Kamara slots in behind those three AND Shaquil Barrett. Even Jaylen Wright is looking up at Pro Bowler Raheem Mostert and rookie sensation De'Von Achane.
Minnesota Vikings: Just focus on Day 1
10. J.J. McCarthy, QB Michigan
Big Board Rank: 40
Position Rank: 4
17. Dallas Turner, Edge Alabama
Big Board Rank: 28
Position Rank: 4
108. Khyree Jackson, CB Oregon
Big Board Rank: 121
Position Rank: 17
177. Walter Rouse, LT Oklahoma
Big Board Rank: 199
Position Rank: 20
203. Will Reichard, K Alabama
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
230. Michael Jurgens, C Wake Forest
Big Board Rank: 301
Position Rank: 14
232. Levi Drake Rodriguez, IDL Texas A&M-Commerce
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
Best Value: N/A
Favorite Pick: Dallas Turner
Grade: C+
I know the league values Dallas Turner more than I do. Even so, I wasn’t a fan of the big-time trade Minnesota made to move up and take him. The trade gutted most of Minnesota’s draft assets in 2025 for a non-blue chip prospect. I’m also not sold on J.J. McCarthy being a long-term answer, although he is walking into a nice situation.
Khyree Jackson might end up being alright, but most of Minnesota’s Day 3 picks are set to not be contributors.
New England Patriots: They haven’t hired a GM yet
3. Drake Maye, QB North Carolina
Big Board Rank: 7
Position Rank: 2
37. Ja'Lynn Polk, WR Washington
Big Board Rank: 33
Position Rank: 9
68. Caedan Wallace, RT Penn State
Big Board Rank: 149
Position Rank: 17
103. Layden Robinson, G Texas A&M
Big Board Rank: 142
Position Rank: 9
110. Javon Baker, WR UCF
Big Board Rank: 134
Position Rank: 23
180. Marcellas Dial, CB South Carolina
Big Board Rank: 291
Position Rank: 39
193. Joe Milton III, QB Tennessee
Big Board Rank: 166
Position Rank: 9
231. Jaheim Bell, TE Florida State
Big Board Rank: 148
Position Rank: 8
Best Value: Jaheim Bell
Favorite Pick: Ja'Lynn Polk
Grade: B-
New England got off to a roaring start with Drake Maye and Ja'Lynn Polk. Those were great picks who will complement each other well. Everything after that until Jaheim Bell at No. 231 was a train wreck. Those middle round picks are very reminiscent of how New England drafted in recent years: poorly.
The Javon Baker snag could be a good pick, assuming he’s still able to separate against NFL defensive backs.
New Orleans Saints: Keep rolling till the wheels fall off
14. Taliese Fuaga, RT Oregon State
Big Board Rank: 20
Position Rank: 6
41. Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB Alabama
Big Board Rank: 29
Position Rank: 4
150. Spencer Rattler, QB South Carolina
Big Board Rank: 80
Position Rank: 7
170. Bub Means, WR Pittsburgh
Big Board Rank: 107
Position Rank: 21
175. Jaylan Ford, LB Texas
Big Board Rank: 193
Position Rank: 10
199. Khristian Boyd, IDL Northern Iowa
Big Board Rank: 182
Position Rank: 17
239. Josiah Ezirim, RT Eastern Kentucky
Big Board Rank: 278
Position Rank: 30
Best Value: Spencer Rattler
Favorite Pick: Bub Means
Grade: B
New Orleans got one guaranteed starter in the draft, but I assume Kool-Aid McKinstry will start once the team eventually finds a way out of Marshon Lattimore’s contract. I can only give the class a B since it lacks immediate impact makers, but I’m a big believer in Bub Means and see contributor potential in Khristian Boyd. The Spencer Rattler pick was also a great move. He should unseat Jake Haener.
New York Giants: Surely it will work this time
6. Malik Nabers, WR LSU
Big Board Rank: 3
Position Rank: 2
47. Tyler Nubin, S Minnesota
Big Board Rank: 45
Position Rank: 1
70. Andru Phillips, CB/NB Kentucky
Big Board Rank: 100
Position Rank: 13
107. Theo Johnson, TE Penn State
Big Board Rank: 111
Position Rank: 3
166. Tyrone Tracy Jr., RB Purdue
Big Board Rank: 161
Position Rank: 13
183. Darius Muasau, LB UCLA
Big Board Rank: 227
Position Rank: 17
Best Value: Tyrone Tracy Jr.
Favorite Pick: Tyler Nubin
Grade: B
The Giants drafted another explosive wide receiver. This time, I think it will actually work in their favor. I have questions about Tyler Nubin and Andru Phillips, but I like how New York has rebuilt its secondary over the past two or three drafts. Theo Johnson and Tyrone Tracy Jr. were both good Day 3 values. I’m just not sure many of New York’s recent additions will play at a reliable level as rookies.
New York Jets: Future-proofing a team that wants to win now
11. Olu Fashanu, LT Penn State
Big Board Rank: 9
Position Rank: 2
65. Malachi Corley, WR Western Kentucky
Big Board Rank: 57
Position Rank: 14
134. Braelon Allen, RB Wisconsin
Big Board Rank: 102
Position Rank: 6
171. Jordan Travis, QB Florida State
Big Board Rank: 172
Position Rank: 10
173. Isaiah Davis, RB South Dakota State
Big Board Rank: 252
Position Rank: 20
176. Qwan’tez Stiggers, CB Toronto Argonauts
Big Board Rank: 222
Position Rank: 27
257. Jaylen Key, S Alabama
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
Best Value: Braelon Allen
Favorite Pick: Malachi Corley
Grade: C
The Jets walked away from the draft with one, maybe 1.5, rookie starters. Malachi Corley seems poised to own the slot role, assuming Aaron Rodgers will throw to him and be patient as his route tree develops. Olu Fashanu is good future-proofing behind Tyron Smith, who is injury-prone and on a one-year deal.
I’m not sure Joe Douglas and Robert Saleh will make it to see Fashanu become New York’s starting left tackle, and that’s ultimately why this class graded so poorly. The Jets are in desperation, win-now mode. They need a playoff run, and I can’t guarantee drafting for depth (including TWO MORE running backs and a third-string quarterback) advances that objective.
Philadelphia Eagles: Hot darn Howie!
22. Quinyon Mitchell, CB Toledo
Big Board Rank: 8
Position Rank: 1
40. Cooper DeJean, CB Iowa
Big Board Rank: 30
Position Rank: 5
94. Jalyx Hunt, Edge Houston Christian
Big Board Rank: 167
Position Rank: 17
127. Will Shipley, RB Clemson
Big Board Rank: 131
Position Rank: 10
152. Ainias Smith, WR Texas A&M
Big Board Rank: 191
Position Rank: 31
155. Jeremiah Trotter Jr., LB Clemson
Big Board Rank: 73
Position Rank: 4
172. Trevor Keegan, G Michigan
Big Board Rank: 178
Position Rank: 10
185. Johnny Wilson, WR Florida State
Big Board Rank: 103
Position Rank: 20
190. Dylan McMahon, C North Carolina State
Big Board Rank: 251
Position Rank: 12
Best Value: Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
Favorite Pick: Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
Grade: A+
The Eagles messed around, set the NFL Draft record for pick trades, got two first-round caliber defensive backs without selling the farm, and brought home a legend’s son. All in a day’s work for Howie Roseman. With the exception of the Jalyx Hunt pick at 94, which was a reach and dice roll for a traits-based long-term developmental prospect, this whole class kicks butt. Well done.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Finally fixing the trenches
20. Troy Fautanu, LT Washington
Big Board Rank: 15
Position Rank: 4
51. Zach Frazier, C West Virginia
Big Board Rank: 76
Position Rank: 3
84. Roman Wilson, WR Michigan
Big Board Rank: 49
Position Rank: 12
98. Payton Wilson, LB N.C. State
Big Board Rank: 61
Position Rank: 3
119. Mason McCormick, G South Dakota State
Big Board Rank: 135
Position Rank: 8
178. Logan Lee, IDL Iowa
Big Board Rank: 260
Position Rank: 26
195. Ryan Watts, CB Texas
Big Board Rank: 231
Position Rank: 31
Best Value: Roman Wilson
Favorite Picks: Payton Wilson & Roman Wilson
Grade: A-
I’m torn between an “A” or “A-” for this class. It all kind of hinges on Payton Wilson being a heavily used rotational player. Last year, the Steelers drafted Darnell Washington in the third round despite his medical red flag, and he barely contributed. Wilson might follow the same path, but the All-American seeing action could really kick this class into high gear.
The first four picks for Pittsburgh were dynamite, even if I think Troy Fautanu would be a better guard than tackle in the NFL. The grade got dragged down a bit by Logan Lee and Ryan Watts, neither of whom should’ve been drafted in the top 200.
San Francisco 49ers: We’ll replace all of you
31. Ricky Pearsall, WR Florida
Big Board Rank: 65
Position Rank: 15
64. Renardo Green, CB Florida State
Big Board Rank: 101
Position Rank: 14
86. Dominick Puni, G Kansas
Big Board Rank: 67
Position Rank: 5
124. Malik Mustapha, S Wake Forest
Big Board Rank: 188
Position Rank: 13
129. Isaac Guerendo, RB Louisville
Big Board Rank: 160
Position Rank: 12
135. Jacob Cowing, WR Arizona
Big Board Rank: 143
Position Rank: 24
215. Jarrett Kingston, G USC
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
251. Tatum Bethune, LB Florida State
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
Best Value: Dominick Puni
Favorite Pick: Renardo Green
Grade: B-
This class could outperform its grade pretty quickly. Renardo Green and Dominick Puni are slated to start, along with first rounder Ricky Pearsall. Green and Pearsall represented significant reaches to me, so I’m a bit lower on this class’ outlook compared to most.
It also feels like the 49ers drafted a lot of players with the intention of moving on from other proven players in the future. Notably, San Francisco has shopped both Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel, and Talanoa Hufanga and Elijah Mitchell are in the final years of their rookie deals. I prefer all of those players to the ones San Francisco drafted at their respective positions.
Seattle Seahawks: John Schneider goes back to the basics
16. Byron Murphy II, IDL Texas
Big Board Rank: 18
Position Rank: 1
81. Christian Haynes, G Connecticut
Big Board Rank: 58
Position Rank: 4
118. Tyrice Knight, LB UTEP
Big Board Rank: 218
Position Rank: 15
121. AJ Barner, TE Michigan
Big Board Rank: 168
Position Rank: 10
136. Nehemiah Pritchett, CB Auburn
Big Board Rank: 141
Position Rank: 22
179. Sataoa Laumea, G Utah
Big Board Rank: 241
Position Rank: 14
192. D.J. James, CB Auburn
Big Board Rank: 123
Position Rank: 18
207. Michael Jerrell, OT Findlay
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
Best Value: D.J. James
Favorite Pick: Byron Murphy II
Grade: B+
John Schneider committing to the trenches early and adding some big names to the secondary late felt like a return to normalcy after some odd draft classes in the late 2010s and early 2020s. Byron Murphy II might go down as the best defender in this class.
This class would absolutely be an “A” if we counted undrafted free agent signings. Seattle already picked up Arizona State’s Ro Torrence (CB), Fresno State’s Carlton Johnson (CB), South Dakota State’s Garret Greenfield (OT), Washington’s Jack Westover (TE), and Wyoming’s Easton Gibbs (LB). Those are a bunch of top 300 values on my board.
Additionally, Seattle signed Houston edge Nelson Ceaser, who was my No. 126 player in the class and the man former teammate Patrick Paul called the best defensive lineman in the Big 12. Ceaser is one of “my guys” on defense, so I consider Seattle signing him to be a huge boost to their class.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Preparing to peak in 2025 or later
26. Graham Barton, C Duke
Big Board Rank: 37
Position Rank: 2
57. Chris Braswell, Edge Alabama
Big Board Rank: 64
Position Rank: 8
89. Tykee Smith, S Georgia
Big Board Rank: 109
Position Rank: 7
92. Jalen McMillan, WR Washington
Big Board Rank: 96
Position Rank: 19
125. Bucky Irving, RB Oregon
Big Board Rank: 104
Position Rank: 7
220. Elijah Klein, G UTEP
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
246. Devin Culp, TE Washington
Big Board Rank: NR
Position Rank: NR
Best Value: Jalen McMillan
Favorite Pick: Chris Braswell
Grade: B+
The Buccaneers and Jason Licht added good players, but it doesn’t feel like this class will reach its full potential until a few seasons down the road. I also have some questions about the ceilings on players like Chris Braswell, Bucky Irving, Jalen McMillan, and Tykee Smith. They might all end up as low-level starters, which is fine but generally not what you want from four consecutive top 100 picks.
Still, the talent in this class is undeniable. Tampa Bay should have at least two rookie impact players and one or two additional rotational contributors. I’m also interested in Elijah Klein’s long-term development arc.
Tennessee Titans: Mike Vrabel would love this class…I miss him
7. JC Latham, RT Alabama
Big Board Rank: 17
Position Rank: 5
38. T'Vondre Sweat, IDL Texas
Big Board Rank: 62
Position Rank: 5
106. Cedric Gray, LB North Carolina
Big Board Rank: 118
Position Rank: 6
146. Jarvis Brownlee Jr., CB Louisville
Big Board Rank: 139
Position Rank: 21
182. Jha'Quan Jackson, WR Tulane
Big Board Rank: 162
Position Rank: 26
242. James Williams, S Miami
Big Board Rank: 247
Position Rank: 18
252. Jaylen Harrell, Edge Michigan
Big Board Rank: 200
Position Rank: 22
Best Value: Jaylen Harrell
Favorite Pick: Cedric Gray
Grade: B
Tennessee went after big bodies early in the draft with JC Latham and T'Vondre Sweat. Latham showed that he could slim down during the pre-draft process, but Sweat carries weight concerns and was arrested for DWI just weeks before the draft. The rest of the class is really good, but it feels like a lot is riding on Sweat being mature enough to handle the transition to life outside a college program.
Washington Commanders: You’re a starter, and you, and you, and you, and you
2. Jayden Daniels, QB LSU
Big Board Rank: 33
Position Rank: 3
36. Jer'Zhan Newton, IDL Illinois
Big Board Rank: 27
Position Rank: 2
50. Mike Sainristil, NB Michigan
Big Board Rank: 43
Position Rank: 6
53. Ben Sinnott, TE Kansas State
Big Board Rank: 116
Position Rank: 4
67. Brandon Coleman, G TCU
Big Board Rank: 50
Position Rank: 2
100. Luke McCaffrey, WR Rice
Big Board Rank: 185
Position Rank: 29
139. Jordan Magee, LB Temple
Big Board Rank: 208
Position Rank: 13
161. Dominique Hampton, S Washington
Big Board Rank: 211
Position Rank: 17
222. Javontae Jean-Baptiste, Edge Notre Dame
Big Board Rank: 280
Position Rank: 31
Best Value: Jer'Zhan Newton
Favorite Picks: Coleman, Newton, & Sainristil
Grade: A
If the Luke McCaffrey pick was Troy Franklin, this class easily would’ve been an “A+.” I’m not a big believer in Jayden Daniels, but the Commanders crushed their next four top 100 picks. They have at least five rookies projected to start with the potential to reach six depending on how the defensive linemen rotate.
The one thing that concerns me outside of Daniels’ issues handling pressure is Washington’s projected role for Brandon Coleman. He’s best suited for guard duty in the NFL but is currently penciled in as the starting left tackle. Even though I view Coleman as a top 50 player in this class, I’m not in favor of that assignment.