The 2014 NFL draft is over, Nick Chiamardas and I give you our draft grades for every team.
It was a long and winding road to draft season, and now it is all over. This year featured so many good options at various positions it made it quite difficult for anyone to guess a team's draft plans. Just by looking at the selections team by team you can either find a draft strategy, or just a flat out bad draft! Nick Chiamardas and myself put together grades for all 32 teams. Take a look at our grades and feel free to tell us yours.
Cardinals Draft Must Reads
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Jess Root
A full rundown of the Arizona Cardinals seven picks, and what they will be expected to do.
Logan Thomas could be Cardinals QB of future maybe
Jess Root
The Cardinals recognize Thomas has work to do, but they think he could very well end up a potential franchise quarterback.
Cardinals Draft Must Reads
What roles are expected for the Cardinals picks? Logan Thomas could be Cardinals QB of future maybe
Arizona Cardinals
27. Deone Bucannon, S, Washington State
52. Troy Niklas, TE, Notre Dame
84. Kareem Martin, DE, North Carolina
91. John Brown, WR, Pittsburg State
120. Logan Thomas, QB, Virginia Tech
160. Ed Stinson, DE, Alabama
196. Walt Powell, WR, Murray State
Trevor- Grade: B
The first two picks saw the Cardinals reach for Washington State safety Deone Bucannon, then grab Notre Dame tight end Troy Niklas in the second. Bucannon will immediately provide a hard hitting presence to the last line of defense and could become a solid starter. As it stands now, Bucannon will go through some growing pains in coverage. I expect him to be inconsistent for the time being with high upside long term, he's nowhere near as polished as Eric Reid going into his rookie year. I love the pick of Niklas and he will fit well in Bruce Arians offense. Niklas is already a solid blocking tight end and could become a dangerous asset in the passing game as well, standing 6'5". They also found good value in the later rounds, drafting athletic, strong armed QB Logan Thomas, and Alabama DE Ed Stinson.
Nick- Grade: B
The addition of Bucannon and Niklas could end up as starters and Martin provides depth for an aging defensive line. Adding physical defenders when you’re playing in the NFC West is always a smart approach.
Atlanta Falcons
6. Jake Matthews, OT, Texas A&M
37. Ra’Shede Hageman, DT, Minnesota
68. Dez Southward, DB, Wisconsin
103. Devonta Freeman, RB, Florida State
139. Prince Shembo, OLB, Notre Dame
147. Ricardo Allen, CB, Purdue
168. Marquis Spruill, OLB, Syracuse
253. Yawin Smallwood, MLB, Connecticut
255. Tyler Starr, OLB, South Dakota
Trevor- Grade: B-
The Falcons did get help along the offensive and defensive line, adding Matthews and Hageman, which were much needed additions. The mid rounds of the draft they could have found better choices. Southward was a big reach at pick No. 68, and they waited too long to draft a premier pass rusher, which they desperately need. A decent draft for the Falcons but not great.
Nick- Grade: B
The Falcons needed to get better in the trenches and Jake Matthews and Ra’Shede Hageman do just that. Even better, they didn’t have to trade up to grab either. Both fell to them at the respective selections in the first and second. Freeman will be a compliment to Stephen Jackson in the backfield and could even be a long term answer at RB.
Baltimore Ravens
17. C.J. Mosley, LB, Alabama
48. Timmy Jernigan, DT, Florida State
79. Terrence Brooks, S, Florida State
99. Crockett Gilmore, TE, Colorado State
134. Brent Urban, DT, Virginia
138. Lorenzo Taliaferro, RB, Coastal Carolina
175. John Urschel, G, Penn State
194. Keith Wenning, QB, Ball State
218. Mike Campanaro, WR, Wake Forest
Trevor- Grade: B
Ozzie Newsome bolstered his defense in the first three rounds. The pick of Mosley fell into their laps as a bargain and filled a big need. Jernigan will upgrade their front line and Terrence Brooks will look to become the next Ed Reed for the Ravens. I would have liked to see them draft an offensive lineman earlier on and also add another receiver to the mix, which is what kept this draft from being an A for me.
Nick- Grade: B+
I really loved what the Ravens did in the first three rounds. They continue to address the defensive side of the ball with perhaps the best linebacker in the draft. Adding Timmy Jernigan and Terrance Brooks on the second day give the Ravens three prospects that should earn starting jobs.
Buffalo Bills
4. Sammy Watkins, WR, Clemson
44. Cyrus Kouandjio, OT, Alabama
73. Preston Brown, MLB, Louisville
109. Ross Cockrell, CB, Duke
153. Cyril Richardson, G, Baylor
221. Randell Johnson, OLB, Florida Atlantic
237. Seantrel Henderson, OT, Miami
Trevor- Grade: B
I'm not going to give the Bills draft a bad grade because they traded away this years first and next years as well for Sammy Watkins. They did pay a price for Watkins, but they're getting great value in return, as Watkins will be a perennial pro bowler. After that choice, the Bills bulked up their line by adding physical linemen Kouandijo and Richardson. The Bills are ready to compete in the AFC East, this draft solidified that.
Nick- Grade: B-
I really wanted to like Buffalo’s draft but I think they took too many gambles. They gave up next year’s number one to draft Sammy Watkins. I think for Watkins to be effective, initially, he’ll need the ball in space. To do that, it may eat into some plays normally reserved for C.J. Spiller although it’s possible both could thrive in the same system if they can keep E.J. Manual upright. To do so they Bills drafted three offensive linemen all coming with question marks. Kouandjio could start day one but Henderson and Richardson may be projects.
Carolina Panthers
28. Kelvin Benjamin, WR, Florida State
60. Kony Ealy, DE, Missouri
92. Trai Turner, G, LSU
128. Tre Boston, S, North Carolina
148. Bene Benwikere, CB, San Jose State
204. Tyler Gaffney, RB, Stanford
Trevor- Grade: C
Benjamin was a must needed choice in round one, but the rest of the draft was just okay for the Panthers. They found good value in Kony Ealy, but defensive end isn't a position of need for the Panthers and will not help them improve much year one unless theres's an injury. Only one receiver and lineman were added, and the Panthers still will need help at those positions if they want to have a good season. I feel bad for Cam Newton, he doesn't have enough fire power.
Nick- Grade: B
Benjamin will be fun to watch with Cam Newton but we’ll see how he lives up to the expectations of a first round draft pick. The Panthers got great value with Ealy in round two and Turner is a big physical guard who should make in early impact.
Chicago Bears
14. Kyle Fuller, CB, Virginia Tech
51. Ego Ferguson, DT, LSU
82. Will Sutton, DT, Arizona State
117. Ka’Deem Carey, RB, Arizona
131. Brock Vereen, S, Minnesota
183. David Fales, QB, San Jose State
191. Pat O’Donnell, P, Miami
246. Charles Leno, OT, Boise State
Trevor- Grade: A-
With as many holes as the Bears have in their defense, it would be unrealistic for them to patch up all of them. The choice of Fuller was a great one, as the Bears face four games each year against elite passing offensing in the Packers and Lions. The Bears then wisely decided to improve their defensive line, which was atrocious against the run last season. I even liked the pick of Carey, who will be a good insurance policy for a Matt Forte injury. The two knocks on the draft would be not drafting a linebacker or safety earlier on. Besides that, good job Chicago.
Nick- Grade: A-
The Bears had one of the better drafts locking in talent at several positions of need. Fuller is probably the most NFL ready corner and will learn from some of the best in the game in Peanut Tillman and Tim Jennings. The Bears rush defense was dead last in 2013 so adding some talent to the interior defensive line was a must. Ferguson and Sutton give them a great start at turning things around. Carey at RB and Vereen at CB/S were great value picks giving the Bears potential impact players from day three of the draft.
Cincinnati Bengals
24. Darqueze Dennard, CB, Michigan State
55. Jeremy Hill, RB, LSU
88. Will Clarke, DE, West Virginia
111. Russell Bodine, C, North Carolina
164. AJ McCarron, QB, Alabama
212. Marquis Flowers, OLB, Arizona
239. James Wright, WR, LSU
Trevor- Grade:C+
I didn't care for this draft too much. I see Dennard as a player who fell down that far for a reason, as he was overhyped, and the Bengals were the ones to take the bait. In the second they drafted running back Jeremy Hill, which they didn't really need to do with Giovanni Bernard having the ability to be an every down back of the future. The best value pick was A.J. McCarron in the fifth round. Andy Dalton needs competition at the positions, and I could see McCarron outperforming Dalton once training camp hits.
Nick- Grade: B
The Bengals got some of the best value in round one with Dennard at 24. Hill gives them a big back capable of pushing a pile a way the BenJarvis Green-Ellis can’t. I’m not sure he was worth a second round pick but with the late run on running backs I can’t blame them for the pick. The Bengals also added A.J. McCarron on day three watching him develop behind Andy Dalton will be interesting.
49ers Draft Must Reads
Meet the 49ers 2014 draft picks
David Fucillo
A quick rundown of all 12 49ers picks in 2014, along with some pertinent links.
Jimmie Ward is going to be easy to root for
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49ers Draft Must Reads
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Cleveland Browns
8. Justin Gilbert, CB, Oklahoma State
22. Johnny Manziel, QB, Texas A&M
35. Joel Bitonio, OT/G, Nevada
71. Christian Kirksey, LB, Iowa
94. Terrance West, RB, Towson
127. Pierre Desir, CB, Lindenwood
Trevor- Grade: B+
The draft started out great for the Browns, getting Justin Gilbert after trading down in a switch of picks with the Bills. The Manziel pick was good value, although I saw enough of Brian Hoyer that I feel they could have used that selection on a wideout instead. Terrance West has a lot of upside and could see quite a few carries as a rookie and don't be surprised to the Towson product produce. Another small school product, Pierre Desir, was a great pick in the fourth. Desir didn't face big competition, but what he did face, he destroyed.
Nick- Grade: B+
The only reason this isn’t an A is because the Browns didn’t take a receiver. Given the reports surrounding a possible season long suspension for young star Josh Gordon it seems odd. Still, Gilbert and Manziel in the first were excellent picks. I’m not sure how I feel about Maniel’s future but I like that it’ll be in Cleveland. That fan base deserves something to be excited about. At least for a little while. They also added versatile OL Bitonio and 49er fan favorite Pierre Desir with pick 127!
Dallas Cowboys
16. Zack Martin, OT/G, Notre Dame
34. Demarcus Lawrence, DE, Boise State
119. Anthony Hitchens, OLB, Iowa
146. Devin Street, WR, Pittsburgh
231. Ben Gardner, DE, Stanford
238. Will Smith, MLB, Texas Tech
248. Ahmad Dixon, S, Baylor
251. Ken Bishop, DT, Northern Illinois
254. Terrance Mitchell, CB, Oregon
Trevor- Grade: B-
Jerry Jones didn't do anything all that flashy this year nor dumb. The Cowboys focused on positions of need, which are plenty on both sides of the ball. They could have added a cornerback earlier, besides that I like that the focus was mainly on defense.
Nick- Grade: C+
Quality over quantity is a great approach to many different situations. When your drafting for the Cowboys I’m not so sure. The roster just isn’t great and I’m not sure, outside of their first two picks that it got much better. Martin and Lawrence will start from day one and should develop into nice players. Outside of those picks I’m not sure there will be much impact from the rest of the Cowboys class, although, CB Terrance Mitchell was decent value in the seventh round.
Denver Broncos
31. Bradley Roby, CB, Ohio State
56. Cody Latimer, WR, Indiana
95. Michael Schofield, OT, Michigan
156. Lamin Barrow, MLB, LSU
207. Matt Paradis, C, Boise State
242. Corey Nelson, LB, Oklahoma
Trevor- Grade: B
I'll give John Elway credit, he put together another quality draft. Bradley Roby was a great pick for the Broncos after releasing Champ Bailey, who will be an upgrade over the aging verteran. Cody Latimer will be a reliable target for Peyton Manning and has a chance of putting up big numbers in his rookie year with the Broncos pass happy appraoch.
Nick- Grade: B
Roby in the first and Latimer in the second where both excellent picks. The Broncos also added quality depth to the OL and LB core with their later round picks. There weren’t too many needs but potential high impact players with Roby and Latimer make this a solid class.
Detroit Lions
10. Eric Ebron, TE, North Carolina
40. Kyle Van Noy, OLB, BYU
76. Travis Swanson, C, Arkansas
133. Nevin Lawson, CB, Utah State
136. Larry Webster, DE, Bloomsburg
158. Caraun Reid, DT, Princeton
189. T.J. Jones, WR, Notre Dame
229. Nate Freese, K, Boston College
Trevor- Grade: D
The Lions are opposed to helping their secondary, that's all there is to it. Eric Ebron has tremendous talent, but it's not what they needed. In order to compete for a Super Bowl the Lions need better options at both cornerback and safety, and they didn't address that in the first round or in the draft at all really. It was a very pedestrian draft for the Lions.
Nick- Grade: B
I like what the Lions did with the addition of Ebron. They’ve struggled to find a dependable slot receiver so they’ve decided to try a new route with the talented tight end. They also reunited former BYU teammates Ziggy Ansah and second round pick Kyle Van Noy who should fit nicely into the Lions new defense.
Green Bay Packers
21. Ha'sean Clinton-Dix, S, Alabama
53. Davante Adams, WR, Fresno State
85. Khyri Thornton, DT, Southern Miss
98. Richard Rodgers, TE, California
121. Carl Bradford, LB, Arizona State
161. Corey Linsley, C, Ohio State
176. Jared Abbrederis, WR, Wisconsin
197. Demetri Goodson, CB, Baylor
236. Jeff Janis, WR, Saginaw Valley State
Trevor- Grade: B+
The Pack picked up intriguing prospects on both sides of the ball, filling various areas of need. Davante Adams is a perfect replacement for James Jones, and Richard Rodgers will provide the Packers a replacement for Jermichael Finley.
Nick- Grade: B+
The Packers were clearly out to find Aaron Rodgers some more weapons both for the immediate and long-term future. Clinton-Dix will give the Pack defense a rangy back end defender the likes they haven’t seen since Charles Woodson. Adding Adams and Abbrederis made sense but late round sleeping Jeff Janis gives the Packers a strong wide receiver class with a lot of potential talent and speed.
Houston Texans
1. Jadeveon Clowney, DE, South Carolina
33. Xavier Su'a-Filo, G, UCLA
65. C.J. Fiedorowicz, TE, Iowa
83. Louis Nix, DT, Notre Dame
135. Tom Savage, QB, Pittsburgh
177. Jeoffrey Pagan, DE, Alabama
181. Alfred Blue, RB, LSU
211. Jay Prosch, FB, Auburn
216. Andre Hal, CB, Vanderbilt
256. Lonnie Ballentine, S, Memphis
Trevor- Grade: A
This was a great draft for Houston, finding great value on each day of the draft. Everything started by drafting Clowney number one and not overvaluing a quarterback. Su'a-Filo will give whoever the quarterback is some added production, while C.J. Fiedorowicz could thrive in Bill O'Brien's tight end friendly system. Tom Savage was a bargain at pick No. 135, a spot many didn't think he would fall to. Even towards the tail end I loved what they did, drafting two prospects with high upside in the secondary, Hal and Ballentine.
Nick- Grade: A-
The Texans had a great draft adding the top overall player, the top guard, and a top DT that slid inexplicably down the draft boards. Clowney with J.J. Watt and Nix along the defensive line sounds pretty scary. They also added Su’a-Filo who should be a mainstay along the Texans line for several years. Waiting so long to grab a quarterback was curious and I’m not sure Savage pans out. Otherwise, it was an excellent draft for the Texans.
Indianapolis Colts
59. Jack Mewhort, G/OT, Ohio State
90. Donte Moncrief, WR, Ole Miss
166. Jonathan Newsome, DE, Ball State
203. Andrew Jackson, MLB, Western Kentucky
232. Ulrick John, OT, Georgia State
Trevor- Grade: C-
The pick of Moncrief will be one Andrew Luck will thank Ryan Grigson for, other than that, I didn't like their draft very much. Mewhort was a definite reach for their first pick, and even the pick of Newsome I was surprised at with better defensive ends available. With only five picks, that means less margin for error, and the Colts may have made a couple too many mistakes.
Nick- Grade: C
Without a first round pick it was tough for the Colts to parlay this draft into much success. Mewhort is a versatile lineman that could play any spot along the line. I like the addition of Donte Moncrief but he’ll figure to battle Da’rick Rodgers for WR 3 reps.
Jacksonville Jaguars
3. Blake Bortles, QB, UCF
39. Marqise Lee, WR, USC
61. Allen Robinson, WR, Penn State
93. Brandon Linder, G, Miami
114. Aaron Colvin, CB, Oklahoma
144. Telvin Smith, LB, Florida State
159. Chris Smith, DE, Arkansas
205. Luke Bowanko, C, Virginia
222. Storm Johnson, RB, UCF
Trevor- Grade: A
The Jaguars really improved their team via free agency this off-season, and that trend continued during the draft. With their first three picks the Jaguars offense complexions completely changed. Now Jacksonville has a quarterback of the future and two receivers who have a combination of height, speed, and strength. Gus Bradley could turn this team into a winner sooner than some may think.
Nick- Grade: A
The Jags had the best draft in their history this year. Bortles may not be a home run but the Jags are under no expectation of winning this year. This allows Bortles to sit behind Chad Henne and become comfortable with the playbook and the pro system. They’ve also added value and talent in the second round with receivers Lee and Robinson. Covin would have been a day two pick if not for the torn ACL and Telvin Smith in the fifth is an absolute steal.
Kansas City Chiefs
23. Dee Ford, DE, Auburn
87. Phillip Gaines, CB, Rice
124. De'Anthony Thomas, RB, Oregon
163. Aaron Murray, QB, Georgia
193. Zach Fulton, G, Tennessee
200. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif, OT, McGill
Trevor- Grade: C
The picks the Chiefs made weren't all that bad, but the choices of Thomas and Murray I don't feel were needed. The Chiefs do need more help at wide receiver and that issue was not addressed at all.
Nick- Grade: B-
I’m not sure the Chiefs added any players that will see significant playing time in 2014. First round pick Ford gives them a talented third pass rusher that will see time situationally. DeAnthony Thomas replaces rarely used Dexter McCluster. Aaron Murray is a long-term project. It’s possible CB Phillip Gaines becomes the first of this group to earn a start.
Miami Dolphins
19. Ja'Wuan James, OT, Tennessee
63. Jarvis Landry, WR, LSU
67. Billy Turner, OT, North Dakota State
125. Walt Aikens, CB, Liberty
155. Arthur Lynch, TE, Georgia
171. Jordan Tripp, LB, Montana
190. Matt Hazel, WR, Coastal Carolina
234. Terrence Fede, DE, Marist
Trevor- Grade: B+
This draft helped Ryan Tannehill out mightily. The Dolphins offensive line was awful last year and that problem is being fixed partially by the selections of James and Turner. The pick of Landry I loved, he's the opposite of a Mike Wallace and will fight for balls in tight traffic, something Wallace doesn't do well
Minnesota Vikings
9. Anthony Barr, LB, UCLA
32. Teddy Bridgewater, QB, Louisville
72. Scott Crichton, DE, Oregon State
96. Jerick McKinnon, RB, Georgia Southern
145. David Yankey, G, Stanford
182. Antone Exum, DB, Virginia Tech
184. Kendall James, CB, Maine
220. Shamar Stephen, DT, Connecticut
223. Brandon Watts, LB, Georgia Tech
225. Jabari Price, CB, North Carolina
Trevor- Grade: B
The Vikes added needed depth to the cornerback position in the later round, and I could see Exum or James playing at least a moderate amount of snaps next season. Bridgewater was had at a reasonable price and should have a good shot at seeing the field some point this season. David Yankee was a nice find in the fifth. I'll put money on any Jim Harbaugh offensive line product that gets drafted to have some level of success.
Nick- Grade: B+
First year head coach Mike Zimmer adding two talented prospects in the first round. Barr is an exciting edge rusher whose ceiling is unlimited. Trading back up into the first to take Teddy Bridgewater may be the story of this draft in five years. Yankey in the fifth was a surprise and he should out play that draft selection shortly.
New England Patriots
29. Dom Easley, DT, Florida
62. Jimmy Garoppolo, QB, Eastern Illinois
105. Bryan Stork, C, Florida State
130. James White, RB, Wisconsin
140. Cameron Fleming, OT, Stanford
179. Jon Halapio, G, Florida
198. Zach Moore, DE, Concordia
206. Jemea Thomas, CB, Georgia Tech
244. Jeremy Gallon, WR, Michigan
Trevor- Grade: B-
This was an uneven draft for the Patriots. Opting to not draft a cornerback or tight end was surprising, as both positions lack in depth. James white could become their starting running back, he was an impressive running back from a Wisconsin program that always seems to produce NFL worthy running backs. Garoppolo in the second could have been used on a different position, but I still don't mind the pick. It remains to be seen how much longer Tom Brady will play, and the Patriots found a quarterback they felt worthy of doing so.
Nick- Grade: C
The Patriots had some holes to fill in the secondary and receiver but instead chose to go a different direction with their first two picks addressing future needs. I love Easley and think he is one of the most dynamic and physically dominant defenders in the draft but he’s coming off two knee surgeries. Garoppolo will be behind Brady for as long as Brady wants to play. Jeremy Gallon could be fun to watch in the Welker/Edleman role but he’ll have a ways to go before he sees the field.
New Orleans Saints
20. Brandin Cooks, WR, Oregon State
58. Stanley Jean-Baptiste, CB, Nebraska
126. Khairi Fortt, OLB, California
167. Vinnie Sunseri, S, Alabama
169. Ronald Powell, OLB, Florida
202. Tavon Rooks, OT, Kansas State
Trevor- Grade: C+
Outside of the Cooks selection in the first, this wasn't a good draft for the Saints. Cooks is going to make the Saints offense very speedy in the receiving game. With Kenny Stills and Cooks playing on the same team, it will make it very hard for opposing defenses to handle so much speed coming at them all at once. Jean-Baptiste wasn't worthy of a selection so high, he has too many deficiencies currently to see extensive playing time. Sunseri was a reason why Alabama faltered down the stretch and that choice could have been used on a pass rusher or another cornerback.
Nick- Grade: B-
I would have liked to see Saints grab a pass rusher earlier than they did but I love the potential for Brandin Cooks in this offense. I wasn’t the biggest fan of the Jean-Baptiste pick but the size and length were too intriguing for Rob Ryan.
Seahawks Draft Must Reads
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Danny Kelly
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Seahawks draft story stream
StoryStream
A full rundown of all the Seahawks 2014 draft picks
Seahawks Draft Must Reads
Paul Richardson and the Seahawks team speed Seahawks draft story stream
New York Giants
12. Odell Beckham Jr., WR, LSU
43. Weston Richburg, C, Colorado State
73. Jay Bromley, DT, Syracuse
113. Andre Wiliams, RB, Boston College
152. Nat Berhe, S, San Diego State
174. Devon Kennard, OLB, Southern California
187. Bennett Jackson, CB, Notre Dame
Trevor- Grade: B+
Beckham Jr. will join Victor Cruz and Reuban Randle to make up the teams top 3 WR spots, which will make it a potent core. The Giants needed help along the offensive line and drafted arguably the best center in the draft (Richburg). Jay Bromley could become a clog in the middle for the Giants, as they really need help in run defense. The Giants running back situation has left a lot to be desired in recent years, drafting Williams gives the iants a good option if David Wilson doesn't produce.
Nick- Grade: B+
I liked what the Giants did in this draft with Odell Beckham in the first, Weston Richburg in the second, and RB Andre Williams in the fourth. All three should make the Giants significantly better. They needed to address some more needs along the line but solid talent for the Giants.
New York Jets
18. Calvin Pryor, S, Louisville
49. Jace Amaro, TE, Texas Tech
80. Dexter McDougle, CB, Maryland
104. Jalen Saunders, WR, Oklahoma
115. Shaq Evans, WR, UCLA
137. Dakota Dozier, OT, Furman
154. Jeremiah George, MLB, Iowa State
195. Brandon Dixon, CB, Northwest Missouri State
209. Quincy Enunwa, WR, Nebraska
210. IK Enemkpali, DE, Louisiana Tech
213. Tajh Boyd, QB, Clemson
233. Trevor Reilly, OLB, Utah
Trevor- Grade: B
Calvin Pryor fell a little further than I thought and the Jets got themselves a reliable safety. Geno Smith needs help at receiver and they did a good job of trying to solve that drafting Amaro, Evans, and Saunders.
Nick- Grade: B
Pryor was the perfect fit for the Rex Ryan defense. He’ll provide the Jets with a physical presence in the secondary they haven’t had in recent years. Jace Amaro was an excellent addition and should start day one. They also add more speed at receiver with Saunders and Evans. I’m not sure they properly addressed the cornerback need with Dexter McDougle but Trevor Riley in the seventh was solid value.
Oakland Raiders
5. Khalil Mack, LB, Buffalo
36. Derek Carr, QB, Fresno State
81. Gabe Jackson, G, Mississippi State
107. Justin Ellis, DT, Louisiana Tech
116. Keith McGill, CB, Utah
219. Travis Carrie, CB, Ohio
235. Shelby Harris, DE, Illinois State
247. Jonathan Dowling, S, Western Kentucky
Trevor- Grade: B
Mack was the best player available at pick NO. 5, and Carr at No. 36. I liked the pick of McGill in the fourth, he's a press corner and in Oakland he will have a chance to play his game.
Nick- Grade: A
The Raiders finally didn’t seem to screw up the draft. At least on paper. Mack was a no brainer in the first. They didn’t have to trade up on day two to grab Derek Carr who some believe to be the best pure passer in this class. I loved the later additions of mammoth G Jackson and big, long corner Keith McGill. Seventh round safety Jonathan Dowling has athletic ability of a first rounder and may prove to be a steal.
Philadelphia Eagles
26. Marcus Smith, DE/OLB, Louisville
42. Jordan Matthews, WR, Vanderbilt
86. Josh Huff, WR, Oregon
101. Jaylen Watkins, CB, Florida
141. Taylor Hart, DE, Oregon
162. Ed Reynolds, S, Stanford
224. Beau Allen, DT, Wisconsin
Trevor- Grade: C
I felt drafting Smith was a reach and outside the pick of Jordan Matthews I don't know where they really improved. Chip Kelly drafted some Oregon guys, but I don't see either panning out in the NFL.
Nick- Grade: B-
Marcus Smith was a surprise first rounder but the potential is there. He’ll need to be more consistent to justify his first round selection and he’ll be given every chance to do jus that. I liked Jordan Matthews in the second and think he’ll fit nicely into Chip Kelly’s system as will former Oregon WR Josh Huff. Jaylen Watkins was another inconsistent collegiate with immense talent to potentially make an impact.
Pittsburgh Steelers
15. Ryan Shazier, LB, Ohio State
46. Stephon Tuitt, DE, Notre Dame
97. Dri Archer, RB, Kent State
118. Martavis Bryant, WR, Clemson
157. Shaquille Richardson, CB, Arizona
173. Wesley Johnson, OT, Vanderbilt
192. Jordan Zumwalt, LB, UCLA
215. Daniel McCullers, DT, Tennessee
230. Rob Blanchflower, TE, Massachusetts
Trevor- Grade: A-
The Steelers draft well nearly each year, and it stays the same this year. The draft was a nice mix of helping offense and defense alike. Martavis Bryant could become a down field threat for Pittsburgh in no time, and Dri Archer has such phenemonal speed he could become a Darren Spriles tyep threat on offense.
Nick- Grade: B+
Like the Ravens the Steelers used their first few picks to solidify their defense. Shazier in round one is an excellent fit and it will be exciting to watch him in Dick LaBeau’s system. Adding Tuitt in the second was excellent value. Tuitt a true 5T will help the Steelers get better up front. Adding speedy offensive weapon Dri Archer and the talented Martavis Bryant give their offense some much needed speed and versatility.
San Diego Chargers
25. Jason Verrett, CB, TCU
50. Jeremiah Attaochu, LB, Georgia Tech
89. Chris Watt, G, Notre Dame
165. Ryan Carrethers, NT, Arkansas State
201. Marion Grice, RB, Arizona State
240. Tevin Reese, WR, Baylor
Trevor- Grade: B-
It was important for the Chargers to grab a pass rusher and a corner with the ability to play various types of coverages, and they shored these issues up in the first two rounds. Tevin Reese is a player better than his late draft selection would indicate. He needs to add weight, but already has speed and reliable hands.
Nick- Grade: B
The Chargers didn’t have many picks to work with but adding Verrett alone makes this class solid for them. Attaochu is an intriguing edge rusher with a ton of upside. NG Carrethers is a massive man capable of holding down the middle of their 3-4 defense. These three defenders seem to give the Chargers defense a bright future.
San Francisco 49ers
30. Jimmie Ward, S, Northern Illinois
57. Carlos Hyde, RB, Ohio State
70. Marcus Martin, C, USC
77. Chris Borland, LB, Wisconsin
100. Brandon Thomas, OT, Clemson
106. Bruce Ellington, WR, South Carolina
129. Dontae Johnson, CB, N.C. State
150. Aaron Lynch, DE, South Florida
170. Keith Reaser, CB, Florida Atlantic
180. Kenneth Acker, CB, SMU
243. Kaleb Ramsey, DE, Boston College
245. Trey Millard, FB, Oklahoma
Trevor- Grade: A-
I was surprised that the 49ers didn't draft a receiver on the first two days of the draft, passing many good options up. The picks they did make, which were plentiful, provided the team with many intriguing options to fight for spots on an already highly talented team. Carlos Hyde was a shocking pick, but a team can never have enough good running backs, and Hyde is part of the long term plans along with Marcus Lattimore. Marcus Martin will push Daniel Kilgore for starting center. In regards to cornerbacks, the 49ers found two (Johnson and Ramsey) who are over six foot tall and can run sub 4.5 40's. And the main cornerback they picked up was a safety! Trent Baalke the "Draft Ninja" did a pretty impressive job.
Nick- Grade: A
No one thought the 49ers would make all 11 picks they had entering the draft. And they didn’t. They made 12 picks. Surely not all will make the team and the 49ers did use two picks on prospects that will likely be on the PUP in G Brandon Thomas and CB Keith Reaser. Both of which would have been drafted one to two rounds higher if not for their injuries. I loved the first few picks the 49ers made including Ward in round one. He gives the defense a ton of versatility. Carlos Hyde in round one may seem like a luxury pick but with too many uncertainties in the 9er backfield this pick made a ton of sense. Speedy wide receiver Bruce Ellington has speedy and shiftiness to provide the 49ers offense with game breaking speed from a skill position.
Edge rusher Aaron Lynch will be interesting to watch. The kid has all the talent in the world but has been a bit of a case at USF. Harbaugh’s best friend Willie Taggert coached Lynch in college and vouched for him. That was good enough for Harbaugh.
Seattle Seahawks
45. Paul Richardson, WR, Colorado
64. Justin Britt, OT, Missouri
108. Cassius Marsh, DE, UCLA
123. Kevin Norwood, WR, Alabama
132. Kevin Pierre-Louis, OLB, Boston College
172. Jimmy Staten, DT, Middle Tennessee State
199. Garrett Scott, OT, Marshall
208. Eric Pinkins, S, San Diego State
227. Kiero Small, FB, Arkansas
Trevor- Grade: C
The Seahawks first pick of Richardson was a surprise, as Cody Latimer and Allen Robinson were both still on the board. Kevin Norwood was worth a flier in the mid rounds and Cassius Marsh will bring another interesting option for the Seahawks to plug along their defensive line. They could have done better, but they could have done worse as well. A mediocre draft considering they lost Brandon Browner and Walter Thurmond yet didn't draft a corner.
Nick- Grade: C
I just can’t look at the Seahawks draft picks and find any players that make me think he’ll fit well. Of course, that’s their M.O. so it doesn’t matter that their grades won’t be higher than a B. The Seahawks had a need a guard that I’m not sure they filled. Richardson adds a ton of speed but that thin frame may not hold up well in the NFC West.
Rams Draft Must Reads
Rams add 11 players
Ryan Van Bibber
A quick rundown of the Rams draft class, with linemen and defensive backs dominating the group
Why the Rams are a perfect fit for Michael Sam
Tevin Broner
Rams Draft Must Reads
Rams add 11 players Why the Rams are a perfect fit for Michael Sam
St. Louis Rams
2. Greg Robinson, OT, Auburn
13. Aaron Donald, DT, Pittsburgh
41. Lamarcus Joyner, S/CB, Florida State
75. Tre Mason, RB, Auburn
110. Maurice Alexander, S, Utah State
188. E.J. Gaines, CB, Missouri
214. Garrett Gilbert, QB, SMU
226. Mitchell Van Dyk, OT, Portland State
241. Christian Bryant, S, Ohio State
249. Michael Sam, DE, Missouri
250. Demetrius Rhaney, C, Tennessee State
Trevor- Grade: A-
The Rams started off the draft in absolute fire in the first round drafting Robinson and Donald. Robinson will be able to protect Sam Bradford more than he has been in the past, and Donald will being a freakish presence to the defensive line, as he's capable of stopping the run and aggressively going after the quarterback. Zac Stacy is a good running back but could be more effective in a committee and Tre Mason has a realistic shot of sharing the load with Stacy this season.
Nick- Grade: A
The Rams worked the draft incredibly well. Robinson is arguably the best tackle in the draft and will give them a major physical presence along the offensive line. Adding Aaron Donald dive the Rams a four-man front full of first round picks and what may be the best defensive line in the NFL. As if that wasn’t enough, swiss-army knife defender Lamarcus Joyner will fit right in to that physical defense. They’ll get a lot of attention for drafting Michael Sam but I’m hesitant to think he ends up on the 53-man roster.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
7. Mike Evans, WR, Texas A&M
38. Austin Seferian-Jenkins, TE, Washington
69. Charles Sims, RB, West Virginia
143. Kadeem Edwards, OG, Tennessee State
149. Kevin Pamphile, OT, Purdue
185. Robert Herron, WR, Wyoming
Trevor- Grade: B+
The draft for the Bucs went all in on imporving their offense. Josh McCown now has a lot of weapons at his disposal. Mike Evans and Seferian-Jenkins both stand over 6'5" and will give teams fits in the red zone.
Nick- Grade: B
The Bucs gave their QB, whoever it ends up being, a complete arsenal by adding Mike Evans and Austin Seferian-Jenkins. They also added much needed quality depth along the offensive line with Kadeem Edwards and Kevin Pamphile.
Tennessee Titans
11. Taylor Lewan, OT, Michigan
54. Bishop Sankey, RB, Washington
112. DaQuan Jones, DT, Penn State
122. Marqueston Huff, CB, Wyoming
151. Avery Williamson, MLB, Kentucky
178. Zach Mettenberger, QB, LSU
Trevor- Grade: C+
Tennessee made some questionable picks for where the drafted players such as Lewan, Sankey, and Huff. Although I didn't agree with those picks for the Titans, they do fill needs for them going forward. Metternberger was great late round value, if it wasn't for injury concerns he would hae been drafted a lot higher.
Nick- Grade: C+
It was strange seeing the Titans go with Lewan at 11 given the talent on the board. That’s not a knock on Lewan who may turn out to be quite a player. There just wasn’t a big need to take a tackle in the first. But they stuck to their board so something has to be said for that. I liked the addition of Sankey and he’ll probably be their starting RB before too long. Mettenberger will be fun to watch behind Locker but doesn’t figure to make an impact in 2014.
Washington Redskins
47. Trent Murphy, OLB, Stanford
66. Morgan Moses, OT, Virginia
78. Spencer Long, G, Nebraska
102. Bashaud Breeland, CB, Clemson
142. Ryan Grant, WR, Tulane
186. Lache Seastrunk, RB, Baylor
217. Ted Bolser, TE, Indiana
228. Zach Hocker, K, Arkansas
Trevor- Grade: B-
Murphy and Moses were great picks for the Redskins who will bring toughness and tenacity to offene and defense. Grabbing Bashaud Breeland was good value in the third, as he has more talent than some of the players drafted ahead of him, he just needs a little fine tuning.
Nick- Grade: B-
Washington’s lack of first round pick hurt them again in 2014. Trent Murphy is an interesting prospect coming off the edge and tackle Morgan Moses was nice value in the third. Athletic CB Bashaud Breeland in the fourth may turn out to be the best prospect of this class for Washington.