With the conclusion of the second and third rounds of the NFL draft, teams have been busy collecting the missing pieces to complete their puzzles. Some of these pieces are glaringly obvious fits and potential game-changers, while others may take some time to develop. Let’s take a closer look at the winners and losers from these rounds and see where things stand as we enter the final four rounds on Saturday.
Winners:
1. Defensive Players: After being overlooked in the first round, defensive players took the spotlight on Friday night. A total of 20 defensive players were selected in the second round alone, with seven defensive tackles and seven cornerbacks leading the way. The cornerback position, in particular, saw a surge in popularity as four consecutive picks (40-43) were used to select cornerbacks from Iowa, Alabama, Georgia, and Rutgers.
2. Offensive Linemen: Through three rounds, a whopping 25 offensive linemen have been drafted. Thursday night saw nine selections, and an additional 16 linemen were chosen on Friday night. This marks the most offensive linemen drafted through three rounds in the modern era of the NFL draft.
3. Washington Commanders: After securing their franchise quarterback, Jayden Daniels, on the previous day, the Commanders continued their active approach by making five more selections. One noteworthy pick is Michigan’s Mike Sainristil, a highly-regarded nickelback who many scouts believe will become a star. Additionally, the Commanders added Kansas State tight end Ben Sinnott, who draws comparisons to Baltimore’s Mark Andrews. These selections address real needs for Washington and have the potential to become franchise cornerstones.
4. Buffalo Bills: After trading back twice and missing out on the first round, the Bills finally made their moves in the later rounds. They bolstered their wide receiver corps with the selection of Florida State’s Keon Coleman, a big target who can move the chains. The Bills also addressed their need for a safety by drafting Utah’s Cole Bishop, who brings play-making ability and leadership skills.
5. Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals built on their successful earlier picks by adding five more players to their roster. They filled holes in their roster with selections like Max Melton, Trey Benson, Isaiah Adams, Tip Reiman, and Elijah Jones. These additions further strengthen the Cardinals’ already promising roster.
6. Michigan Wolverines: The reigning national champions have had an impressive draft thus far. Following the selection of quarterback J.J. McCarthy in the first round, six more Michigan players were drafted in the subsequent rounds. This includes defensive tackle Kris Jenkins, Mike Sainristil, linebacker Junior Colson, running back Blake Corum, wide receiver Roman Wilson, and guard Zak Zinter.
Losers:
1. Quarterbacks: The quarterbacks, who dominated the draft on opening night, did not hear their names called on Friday. South Carolina’s Spencer Rattler remains the top remaining quarterback, with some scouts believing that he has the potential to develop into a starter in the league.
2. Tee Higgins: The Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver, who will play the upcoming season on the franchise tag, may find himself more expendable following the Bengals selected Jermaine Burton. Burton posted impressive numbers last season, making Higgins’ future uncertain.
3. Las Vegas Raiders: After missing out on a chance to address their franchise quarterback need, the Raiders made an eyebrow-raising pick by selecting Delmar Glaze, a guard/tackle from Maryland. Glaze’s potential as a starter is questioned, and the Raiders missed an opportunity to add much-needed defensive impact players.
Looking ahead, these draft selections offer insights into potential future trends. The emphasis on defensive players and offensive linemen highlights the growing importance of these positions in the league. Additionally, the success of teams like the Washington Commanders and Arizona Cardinals showcases the value of strategic drafting and addressing specific needs.
As the draft continues, it will be intriguing to see how teams navigate the remaining rounds and further shape their rosters. The excitement surrounding these prospects and their potential impact on their respective teams is palpable. With this in mind, it is essential for teams to utilize their remaining picks wisely and consider the evolving landscape of the NFL.
Overall, the second and third rounds of the NFL draft have brought regarding a mix of winners and losers. The actions of these teams will undoubtedly shape their immediate and long-term success. As the draft unfolds, it unfolds, the anticipation builds, and the journey towards the 2024 NFL season continues.
