The 2021 NFL Draft is in the books, and it's time to grade each team's performance. With all the hype surrounding the quarterbacks and the top prospects, there were plenty of surprises and head-scratching picks.
Team Grades
Here's a look at how teams did in the 2021 NFL Draft, with grades based on overall draft strategy and potential for success.
A+
- Cincinnati Bengals: Ja'Marr Chase was the obvious choice at No. 5 overall, and he has the potential to be a dominant receiver for the Bengals. The rest of their draft was also solid, with picks like Penei Sewell and Trey Hendrickson.
A
- New York Jets: The Jets got their franchise quarterback in Zach Wilson with the No. 2 pick. They also addressed several needs with picks like Elijah Moore and Alijah Vera-Tucker.
- Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins landed a potential franchise quarterback in Tua Tagovailoa in 2020. The team used the 2021 Draft to build around him with picks like Jaylen Waddle and Jaelan Phillips.
B+
- San Francisco 49ers: The 49ers traded up to get Trey Lance at No. 3 overall. While he's still raw, he has the potential to be a star. The rest of their draft was also good, with picks like Aaron Banks and Trey Sermon.
- Chicago Bears: The Bears had a successful draft, landing Justin Fields with the No. 11 pick. They also added several other key pieces to their team.
B
- Los Angeles Rams: The Rams didn't have a lot of picks, but they made the most of them. They landed a potential star in linebacker Micah Parsons with the No. 12 pick.
- Denver Broncos: The Broncos had a solid draft, but they still need to find a long-term solution at quarterback. They added Patrick Surtain II, who could be a cornerstone in the secondary.
C+
- New York Giants: The Giants had a mixed bag of a draft. They took Kadarius Toney with the No. 20 pick, who could be a dynamic playmaker. They also filled needs with picks like Azeez Ojulari and Elerson Smith.
C
- Carolina Panthers: The Panthers had a confusing draft. They didn't address their quarterback need and instead focused on other needs like wide receiver and cornerback.
- Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys had a draft that lacked direction. They took Micah Parsons at No. 12, but there are questions about his fit in their defense. They also selected a quarterback, but it is unclear if they believe in him as a long-term option.
D
- Jacksonville Jaguars: The Jaguars took quarterback Trevor Lawrence with the No. 1 pick, but the rest of their draft was underwhelming. They didn't address their offensive line or secondary needs effectively.
F
- Washington Football Team: The Washington Football Team had a draft that was filled with questionable decisions. Their first-round pick, Jamin Davis, was a reach at No. 19 overall. They also didn't address their offensive line needs adequately.
Conclusion
The 2021 NFL Draft was a mixed bag for many teams. Some teams hit home runs, while others struggled to find the right players. It will be interesting to see which teams get the most out of their draft class in the years to come.
While it's too early to judge the long-term success of these picks, the initial impressions are starting to form. Some teams made smart selections that could bolster their rosters for years to come, while others will have to hope their draft picks develop quicker than expected.
One thing is for sure: the 2021 NFL Draft will be remembered for the talent at the top of the board and the potential of many of the players selected. Time will tell which teams made the best decisions and which players will become stars.