draft picks 2021

2 min read 02-11-2024
draft picks 2021

2021 NFL Draft: A Look Back at the Top Picks

The 2021 NFL Draft was a historic one, filled with exciting prospects and unexpected twists. Here's a look back at some of the top picks and how they performed in their rookie seasons:

Round 1

  • 1. Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence (QB, Clemson): The consensus top pick, Lawrence had a rocky start to his career, facing a struggling Jaguars team and throwing for just 12 touchdowns against 17 interceptions. However, he showed flashes of brilliance, and the Jaguars are hoping he can turn things around in 2022.
  • 2. New York Jets: Zach Wilson (QB, BYU): Another highly touted quarterback, Wilson struggled with consistency throughout his rookie year, throwing for just 9 touchdowns against 11 interceptions. He dealt with a knee injury that limited his playing time, but the Jets are hoping he can develop into a franchise quarterback.
  • 3. San Francisco 49ers: Trey Lance (QB, North Dakota State): The 49ers traded up to draft Lance, a raw but athletic quarterback with immense potential. Lance only started two games as a rookie, but he showed some impressive plays, including a 49-yard touchdown run.
  • 4. Atlanta Falcons: Kyle Pitts (TE, Florida): Pitts became the highest-drafted tight end in NFL history and lived up to the hype. He showed his elite athleticism and big-play ability, becoming a crucial weapon for the Falcons offense.
  • 5. Cincinnati Bengals: Ja'Marr Chase (WR, LSU): Chase reunited with his former college quarterback, Joe Burrow, and quickly became one of the most dominant wide receivers in the league. He finished his rookie season with 1,455 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

Round 2

  • 33. Miami Dolphins: Jaylen Waddle (WR, Alabama): Waddle was a dynamic playmaker for the Dolphins, showcasing his speed and route-running skills. He finished his rookie season with 1,015 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns.
  • 36. New England Patriots: Mac Jones (QB, Alabama): Jones took over the starting quarterback role in New England and proved to be a steady and efficient passer. He threw for 3,801 yards and 22 touchdowns, earning Offensive Rookie of the Year honors.

Round 3

  • 72. New York Giants: Kadarius Toney (WR, Florida): Toney was a talented but inconsistent receiver who struggled to stay healthy in his rookie season. He showed flashes of brilliance but also battled injuries and off-the-field issues.

Overall Impact

The 2021 draft produced a number of impactful players who made immediate contributions to their teams. While some players faced challenges and struggled to adapt to the NFL, others quickly became stars. It will be interesting to see how these players develop in the coming years and what kind of impact they will have on the league.

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