Grading the 2017 NFL Draft 9 Seasons Later
As we look back on the 2017 NFL Draft nearly nine seasons later, it’s time to evaluate the first-round selections and assess their impact on their respective franchises. This draft class featured a mix of generational talents, surprising picks, and players whose careers took unexpected turns. Let’s break down each first-round pick, providing grades based on their performance and contributions to their teams.
1. Miles Garrett – Cleveland Browns (1st Overall)
The Cleveland Browns hit the jackpot with the first overall pick in 2017, selecting defensive end Miles Garrett from Texas A&M. Garrett was widely regarded as a generational talent, boasting rare size and explosive athleticism that made him an immediate impact player.
Performance and Impact
Since entering the league, Garrett has lived up to the hype, becoming one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL. He has been named a four-time All-Pro and is a perennial candidate for the Defensive Player of the Year award. With a career total of over 70 sacks and counting, Garrett is on the verge of breaking the single-season sack record, further solidifying his legacy.
Grade: A+
Garrett’s combination of talent, production, and impact on games makes him arguably the best player in this draft class, and he is well on his way to a Hall of Fame career.
2. Mitch Trubisky – Chicago Bears (2nd Overall)
The Chicago Bears made headlines by trading up to the second overall pick to select quarterback Mitch Trubisky from North Carolina. At the time, Trubisky was viewed as a potential franchise quarterback, but the decision to move up came with its share of controversy.
Performance and Impact
Trubisky’s tenure in Chicago was marked by inconsistency and struggles. Despite showing flashes of potential, he failed to develop into the franchise quarterback the Bears envisioned. After three seasons as a starter, Trubisky was benched and eventually moved on to become a backup elsewhere.
Grade: D
This pick is widely viewed as a mistake, especially considering the success of other quarterbacks drafted later, including Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson.
3. Solomon Thomas – San Francisco 49ers (3rd Overall)
The San Francisco 49ers selected defensive lineman Solomon Thomas from Stanford with the third overall pick. Thomas was celebrated for his versatility and explosiveness, but concerns about his size and fit in the NFL were evident.
Performance and Impact
Thomas struggled to find his footing in the NFL, failing to live up to the expectations of a top-three pick. After a lackluster tenure with the 49ers, he became a rotational player and eventually moved on to other teams without making a significant impact.
Grade: D
This pick did not pan out for the 49ers, as Thomas never established himself as a reliable starter and ultimately did not fulfill his potential.
4. Leonard Fournette – Jacksonville Jaguars (4th Overall)
The Jacksonville Jaguars selected running back Leonard Fournette from LSU with the fourth overall pick. Fournette was known for his physical running style and ability to set the tone on the field.
Performance and Impact
Fournette had a solid start to his NFL career, rushing for over 1,000 yards in his rookie season. However, his limitations as a three-down back became apparent, and the Jaguars ultimately decided to move on from him after a few seasons. His time in the league has been marked by inconsistency and injury.
Grade: D
While Fournette had moments of brilliance, he did not provide the long-term value expected from a top-five pick.
5. Corey Davis – Tennessee Titans (5th Overall)
The Tennessee Titans selected wide receiver Corey Davis from Western Michigan as the consensus top receiver in the draft. Davis had a productive college career, but questions about his competition level and route-running skills loomed.
Performance and Impact
Davis had a decent career with the Titans, providing solid production as a secondary target. However, he never reached the stardom expected of a top-five pick and struggled with consistency throughout his tenure.
Grade: C
Davis was a serviceable player, but he did not live up to the expectations of a top-five selection.
6. Jamal Adams – New York Jets (6th Overall)
The New York Jets selected safety Jamal Adams from LSU, who was regarded as one of the best defensive prospects in the draft. Adams was known for his physicality and ability to play near the line of scrimmage.
Performance and Impact
Adams quickly established himself as a star for the Jets, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors. However, his time in New York was cut short when he was traded to the Seattle Seahawks, where he continued to perform at a high level.
Grade: A
Adams was an impactful player for the Jets, and the return they received in the trade further solidified this selection as a success.
7. Mike Williams – Los Angeles Chargers (7th Overall)
The Los Angeles Chargers selected wide receiver Mike Williams from Clemson, who was known for his size and ability to make contested catches. Williams brought a unique skill set to the Chargers’ offense.
Performance and Impact
Williams had a solid career with the Chargers, providing a deep threat and contributing to their passing game. However, he struggled with injuries early in his career and never quite reached the level of stardom expected from a top-ten pick.
Grade: B-
Williams was a reliable player for the Chargers, but he did not reach the heights that were anticipated when he was drafted.
8. Christian McCaffrey – Carolina Panthers (8th Overall)
The Carolina Panthers selected running back Christian McCaffrey from Stanford, who was a standout player in college with his versatility and ability as both a runner and receiver.
Performance and Impact
McCaffrey quickly became one of the most dynamic offensive players in the league, setting records for total yards and touchdowns. He was a key player for the Panthers and earned multiple Pro Bowl selections.
Grade: A
McCaffrey has been a transformative player for the Panthers, and his production has made this pick a home run.
9. John Ross – Cincinnati Bengals (9th Overall)
The Cincinnati Bengals selected wide receiver John Ross from Washington, who gained attention for his record-breaking speed at the combine. However, concerns about his size and durability lingered.
Performance and Impact
Ross struggled to make an impact in the NFL, battling injuries throughout his career. He had some flashes of potential but ultimately did not live up to the expectations of a top-ten pick.
Grade: D-
This selection is seen as a major miss for the Bengals, as Ross failed to establish himself as a reliable NFL player.
10. Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs (10th Overall)
The Kansas City Chiefs traded up to select quarterback Patrick Mahomes from Texas Tech, a decision that would change the franchise’s trajectory. Mahomes was known for his incredible arm talent and playmaking ability.
Performance and Impact
Mahomes quickly became a superstar, winning MVP and leading the Chiefs to multiple Super Bowl victories. His ability to make plays both inside and outside the pocket has redefined the quarterback position.
Grade: S
This pick has proven to be one of the best in NFL history, as Mahomes has established himself as a generational talent.
11. Marshon Lattimore – New Orleans Saints (11th Overall)
The New Orleans Saints selected cornerback Marshon Lattimore from Ohio State, who was regarded as one of the top defensive prospects in the draft. Lattimore had excellent athleticism and ball skills.
Performance and Impact
Lattimore quickly became a star for the Saints, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors. He has been a key player in New Orleans’ secondary and has consistently performed at a high level.
Grade: A
Lattimore has been an elite cornerback for the Saints, making this pick a significant success.
12. Deshaun Watson – Houston Texans (12th Overall)
The Houston Texans selected quarterback Deshaun Watson from Clemson, who had a stellar college career and was known for his mobility and passing ability.
Performance and Impact
Watson quickly established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in the league, leading the Texans to the playoffs multiple times. However, his career took a turn due to off-field issues, leading to a trade to the Cleveland Browns.
Grade: A
Despite the controversies, Watson provided significant value to the Texans during his time there, making this a solid pick.
13. Hassan Reddick – Arizona Cardinals (13th Overall)
The Arizona Cardinals selected linebacker Hassan Reddick from Temple, who was known for his explosiveness and pass-rushing ability. However, concerns about his size and position fit were evident.
Performance and Impact
Reddick struggled to find his role in Arizona, but after being moved to edge rusher, he found success and became a productive player. He has since continued to perform at a high level with other teams.
Grade: C+
While Reddick eventually found his niche, the Cardinals’ initial use of him was questionable, leading to a mixed evaluation of this pick.
14. Derrick Barnett – Philadelphia Eagles (14th Overall)
The Philadelphia Eagles selected defensive end Derrick Barnett from Tennessee, who was known for his pass-rushing technique and production in college.
Performance and Impact
Barnett had a solid career with the Eagles but never reached the level of stardom expected from a first-round pick. His production was decent, but he struggled with consistency.
Grade: C-
Barnett provided some value but ultimately did not live up to the expectations of a top-15 selection.
15. Malik Hooker – Indianapolis Colts (15th Overall)
The Indianapolis Colts selected safety Malik Hooker from Ohio State, who was known for his range and ball skills. However, concerns about his durability were present.
Performance and Impact
Hooker had a promising start to his career but struggled with injuries that limited his impact. He showed flashes of potential but never fully realized it with the Colts.
Grade: C
While Hooker had moments of brilliance, his injury issues hindered his overall contribution to the team.
16. Marlon Humphrey – Baltimore Ravens (16th Overall)
The Baltimore Ravens selected cornerback Marlon Humphrey from Alabama, who was known for his competitiveness and coverage skills.
Performance and Impact
Humphrey quickly became one of the top cornerbacks in the league, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and establishing himself as a key player in the Ravens’ defense.
Grade: A
Humphrey has been an elite player for Baltimore, making this pick a significant success.
17. Jonathan Allen – Washington Football Team (17th Overall)
Washington selected defensive tackle Jonathan Allen from Alabama, who was known for his strength and technique.
Performance and Impact
Allen has been a solid player for Washington, contributing significantly to their defensive line and earning Pro Bowl honors.
Grade: B
While not a superstar, Allen has provided consistent production and value for Washington.
18. Adoree’ Jackson – Tennessee Titans (18th Overall)
The Tennessee Titans selected cornerback Adoree’ Jackson from USC, who was known for his speed and playmaking ability.
Performance and Impact
Jackson had a mixed career with the Titans, showing flashes of potential but struggling with consistency and injuries.
Grade: C
While Jackson had some exciting moments, he did not establish himself as a reliable starter.
19. O.J. Howard – Tampa Bay Buccaneers (19th Overall)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected tight end O.J. Howard from Alabama, who was known for his athleticism and receiving ability.
Performance and Impact
Howard had a decent career with the Buccaneers but struggled with injuries and consistency. He never fully lived up to the expectations of a first-round pick.
Grade: D
This selection did not yield the impact the Buccaneers hoped for.
20. Garrett Bolles – Denver Broncos (20th Overall)
The Denver Broncos selected offensive tackle Garrett Bolles from Utah, who was known for his athleticism and movement skills.
Performance and Impact
Bolles has developed into a reliable starter for the Broncos, providing solid play on the offensive line.
Grade: A
Bolles has been a key player for Denver, making this pick a success.
21. Jared Davis – Detroit Lions (21st Overall)
The Detroit Lions selected linebacker Jared Davis from Florida, who was known for his athleticism and competitiveness.
Performance and Impact
Davis struggled to make a significant impact in the NFL, failing to establish himself as a reliable starter.
Grade: D-
This pick did not pan out for the Lions, as Davis struggled with consistency and injuries.
22. Charles Harris – Miami Dolphins (22nd Overall)
The Miami Dolphins selected defensive end Charles Harris from Missouri, who was known for his pass-rushing ability.
Performance and Impact
Harris struggled to make an impact in Miami and has since become a journeyman in the league.
Grade: F
This selection is seen as a major miss for the Dolphins.
23. Evan Engram – New York Giants (23rd Overall)
The New York Giants selected tight end Evan Engram from Ole Miss, who was known for his athleticism and receiving ability.
Performance and Impact
Engram has had a decent career with the Giants but has struggled with injuries and consistency.
Grade: C+
While Engram has provided some value, he has not lived up to the expectations of a first-round pick.
24. Gareon Conley – Oakland Raiders (24th Overall)
The Oakland Raiders selected cornerback Gareon Conley from Ohio State, who was known for his coverage skills.
Performance and Impact
Conley struggled with injuries and consistency during his time with the Raiders and has since become a journeyman.
Grade: D
This pick did not pan out for the Raiders.
25. Jabrill Peppers – Cleveland Browns (25th Overall)
The Cleveland Browns selected safety Jabrill Peppers from Michigan, who was known for his versatility and playmaking ability.
Performance and Impact
Peppers had a decent career with the Browns but struggled with consistency and injuries.
Grade: C
While Peppers had some moments of brilliance, he did not fully realize his potential.
26. Taco Charlton – Dallas Cowboys (26th Overall)
The Dallas Cowboys selected defensive end Taco Charlton from Michigan, who was known for his pass-rushing ability.
Performance and Impact
Charlton struggled to make an impact in the NFL and has since become a backup journeyman.
Grade: F
This selection is seen as a major miss for the Cowboys.
27. David Njoku – Cleveland Browns (27th Overall)
The Cleveland Browns selected tight end David Njoku from Miami, who was known for his athleticism and receiving ability.
Performance and Impact
Njoku has had a decent career with the Browns but has struggled with consistency and injuries.
Grade: C+
While Njoku has provided some value, he has not lived up to the expectations of a first-round pick.
28. T.J. Watt – Pittsburgh Steelers (28th Overall)
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected linebacker T.J. Watt from Wisconsin, who was known for his pass-rushing ability and technique.
Performance and Impact
Watt has established himself as one of the top defensive players in the league, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and accolades.
Grade: S
This pick has proven to be one of the best in NFL history, as Watt has become a generational talent.
29. Reuben Foster – San Francisco 49ers (29th Overall)
The San Francisco 49ers selected linebacker Reuben Foster from Alabama, who was known for his physicality and playmaking ability.
Performance and Impact
Foster’s career was marred by off-field issues and injuries, leading to an early exit from the NFL.
Grade: D
This pick did not pan out for the 49ers, as Foster’s potential was never realized.
30. Ryan Ramczyk – New Orleans Saints (30th Overall)
The New Orleans Saints selected offensive tackle Ryan Ramczyk from Wisconsin, who was known for his technique and athleticism.
Performance and Impact
Ramczyk has developed into one of the top tackles in the league, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and establishing himself as a key player for the Saints.
Grade: A+
This pick has proven to be a tremendous success for the Saints.
Conclusion: Analyzing the 2017 Draft Class
The 2017 NFL Draft class featured a mix of hits and misses, with several players emerging as stars while others struggled to make an impact. As we look back on these selections, it is clear that evaluating talent in the draft is both an art and a science.
With generational talents like Patrick Mahomes and T.J. Watt emerging from this class, teams will continue to analyze their decision-making processes to improve their future drafts. The lessons learned from the 2017 draft will resonate for years to come as franchises strive to build championship-caliber rosters.
For more insights and analysis on the NFL Draft and player performances, stay tuned for our upcoming articles. The journey of these players continues, and the excitement of the NFL never fades.
