NFL Draft 2022: Day 3 Grades for Every Pick

Day 3 of the NFL draft is about finding lesser-known prospects with the necessary traits to become contributors down the road.

"Players gotta have a certain amount of talent," Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard told reporters about the event's second day. "We always ask about a guy: 'What's unique? What's going to give him [an] advantage?' You hope you're taking guys that have those unique traits."

Selections from the fourth to seventh rounds aren't heralded, but they're vital to teams' progress.

As Spotrac's Michael Ginnitti noted prior to the start of the 2021 campaign, players who heard their names called after the third round or went undrafted comprised 57.8 percent of rosters.

The draft's third day serves as the backbone for lineups. This year, the depth is robust after so many players took advantage of the extra year of eligibility granted by the NCAA because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Depth in the draft means depth added to rosters. And maybe a star or two will emerge from this particular crop of selections.

Follow along as Bleacher Report provides analysis and grades for every selection based on talent, fit and the team's decision-making process.

106. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Cade Otton, TE, Washington

Strengths: Legitimate in-line blocker, good feel for route running, constantly competing on every single play

Weaknesses: Not an overly dynamic receiving threat, can be bothered when rerouted 

The Washington Huskies have developed a type at the tight end position. 

Cade Otton is following Drew Sample and Will Dissly into the NFL. All three of them are strong Y-tight ends who contribute as in-line blockers yet leave something to be desired in the passing game. 

So much emphasis is now placed on a tight end's ability to affect the passing game that traditional options aren't as plentiful as they once were. T.J. Hockenson got selected in the top 10 of the 2019 draft because he was a legitimate "two-way" tight end as a blocker and receiving threat. 

Otton is a capable receiver with 46 catches for 508 yards in 12 games across the last two seasons. He suffered a season-ending ankle injury and played in only eight contests this past season or his numbers could have been even better. 

Compared to Sample and Dissley, Otton is the most natural route-runner and pass-catcher of the three, but he's still lacking compared to other recent tight end prospects.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers add tight end depth just in case Rob Gronkowski doesn’t return to the team. Even if he does, Otton provides long-term upside to eventually become a starter once Gronkowski finally does step away and Cameron Brate’s contract ends after the 2023 campaign.

Grade: A

      

107. Houston Texans

Dameon Pierce, RB, Florida

Strengths: Powerful runner with exemplary contact balance, physical and attacking blocker in pass protection, comfortable as a receiver

Weaknesses: Lacks breakaway speed, never took on a heavy workload, rounds off cuts

There are often concerns about a running back's workload before they ever step on an NFL field. But wear and tear won't be an issue with Florida's Dameon Pierce after he received only 242 touches over the last two seasons.

For comparison, Iowa State's Breece Hall and Michigan State's Kenneth Walker III had more carries last year. Pierce's draft stock was stunted because he never got to fully showcase his impressive skill set.

He is a 218-pound bowling ball who explodes through contact. He has the power to consistently break attempted tackles plus the versatility to contribute in the passing game. As FantasyPros' Derek Brown noted, 23.7 percent of Pierce's snaps came when he lined up out wide or in the slot. Pierce also has a highlight reel of blitz pickups as a pass protector.

The best is yet to come from Pierce once his traits are fully utilized by a professional coaching staff. He can immediately step into the Houston Texans backfield and win the starting job with Rex Burkhead, Marlon Mack and Royce Freeman on the roster.

Grade: A

         

108. Cleveland Browns

Perrion Winfrey, DL, Oklahoma

Strengths: Explosive upfield defender, extremely long arms (35¼"), powerful when he shoots hands

Weaknesses: Inconsistent get-off, struggles to maintain point of attack when engaged, insufficient hand usage in pass rush

Perrion Winfrey's future contributions in the NFL depend on which version of him shows up.

The defensive lineman can be a disruptive force capable of shooting gaps and giving offensive linemen fits, as he showed at this year's Senior Bowl. But he's also a highly inconsistent performer with a questionable motor, as seen throughout his Oklahoma career. 

Winfrey can be a serious problem when he's on his game. His 56 pressures since the start of the 2020 campaign were the most by any Big 12 interior defender, per Pro Football Focus. The two-time first-team All Big-12 selection has the necessary traits to be an effective three-down defensive tackle who can create havoc in opposing backfields. 

The 6'4", 290-pounder has the explosiveness, as evidenced by his 4.89-second 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, to consistently reestablish the line of scrimmage. He just needs to fire off the ball with the same intensity at all times. 

If he does so, he'll be a handful. But he didn't do it consistently during his time with the Sooners.

The Cleveland Browns simply needed quality big men in the trenches on the defensive side of the ball. The team already invested in defensive end Alex Wright during the third round. Winfrey gives the Browns depth along the interior behind Taven Bryan and Tommy Togiai.

Grade: A

         

109. Seattle Seahawks

Coby Bryant, CB, Cincinnati

Strengths: Competes in coverage, good route recognition and ball tracking, consistently makes plays on the ball

Weaknesses: Tight-hipped, lacks top-end speed, not overly physical, suspect tackler

Imagine being named the best defensive back in the country yet not considered the best cornerback on your own team. 

The scenario is exactly what Cincinnati's Coby Bryant endured during his final season with the Bearcats. Bryant won the Jim Thorpe Award as college football's best defensive back. Meanwhile, most considered teammate Ahmad Gardner the better defender and NFL prospect. 

The reasons are threefold. Gardner is bigger, more athletic and a year-and-a-half younger than Bryant. Yes, Gardner has an edge in pro projection. Even so, Bryant is a quality prospect, and he's not intimidated by playing alongside other athletes who may be considered more gifted or receive more attention. 

"I've always carried myself as an alpha," Bryant told reporters at the NFL combine. "... You have to have that mentality no matter what. No matter if things are going good or going bad, you just have to have that mentality and be that alpha so others can follow suit."

A certain type of cornerback comes to mind when someone thinks of the Seattle Seahawks. Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner aren’t walking through that door. Instead, the Seahawks land the award-winning Bryant, who thrives when asked to play in press.

Grade: A

       

110. Baltimore Ravens

Daniel Faalele, OT, Minnesota

Strengths: Enormous blocker, light on his feet for a near 400-pound man, powerful run-blocker in varied ground-based scheme

Weaknesses: Tendency to overset, which negates his length, height causes a tendency to rise through blocks, not a sudden athlete

Minnesota's Daniel Faalele is a mountain of a man.

The native of Australia, who originally played rugby and basketball before moving to the United States and participating in one year of high school football, told reporters at the NFL combine that he entered the Gophers program at 426 pounds. The 6'8" blocker now weighs 384 pounds. 

Amazingly, he doesn't look like a heavy athlete. His frame carries his girth very well, and it shows up on the field. 

Anytime an offensive lineman is significantly taller and heavier than is typical, concerns about technique and movement skills arise. The same applies to Faalele. The first-team All-Big Ten performer moves well for his size, but his lateral agility remains suspect. Still, a defender's pass-rush path is akin to when Ferdinand Magellan traversed the globe. 

Faalele is still developing and learning how to use his size and length to his full advantage. Once he does, he could become a dominant blocker.

The Baltimore Ravens are built around their rough-and-tumble rushing attack. Faalele is a natural fit in the heavy gap scheme. His size and physicality screams Ravens football and gives the team a potential long-term right tackle option behind Morgan Moses.

Grade: A

      

111. New York Jets

Max Mitchell, OT, Louisiana

New York Jets general manager Joe Douglas believes in investments along the offensive line. Louisiana’s Max Mitchell provides the team with a swing tackle and insurance if the franchise remains unhappy with Mekhi Becton. Mitchell is primarily a right tackle, but he can play multiple positions.

Grade: B

      

112. New York Giants

Daniel Bellinger, TE, San Diego State

Strengths: Immediately adds in-line help, strong hands, runs well and is tough after the catch

Weaknesses: Little route nuance, pad level comes into question at times

Well-rounded tight end prospects are regaining popularity after years of teams looking for consistent mismatches in the passing game. But the prevalence of 11 and even 12 personnel in today's game makes in-line performance a necessity. Teams used those two offensive packages a whopping 82 percent of the time last season, according to Sharp Football's Warren Sharp. 

San Diego State's Daniel Bellinger is a ready-made Y-tight end. He's a strong 6'5", 253-pound tight end who plays with a good base in the run game and protection in the pass game. 

As part of the Aztecs' run-first approach, Bellinger didn't catch a large number of passes. However, he proved more than capable as a receiving threat. Over the last two seasons, he caught 52 passes for 560 yards. 

Bellinger can improve as a route-runner if he's afforded more opportunities to be a bigger part of an aerial attack. At this point, he's a little stiff in his route running despite excellent athletic numbers, which portend rapid improvement in this particular area.

The incoming rookie could start from the onset of his career since the New York Giants’ tight end room is led by Ricky Seals-Jones and Jordan Akins.

Grade: B+

         

113. Washington Commanders

Percy Butler, S, Louisiana

The Washington Commanders passed on an opportunity to draft Notre Dame’s Kyle Hamilton in the first round when the organization chose to trade down. Three rounds later, the team gets its safety prospect in Louisiana’s Percy Butler. Kamren Curl and Bobby McCain are set at safety, but Butler gives the team a third option in big nickel looks. 

Grade: C

          

114. New York Giants

Dane Belton, S, Iowa

The New York Giants are filling holes at this juncture, taking tight end Daniel Bellinger to start their fourth round and then Dane Belton two picks later. Belton provides much-needed depth at safety in the Giants secondary. An Iowa product, Belton was well-coached and knows how to play both safety spots.

Grade: C

      

115. Denver Broncos

Damarri Mathis, CB, Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh’s Damarri Mathis tested extremely well during the predraft process. In fact, his relative athletic score ranked among the top-60 cornerback prospects over the last 35 years, according to Pro Football Network’s Kent Lee Platte. Mathis is a physical corner with some position flexibility and will join an already talented Denver Broncos secondary. 

Grade: B

        

116. Denver Broncos

Eyioma Uwazurike, DL, Iowa State

System fits are important. Iowa State’s Eyioma Uwazurike played in Iowa State’s 3-3-5 base defense during his collegiate career. He’ll transition to Ejiro Evero’s base 3-4 scheme he brings from the Los Angeles Rams. Uwazurike is a 6’6”, 316-pound plugger.

Grade: C

       

117. New York Jets

Micheal Clemons, Edge, Texas A&M

Strengths: Long, powerful edge who can play through an offensive tackle, varied pass-rushing plan, consistent effort, separates and sheds blocks

Weaknesses: Tightly wound lower body limits flexibility and lateral movement, tendency to play highest, injury history

Texas A&M's Micheal Clemons is a talented-but-limited pass-rusher who might have given teams pause because of his injury history and an arrest last August. 

The 6'5", 263-pound defensive end posted career highs last season with seven sacks, 11 tackles for loss and 46 pressures, per Ryan Fowler of The Draft Network. Clemons also led the Aggies with 13 quarterback hits. The former JUCO transfer is improving each year, though he's a straight-line pass-rusher. 

Clemons plays with a tight lower body. He's at his best when he can immediately work upfield and then make a move under the offensive tackle. He's a power-rusher who plays with a consistent motor. 

The defensive lineman also has a significant injury history. A foot cost him the entire 2018 campaign, while a balky ankle required surgery two years later.

University police also arrested Clemons just prior to the 2021 campaign for unlawful carrying of a weapon, failure to identify/giving false information, less than two ounces of marijuana possession and driving with an invalid license. After initially being indefinitely suspended, Clemons returned to the team a week later.

Interestingly, the Jets aren’t valuing traditional, flexible edges. Instead they sank a first-round pick into Jermaine Johnson II, who’s a better run-stopper at this point in his career and has the potential to become a top-shelf edge-rusher. Clemons won't be much different, though head coach Robert Saleh clearly wanted more depth along the defensive line to attack opposing quarterbacks.

Grade: C

       

118. Minnesota Vikings

Akayleb Evans, CB, Missouri

The Minnesota Vikings are investing in cornerbacks because general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah knew the position didn’t have any long-term stability entering the draft. The organization added Andrew Booth Jr. in the second round to play opposite Patrick Peterson. Booth, Missouri’s Akayleb Evans and Cam Dantzler form a solid trio to play the position once Peterson eventually leaves or retires.

Grade: C

          

119. Baltimore Ravens

Jalyn Armour-Davis, CB, Alabama

Alabama’s Jalyn Armour-Davis fits the profile of a Baltimore Ravens cornerback. He’s a 6’1”, 197-pound defender out of a program known for developing well-coached, physical defensive backs. Armour-Davis provides a safety net after Baltimore experienced myriad injuries to the secondary in recent years.

Grade: B

         

120. Carolina Panthers

Brandon Smith, LB, Penn State

The Carolina Panthers don’t have a long-term solution at any of the linebacker spots. Damien Wilson and Cory Littleton are on short-term deals. Shaq Thompson’s pact ends after the 2023 campaign. Penn State’s Brandon Smith (6'3", 250 lbs) adds size and a comfort level working into space.

Grade: B

     

121. New England Patriots

Jack Jones, CB, Arizona State

The New England Patriots’ draft picks at cornerback are utterly fascinating. Both Marcus Jones and Jack Jones are slender-framed options. In Jack Jones’ case, he’s dealt with injuries throughout his career. He is a smooth cover corner, but significant questions about how he holds up at the next level exist.

Grade: C-

       

122. Las Vegas Raiders

Zamir White, RB, Georgia

On Friday, the Las Vegas Raiders announced they’re not picking up Josh Jacobs’ fifth-year option. A day later, the organization drafted Georgia running back Zamir White. The two moves aren’t necessarily correlated, because Jacobs can be a quality lead back if healthy. But head coach Josh McDaniels comes from a system where running back depth and versatility are extremely important. Maybe White eventually replaces Jacobs after the 2022 campaign.

Grade: B

      

123. Los Angeles Chargers

Isaiah Spiller, RB, Texas A&M

The predraft process wasn’t kind to Texas A&M running back Isaiah Spiller. He didn’t show the explosive traits some expected while watching him with the Aggies. For the Los Angeles Chargers, Spiller provides a bigger (217 lbs) and more physical back to play alongside Austin Ekeler and Joshua Kelley.

Grade: B

         

124. Cleveland Browns

Cade York, K, LSU

The Cleveland Browns haven’t had a good kicker since Phil Dawson left after the 2012 season. Yet, the same franchise that selected Zane Gonzalez and Austin Seibert only to see them both fail at their first stop drafted yet another kicker in LSU’s Cade York.

Grade: D

       

125. Miami Dolphins

Erik Ezukanma, WR, Texas Tech

The Miami Dolphins had only four picks entering this year’s draft. Every one is precious. An investment in Erik Ezukanma gives new head coach Mike McDaniel an offensive playmaker he can use at wide receiver and who can even take the occasional handoff.

Grade: C

      

126. Las Vegas Raiders

Neil Farrell Jr., DL, LSU

Strengths: Powerhouse at point of attack, ideal nose tackle frame, easily fills one or two gaps

Weaknesses: Little to no pass-rushing potential, slow off the snap, small-space defender

What you see is exactly what you get with LSU defensive tackle Neil Farrell Jr. The 6'4" 338-pound defender is a space-filler as a plug-and-play 0- or 1-technique. 

While nose tackles don't hold the same value in the NFL that they once did, teams still need competent play at the point of attack. The guys doing the dirty work inside don't get enough credit, but they are necessary. The Los Angeles Rams have Greg Gaines playing alongside Aaron Donald, while D.J. Reader serves as a tone-setter for the Cincinnati Bengals defense. 

Farrell, who turns 24 in September, is tailor-made to hold the point of attack. According to Pro Football Focus' Jon Macri, the second-team All-SEC selection ranked third in overall grade and run-defense grade among this year's defensive interior class. 

Farrell doesn't have the same type of athleticism as Georgia's Jordan Davis to potentially provide more as a pass-rusher, although he finished last season with 24 pressures. He will enter the NFL with a defined role and has the potential to thrive if he's asked to do what he does best.

The Las Vegas Raiders get a big, physical nose tackle to plop in the middle of coordinator Patrick Graham’s defensive front.

Grade: A

      

127. New England Patriots

Pierre Strong Jr., RB, South Dakota State

South Dakota State’s Pierre Strong Jr. is one of the fastest running backs in this year’s draft class (4.37 40-yard dash). More importantly, he’s a patient runner with good vision who explodes when the hole opens. The New England Patriots are known for using a deep backfield rotation. Strong will complement Damien Harris well.

Grade: B

     

128. Baltimore Ravens

Charlie Kolar, TE, Iowa State

Strengths: Studious athlete, big frame and catch radius, uses body well to shield defenders, more fluid than expected for his size

Weaknesses: Not a physical in-line blocker, provides little after the catch

Iowa State's Charlie Kolar is a coach's dream. He's a mature and reliable player who's also the smartest guy in the room. 

Kolar is the reigning winner of the William V. Campbell Trophy, aka the Academic Heisman. The tight end is also a three-time first-team All-Big 12 selection. 

"Charlie is as high-end of a competitor I have ever been around," Iowa State head coach Matt Campbell said, per the Cyclones official site. "Whatever Charlie has put his mind to, he's been successful. He wants to be the best. If it's school, he wants to be the best. If it's on the football field, he wants to be the best."

Kolar is a 6'6½", 252-pound target who tied for the most receptions by a tight end over the last three seasons, per PFF. The biggest question about him was whether he's fluid enough to be a receiving threat at the next level, but his 4.67-second 40-yard dash and 6.98-second three-cone effort at Iowa State's pro day quelled those concerns.

The tight end’s size and reliability over the middle of the field make him an ideal addition to the Baltimore Ravens. Granted, Kolar needs to shore up his run blocking. But he brings different qualities to the position than Mark Andrews.

Grade: B

         

129. Dallas Cowboys

Jake Ferguson, TE, Wisconsin

Cue the pointing Spider-Man meme. The Dallas Cowboys previously drafted a marginal athlete at tight end in the fourth round. Dalton Schultz developed into the team’s franchise player, at least from a tag perspective. Schultz may not be with the team next year if he tests free agency. Ferguson will get a year to play behind and possibly replace Schultz.

Grade: C

        

130. Baltimore Ravens

Jordan Stout, P, Penn State

The Baltimore Ravens bring in a booming leg with Penn State’s Jordan Stout. A fourth-round punter isn’t going to sit. Baltimore can release Sam Koch and save $2.1 million, per Spotrac.

Grade: C

           

131. Tennessee Titans

Hassan Haskins, RB, Michigan

Michigan’s Hassan Haskins joins the Tennessee Titans and will take on a very specific role as a third-down running back. Obviously, Derrick Henry remains the workhorse, but Haskins can come onto the field to provide a receiver threat or when solid protection is necessary.

Grade: C

         

132. Green Bay Packers

Romeo Doubs, WR, Nevada

Strengths: Vertical threat, outstanding ball tracking, strong hands to pluck passes, acceleration to run past defensive backs and sink to effectively work comeback routes

Weaknesses: Comes out of a Run 'n Shoot variant with limited route tree, straight-line athlete, concentration drops

Romeo Doubs is an excellent example of letting the film talk for the prospect. 

The two-time first-team All-Mountain West honoree couldn't complete the entire predraft process because a knee injury limited him. However, he can be seen on film regularly running past defenders as one of the draft's better vertical threats. 

Over the last two seasons, Doubs caught 138 passes for 2,111 yards and 20 touchdowns. He led the Group of Five wide receivers with eight touchdown receptions on throws of 20 or more yards this past season, per Pro Football Focus. 

Doubs' speed shouldn't be in question. He reached the top max speed among wide receivers on the National squad at the Senior Bowl, according to the event's executive director, Jim Nagy. 

"Romeo is just a freak of nature," former Wolf Pack teammate Cole Turner told reporters at the Senior Bowl. "He's 6'2" and moves like a guy who's 5'9". He can run by you. He stops on a dime."

The Green Bay Packers may have passed on wide receivers with their two first-round picks, but they’ve doubled down by adding North Dakota State’s Christian Watson and Doubs later in the process.

Grade: B

       

133. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Jake Camarda, P, Georgia

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers ranked dead last in average yards per punt last season, hence the need to add Georgia’s Jake Camarda.

Grade: C

       

134. San Francisco 49ers

Spencer Burford, OT, UTSA

Strengths: Easy mover with strong punch and long levers, starting experience at both tackle spots and guard, very good when asked to block on the move

Weaknesses: Functional playing strength, tendency to open early in pass set, falls off run blocks at times

NFL evaluators typically like their offensive tackles to be 6'5"-6'7" with extremely long arms to make them far more difficult to circumnavigate. But the likes of Kelvin Beachum Jr. and Rashawn Slater proved a tackle can be 6'3" or 6'4" and still thrive. 

UTSA's Spencer Burford measures just over 6'4" and weighs 304 pounds. He doesn't quite stack up physically compared to the top tackles in this year's draft class. However, his 34¾-inch arm length is longer than Alabama's Evan Neal, North Carolina State's Ikem Ekwonu, Mississippi State's Charles Cross, Northern Iowa's Trevor Penning, Central Michigan's Bernhard Raimann and Tulsa's Tyler Smith. 

One measurement shouldn't define a prospect. In Burford's case, arm length is an indication that he can stay at left tackle after spending the majority of his career on the blind side. 

If he can't hang at left tackle against NFL pass-rushers, he has experience at right tackle and guard. But he should get a chance to prove what he can do first.

Burford can learn behind left tackle Trent Williams or move inside and potentially compete with Colton McKivitz and Daniel Brunskill to start at guard.

Grade: B

      

135. Kansas City Chiefs

Joshua Williams, CB, Fayetteville State

Strengths: Ideal size and length, explosive athlete, fluid in backpedal, quick feet, out-physicals receivers in press and really tackles

Weaknesses: Overall level of competition, strictly outside corner, can get stuck on blocks

Joshua Williams is prepared to follow in the footsteps of small-school prospects who preceded him, particularly former Lenoir-Rhyne and current New England Patriots safety Kyle Dugger. 

"He went to the Senior Bowl like me, he went to the combine like me, and I'm hoping maybe I can follow in his footsteps and showcase my talents the same way he did," Williams told reporters at the NFL combine. 

The Patriots selected Dugger with a second-round pick because of the potential he showed in college. Although Williams is a corner and not a safety, his physical tools give him exciting potential. 

The 6'3", 195-pound defensive back clocked a 4.47-second 40-yard dash at North Carolina State's pro day, per the Senior Bowl's Jim Nagy. The corner also had a 37-inch vertical with 4.39-second short shuttle and 7.02-second three-cone times at his pro day, per Nagy. 

Football is about more than athletic testing, but these things get Division II prospects noticed. And just like Dugger, Williams never looked out of place during any of the predraft process.

The Kansas City Chiefs already invested a first-round pick at cornerback in Washington’s Trent McDuffie. General manager Brett Veach knows his team must face Russell Wilson, Courtland Sutton, Derek Carr, Davante Adams, Justin Herbert and Keenan Allen/Mike Williams twice each this season. The Chiefs can’t draft enough cornerbacks.

Grade: A

           

136. Cincinnati Bengals

Cordell Volson, IOL, North Dakota State

The Cincinnati Bengals addressed their offensive line in free agency with the additions of La’el Collins, Alex Cappa and Ted Karras. Carman Jackson will have an opportunity to prove himself at left guard in his second season. North Dakota State’s Cordell Volson provides somewhat of a safety net. Volson has starting experience at guard and tackle, but he excelled working along the interior at the Shrine Bowl.

Grade: C+

         

137. New England Patriots

Bailey Zappe, QB, Western Kentucky

Strengths: Huge production, excellent vision and timing, subtle pocket movement, calm presence

Weaknesses: Struggles to drive the ball with velocity, short stature and marginal athlete

Western Kentucky's Bailey Zappe is one of the most prolific passers in college football history. He broke the single-season FBS records in 2021 with 5,967 passing yards and 62 touchdowns. If the Houston Baptist transfer's FCS stats counted toward the highest level, he'd rank fourth all-time with 15,871 career passing yards.

His evaluation is reminiscent of all the quarterbacks coming out of Mike Leach's Air Raid scheme. The production can't be denied, but system and natural ability must be taken into consideration.

Clearly, Zappe is comfortable dropping back to pass since he averaged 49 attempts per game in 2021. He's quite natural and cozy working the pocket and finding open receivers.

"We did a lot of pure progression stuff, lot of opportunities to check in and out of plays, read defenses' pure progressions," Zappe told reporters at the NFL combine.

Issues stem from marginal arm talent, average build and underwhelming movement skills.

There's more to playing the position than raw physical talent, of course. Zappe excels in many of those areas. But those who fit his mold are often viewed as limited options better reserved for backup roles.

Mac Jones is set as the New England Patriots’ franchise quarterback after the organization selected him 15th last year. Zappe can be Jones’ long-term backup since the Patriots have Brian Hoyer and Jarrett Stidham listed as their second and third signal-callers.

Grade: B

       

138. Pittsburgh Steelers

Calvin Austin III, WR, Memphis

Strengths: Speed to burn, can beat press with quickness off line, effective working over the middle

Weaknesses: Short, thin-framed target, easily brought down by tacklers, lack of contested catches

Memphis' Calvin Austin III is the Yoda of this year's class: Judge him by his size, you should not. Defensive backs feel gale-force winds when Austin runs right by them. 

The diminutive (5'8") wide receiver weighs a scant 170 pounds. But Austin ran a blazing 4.32-second 40-yard dash at the combine, and his 39-inch vertical and 11'3" broad jumps are both elite numbers. 

The two-time, first-team All-AAC wide receiver can play and has a distinct skill set. He's just smaller than ideal for an NFL wideout.

"Obviously, since I've been that size my whole life, it's allowed me to learn new techniques, new ways to use that to my advantage," Austin told Cleveland.com's Mary Kay Cabot. "One of the coaches had told me that this is my superpower, this is my advantage."

While Austin is somewhat of an outlier, there have been other receivers with his body type. DeSean Jackson came into the league at 169 pounds. Tutu Atwell was a second-round pick last year despite weighing in at 155 pounds. 

A place can be found for Austin, as long as he's used properly to take advantage of his speed and explosiveness.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are making sure their newly minted first-round quarterback, Kenny Pickett, will have enough offensive weapons at his disposal. George Pickens will work outside the numbers. Austin can be a gadget player who excels when offensive coordinator Matt Canada manufactures touches for the speedster.

Grade: B

      

139. Baltimore Ravens

Isaiah Likely, TE, Coastal Carolina

Strengths: Excellent working in space and creating after the catch, strong hands, threatens the seam

Weaknesses: Adds little as a blocker, not an in-line option, needs to expand route tree, polished

Isaiah Likely is the epitome of a specific system fit. He's a pure F-tight end who can't be much of an in-line option. 

Likely is at his best when he's working the slot or off a wing. The two-time first-team All-Sun Belt Conference selection is an impressive receiving threat with 89 receptions for 1,513 yards and 17 touchdowns over the last two seasons. 

In Coastal Carolina's system, play designs allowed Likely to get open and create after the catch, which isn't always a strength among tight ends. The 6'4½", 245-pound target can be dangerous working in the open field. 

However, Likely's blocking acumen is below par. He doesn't have the build or technique to win in this phase of the game, though he can be a lead blocker out in space against smaller defenders. 

Likely's skill set is obvious. He can be a real threat in the passing game as a move tight end, which can hold real value in a pass-first league. Just don't ask him to do much more.

The Baltimore Ravens drafted two tight ends in the fourth round with completely different skill sets. Charlie Kolar is a big, in-line option who lumbers about the field. Likely provides another threat in the passing game as a move tight end capable of creating big plays in the passing game. They might not be wide receivers, but both will help the passing game.

Grade: B

       

140. Green Bay Packers

Zach Tom, IOL, Wake Forest

The Green Bay Packers continue down their path of drafting collegiate left tackles only to move them to other positions. Wake Forest’s Zach Tom is highly athletic but lacks the anchor to hold up on an island in pass protection. He can thrive along the interior when asked to make blocks on the move or on the second level.

Grade: C

        

141. Baltimore Ravens

Damarion Williams, CB, Houston

The Baltimore Ravens owned a plethora of fourth-round picks, and general manager Eric DeCosta used them to double down on certain positions. As mentioned with the Isaiah Likely selection, the Ravens landed two tight ends with differing skill sets. The same applies at cornerback after they selected Alabama’s Jalyn Armour-Davis and then took Houston’s Damarion Williams. Williams isn’t as big or as highly regarded as Armour-Davis. But the Ravens aren’t going to get caught lacking secondary depth again.

Grade: C

         

142. Los Angeles Rams

Decobie Durant, CB, South Carolina State

The Los Angeles Rams work wonders while forsaking early-round picks year after year. South Carolina State’s Decobie Durant is a quick, fluid cover corner coming out of a lower level of play. A smaller stature at 5'10", 180 pounds gives him trouble against bigger, more physical wide receivers. Durant may eventually become the Rams’ full-time nickel corner.

Grade: C

      

143. Tennessee Titans

Chigoziem Okonkwo, TE, Maryland

Strengths: Vertical threat with ability to create after the catch, powerful body despite small frame

Weaknesses: Doesn't have the length or girth to provide much as an in-line option, one-gear route-runner, suspect hands

While true H-backs aren't as popular in today's game as they once were, there's still a home for those who are a bit of a tweener between being a tight end and a true fullback. 

Maryland's Chigoziem Okonkwo is a 6'2½", 238-pound tight end. If anything, he fits the mold of a Delanie Walker or Anthony Firkser-type detached weapon in the passing game. 

Okonkwo is a fluid athlete who can more than threaten the seam with his 4.52-second 40-yard-dash speed. However, he shouldn't be expected to contribute much, if anything, as an in-line option.

The Maryland product didn't flourish until his final season on campus with 52 receptions for 447 yards. However, he missed all of the 2020 campaign after doctors diagnosed him with myocarditis, which is an inflammation of the heart muscle. 

Once cleared, Okonkwo played better than ever and turned himself into a legitimate NFL prospect.

That the Tennessee Titans selected Okonkwo shouldn’t come as any surprise after they leaned on the likes of Walker and Anthony Firkser, who've been productive tight ends in the system.

Grade: A

144. Washington Commanders

Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina

Strengths: Vertical passer, starter since he walked onto campus, physical runner

Weaknesses: Slow release, lacks anticipatory traits, struggles to drive the ball into touch intermediate throws

As a true freshman, UNC quarterback Sam Howell took the ACC by storm with 38 touchdown passes. According to Pro Football Focus' Anthony Treash, Howell posted the second-highest wins above average by a true freshman Power Five quarterback in the site's history.

However, Howell showed a slight decline over his next two seasons, with fewer yards and touchdowns than what he achieved as a freshman.

To Howell's credit, he adapted based on the available talent around him. He became more of a rushing threat and finished second on the team with 828 rushing yards and 11 scores last season. His 65 forced missed tackles in 2021 were the most by a Power Five quarterback since the start of the 2014 season, per PFF.

Howell doesn't turn 22 until September. His performance early in his college career indicates what he can do in a proper scheme with NFL coaching. 

The 2019 ACC Rookie of the Year is at his best when he's asked to push the ball downfield, though he can struggle with some inconsistency at the first and second levels.

The Washington Commanders may be all-in with new quarterback Carson Wentz, but the organization chose to hedge ever so slightly with Howell’s selection at the top of the fifth round. If Wentz flames out at yet another stop, Howell provides developmental starting potential.

Grade: A

         

145. Kansas City Chiefs

Darian Kinnard, IOL, Kentucky

Strengths: Aggressive, authoritative finisher, dominant drive blocker, massive vice-like hands, extensive experience against top competition

Weaknesses: Bearhugs assignments far too often, struggles to unlock outside hip in pass protection, tends to play high, lacks lateral movement to readjust

Alabama's Evan Neal and Mississippi State's Charles Cross may be two of the best offensive tackles prospects in this year's draft class. But Kentucky's Darian Kinnard was the best tackle in the SEC last season.

According to Pro Football Focus, Kinnard led all SEC tackles last season in overall, run-blocking and pass-blocking grades.

Kinnard is generally viewed as a massive mauler who likely needs to slide inside to guard because he doesn't show the fluid movement necessary to handle elite edge-rushers. There may be something to him making the move since his 244 positively graded run blocks are the most by a Power Five tackle prospect from the start of the 2014 campaign, per PFF.

However, Kinnard has gotten himself into excellent shape during the predraft process to retain the possibility of playing right tackle. Kentucky listed the three-year starter at 345 pounds, but he weighed 324 at the Senior Bowl and 322 at the NFL combine. He'll need to maintain that weight, because the 20-plus-pound difference is noticeable.

If Lucas Niang doesn’t work out at right tackle for the Kansas City Chiefs, the team now has another option to compete for the spot. At worst, Kinnard provides depth at right tackle and guard.

Grade: B+ 

       

146. New York Giants

Micah McFadden, LB, Indiana

Indiana’s Micah McFadden is a between-the-tackles linebacker who’s at his best when asked to play downhill. He also presents some flexibility as an edge-rusher in certain sub-packages. In some ways, he’s similar to the New York Giants’ Carter Coughlin.

Grade: C

       

147. New York Giants

DJ Davidson, DL, Arizona State

The 327-pound DJ Davison can be plopped right into the middle of the New York Giants defense as a space-eater and allow the team’s linebackers to run free and make plays. Nose tackles aren’t valued, but Davidson can be an effective early-down option.

Grade: C+

      

148. Buffalo Bills

Khalil Shakir, WR, Boise State

Strengths: Maybe strongest hands in the class, smooth, precise route-runner, works through traffic, creative after the catch, highly competitive

Weaknesses: Lacks length, not a true burner

Year after year, non-first-round wide receivers enter the NFL and produce as rookies. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Chase Claypool, A.J. Brown, Courtland Sutton and Cooper Kupp are all prime examples over the last five draft classes. 

All of those players fell out of the first round for a specific reason at the time, but their ability was always evident. The same can be said of Boise State's Khalil Shakir. 

Shakir is a 6'0", 196-pound target with 29-inch arms and 4.43-second speed. The first-team All-Mountain West selection will never be mistaken for the biggest, fastest or most explosive wide receiver, but he knows how to play the position at a high level and excels in all areas.

Shakir is a refined route-runner who boasts inside-outside flexibility, strong hands, superb body control and the ability to create with the ball in his hands. The Broncos used him all over the field as a focal point of their offense, and he responded with a career-high 1,247 yards from scrimmage.

The rich got richer as the Buffalo Bills added one of the best all-around wide receivers in this year’s class. Shakir will never be the biggest, fastest or most dynamic target. Yet he can contribute at a high level in a variety of manners to give Josh Allen yet another weapon.

Grade: A

      

149. Washington Commanders

Cole Turner, TE, Nevada

Nevada’s Cole Turner is a 6’6” wide receiver masquerading as a tight end. Turner lined up out wide almost exclusively in the Wolf Pack’s Air Raid-inspired offense. He’s a mismatch in the passing game, of course. The Washington Commanders must teach him how to be a well-rounded tight end, though.

Grade: C

       

150. Houston Texans

Thomas Booker, DL, Stanford

The Houston Texans are simply going down their list of needs and checking off boxes. Cornerback, guard, safety, wide receiver, linebacker and running back were all addressed in the first four rounds. General manager Nick Caserio turned his attention to the defensive line, where Stanford’s Thomas Booker can play along the interior and line up at 5-technique if needed. Booker has the quickness and relentnesses to be a disruptive defender.

Grade: C+

      

151. Atlanta Falcons

Tyler Allgeier, RB, BYU

Strengths: Powerful lower body, runs behind pads, consistently plays through and creates after contact, competent receiver and pass-blocker

Weaknesses: Lacks speed to be an outside running threat, limited route-runner, ball security

Tyler Allgeier is a freight train ready to run over whoever gets in his way. Allgeier is a punishing runner with more juice than expected. The proof is in the numbers.

The 22-year-old finished third in the FBS last season with 1,606 rushing yards and tied for first with 23 rushing touchdowns. He earned the second-highest rushing grade, piled up the most yards after contact and forced the fourth-most missed tackles since the 2020 campaign, per Pro Football Focus. Allgeier is not just a thumper between the tackles, though. His 25 runs of 20 or more yards were third-most over the last two seasons, according to the 33rd Team.

The 224-pounder will never be mistaken for Nick Chubb and his amazing footwork or Jonathan Taylor and his explosive speed or Alvin Kamara and his versatility. But Allgeier knows how to run with patience and vision before he blasts through the hole and has enough of a spurt to create chunk plays.

The Atlanta Falcons can't rely on Cordarrelle Patterson as their primary ball-carrier. Allgeier can be the workhorse and punish defenders in head coach Arthur Smith’s zone-heavy scheme.

Grade: A

      

152. Denver Broncos

Delarrin Turner-Yell, S, Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s Delarrin Turner-Yell flies to the ball and arrives with nasty intentions. The Denver Broncos lacked that type of physicality at safety. Justin Simmons and Kareem Jackson are great, but Turner-Yell is different than both.

Grade: C

       

153. Seattle Seahawks

Tariq Woolen, CB, UTSA

Strengths: Incomparable size-speed athlete, natural in zone coverage, looks to play the ball, not the man

Weaknesses: Angular build makes it difficult to sink hips, not overly physical in press or tackling, long length makes it difficult to turn and cover receivers in man

It's difficult not to look at UTSA's Tariq Woolen and see a little Richard Sherman in his game. Like Sherman, Woolen is a long, lanky corner (6'4", 205 lbs), who started his collegiate career at wide receiver. 

A big difference exists between the two, though. Obviously, Sherman is a highly successful professional athlete who helped redefine how we look at cornerbacks. But Woolen is an unparalleled athlete at the position, and that's not hyperbole. 

Woolen posted a 4.26-second 40-yard dash and 42-inch vertical. According to Pro Football Network's Kent Lee Platte, his relative athletic score is the best-ever among cornerbacks. 

Also like Sherman coming out of college, Woolen needs to refine his technique and continue to hone his craft. He needs to be a more willing and sound tackler. The former wide receiver can play the ball better, particularly when he has to turn and run with a target. 

His amazing physical tools will go to waste if development doesn't occur. But an investment in a bigger, faster and more explosive version of Sherman is downright tantalizing.

And the Seattle Seahawks drafted Woolen. ‘Nuff said.

Grade: A

      

154. Jacksonville Jaguars

Snoop Conner, RB, Ole Miss

During Doug Pederson’s time with the Philadelphia Eagles, the organization emphasized and invested in running backs. The Jacksonville Jaguars already have Travis Etienne Jr., James Robinson and Ryquell Armstead. Ole Miss’ Snoop Conner now joins the group. The 222-pound back is a powerful downhill runner.

Grade: C

      

155. Dallas Cowboys

Matt Waletzko, OT, North Dakota

Once upon a time, the Dallas Cowboys invested a first-round pick in an offensive tackle prospect who was more of an athlete with supreme traits but who lacked polish. Tyron Smith turned out pretty well. Granted, a fifth-round pick isn’t the same as a first-round investment. However, Waletzko is a 6’8”, 312-pound left tackle prospect with an impressive athletic profile.

Grade: B

       

156. Cleveland Browns

Jerome Ford, RB, Cincinnati

Strengths: Game-breaking ability for big runs, sets up blocks before exploding through cut, balanced and quick feet, stronger lower body to break through arm tackles

Weaknesses: Never much of a contributor in the passing game beyond simple checkdowns, doesn't show much wiggle to make defenders miss in space

For all the talent found on the Cincinnati Bearcats roster, Jerome Ford served as the engine to the team's offensive success.

Quarterback Desmond Ridder, wide receiver Alec Pierce and tight end Josh Whyle, who returned to Cincinnati for another season, excelled in so many different ways. Yet Ford became the focal point of opposing defenses because of the back's big-play ability. 

The Alabama transfer led the American Athletic Conference with 1,307 rushing yards, 19 rushing touchdowns and 52 forced missed tackles, per Pro Football Focus. His rush yardage over expectation ranked second overall at the FBS level.

The 210-pound back is powerful enough to run through arm tackles, while his 4.46-second 40-yard-dash speed makes him a threat to take any run to the house. Ford posted runs of 75 or more yards in three different games last season. 

"He's got great speed. He's physical. He makes people miss," Alabama head coach Nick Saban said of his former pupil while preparing to face the back in the College Football Playoff. "He can run with power, and he's had a fantastic year."

The Cleveland Browns might have Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt and D’Ernest Johnson, but they’ve been a run-first team. Besides, Hunt and Johnson are only under contract for the 2023 campaign.

Grade: A

       

157. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Zyon McCollum, CB, Sam Houston State

Strengths: Special athlete, fluid hips and feet for bigger corner, nose for the football, team captain

Weaknesses: Tends to play a little high and needs to be a more consistent tackler

Sam Houston State cornerback Zyon McCollum created plenty of predraft buzz because of his athletic profile, but he displayed excellent ball skills throughout his collegiate career. 

According to Pro Football Network's Kent Lee Platte, McCollum's relative athletic profile ranks first overall among cornerbacks over the last 35 years. The 6'2", 199-pound cornerback has 4.33-second 40-yard-dash speed, a 39.5-inch vertical and elite change-of-direction times. Those traits alone would get him drafted despite playing at a smaller school. 

However, McCollum also thrived with the Bearkats. After originally committing to Utah, McCollum started 10 games at Sam Houston State as a true freshman and never looked back. He racked up 13 interceptions, 54 passes defended and six forced fumbles throughout his collegiate career.

The small-school standout gives the Tampa Bay Buccaneers secondary even more length and athleticism to combine with Carlton Davis, Sean Murphy-Bunting and Jamel Dean.

Grade: B+

       

158. Seattle Seahawks

Tyreke Smith, Edge, Ohio State

The Seattle Seahawks are banking on lots of potential to improve their pass rush. Minnesota’s Boye Mafe wasn’t a full-time starter during his collegiate career, yet he displayed dominant traits. Ohio State’s Tyreke Smith was always a highly regarded prospect, but he dealt with injuries throughout his career.

Grade: C

       

159. Indianapolis Colts

Eric Johnson, DL, Missouri State

Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard continues to prioritize elite athleticism at every position. Missouri State’s Eric Johnson is a 6’4”, 299-pound defensive tackle with 4.88-second 40-yard dash speed. The Colts needed depth behind DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart, and Johnson provides an excellent developmental option. 

Grades: B+

      

160. Los Angeles Chargers

Otito Ogbonnia, DL, UCLA

The Los Angeles Chargers’ defensive interior was Charmin-soft last year. The organization already added Austin Johnson and Sebastian Joseph-Day in free agency. UCLA’s Otito Ogbonnia is yet another powerful interior defender who’s difficult to move off his spot.

Grade: B

      

161. New Orleans Saints

D’Marco Jackson, LB, Appalachian State

Demario Davis can’t play forever. The 33-year-old’s development into an All-Pro performer late in his career is inspiring. Appalachian State’s D’Marco Jackson flies sideline to sideline and brings more than enough speed to the second line. He can contribute on special teams initially and then work his way into the lineup.

Grade: C

      

162. Denver Broncos

Montrell Washington, WR, Samford

One of the reasons the Denver Broncos became so attractive to veteran quarterback Russell Wilson is the roster is loaded with skill position talent. The Broncos didn't let up with the earlier addition of tight end Greg Dulcich. Samford’s Montrell Washington is now added to the mix and doubles as a returner on special teams.

Grade: C

       

163. Tennessee Titans

Kyle Philips, WR, UCLA

Strengths: Exceptional quickness and body control working out of the slot, precise route-runner with ability to create space in small areas, makes difficult catches, punt returner

Weaknesses: Strictly a slot target, lets passes get into his body, won't provide much down the field

Sometimes it can be difficult to not pigeonhole a prospect. For example, not every smallish wide receiver who lacks top-end speed but displays tremendous quickness while working out of the slot is the next Wes Welker or Danny Amendola or Julian Edelman or Cole Beasley or Hunter Renfrow.

Yet UCLA's Kyle Philips fits the profile as arguably the best pure slot receiver in this year's class. The first-team All-Pac 12 selection slips in and out of his breaks easily and often leaves defenders scrambling to cover the ground they just lost coming out of the stem.

The 5'11", 189-pound Philips posted a disappointing 4.58-second 40-yard dash at the combine, yet he impressed with a 4.09-second short shuttle and 6.75-second three-cone effort at UCLA's pro day. Those two figures would have ranked second and third at the combine.

The Tennessee Titans already added Treylon Burks to offset the A.J. Brown trade. Philips brings a different skill set, though the two are somewhat redundant. Burks is a big, physical target who creates after the catch. Philips also works out of the slot, but he brings a different type of short-area quickness to get open and be available.

Grade: A

       

164. Los Angeles Rams

Kyren Williams, RB, Notre Dame

Strengths: Good route-runner, soft hands, sticks his nose in pass protection and delivers blow, short-area quickness to make tacklers miss, returner capabilities

Weaknesses: Lacks top gear, small frame, tough but little power

The fact Notre Dame's Kyren Williams lacks juice is disappointing because he brings a clearly defined role to the table.

Williams is a tailor-made third-down back who runs most of the route tree, shows soft hands, can line up wide and contributes as an excellent blocker in pass protection.

Over the last two seasons, he caught 77 passes for 672 yards and four touchdowns. His 23 forced missed tackles on receptions tied for fourth among running backs, per Pro Football Focus. The 21-year-old, who was the 2020 ACC Rookie of the Year, has some wiggle, which he showcased as a receiver and punt returner. But he lacks the top gear to truly frighten opposing defenses.

The 5'9", 194-pounder ran a 4.65-second 40-yard dash at the combine. He reportedly improved to 4.54 at Notre Dame's pro day. His actual speed likely falls between those two points. Either way, his play speed looks faster than his times.

The Los Angeles Rams’ lack of draft assets makes them less stingy about certain things compared to other organizations. Los Angeles can’t get hung up on supposed slights. Good football players are good football players. Williams is a good football player who adds another receiving threat to an already dynamic offense.

Grade: A

                

165. Minnesota Vikings

Esezi Otomewo, DL, Minnesota

The Minnesota Vikings didn’t address the edge earlier. General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah finally did so with Esezi Otomewo in the fifth round. Maybe the position wasn’t a priority with Danielle Hunter and Za’Darius Smith already on the roster. But their injury histories are scary. Otomewo is a solid player, but he’s a bit of ‘tweener who isn’t a flexible edge-rusher or a true interior defender.

Grade: C-

      

166. Cincinnati Bengals

Tycen Anderson, S, Toledo

The Cincinnati Bengals’ approach to this year’s draft is fascinating. Toledo’s Tycen Anderson is the third prospect the organization drafted with safety versatility. Anderson brings fantastic speed with a 4.36-second 40-yard dash. The exciting part about Cincinnati’s draft class is how diverse its secondary now is.

Grade: B

        

167. Dallas Cowboys

DaRon Bland, CB, Fresno State

The Dallas Cowboys like tall, rangy cornerbacks. Add DaRon Bland to the list. Bland is a 6’2”, 197-pound corner with 32-inch arms and 4.46-second 40-yard-dash speed. The fifth-round pick adds depth to a cornerback room that already features Trevon Diggs, Anthony Brown, Jourdan Lewis and Kelvin Joseph.

Grade: C

        

168. Chicago Bears

Braxton Jones, OT, Southern Utah

The Chicago Bears didn’t have a ton of draft assets to address all of their needs with. Yet the wait until the fifth round to address a shaky offensive line is…a choice. Braxton Jones is a developmental prospect from a small school. He won’t provide immediate help.

Grade: D

      

169. Minnesota Vikings

Ty Chandler, RB, North Carolina

Obviously, Dalvin Cook is the featured back in the Minnesota Vikings offense. He’s also one of the game’s best runners. A fifth-round running back prospect doesn’t threaten Cooks’ standing whatsoever. In Ty Chandler’s case, his fluidity as a route-runner and his natural catching ability provide a complementary skill set.

Grade: A

     

170. Houston Texans

Teagan Quitoriano, TE, Oregon State

The Houston Texans continue to obtain positions on the draft shopping list. Oregon State tight end Teagan Quitoriano is the latest addition. Their most recent fifth-round pick will join last year’s fifth-round selection, Brevin Jordan, and the Texans might find a long-term starting option at tight end.

Grade: C

      

171. Denver Broncos

Luke Wattenberg, IOL, Washington

The Denver Broncos already have two young centers in Lloyd Cushenberry III and Quinn Meinerz, though the latter may find a permanent home at guard. Wattenberg provides an experienced snapper coming out of the collegiate ranks.

Grade: C

       

172. San Francisco 49ers

Samuel Womack, CB, Toledo

Cornerback depth has been important for the San Francisco 49ers over the last two years. Toledo’s Samuel Womack brings outstanding ball skills after leading the MAC In defended passes in each of the last three seasons.

Grade: C

      

173. New York Giants

Marcus McKethan, IOL, North Carolina

The New York Giants had to rework their offensive line. They started in free agency and then went full speed ahead in the draft with three new blockers. Evan Neal should start at right tackle. Former collegiate teammates Joshua Ezeudu and Marcus McKethan are physical guards who should make the Giants tougher in the trenches.

Grade: C+

        

174. Chicago Bears

Dominique Robinson, Edge, Miami (OH)

Dominique Robinson is a wide receiver convert still learning the position, but he can give offensive tackles fits. Robinson is a long, lean edge-rusher who fits the physical profile head coach Matt Eberflus tends to like to plug into his defensive scheme.

Grade: B

      

175. Las Vegas Raiders

Matthew Butler, DL, Tennessee

Strengths: Very effective on the move as part of defensive games, hands pack a pop, some of his best play came against top competition

Weaknesses: Narrow base, lacks anchor strength, slow-developing counters

The 2022 defensive interior class has an eclectic mix of skill sets. Tennessee's Matthew Butler is rare in that he's a pure 3-technique. 

Butler can line up tighter to the ball or bump out to 5-technique, but his skill set fits well playing on the outside shoulder of guards. The 6'4", 297-pound defender is at his best when asked to be disruptive by shooting gaps and splitting double-teams. 

The numbers reflect Butler's improvement, particularly during his final season on campus. He posted a career-high 8.5 tackles for loss and five sacks in 13 games. 

Butler's straight-line explosiveness bears out in his athletic testing, too. A 1.69-second 10-yard split, 32-inch vertical and 9'4" broad jump are great numbers for a defensive tackle. 

The ability for a defensive tackle to reestablish the line of scrimmage is always in demand. Butler may not be consistent enough because he lacks the anchor to hold up when engaged, but he can clearly make plays in the backfield, collapse the pocket and create havoc when the scheme calls for movement up front.

Butler’s skill set as a 3-technique perfectly complements the Raiders' earlier selection of Neil Farrell Jr., who will play the shade over opposing centers.

Grade: B+

      

176. Dallas Cowboys

Damone Clark, LB, LSU

Strengths: Physical presence, powerful fills, effective blitzer, enough speed and athleticism to be effective in both phases

Weaknesses: Recent neck surgery, developing instincts, lacks feel in zone coverage

A new injury surfacing during the NFL combine's medical evaluations is among the worst possible outcomes for prospects who are only months away from realizing their football dreams. 

Unfortunately, LSU linebacker Damone Clark was one of those prospects this year. 

According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, Clark underwent spinal fusion surgery after an MRI at the combine revealed a herniated disk. As a result, he is unlikely to play in the 2022 season, although he's expected to make a full recovery.

Before the back injury, Clark was one of the best linebacker prospects in the class. His average of 11.4 tackles per game last season ranked second nationwide, and he was named to the All-SEC first team. He has the size (6'2½", 239 pounds) versatility to play all three linebacker spots and enough athleticism to be an every-down 'backer when he's healthy again.

The Dallas Cowboys are set at linebacker this year with Micah Parsons, Leighton Vander Esch and Jabril Cox. They can give Clark time to heal and possibly benefit greatly down the road.

Grade: B

       

177. Detroit Lions

James Mitchell, TE, Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech tight end James Mitchell will get after defenders. He may be only 249 pounds, but he’ll work anyone lined up across from him. Mitchell is also a reliable underneath target for his quarterback.

Grade: C+

      

178. Dallas Cowboys

John Ridgeway, DL, Arkansas

The Dallas Cowboys didn't have any tough, down-and-dirty defensive tackles. They do now. Ridgeway will come in and do the necessary work to help everyone around him succeed. As a result, the Cowboys should be better at the point of attack.

Grade: B+

      

179. Green Bay Packers

Kingsley Enagbare, Edge, South Carolina

Strengths: Long arms, heavy hands, good run defender

Weaknesses: Poor acceleration off the snap, lacks flexibility to bend edge, inconsistent pad level and punch

Production can be mistaken for the necessary traits to succeed in the NFL. 

Statistically, South Carolina's Kingsley Enagbare was one of the nation's most successful pass-rushers. According to Pro Football Focus' Austin Gayle, the 6'4", 258-pound edge defender was tied for the second-best pass-rush win rate with stunts and blitzes removed last season and was second on third-and-long situations across his career. 

Despite those numbers, the 2020 first-team All-SEC selection managed 15 career sacks. 

Enagare isn't an explosive athlete. His 4.87-second 40-yard dash and 1.72-second 10-yard split for a player of his size are poor. That lack of burst is coupled with a poor bend and overall flexibility. 

Enagbare isn't built to be a power player working off the edge. His athletic profile leaves an evaluator wanting more. However, he does make up for some of his physical shortcomings thanks to 34¾-inch arms and good hand usage.

The South Carolina product fits the physical profile the Green Bay Packers like among their edge players, but he would be better suited by adding weight and playing along the interior rather than working off the edge.

Grade: C

180. Buffalo Bills

Matt Araiza, P, San Diego State

Matt Araiza might be the most enjoyable punter to watch ever. The Ray Guy Award winner doubled as a kicker at San Diego State. He boots rocket shots when punting. Best of all, the specialist loves to run down the field at full tilt and make the tackle. The Buffalo Bills, meanwhile, finished second-to-last in punting average last season.

Grade: C+

       

181. Philadelphia Eagles

Kyron Johnson, LB, Kansas

The Philadelphia Eagles don’t place much emphasis on the linebacker position. Yet general manager Howie Roseman has drafted two with back-to-back picks. Granted, those selections occurred three rounds apart. But Kansas’ Kyron Johnson joins Nakobe Dean to reshape the Eagles’ second line of defense. 

Grade: C

        

182. New York Giants

Darrian Beavers, LB, Cincinnati

Strengths: Instant processor, big-bodied linebacker with long arms, short-area quickness, plays physical as a tackler and in coverage, can play off the edge

Weaknesses: Lacks top gear and range, potential liability working in space

Take one look at Cincinnati's Darrian Beavers, and an old-school linebacker likely comes to mind. After all, he's 6'4" and 237 pounds with an intimidating demeanor between the tackles.

However, Beavers didn't start his collegiate career as a linebacker. He played safety and wide receiver in high school and played defensive end upon arriving at UConn.

The first-team All-AAC performer is an impressive athlete at his current position. Beavers posted 4.17-second short shuttle and 6.93-second three-cone times during Cincinnati's pro day, per Senior Bowl executive Jim Nagy. The former would have led all linebackers at the NFL combine, while the latter would have ranked second, trailing only himself. (He had a 6.91-second three-cone time at the combine.)

The problem lies with the Beavers' overall speed. After not running the 40-yard dash at the combine, he topped out with a 4.67-second time at his pro day. 

When watching Beavers, it's clear he lacks the raw speed to be a true sideline-to-sideline defender. He does most of his damage between the tackles. Quick processing partially makes up for his lack of a top gear, though.

Two arguments can be made regarding Beavers’ sixth-round selection by the New York Giants. The linebacker does present fantastic value at this point. Yet his skill set is redundant with that of Micah McFadden, whom the Giants chose a round earlier.

Grade: D+

        

183. New England Patriots

Kevin Harris, RB, South Carolina

Hmm. The New England Patriots chose a second running back during the draft’s second day in South Carolina’s Kevin Harris. Two rounds earlier, the Patriots invested a pick in Pierre Strong Jr. Yes, Bill Belichick loves a fully stocked backfield, but Harris has dealt with significant injuries during his collegiate career and didn’t play particularly well last season.

Grade: D

     

184. Minnesota Vikings

Vederian Lowe, OT, Illinois

The Minnesota Vikings are set at offensive tackle with Brian O’Neill on the right side and Christian Darrisaw, last year's first-rounder, on the left. Minnesota lacks a true swing tackle for depth. Lowe has a nice pass set and is strong, though he’s a marginal athlete.

Grade: C

       

185. Buffalo Bills

Christian Benford, CB, Villanova

The Buffalo Bills have changed their approach to how they view the cornerback position. The selection of Villanova’s Christian Benford seals the transition. Kaiir Elam in the first round gave Buffalo a long, physical corner to play opposite Tre’Davious White after years of the slender Levi Wallace manning the position. Benford is another 6’1”, 205-pound defender.

Grade: C+

      

186. Chicago Bears

Zachary Thomas, IOL, San Diego State

To the Chicago Bears’ credit, though they may have waited a while before addressing the O-line, two Day 2 picks toward the front five is a better approach. Is it too late, though? While Braxton Jones can stick at tackle, San Diego State’s Zachary Thomas, a defensive line convert, likely moves inside to provide depth at guard.

Grade: B

       

187. San Francisco 49ers

Nick Zakelj, IOL, Fordham

The loss of Laken Tomlinson unsettled the San Francisco 49ers’ offensive interior. General manager John Lynch invested a fourth-round pick in Spencer Burford, and he could stay at left tackle. Fordham’s Nick Zakelj is earmarked for guard after being a small-school left tackle.

Grade: C

        

188. Detroit Lions

Malcolm Rodriguez, LB, Oklahoma State

Strengths: Sees field well and makes quick reads, plays with excellent leverage (former wrestler) and physicality, top-end speed to track down ball-carriers

Weaknesses: Sawed-off linebacker with short arms, can be engulfed at point of attack, too many broken tackles

Zach Thomas, Sam Mills and London Fletcher are the outliers used to project any undersized linebacker. Oklahoma State's Malcolm Rodriguez is the latest to warrant such consideration. 

Rodriguez is a standout 5'11" defender with an impressive nose for the football. The first-team All-Big 12 defender averaged 99 tackles over the last four years, including a career-high and conference-leading 129 takedowns last season. 

Take the size and lack of length (30⅛-inch arms) out of the equation, and Rodriguez is one of the class' most naturally instinctive defenders. Unfortunately, those physical limitations can't be completely overlooked. 

Some teams prefer linebackers with longer levers in order to affect the passing lanes more than Rodriguez possibly can. But he's a heady, physical linebacker who knows how to play the position. That should earn him a spot on the 53-man roster, along with the contributions he can make on special teams.

The Detroit Lions are developing a type. "Hard-nosed" and "instinctive" are certainly part of their preferences. Rodriguez may not look the part, but he certainly plays like it.

Grade: A

       

189. Carolina Panthers

Amare Barno, Edge, Virginia

Speed matters. It's relevant no matter the position an individual plays too. Virginia Tech's Amare Barno is a 246-pound defender with 4.36-second 40-yard-dash speed. Yes, you read the previous number correctly. Barno lacks the core strength to turn the corner if he doesn’t beat offensive tackles clean off the snap. Yet his speed alone will prove problematic in multiple phases for the Carolina Panthers' opponents. 

Grade: B+

        

190. Atlanta Falcons

Justin Shaffer, OG, Georgia

Chris Lindstrom is a keeper at right guard for the Atlanta Falcons. Left guard and Jalen Mayfield are significant question marks. Shaffer may be a sixth-round pick, but look for him to immediately push for playing time as a legitimate people-mover along the offensive interior.

Grade: A

        

191. Minnesota Vikings

Jalen Nailor, WR, Michigan State

Michigan State’s Jalen Nailor isn’t the most explosive wide receiver. The 5’11” target has 4.5 40 speed. But his quickness, ability to work in space and create after the catch make him an intriguing addition to the Minnesota Vikings. Nailor won't displace Justin Jefferson or Adam Thielen, of course. He brings a little more playmaking skill to the group though.

Grade: C+

       

192. Indianapolis Colts

Andrew Ogletree, TE, Youngstown State

The Indianapolis Colts went from having significant questions at tight end to a loaded position group with the additions of Jelani Woods and Youngstown State’s Andrew Ogletree. The sheer size of this group is impressive with the 6’5” Mo Alie-Cox, 6’7” Woods and 6’5” Ogletree.

Grade: C

        

193. Dallas Cowboys

Devin Harper, LB, Oklahoma State

With earlier draft pick Damone Clark recovering from spinal fusion surgery, the Dallas Cowboys continued to invest in their linebacker depth. Oklahoma State’s Devin Harper adds significant athletic upside thanks to his 4.49-second 40-yard dash and 40.5-inch vertical. Dallas is looking to add explosive athletes.

Grade: C+

         

194. New Orleans Saints

Jordan Jackson, DL, Air Force

The status of Jordan Jackson’s active military service makes this an interesting pick for the New Orleans Saints. As of the combine, Jackson hadn’t been told whether he’d be able to play in the NFL before completing his mandatory service requirement. When on the field, Jackson displays the ability to shoot gaps and disrupt opposing offenses.

Grades: C

         

195. Los Angeles Chargers

Jamaree Salyer, IOL, Georgia

Strengths: Squat, thick frame with power and leverage to drive defenders off the ball, uses long arms well to redirect, experience at all five offensive line spots

Weaknesses: Struggles to unlock his hip to get appropriate depth and width in pass set, plays forward-heavy at times, marginal lateral agility

Georgia's Jamaree Salyer has everything a team could want in an offensive line prospect, except possibly the ability to remain at left tackle. 

The 2018 5-star high school recruit is big (6'3", 321 lbs) and physical with long arms (33⅝ inches) and big mitts (10 inches). The second-team All-SEC performer is also one of the most versatile players in the draft class. Salyer played all five positions during his first three seasons on campus and didn't allow a single sack, per Pro Football Focus' Aaron Bloch. 

Salyer settled into left tackle during his final season on campus and excelled by allowing the lowest pressure rate by any SEC offensive tackle. Upon closer inspection, Georgia's run-first and heavy play-action scheme protected its tackles to a degree. 

Salyer's limited movement skills, at least regarding depth in his pass set, became exposed when the team trailed and was forced to throw against Alabama in the SEC Championship Game.

While the capability of playing across the front five is a feather in Salyer's cap, he's a readymade starter at guard.

The Los Angeles Chargers found two starting guards in this year’s class. Obviously, first-round pick Zion Johnson will start at one spot. Salyer can easily win the other one, thus allowing Matt Feiler to make a full-time move back to right tackle.

Grade: A

        

196. Baltimore Ravens

Tyler Badie, RB, Missouri

The Baltimore Ravens appear to feature a loaded backfield with J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards, Justice HIll and Ty’Son Williams. Last year’s rash of injuries likely changed the team’s view on having “too many good running backs.” Missouri’s Tyler Badie finished fourth in the country last season with 1,604 rushing yards.

Grade: C+

      

197. Jacksonville Jaguars

Gregory Junior, CB, Ouachita Baptist

The Jacksonville Jaguars didn’t need to invest an earlier draft pick in the cornerback position, with Shaquill Griffin, Darious Williams and Tyson Campbell already on the roster. A late-round swing on a talented small-school prospect is a good attempt at building better long-term depth. Gregory Junior is a fluid, explosive athlete who will need time to hone his craft.

Grade: C+

          

198. Philadelphia Eagles

Grant Calcaterra, TE, SMU

Strengths: Field-stretcher with enough speed to leave defenders in dust, efficient breaks out of his stem, battles as a blocker despite 241-pound frame

Weaknesses: Concussion history, body catcher, can be worked by more physical defensive backs

Grant Calcaterra looked like a future star during his time at Oklahoma. 

As a true freshman, he was an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention. He was named to the All-Big 12 first team as a sophomore after snagging 26 catches for 396 yards and six touchdowns. 

Calcaterra decided to step away from football during the 2019 campaign after suffering multiple concussions over the prior year. However, he resumed his football career this past season at SMU after originally announcing that he planned to transfer to Auburn.

With the Mustangs, Calcaterra recaptured some of the magic seen earlier in his career. During his final year on campus, he caught 38 passes for 465 yards and four touchdowns. 

Calcaterra's history of concussions is concerning. He acknowledged it prior to the start of the 2021 campaign. 

"It's just kind of like every other injury in football, there's always a risk," he told reporters.

The Philadelphia Eagles were willing to take a chance on Calcaterra. As a result, they just may get one of the biggest steals in the class.

Grade: B

        

199. Carolina Panthers

Cade Mays, IOL, Tennessee

The Carolina Panthers made the smart play by passing on a quarterback early and landing North Carolina State’s Ikem Ekwonu. With left tackle settled, left guard is still somewhat of a question mark. Brady Christensen could earn the spot. Or, rookie Cade Mays can give it a run and take the spot. 

Grade: B

        

200. New England Patriots

Sam Roberts, DL, Northwest Missouri State

The New England Patriots aren’t afraid of scouting the country and selecting small-school talent. Of the team’s eight picks so far, only three of them played at a Power Five school. Defensive tackle Sam Roberts played at Division II Northwest Missouri State. Roberts will experience a learning curve, but he can be a backup 3-technique in the meantime.

Grade: C

       

201. Arizona Cardinals

Keaontay Ingram, RB, USC

The Arizona Cardinals offense is built to throw the football. Yes, the NFL is a pass-first league. Yet the Cardinals are rooted in Kliff Kingsbury’s Air Raid mindset. James Conner adds physicality to the entire unit as a tough runner. USC’s Keaontay Ingram can be the squad’s third-down back.

Grade: B

       

202. Cleveland Browns

Michael Woods II, WR, Oklahoma

When the Cleveland Browns opened the NFL draft, they didn’t have much at wide receiver beyond Amari Cooper. Since then, general manager Andrew Berry added Purdue’s David Bell and Oklahoma’s Michael Woods II. The duo helps, though they carry opposite traits. Bell is a productive, marginal athlete. Woods provided marginal production, yet he’s an intriguing athlete.

Grade: C+

       

203. Chicago Bears

Trestan Ebner, RB, Baylor

The Chicago Bears are set at running back with David Montgomery and Khalil Herbert. Ebnar’s selection in the sixth round is all about special teams. He is a punt and kick returner who can provide a little in the passing game as well.

Grade: C

       

204. Tennessee Titans

Theo Jackson, S, Tennessee

The Tennessee Titans already added to their secondary with Roger McCreary in the second round. The University of Tennessee’s Theo Jackson is different as a safety/corner who plays with good straight-line speed and flies downhill. As a fifth-year senior, the 6’1" defender racked up 78 total tackles, nine tackles for loss and 12 passes defended.

Grade: C+

       

205. Houston Texans

Austin Deculus, OT, LSU

Apparently, offensive tackle was next on the Houston Texans’ list. LSU’s Austin Deculus played in more games (61) than any other player in the program’s history. He was a four-year starter at right tackle. The Texans certainly aren’t settled on the right side.

Grade: B

       

206. Denver Broncos

Matt Henningsen, DT, Wisconsin

The Denver Broncos clearly wanted to get bigger and more physical along their defensive front. They started with Eyioma Uwazurike’s selection in the fourth round. Wisconsin’s Matt Henningsen followed in the sixth round. The 6'3", 289-pound Henningsen is a fantastic athlete as a nose tackle who has excellent lateral quickness.

Grade: B

       

207. Chicago Bears

Doug Kramer, C, Illinois

With each subsequent offensive line selection, the Chicago Bears are earning more and more respect. Illinois’ Doug Kramer is the Bears’ third Day 3 blocker, and the team simply worked its way down the line. Braxton Jones should stay at tackle. Zach Thomas will likely move inside to guard. Kramer is a center. If a position group is a major problem, throw bodies at it. 

Grade: C+

       

208. Pittsburgh Steelers

Connor Heyward, FB, Michigan State

It’s easy to see the influence of Craig “Ironhead” Heyward in his youngest son. The 5'11", 233-pound Connor Heyward is built like a bowling ball and willing to run over anyone in his way. The Pittsburgh Steelers get a fullback/tight end who can lead the way as a blocker, catch out of the backfield and maybe even run the ball from time to time.

Grade: C

       

209. Buffalo Bills

Luke Tenuta, OT, Virginia Tech

The Buffalo Bills drafted another offensive tackle in the vein of Spencer Brown. Brown is an imposing 6’8”, 311-pound blocker. Tenuta is slightly bigger at 6’8” and 319 pounds. The underclassman showed he can play both tackle spots at the Shrine Bowl and should become an ideal swing tackle.

Grade: B

        

210. New England Patriots

Chasen Hines, OG, LSU

The New England Patriots traded Shaq Mason to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this offseason. They may have drafted the same player in LSU’s Chasen Hines. To be clear, Hines won’t enter the league as a Pro Bowl-caliber performer. But Mason came into the league as a dominant run defender who had no inkling of proper pass protection. Hines is another bulldozer in the run game with significant concerns in protection.

Grade: C

       

211. Los Angeles Rams

Quentin Lake, S, UCLA

UCLA’s Quentin Lake is a pure free safety with a good understanding of everything going on around him. In that regard, he can be a future green-dot defender. However, he lacks the physicality and downhill trigger to provide the necessary flexibility most modern safeties present. As long as the Rams keep Lake along the back line, he should be a fine contributor.

Grade: C

        

212. Los Angeles Rams

Derion Kendrick, CB, Georgia

Strengths: Fluid through and out of his backpedal, excelled in man and zone coverage, constantly looks to play the ball and through the catch-point

Weaknesses: Nonexistent top gear, not an overly physical tackler, dismissed from Clemson

Sometimes a flaw helps a player turn other areas into a strength. 

Georgia cornerback Derion Kendick isn't fast. He ran a pedestrian 4.75-second 40-yard dash at the Bulldogs' pro day. But he's learned how to play the position despite that lack of speed. 

Kendrick anticipates better than most. He's patient and has an understanding of route combinations and angles. That helped him get selected to the All-SEC first team in 2020 and All-SEC second team last season.

Kendrick played the most snaps among Power Five cornerbacks last season without allowing a touchdown, according to PFF. He allowed a miniscule 38.6 passer rating into his coverage, which is lower than if the quarterback intentionally threw the ball into the ground, per PFF. 

Kendrick's lack of a top gear will always be an issue, but it can be hidden to some degree based on how he's used and the ways he compensates.

That lack of top-end speed sent him spiraling to the sixth round. Even so, he landed in a wonderful situation with the Los Angeles Rams, where his understanding of route combinations and ball skills are perfect fits.

Grade: B

       

213. Atlanta Falcons

John FitzPatrick, TE, Georgia

Tight end John FitzPatrick isn’t going to provide much in the passing game. After all, he caught 17 passes during his Georgia career. He is a massive (6'7", 249 lbs) edge-of-the line blocker. The Atlanta Falcons already have Kyle Pitts. FitzPatrick is his antithesis.

Grade: C 

        

214. Los Angeles Chargers

Ja’Sir Taylor, CB, Wake Forest

Wake Forest’s Ja’Sir Taylor helped himself during the predraft process when he ran a 4.4-second 40-yard dash. As a 5’10”, 188-pound corner, it’s fast enough to show he’s not a complete liability in certain coverages. The Los Angeles Chargers already have J.C. Jackson, Asante Samuel Jr. and Michael Davis at corner. Taylor adds depth, while he’ll be looked at as a core-four special teamer and possible contributor at nickel.

Grade: C

      

215. Arizona Cardinals

Lecitus Smith, OG, Virginia Tech

The Arizona Cardinals landed a top-10 interior blocker on Bleacher Report’s big board with the 215th overall pick. More importantly, Smith’s selection injects much-needed youth into an aging Cardinals offensive line.

Grade: A

       

216. Indianapolis Colts

Curtis Brooks, DL, Cincinnati

The Indianapolis Colts doubled down on their defensive interior after selecting Eric Johnson a round earlier. Cincinnati’s Curtis Brooks brings a unique skill set in that he often lined up at 1-technique yet isn’t a true space-eater. He’s the exact opposite. Brooks is a 6’2”, 287-pound fireplug who ranked first in pass-rush win rate between the tackles on true pass sets, per Pro Football Focus’ Austin Gayle.

Grade: B

       

217. Detroit Lions

James Houston IV, LB, Jackson State

James Houston IV is one of the most impressive prospects in the entire class based on how his collegiate career developed. He started at Florida before he transferred to Jackson State. At the FCS program, Houston proved to be a terror off the edge. Upon his overnight arrival at the Shrine Bowl, the coaches asked the edge-defender to convert to off-ball linebacker, where he didn’t miss a beat. Another example of a guy who fits the right mentality for the Detroit Lions.

Grade: B

      

218. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Ko Kieft, TE, Minnesota

At his best, Rob Gronkowski was simultaneously the league’s best blocking and receiving tight end. He’s not too shabby at this point in his career, but he’s taken a step back. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers went out and got a new rough-and-tumble blocking tight end in the 6’5”, 265-pound Ko Kieft.

Grade: C

         

219. Tennessee Titans

Chance Campbell, LB, Ole Miss

The Tennessee Titans drafted a heady, productive and athletic linebacker in Ole Miss’ Chance Campbell. The investment is necessary since David Long Jr. will be a free agent after the upcoming season and Zach Cunningham could be a salary-cap casualty.

Grade: C+

         

220. San Francisco 49ers

Kalia Davis, DL, UCF

Basically, the San Francisco 49ers replace D.J. Jones, who signed a free-agent deal to become a member of the Denver Broncos, with UCF’s Kalia Davis. Both are sawed-off defensive tackles at their best, when they can just get under pads and up the field.

Grade: C

       

221. San Francisco 49ers

Tariq Castro-Fields, CB, Penn State

The San Francisco 49ers already chose a cornerback in the fifth round before ending the sixth with the selection of Penn State’s Tariq Castro-Fields. He is a good athlete with swivel hips and plays with an edge. The problem is he doesn’t have good eyes and lacks trust in his technique. The ability is there. The refinement to see it fully realized has yet to come.

Grade: C+

222. Jacksonville Jaguars

Montaric Brown, CB, Arkansas

The Jacksonville Jaguars weren’t happy with just one late-round cornerback. They decided to go with two. Arkansas’ Montaric Brown joined Gregory Junior. Brown lacks a top gear and can easily be beaten off the release, but he does play good angles in zone coverage.

Grade: D

       

223. Cleveland Browns

Isaiah Thomas, Edge, Oklahoma

The Cleveland Browns sure are preparing for life without Jadeveon Clowney without outright stating it. The team already traded for Chase Winovich, signed Stephen Weatherly and Isaac Rochell and drafted Alex Wright and Isaiah Thomas. Thomas is smaller but twitchier than Wright when comparing the two prospects.

Grade: B

     

224. Miami Dolphins

Cameron Goode, Edge, California

Amazingly, the Miami Dolphins made it to the seventh round and didn’t address their offensive line, particularly center. They did add a bit of a boost off the edge with Cameron Goode. He posted a career-high 38 pressures last season, per Pro Football Focus.

Grade: D

      

225. Pittsburgh Steelers

Mark Robinson, LB, Ole Miss

Ole Miss’ Mark Robinson is a fun project to take on at this point in the draft process. He began his career at running back before converting to linebacker during his final season on campus. The 5'11", 235-pound defender finished second on the Rebels with 92 total tackles. The Pittsburgh Steelers can get him in the building and really teach him how to play the position.

Grade: C+

       

226. Chicago Bears

Ja’Tyre Carter, OT, Southern

OK. At this point, it’s time to applaud the Chicago Bears. Yes, the team still lacks weapons. Yes, it passed on offensive linemen early in the process. But four O-line selections during the draft’s third day deserves some kind of award. In this instance, Southern’s Ja’Tyre Carter proved himself as one of the nation’s best small-school blockers and didn’t look out of place at the Senior Bowl.

Grade: B

       

227. Minnesota Vikings

Nick Muse, TE, South Carolina

South Carolina’s Nick Muse is a nice target in the passing game with 50 receptions over the last two seasons. Hopefully, the Minnesota Vikings never ask him to block. Like ever.

Grade: C

       

228. Green Bay Packers

Tariq Carpenter, LB, Georgia Tech

Technically, Tariq Carpenter is a safety. The 6'2", 230-pound defender will probably make the transition to linebacker. As a seventh-round pick, his main role will be to become a major contributor on the Green Bay Packers’ special teams.

Grade: C

       

229. Seattle Seahawks

Bo Melton, WR, Rutgers

A fully realized Bo Melton never materialized at the collegiate level. He flashed an offensive weapon capable of creating plays in space. He contributed a little as a returner as well. He’ll need to do both with the Seattle Seahawks and take advantage of his 4.34-second 40-yard-dash speed and quickness.

Grade: B+

      

230. Washington Commanders

Chris Paul, IOL, Tulsa

Tulsa’s Chris Paul can play all over the line of scrimmage. He started at guard and right tackle. He played some center during all-star festivities. He’s the perfect utility lineman to nab in the seventh round, which the Washington Commanders did. 

Grade: B

      

231. Buffalo Bills

Baylon Spector, LB, Clemson

The Buffalo Bills spent third- and seventh-round picks on linebackers despite Tremaine Edmunds and Matt Milano’s presence—though Emunds enters the final year of his rookie deal. Terrel Bernard will get first crack at whatever opportunities come the rookies’ way. Baylon Spector needs to contribute on special teams and take advantage where he can.

Grade: C

        

232. Denver Broncos

Faion Hicks, CB, Wisconsin

The seventh round often serves as a last chance for teams to nab one final player they really like but who might not sign with them if he goes undrafted. In the Denver Broncos’ case, they chose Wisconsin’s Faion Hicks with their last pick. Hicks is a speedy, sticky cornerback who doesn’t have the size (5’10”, 189 lbs) to really compete at the jam or against bigger receivers.

Grade: C

       

233. Seattle Seahawks

Dareke Young, WR, Lenoir-Rhyne

Lenoir-Rhyne makes another appearance after Kyle Dugger came out of the program two years ago. The Seattle Seahawks are banking on the upside of a big-bodied wide receiver in the 6’2”, 220-pound Dareke Young, who also runs a 4.47-second 40-yard dash. 

Grade: C

         

234. Green Bay Packers

Jonathan Ford, DL, Miami

The Green Bay Packers acquired a widebody in Miami’s Jonathan Ford to place behind nose tackle Kenny Clark on the depth chart. The 6’5”, 333-pound Ford must compete with last year’s fifth-round pick, T.J. Slaton, to earn the designation.

Grade: C

       

235. Los Angeles Rams

Daniel Hardy, Edge, Montana State

Troy Andersen overshadowed Daniel Hardy as part of the Montana State defense. As Andersen made plays all over the field, Hardy created havoc in the backfield. Last season, the 6’2”, 239-pound Hardy registered 24 tackles for loss and 16 sacks. He gives the Los Angeles Rams yet another pass-rushing option.

Grade: C+

      

236. Los Angeles Chargers

Deane Leonard, CB, Ole Miss

Cornerback Deane Leonard is a product of the Canadian football system. In fact, the CFL drafted him last year. He originally played in Calgary before transferring to Ole Miss. The Los Angeles Chargers hope his natural upside as a 6’1”, 194-pound corner with 4.39-speed translates to their secondary or special teams.

Grade: C

         

237. Detroit Lions

Chase Lucas, CB, Arizona State

The Detroit Lions waited until the seventh round to add a cornerback. Arizona State’s Chase Lucas is fluid in his backpedal and has enough speed to turn and run with receivers. The Lions aren’t hurting for depth along their back line. However, Jeff Okudah's development will determine how much the team actually needed to address the position. 

Grade: C

      

238. Las Vegas Raiders

Thayer Munford, OG, Ohio State

The Las Vegas Raiders made sure to fortify their offensive interior during this year’s draft. Ohio State’s Thayer Munford joins fellow rookie Dylan Parham as options at guard or even center in the latter’s case. Alex Leatherwood is earmarked for one guard spot. The other two aren’t guaranteed. Munford certainly helped himself by converting from left tackle to guard this past season. 

Grade: B

       

239. Indianapolis Colts

Rodney Thomas II, S, Yale

The Indianapolis Colts went from being extremely thin at safety to fully stocked in a relatively short period. Khari Willis and Julian Blackmon are the projected starters. General manager Chris Ballard signed veterans Rodney McLeod and Armani Watts. Nick Cross joined the team in the third round. Yale’s Rodney Thomas II, who's a good tackler, is yet another high-end athlete to finish the Colts' draft.

Grade: C

          

240. Washington Commanders

Christian Holmes, CB, Oklahoma State

One thing is certain: Oklahoma State cornerback Christian Holmes will hit anyone who has the ball. He’s also a very good athlete as a bigger defensive back (6'0", 201 lbs). Yet he displays marginal lateral quickness. That describes a perfect special teams player for the Washington Commanders. See ball, get ball.

Grades: C

        

241. Pittsburgh Steelers

Chris Oladokun, QB, South Dakota State

The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted a second quarterback? What? OK, the setup isn’t exactly like the Washington franchise choosing Robert Griffin III and then Kirk Cousins. Olakudon is a very good athlete behind center. He can provide an extra camp arm at first and then possibly make a position switch—though head coach Mike Tomlin loves his mobile quarterbacks. Maybe the Steelers drafted a long-term backup to Kenny Pickett.

Grade: C+

      

242. Carolina Panthers

Kalon Barnes, CB, Baylor

Strengths: Genuine track speed, closing burst, long arms to play through catch point

Weaknesses: Poor technique, panics with ball in the air, lacks physicality

Elite speed will always make heads turn. Being the fastest ever among a position group adds another level of intrigue. 

Deion Sanders' mythical 40-yard dash aside, Kalon Barnes' 4.23-second 40-yard dash at this year's NFL combine is the fastest ever recorded by a cornerback. It's the second-fastest ever and only a hundredth of a second behind John Ross' record-setting run. 

Barnes has a strong track pedigree as a two-time Texas state high school champion in the 100-meter and 200-meter events.

"Most people say I'm a track guy that plays football," he told reporters. "I'm trying to show everyone I'm a football guy that's fast and ran track. I'm trying to flip that. But I want to prove to people I can play football and show people I can do more than just rely on my speed."

NFL teams don’t see a football player just yet, hence his slide into the seventh round. The Carolina Panthers will continue to develop the defensive back and find ways to harness Barnes’ speed.

Grade: B

          

243. Kansas City Chiefs

Jaylen Watson, CB, Washington State

The Kansas City Chiefs decided to go three-deep at cornerback and landed quality options each time. Trent McDuffie might be one of the safest picks in the entire draft. Joshua Williams presents humongous growth potential. Washington State’s Jaylen Watson provides a physical corner with length and the ability to stymie and reroute receivers off the line of scrimmage.

Grade: B

        

244. Arizona Cardinals

Christian Matthew, CB, Valdosta State

Amazingly, the Arizona Cardinals almost completely ignored cornerback despite featuring the likes of Marco Wilson, Byron Murphy Jr. and…Jeff Gladney, who’s just now returning to the league. This grade in no way reflects on Christian Matthew, who is a big, athletic corner with a lot of potential. It’s just a shame the team waited so long to address a major need.

Grade: D

       

245. New England Patriots

Andrew Stueber, OG, Michigan

Michigan’s Andrew Stueber is the type of player often seen coming out of the late rounds. He put together a solid collegiate career and went about his business but never received the spotlight. Yet he could easily be a 10-year player in the league because he presents tackle-guard versatility as a long-term utility lineman. The New England Patriots knew they had to address their offensive interior and did.

Grade: B

       

246. Cleveland Browns

Dawson Deaton, C, Texas Tech

The Cleveland Browns parted ways with long-time starting center JC Tretter this offseason. Nick Harris had been drafted in 2020 to eventually replace Tretter. The team also signed Ethan Pocic in April. But a third body to create competition and depth when there’s a certain level of uncertainty at a position is a good thing. Texas Tech’s Dawson Deaton will get that chance while learning under O-line coach Bill Callahan.

Grade: C+

      

247. Miami Dolphins

Skylar Thompson, QB, Kansas State

The Miami Dolphins already have quarterbacks Tua Tagovailoa and Teddy Bridgewater under contract. Unless the Dolphins plan to move one of them or Skylar Thompson makes a position switch, this could become a wasted selection.

Grade: D

       

248. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Andre Anthony, Edge, LSU

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense features a strong edge presence in Shaquil Barrett and last year’s first-round pick, Joe Tryon-Shoyinka. Very little depth exists behind those two. At 25, LSU’s Andre Anthony is an older prospect coming off a knee injury, but his pass-rush traits are worth the risk in the draft’s final round.

Grade: C

       

249. Green Bay Packers

Rasheed Walker, OT, Penn State

The Green Bay Packers did it again. They selected yet another collegiate left tackle. They chose three in this year’s draft class. Of the three, Penn State’s Rasheed Walker has the best chance of sticking on the blind side. Yes, some of his tape is rough. Yet there are long stretches where he certainly looks the part.

Grade: B+

       

250. Las Vegas Raiders

Brittain Brown, RB, UCLA

Running backs matter again for the Raiders franchise. The way head coach Josh McDaniels is shaping his roster, it isn’t just about one featured back in Josh Jacobs. He’s building a position group with varied skill sets. Earlier, the Raiders chose Zamir White. UCLA’s Brittain Brown is a patient, decisive runner who averaged 6.3 yards per carry during his two seasons playing against Pac-12 competition.

Grade: C

        

251. Kansas City Chiefs

Isiah Pacheco, RB, Rutgers

The Kansas City Chiefs love speed at the skill positions. Why not add more at running back? Rutgers’ Isiah Pacheco brings 4.37-second 40-yard-dash speed to the backfield. The Scarlet Knights never fully featured him in the offense. He also spent time as the program’s kick returner.

Grade: C

       

252. Cincinnati Bengals

Jeffrey Gunter, Edge, Coastal Carolina

A little extra pass-rush juice this late in the process is a smart play. Coastal Carolina’s Jeffrey Gunter managed 22.5 tackles for loss and 13 sacks over the last two seasons. The Cincinnati Bengals have Joseph Ossai and Cam Sample to back up their starting ends. If either disappoint, Gunter can move into the rotation.

Grade: B

       

253. Los Angeles Rams

Russ Yeast, S, Kansas State

Kansas State’s Russ Yeast is the exact opposite of the Los Angeles Rams’ earlier safety pick, Quentin Lake. Lake is a pure free safety who’s better when he’s not asked to stick his nose into the action. Yeast is an undersized safety (5’10”, 192 lbs) who packs a punch. They’re a good complementary duo as backup options.

Grade: C

        

254. Chicago Bears

Elijah Hicks, S, California

In California’s Elijah Hicks, the Chicago Bears are getting a true single-high safety who roams from sideline to sideline. He’s not a big defensive back by any means. But the 5’11”, 198-pound defender can play off Jaquan Brisker’s skill set and provide depth behind Eddie Jackson.

Grade: C

        

255. Chicago Bears

Trenton Gill, P, North Carolina State

The fact that the Chicago Bears drafted as many punters as they did wide receivers despite owning 11 picks says everything we need to know about how this team will operate. The Bears will take a defense-centric approach and put a strong emphasis on special teams. The offense, meanwhile, will be asked not to make mistakes and do just enough to keep them in games and possibly pull off a few victories. 

Grade: C-

       

256. Arizona Cardinals

Jesse Luketa, Edge, Penn State

Whereas Myjai Sanders is a speed demon off the edge, Penn State’s Jesse Luketa will barrel right through blockers. The Arizona Cardinals landed two very different edge defenders, but both are extremely effective in what they do.

Grade: B+

       

257. Arizona Cardinals

Marquis Hayes, IOL, Oklahoma

Strengths: Nasty attitude, vice-like grip, smart player who regularly picks up a defense's blitzes and games, rugged at the point of attack

Weaknesses: Consistently high pad level, marginal movement skills, off-balance too often

A certain old-school mentality flows through Oklahoma's Marquis Hayes. The three-year starter at left guard is a barroom brawler ready to beat up any defender in front of him. 

His tenacity and attitude will endear him to this coaching staff, and he could become a tone-setter along the front five. Even so, his limitations can't be overlooked.

Hayes stands 6'5" and plays tall for an interior blocker. He's likely never going to be viewed as a technician with stellar, repeatable hand usage or footwork. To make up for these shortcomings, the Oklahoma product does have long arms (34⅞ inches) and a massive wingspan (83½ inches).

The two-time first-team Academic All-Big 12 honoree takes his frustrations out on the field, and it shows. Hayes is a power player with the upper-body torque and grip strength to manhandle assignments and set a firm interior to the pocket.

The Arizona Cardinals did a wonderful job of getting fantastic value late in the draft with two standout guard prospects. They landed Lecitus Smith earlier. Hayes is an even better investment as Bleacher Report’s third-ranked guard prospect.

Grade: A

        

258. Green Bay Packers

Samori Toure, WR, Nebraska

Just for good measure, the Green Bay Packers added a third wide receiver before they called it a day. Nebraska’s Samori Toure showed what he could do at the Shrine Bowl when he scored a pair of touchdowns by creating after the catch and making defenders miss in space.

Grade: B

         

259. Kansas City Chiefs

Nazeeh Johnson, S, Marshall

The Kansas City Chiefs drafted two safeties. Bryan Cook is a tone-setting thumper. At 5''10", 199 pounds, Marshall’s Nazeeh Johnson is an undersized defender with speed to burn. He ran a 4.38-second 40-yard-dash during the predraft process.

Grade: C

       

260. Los Angeles Chargers

Zander Horvath, FB, Purdue

Not all fullbacks are made the same. Sure, Purdue’s Zander Horvath is a little stiff. Yet he still carried the ball 259 times and caught 64 passes over the last three seasons. A versatile fullback gives Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Joe Lombardi a new piece to the puzzle.

Grade: C

      

261. Los Angeles Rams

A.J. Arcuri, OT, Michigan State

Michigan State’s A.J. Arcuri is the Los Angeles Rams' new developmental project among their offensive tackles. With Joseph Noteboom finally expected to take over at left tackle following Andrew Whitworth’s retirement, Arcuri can be brought along over time and serve as the seventh or eighth lineman on the roster.

Grade: C

        

262. San Francisco 49ers

Brock Purdy, QB, Iowa State

Brock Purdy looked like the next star quarterback to come out of the Big 12, but he never elevated his game to the point where he could be considered a top-tier prospect. Instead, physical limitations held him back. He certainly doesn’t have the type of arm to consistently threaten defenses. But he has a chance to stick with the San Francisco 49ers as Trey Lance’s eventual backup, because he’s smart and mobile.

Grade: C