Positives: The draft class addresses key areas, particularly the offensive line, which is crucial for the team’s success. Cooper Beebe, selected in the 3rd round, stands out as a valuable addition. Overall, the draft provides a solid foundation for the team.
Negatives: While the draft is strategically sound, there are notable absences, particularly in the wide receiver and running back positions. Securing top-tier pass catchers was a missed opportunity, and waiting until the 6th round to address the receiver position leaves a gap in the team’s offensive arsenal.
Best Value Pick: Caelen Carson, cornerback from Wake Forest, selected in the 5th round.
Biggest Reach: Ryan Flournoy, wide receiver from Missouri State, chosen in the 6th round.
Draft Grade: B
Carolina Panthers:
Positives: Despite limitations, the Panthers maximized their draft opportunities, notably by trading up to acquire receiver support for Bryce Young in the 1st round. Securing Jonathon Brooks, regarded as the top running back in the draft, and landing TE Ja’Tavion Sanders in the 4th round are significant achievements.
Negatives: The draft lacked support for both offensive and defensive lines, with only a late-round pick for the defensive front. Strengthening the offensive line and adding another wide receiver could have further fortified the team.
Best Value Pick: Ja’Tavion Sanders, tight end from Texas, selected in the 4th round.
Biggest Reach: Chau Smith-Wade, cornerback from Washington State, picked in the 5th round.
Draft Grade: B
Cincinnati Bengals:
Positives: The Bengals prioritized bolstering their defensive front, successfully acquiring talent like Kris Jenkins and McKinnley Jackson at defensive tackle. Additionally, adding protection for Joe Burrow with Amarius Mims demonstrates a commitment to fortifying the team’s foundations.
Negatives: While the draft addressed key areas, there’s a lack of standout picks. Mims, though promising, isn’t a guaranteed success as a 1st round tackle. Similarly, Jermaine Burton, while solid, doesn’t stand out in a highly competitive receiver class.
Best Value Pick: Tanner McLachlan, tight end from Arizona, selected in the 6th round.
Biggest Reach: Jermaine Burton, wide receiver from Alabama, chosen in the 3rd round.
Draft Grade: B
Tennessee Titans:
Positives: The Titans focused on strengthening the interior, notably with their first two picks, which collectively add over 700 pounds of talent. Late-round selections also provided value, securing talented college players who slipped in the draft.
Negatives: The success of the draft largely hinges on the performance of the first two picks, as there weren’t significant additions beyond them. This places considerable pressure on these selections to deliver results.
Best Value Pick: James Williams, safety from Miami, selected in the 7th round.
Biggest Reach: Jha’Quan Jackson, wide receiver from Tulane, picked in the 6th round.
Draft Grade: B
