The 2017 NFL Draft class was a pivotal moment for many NFL teams, as it brought in a fresh wave of talent that would go on to shape the league for years to come. Held on April 27-29, 2017, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this draft was notable for its deep pool of defensive talent, particularly in the first round, where 19 of the 32 picks were used on defensive players.
First Round Picks and Notable Players
At the top of the draft, the Cleveland Browns, who had been struggling to find a franchise quarterback for years, selected Myles Garrett, a defensive end from Texas A&M, with the first overall pick. Garrett’s selection marked the beginning of a defensive-heavy first round, which included other notable picks like Jonathan Allen (defensive tackle, Alabama) to the Washington Redskins with the 17th pick, and Marlon Humphrey (cornerback, Alabama) to the Baltimore Ravens with the 16th pick.
One of the most intriguing stories of the first round was the draft slide of quarterback Mitch Trubisky. Initially thought to be a potential top-5 pick, Trubisky fell to the Chicago Bears, who traded up to the second overall spot to secure him. This move was seen as a gamble by many, given the investment of draft capital and the mixed reviews on Trubisky’s readiness for the NFL level.
Other first-round picks who would go on to make significant impacts in their rookie seasons included Leonard Fournette (running back, LSU), picked 4th by the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Christian McCaffrey (running back, Stanford), picked 8th by the Carolina Panthers. Both players brought a level of excitement and talent to their respective teams, although their careers would be marked by both highlight-reel performances and challenges, including injuries.
Later Rounds and Hidden Gems
While the first round of the draft is often the most scrutinized, it’s the later rounds where teams can find hidden gems and role players who can contribute significantly to their team’s success. The 2017 draft was no exception, with players like Alvin Kamara (running back, Tennessee), drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the third round, becoming one of the most dynamic and versatile players in the league. Kamara’s ability to both run and catch out of the backfield, combined with his explosive athleticism, made him an instant contributor and a key part of the Saints’ offense.
Another notable pick from the later rounds was Cooper Kupp (wide receiver, Eastern Washington), selected by the Los Angeles Rams in the third round. Despite coming from a smaller school, Kupp quickly established himself as a reliable and productive receiver, known for his route-running precision and sure hands.
Impact and Legacy
The 2017 NFL Draft class has had a lasting impact on the league. Players like Myles Garrett, Jonathan Allen, and Marlon Humphrey have become staples of their teams’ defenses, while offensive players like Alvin Kamara, Christian McCaffrey, and Cooper Kupp have redefined their positions with their unique skill sets.
However, like any draft class, the 2017 group has not been without its challenges and disappointments. Injuries have plagued some of the top picks, and others have not lived up to their initial expectations. Mitch Trubisky, for example, had a promising start to his career but eventually lost his starting job in Chicago, raising questions about the Bears’ decision to trade up for him.
Despite these mixed outcomes, the 2017 draft will be remembered for its depth of talent, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. It marked a turning point for several franchises, providing them with cornerstone players who would help shape their teams’ identities and contribute to future successes.
Evaluation and Retrospective
In retrospect, the 2017 NFL Draft was a complex and multifaceted event, with a wide range of outcomes for the players selected. While some picks have clearly paid off, others remain more questionable. The draft’s emphasis on defense reflects the ongoing evolution of the NFL, where teams are constantly seeking to improve their defensive units to counter the increasingly sophisticated offenses.
For teams and fans alike, the 2017 draft serves as a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement of the NFL draft process. It highlights the challenges of evaluating college talent and projecting how players will adapt to the professional level. As the league continues to evolve, the lessons from the 2017 draft will be invaluable, offering insights into what makes a successful draft pick and how teams can best identify and develop talent.
FAQ Section
Who was the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft?
+Myles Garrett, a defensive end from Texas A&M, was selected by the Cleveland Browns as the first overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.
What was notable about the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft?
+The first round of the 2017 NFL Draft was notable for its defensive-heavy selections, with 19 of the 32 picks being used on defensive players.
Who were some of the top offensive players drafted in 2017?
+Some of the top offensive players drafted in 2017 included Leonard Fournette (running back, LSU), Christian McCaffrey (running back, Stanford), and Alvin Kamara (running back, Tennessee), among others.
How has the 2017 NFL Draft class impacted the league?
+The 2017 NFL Draft class has had a significant impact on the league, with many players becoming key contributors to their teams. The class is notable for its depth of defensive talent and the emergence of versatile offensive players who have helped redefine their positions.
In conclusion, the 2017 NFL Draft was a pivotal event that brought a wave of new talent into the league, with a focus on defensive players that would go on to shape the NFL landscape. The draft’s outcomes, both immediate and long-term, serve as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities inherent in the draft process, and the enduring legacy of this class continues to influence the league to this day.
