Two NFC Teams with Potential All-Time Draft Hauls Revealed
ICARO Media Group
In the realm of the NFL, the draft is a crucial event that can shape the fate of a franchise for years to come. Over the past decade, there have been several standout draft classes that have had a significant impact on their respective teams. Today, we take a closer look at two NFC teams that could potentially join the ranks of the all-time best draft classes.
The New Orleans Saints' 2017 draft class has been nothing short of remarkable. Led by standout cornerback Marshon Lattimore, offensive tackle Ryan Ramczyk, and running back Alvin Kamara, this group has showcased their elite skills and become some of the league's top players in their positions. Safety Marcus Williams and edge rusher Trey Hendrickson have also made a name for themselves and earned lucrative contracts elsewhere. Linebacker Alex Anzalone and defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad have also found success and been a valuable part of the team. With a 100% hit rate, this class has undoubtedly made a lasting impact.
Similarly, the Baltimore Ravens identified three foundational pieces to their offense in their 2018 draft class. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, tight end Mark Andrews, and offensive tackle Orlando Brown Jr. have all proven their worth and established themselves as key contributors to the team. Although Brown has since moved on, he has solidified his position as one of the league's top players in his position. Safety DeShon Elliott and center Bradley Bozeman have also become longtime starters, while linebacker Kenny Young, defensive back Anthony Averett, and defensive end Zach Sieler have made their marks as role players.
Looking back to 2010, the Seattle Seahawks laid the foundation for their formidable defense, famously known as the Legion of Boom. Head coach Pete Carroll's hire and the selections of safeties Earl Thomas and Kam Chancellor were key factors in the team's success. Offensive tackle Russell Okung and wide receiver Golden Tate enjoyed decade-long careers before retiring, while cornerback Walter Thurmond played an important role in the team's Super Bowl championship in 2014. This draft class set the stage for Seattle's defensive dominance.
The Buffalo Bills had a franchise-altering draft in 2018, selecting Wyoming quarterback Josh Allen with the seventh overall pick. Allen has since developed into one of the league's top quarterbacks, leading the team to success. Linebacker Tremaine Edmunds and offensive guard Wyatt Teller have also impressed and earned top-tier contracts. Defensive backs Siran Neal and Taron Johnson have showcased consistent performances in the secondary, while defensive tackle Jordan Phillips and wide receiver Ray-Ray McCloud have continued to contribute despite moving on to other teams.
Other notable teams with potential all-time draft hauls include the Cincinnati Bengals, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Green Bay Packers, Oakland Raiders (now Las Vegas), and Tennessee Titans, as they managed to snatch up talents who have flourished in the NFL.
In this year's draft, the Seattle Seahawks' 2022 class could become one of the best since 2010 with the inclusion of promising players such as offensive tackles Abe Lucas and Charles Cross, cornerback Riq Woolen, edge rusher Boye Mafe, and running back Kenneth Walker III. These individuals have the potential to make a significant impact and contribute to the team's success.
The New York Giants also made waves with their recent draft, impressing fans and analysts. LSU wide receiver Malib Nabers shows tremendous athleticism and the potential to become one of the league's top wide receivers. The Giants also focused on rebuilding their secondary, selecting Minnesota safety Tyler Nubin and Kentucky nickelback Andru Phillips, who are expected to bolster the defensive unit. Penn State tight end Theo Johnson and Purdue running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. bring versatility and playmaking ability to the offense, while UCLA linebacker Darius Muasau rounds out this promising draft class.
Lastly, the Chicago Bears had a transformative opportunity with two early picks in this year's draft. USC quarterback Caleb Williams and Washington wide receiver Rome Odunze carry high expectations and need to live up to their potential. The Bears also hope for contributions from Yale offensive tackle Kiran Amegadjie, Iowa punter Tory Taylor, and Kansas pass rusher Austin Booker.
As the NFL landscape continues to evolve, these teams have laid the foundations for potential all-time draft hauls. It will be exciting to see how these talented players continue to develop and contribute to their respective teams' success in the years to come.