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2017 NFL Draft: AFC North 1st Round Report Card

By Tyler Beard

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Ryan Anderson (22) scores a touchdown as defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) runs alongside during the second quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Ryan Anderson (22) scores a touchdown as defensive back Marlon Humphrey (26) runs alongside during the second quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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How did the AFC North Do In The 2017 NFL Draft? Here are the draft grades for all four teams:

Baltimore Ravens Grade: B

Every Ravens’ fan held their breath when the No. 16 pick was announced. It seemed like it was destined to be an Alabama player that shouldn’t have dropped that far. Everyone was right; except for which Alabama player it was. Marlon Humphry didn’t even have a pre-draft visit with the Ravens and was also shocked he landed in Baltimore.

However, it’s a good value pick for a team that has made it’s a secondary the top priority this offseason. Humphrey is a good-sized cornerback that can make an immediate impact on special teams. The Ravens only get a B for now because Humphrey will spend this year as depth at the position and could develop into a top-corner next to Jimmy Smith. 

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Cincinnati Bengals Grade: B+

I didn’t expect the Bengals to take a receiver so early and actually thought they might take a chance on Reuben Foster or Jonathan Allen. Ross is still a solid pick for the Bengals, as the team needed a No. 2 receiver that could take some pressure off of A.J. Green. Ross can fly and will give defenders in the North a fit in trying to keep up with him.

Cleveland Browns Grade: A-

Overall, the Browns did a great job in hitting on some key needs. Myles Garrett was the safest pick in the draft and his motor will make him a leader on the defense in no time. I also liked the team moving back into the first round to take David Njoku. He has great hands and will give whoever is throwing him the football a big, safe target on offense.

The only reason this isn’t an A+ grade is because Jabril Peppers. I’m not sold him just yet because it’s not certain what position he’s going to play at. He’d be a raw safety, but could still turn into a dominant player with his work ethic.

Next: 2017 NFL Draft: Day 2 Targets For Baltimore Ravens

Pittsburgh Steelers Grade: B-

This isn’t a bad pick, as the Steelers are revamping their pass rush and are going to need an eventual replacement for James Harrison. However, I think Watt needs more development and it won’t be easy living in his big brother’s footsteps. It will take some time for Watt to adjust to the NFL, but he has a tremendous mentor in Harrison and could blossom over time.

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