You can’t always trust public opinion in the world of sports. Specifically in an event like the NFL Draft, opinions can vary drastically among football analysts and writers. However, they can set a blueprint for what to expect for the upcoming season, and prospects have the chance to prove them right or wrong.
The Baltimore Ravens’ AFC North rivals came out of draft week with several question marks as they get set for OTAs. In Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report’s article the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, and Pittsburgh Steelers had some reason to worry once the draft was over.
Ravens' AFC North rivals left questions unanswered following NFL Draft
For the Bengals, their draft was summarized as “underwhelming.” Former Texas A&M defensive lineman Shemar Stewart became a viral sensation following his NFL Combine performance but as the draft drew closer, the hype slowly died down. Much of the concern with this pick comes down to Stewart’s lack of production in college. It’s a boom or bust selection.
They loaded up on defense with Stewart, Demetrius Knight Jr., and Barrett Carter. But only time will tell if those prospects end up being the playmakers Cincinnatti’s abysmal defense needs to turn it around.
The word used to summarize the Browns' draft was “extreme,” which is the only way to describe it. With a generational talent in Travis Hunter on the board, Cleveland’s front office passed and traded down. The haul of picks was rich, but Hunter seems to be a guy who can turn a franchise around.
Instead of the two-way star, they drafted Mason Graham at five, who could turn into an exceptional player but doesn’t appear to have Hunter’s ceiling. Cleveland also selected two quarterbacks—Dillion Gabriel in the third round and Shadeur Sanders in the fifth, a move that could come back to bite them. Sanders’ value in the fifth was too good to pass up, but the strategy of drafting two quarterbacks raises questions. Andrew Berry could look like a genius or soon sit on the hot seat.
Pittsburgh’s draft is seen as “typical.” The Steelers are usually another strong drafting team. With everyone hollering for Sanders, they selected Derrick Harmon out of Oregon to beef up their defensive front and pass rush. They also replaced Najee Harris with Iowa star Kaleb Johnson and found good value on day three with Ohio State pass rusher Jack Sawyer at pick 123.
It was a great week, but the quarterback position has yet to be answered. Yes, they selected Will Howard, but in the sixth round, he cannot be expected to be the team’s starter, at least not right away. The rumors of Aaron Rodgers suiting up in the black and gold have yet to die out, but even he wouldn’t resolve the issues. The 41-year-old is far past his MVP days and retirement is knocking on the door. While Pittsburgh drafted well, they have yet to find their future signal caller.
Just like usual, the Ravens dominated another draft and should continue to separate themselves from the rest of the North.