#nfl-draft

#nfl-draft

A few became the most infamous of all, like wide receivers N'Keal Harry and Tyquan Thornton, both of whom the former head coach reached for when they were selected. Neither did much of anything during their time in New England, and they were on another team within three years. For the most part, letting them go didn't look like a bad decision, and while that remains true, the rise of Thornton with the Chiefs this offseason is certainly noteworthy.

While it's difficult to put much stock into preseason stats, Chism's were impressive. He finished the exhibition season with 12 catches for 121 yards and two touchdowns. While Chism is not Edelman, Wes Welker, or Danny Amendola, he has the makeup and potential to be a quality NFL slot receiver, especially in a Josh McDaniels offense that relies heavily on the performance of inside receivers.

The NFL Players Association, reeling from criminal investigations into misused funds, resignations at the top and unapproved strip club expenditures, badly needed a win this summer. It found one -- in NFL ownership's couch cushions. The players received a substantial windfall in the second round of this year's NFL draft, benefiting from fully guaranteed contracts for seven players in the round -- and potentially an eighth once Cleveland Browns running back Quinshon Judkins (the 36th overall pick) signs his deal.

Ashton Jeanty, the sixth overall pick in April's NFL draft, showcased his strength and agility, proving he can handle the NFL's physicality and contribute to the Raiders offense.

"We've been talking about the draft since last year and how we continue to build on that. ESPN has been a partner in that from day one, bringing the fans closer to that event and building that event into one of the most popular events on the sporting calendar, which is incredible if you think back a few decades."

Upton Stout, the 49ers' third-round draft pick, exuberantly celebrated his selection, saying, 'Let's do it!' repeatedly, showcasing his enthusiasm and determination to join the team.

Travis Hunter leads the Madden NFL 26 rookie ratings with an 84 OVR, boasting impressive stats including perfect 99 in Stamina and high ratings in Jumping and Agility.

Shedeur Sanders emphasized that he is grateful for the opportunity at this level, stating, "I feel like that it's not in my control, so I'm not going to think about that or even have that in my thought process of why it is." He believes that everyone wants this chance and expresses confidence in his identity and abilities, saying, "I know who I am as a person. I know what I could bring to this team. So, I can never feel less than any circumstance."

Arch Manning, the Texas third-year sophomore, is considered one of the hottest names in college football, yet he has only two starts and hasn't proven himself NFL-ready.

Colston Loveland is on track to be ready for the start of his rookie season. Chicago opens the 2025 season at home on MNF in Week 1 vs. the Vikings.

The Falcons produced double-digit sacks only in November last year, indicating a weak pass rush. Opposing quarterbacks found it easy to work without pressure.

Penix's "athletic arrogance" is a key to both his potential and his success - but it could also be his downfall. Finding the balance is going to be key for the second-year signal caller. When it works, it really impresses, showcasing his ability to make plays under pressure and command the field. However, if not managed well, it could lead to overconfidence and mistakes that undermine his development as a reliable starting quarterback.

While Johnny Newton only managed two sacks in his rookie year, his quickness and disruptive ability in the run game were positively noted, reflecting his potential to impact the defense positively.

My relationship with Coach Martin played a big role. I trusted him at Western (Kentucky) and I trust him now... The fan base stands out to me a lot.

The biggest thing that taught me last year is that I learned how to be unselfish. I learned how to put the team over my individual goals and what I wanted to accomplish, and so that's the biggest thing coming here.

Bo Melton, facing a crowded WR corps with the Packers, is impressively transitioning to CB, showcasing his versatility in a critical roster reshuffle.