The 2011 NFL draft is finally over. We’ve seen all 32 teams select 254 players over the last three days. From the first round to the seventh round, the next round of NFL players is in.
2011 NFL Draft Grades: Saints, Lions Among Big Winners
So now, with the draft over only a few minutes old, it’s time for some NFL draft grades. SB Nation’s Mocking The Draft has a list of all the winners in the 2011 NFL draft. Hop on over there to check out the complete list but I wanted to highlight the teams I thought had the best wekeend.
First, the Detroit Lions. DT Nick Fairley fell to them at the 13th pick which allows them to have the best young defensive line in football along with all-world Ndamukong Suh. In the second round, they got the second best running back in the draft.
The Lions only had five draft picks, but they really hit on their first three with DT Nick Fairley, WR Titus Young and RB Mikel Leshoure. Each should see considerable playing time as a rookie. Fairley is scary on their line next Ndamukong Suh. Leshoure could be the starting running back next season.
Second, the New Orleans Saints spent a lot in the draft but also got a lot of value in return. For a team that's ready to win another Super Bowl right now, I like the picks.
The Saints may have given up a lot in order to get back into the first round to get running back Mark Ingram, but it was a smart move. He should make a big impact on their offense. Cameron Jordan could do the same thing with the defense. Martez Wilson is a good developmental linebacker with a high ceiling thanks to his athleticism. Johnny Patrick should start as a fine nickel cornerback.
Hop on over to Mocking The Draft to see the full list of 2011 NFL draft winners.
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