2014 NFL Draft by the numbers, led by defensive backs and linebackers
There were 53 defensive backs taken, an increasingly high number as the passing game takes on an even bigger role in the NFL.
Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
With the 2014 NFL Draft now in the books, it's time to take a look at the selections by the numbers. Anyone can put a grade on a draft class, but, as they say, numbers never lie.
There were 53 defensive backs taken, the most of any position group. Oklahoma State standout cornerback Justin Gilbert was the first cornerback taken in the first round at No. 8 by the Cleveland Browns. Gilbert was joined by Kyle Fuller (14th), Calvin Pryor (18th), Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (21st), Darqueze Dennard (24th), Jason Verrett (25th), Deone Bucannon (27th), Jimmie Ward (30th) and Bradley Roby (31st).
NFL Draft grades
There were 37 linebackers drafted, the second-most of any group. Next up were wide receivers, with 33 hearing their names called. Only two kickers, Zach Hocker and Nate Freese, were taken. Combine standout Pat O’Donnell was the lone punter selected.
Just 14 quarterbacks were chosen, five of whom were taken in the sixth round. Blake Bortles, Johnny Manziel and Teddy Bridgewater were the only QBs drafted in the first round.
The early rounds were not kind to running backs, either. For the first time in history, no tailback was selected in the top-40. Bishop Sankey of Washington was the first to hear his name called when the Titans chose him with the 54th pick.
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