Which NFL draft picks outside of Round 1 could mak...
Key takeaways
- Last year's class had plenty examples of Day 2 and Day 3 picks creating a huge difference.
- So who could be this year's version of Schwesinger and Dike?
- It should not be surprising that the second pick of Day 2 is expected to have a legitimate early role.
Why this matters: a sports story that could shift standings, legacies, or fan conversations.
Last year's class had plenty examples of Day 2 and Day 3 picks creating a huge difference. The Browns selected linebacker Carson Schwesinger at the top of the second round, and he went on to win Defensive Rookie of the Year after leading the team with 146 tackles. Meanwhile, fourth-round pick Chimere Dike led the NFL with 2,427 all-purpose yards for the Titans.
So who could be this year's version of Schwesinger and Dike? I'm listing 10 players on each side of the ball selected in Rounds 2-7 whom I expect will make the greatest immediate impact as rookies. I'm factoring in potential role, upside and talent. Let's start with an offensive lineman who's filling a critical need in Arizona.
It should not be surprising that the second pick of Day 2 is expected to have a legitimate early role. However, I'm particularly enthused by Bisontis' short-term outlook because of Arizona's needs on the right side of its line. While I fully expect Bisontis to settle in as the starting right guard, his experience as a right tackle as a freshman at Texas A&M indicates that he has the necessary versatility to play significant snaps immediately.