Zach Wilson's career with the New York Jets has continued to disappoint since his rocky 2021 rookie season. In 2022, he played 9 games, throwing for 1,688 yards with 6 touchdowns and 7 interceptions, facing multiple benchings. 2023 saw Wilson thrust back into the starting role after Aaron Rodgers' injury. He played 12 games, accumulating 2,271 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions.
His three-year totals stand at 6,293 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and 25 interceptions across 34 games. Wilson's inconsistency and decision-making issues have persisted, failing to meet expectations as the second overall draft pick. As of the 2024 offseason, the Jets are exploring options to move on from Wilson, likely ending his tenure with the team and forcing him to seek a fresh start elsewhere.
Trevor Lawrence has shown significant improvement since his challenging rookie season. In 2022, under new head coach Doug Pederson, Lawrence led the Jaguars to a playoff berth, throwing for 4,113 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. His 2023 season was solid, with 4,016 passing yards, 21 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions, though the team missed the playoffs.
Lawrence has demonstrated better decision-making and leadership, validating his status as a first overall pick. While he's faced some injury concerns, including a high ankle sprain in 2023, Lawrence has largely dispelled the "bust" label. He's established himself as the Jaguars' franchise quarterback, showing promise for continued growth and success in the coming seasons.
Trey Lance's NFL career has been marred by injuries and limited opportunities. After a quiet rookie year, Lance was named the 49ers' starter for 2022 but suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 2. In 2023, he was traded to the Dallas Cowboys after losing the starting job to Brock Purdy. Lance saw minimal playing time in Dallas, appearing in only one game.
His NFL stats remain limited: 797 passing yards, 5 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions across 8 games over three seasons. While it's premature to label Lance a definitive bust, his future as a starting NFL quarterback is uncertain. He faces an uphill battle to prove himself and may need to consider a backup role to extend his NFL career.
Bateman's career has been hampered by injuries since his rookie season. In 2022, he played only 6 games, recording 285 yards and 2 touchdowns before a Lisfranc injury ended his season. 2023 saw marginal improvement with 32 receptions for 367 yards and 1 touchdown in 16 games. Bateman has shown potential but has struggled to stay healthy and establish consistency.
The Ravens' offense has evolved, with less emphasis on building around Bateman and Jackson. While not a complete bust, Bateman hasn't lived up to his first-round pick status. His future with the Ravens remains uncertain as he enters a crucial fourth year, needing to prove his durability and productivity to secure a long-term role.
Justin Fields has shown moments of greatness but struggled with consistency in Chicago. His 2022 season was notable for his rushing ability, setting an NFL quarterback record with 1,143 rushing yards. However, his passing remained a concern with 2,242 yards, 17 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. In 2023, Fields showed some improvement as a passer (2,562 yards, 16 touchdowns, 9 interceptions) but missed time due to injury.
The Bears' overall struggles have complicated evaluations of Fields' performance. As of the 2024 offseason, there's significant speculation about Fields' future with the team, as the Bears hold the first overall pick in the draft and may consider selecting a new quarterback.
Leatherwood's struggles continued beyond his rookie season, leading to his release by the Raiders in 2022. He was claimed off waivers by the Chicago Bears but played sparingly. In 2023, Leatherwood signed with the Tennessee Titans practice squad and later joined the active roster, appearing in 4 games with 1 start.
His career has been marked by position changes and inability to secure a starting role. Leatherwood's first-round status now seems like a significant reach, and he's widely considered a draft bust. His NFL future likely depends on his ability to develop as a backup and potentially revive his career in a new system.
Phillips has largely shed the "potential bust" label since his rookie year. In 2022, he recorded 7 sacks and 61 total tackles, showing significant improvement. His 2023 season was even more impressive, with 6.5 sacks in just 8 games before an Achilles injury cut his season short. Phillips has developed into a key player for the Dolphins' defense, demonstrating the pass-rushing ability that made him a first-round pick.
While the injury is a setback, his performance when healthy has been strong. The Dolphins exercised his fifth-year option, indicating their confidence in his long-term potential. Phillips' challenge now is to return from injury and continue his upward trajectory.
Davis has shown gradual improvement since his disappointing rookie season. In 2022, he started all 16 games he played, recording 104 total tackles and 3 sacks. His 2023 season saw similar production with 89 tackles and 3 sacks in 13 games. While Davis hasn't become the star some predicted, he's developed into a solid starter for Washington's defense.
His coverage skills have improved, though he's still more effective against the run. Davis hasn't quite lived up to his first-round draft status, but he's no longer considered a potential bust. The Commanders will likely look for continued development from Davis as he enters his fourth NFL season.
Farley's NFL career has been marred by injuries, validating pre-draft concerns. After his rookie ACL tear, he played only 9 games in 2022 before another season-ending back injury. In 2023, Farley appeared in just two games before being placed on injured reserve again. Over three seasons, he's played only 12 games total, recording 14 tackles, 0 sacks, 0 interceptions.
The Titans declined his fifth-year option, signaling a lack of confidence in his future with the team. While it's premature to definitively label him a bust due to circumstances beyond his control, Farley's inability to stay healthy has prevented him from living up to his first-round selection.
Contrary to pre-season expectations, Brock Purdy has defied the "Mr. Irrelevant" label and silenced many skeptics. After taking over as starter late in the 2022 season, Purdy led the 49ers to the NFC Championship game. Despite an elbow injury in that game, he returned strong in 2023, starting 16 games and leading the 49ers to the Super Bowl.
Purdy's stats have been impressive: 4,280 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions in 2023, with a league-leading passer rating of 113.0. Far from being a bust, Purdy has established himself as the 49ers' franchise quarterback. His success story has become one of the NFL's most surprising, proving that draft position doesn't always dictate a player's potential.
After missing his entire rookie season due to injury, Travis Etienne has rebounded strongly, dispelling early bust concerns. In 2022, he emerged as the Jaguars' lead back, rushing for 1,125 yards and 5 touchdowns, while adding 316 receiving yards. Etienne followed up with another solid season in 2023, accumulating 1,008 rushing yards, 11 touchdowns, and 476 receiving yards.
He's proven to be a versatile threat in both the running and passing game, forming a productive partnership with quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Etienne's explosiveness and consistency have made him a key component of the Jaguars' offense. While injuries initially delayed his impact, Etienne has since justified his first-round selection and become an integral part of Jacksonville's future plans.
Tryon-Shoyinka has shown steady improvement since his rookie season. In 2022, he started 16 games, recording 4 sacks and 40 tackles. His 2023 season saw further progress with 5 sacks and 45 tackles in 12 starts. While not yet a dominant force, Tryon-Shoyinka has developed into a solid starter for the Buccaneers' defense. He's demonstrated versatility in both pass-rushing and run defense, though he's still working to consistently impact games.
The Buccaneers have given him ample opportunity to prove himself, and he's responded with incremental growth. While he may not have lived up to the highest expectations of a first-round pick, Tryon-Shoyinka has avoided the "bust" label and continues to be an important part of Tampa Bay's defensive plans.
After a disappointing rookie season, Atwell has shown some improvement, though he's yet to fully justify his second-round selection. In 2022, he recorded 18 receptions for 298 yards and 1 touchdown. His 2023 season saw a slight uptick with 39 catches for 483 yards and 3 touchdowns. Atwell has found a role in the Rams' offense, primarily as a deep threat and occasional gadget player.
However, he's still behind Cooper Kupp and other receivers in the pecking order. While not a complete bust, Atwell hasn't developed into the impact player the Rams hoped for when drafting him. His future with the team likely depends on continued improvement and finding a more consistent role in the offense.
Turner's career has continued to be hampered by injuries. In 2022, he played only 8 games, recording 2 sacks and 16 tackles. His 2023 season showed no improvement with zero sacks and 1 tackle in only 2 games, so he's yet to establish himself as a consistent player.
While Turner has shown flashes of potential, his inability to stay healthy has limited his impact. The Saints have been patient, but Turner needs to prove his durability and effectiveness to avoid the "bust" label. As he enters his fourth season, 2024 will be crucial for Turner to demonstrate he can be a reliable contributor to the Saints' defense.
Contrary to early concerns, Sewell has developed into one of the NFL's top offensive tackles. After a solid rookie year, he's improved significantly. In 2022 and 2023, Sewell started all 17 games each season, earning Pro Bowl selections both years. He's become a cornerstone of the Lions' offensive line, excelling in both pass protection and run blocking.
Sewell's athleticism and technique have silenced critics who questioned his NFL potential. He's been a key factor in the Lions' offensive success and their return to playoff contention. Far from being a bust, Sewell has justified his high draft selection and is considered one of the best young tackles in the league.
Collins has shown improvement since his disappointing rookie season. In 2022, he started all 16 games he played, recording 100 tackles, 2 sacks, and an interception returned for a touchdown. His 2023 season was similar, with 41 tackles and 3.5 sacks in 17 games. While not yet a star, Collins has become a solid contributor to the Cardinals' defense.
He's improved in coverage and run defense, though consistency remains an issue. The Cardinals have given him significant playing time, and he's responded with steady, if unspectacular, play. While he may not have lived up to the highest expectations of a first-round pick, Collins has avoided the "bust" label and continues to be an important part of Arizona's defensive plans.
Horn has shown greatness but continues to struggle with injuries. In 2022, he played 13 games, recording 3 interceptions and 7 passes defended, showcasing his potential as a shutdown corner. However, his 2023 season was cut short after just 6 games due to a hamstring injury.
When healthy, Horn has demonstrated the skills that made him a top-10 pick, with excellent coverage ability and ball skills. The Panthers still view him as a key part of their defense, but availability has been a major concern. Entering his fourth season, Horn needs to stay healthy to fully realize his potential and avoid the injury-prone label that has overshadowed his talents.
Toney's NFL career has been a rollercoaster. After continued struggles with injuries and inconsistency, the Giants traded him to the Kansas City Chiefs midway through the 2022 season. He showed promise with the Chiefs, including a touchdown in their Super Bowl LVII victory. However, 2023 was another injury-plagued season, with Toney playing just 13 games and recording 169 receiving yards and 1 touchdown.
He also faced criticism for crucial drops and offside penalties. While Toney has shown playmaking ability, his inability to stay healthy and consistent has prevented him from living up to his first-round status. His future remains uncertain.
Darrisaw has developed into a cornerstone of the Vikings' offensive line, shedding early "bust" concerns. After an injury-plagued rookie year, he started 14 games in 2022 and 15 games in 2023. Darrisaw improved greatly in 2023, establishing himself as one of the top left tackles in the NFL. He's excelled in both pass protection and run blocking, significantly improving the Vikings' offensive line performance.
Coaches and analysts praise his technique, athleticism, and consistency. Far from being a bust, Darrisaw has become a key player for Minnesota and is considered one of the best young tackles in the league. His progress has justified his first-round selection and he's expected to be a long-term anchor for the Vikings' offensive line.
Jenkins' career has seen a lot of ups and downs since his injury-plagued rookie season. In 2022, he transitioned from tackle to guard, showing promise in 11 starts. However, injuries continued to be a concern. His 2023 season was limited to 12 games due to various injuries. When healthy, Jenkins has displayed the potential that made him a second-round pick, particularly excelling in run blocking.
The Bears have been patient with his development, seeing glimpses of a quality starter. While not a complete bust, Jenkins' biggest challenge remains staying healthy and on the field. His versatility is valuable, but consistency and availability will be crucial for him to secure a long-term role with the Bears.
Grant has steadily improved since his rookie season, becoming a regular starter for the Falcons. In 2022, he started all 17 games, recording 2 interceptions and 123 total tackles. His 2023 season was similar, with 3 interceptions and 103 tackles in 15 starts. Grant has shown versatility in the Falcons' secondary, playing both strong and free safety positions.
While he may not have become a standout star, he's developed into a solid, reliable starter. His tackling and coverage skills have improved, and he's become an important part of Atlanta's defense. Grant has largely lived up to his second-round draft status, avoiding the "bust" label and establishing himself as a key contributor to the Falcons' secondary.
Joseph's NFL career has been tumultuous. After a limited rookie season, he played 16 games for Dallas in 2022, primarily on special teams. Legal issues and inconsistent play led to his release by the Cowboys in 2023. He was then claimed by the Miami Dolphins then the Seahawks, where he played 5 total games, mostly on special teams.
Joseph has struggled to establish himself as a regular defensive contributor, with off-field issues and on-field performance concerns limiting his impact. While not officially a bust due to his second-round status, he hasn't lived up to expectations. Joseph needs to show significant improvement to secure a long-term role in the league.
Little has shown gradual improvement since his rookie season. In 2022, he played in 17 games with 3 starts, showing versatility by playing both tackle positions. His 2023 season saw increased playing time, starting 11 games due to injuries on the Jaguars' offensive line. Little has demonstrated solid pass-blocking skills and improved run blocking.
While he hasn't become a dominant force, he's proven to be a valuable depth piece and spot starter for Jacksonville. The Jaguars view him as a potential long-term solution at right tackle or a high-quality swing tackle. While not spectacular, Little's development has been steady, and he's avoided the "bust" label by becoming a useful member of the Jaguars' offensive line rotation.
Cosmi has shown improvement since his injury-heavy rookie season. In 2022, he started 6 games, demonstrating versatility by playing both tackle and guard positions. His 2023 season saw him start 17 games, primarily at right guard. Cosmi has developed into a solid starter for the Commanders, particularly excelling in run blocking. While injuries have remained a concern, he's managed to stay on the field more consistently.
Experts praise his athleticism and technique improvement. Cosmi has avoided the "bust" label, becoming an strong part of Washington's offensive line. His ability to play multiple positions has increased his value. While not yet a Pro Bowl-level player, Cosmi has proven to be a reliable second-round pick for the Commanders.
Odeyingbo has gradually improved since his injury-delayed rookie season. In 2022, he played all 17 games, recording 5 sacks and 31 total tackles. His 2023 season showed further progress with 8 sacks and 38 tackles in 17 games, including 1 start. Odeyingbo has developed into a valuable rotational player on the Colts' defensive line, showing the ability to rush the passer and defend against the run.
While he may not be a full-time starter, he's become integral to the Colts' defensive scheme. Odeyingbo has shed the early "bust" concerns, proving to be a solid second-round pick. His continued development suggests he could become an even more impactful player in the future.
Basham's NFL career has been a mixed bag. After a limited rookie season, he played 15 games in 2022, recording 2 sacks and 19 tackles. However, his 2023 season saw decreased playing time, appearing in only 13 games with 0 sacks. Basham has struggled to carve out a consistent role in Buffalo's deep defensive line rotation.
While he's shown potential, particularly as a run defender, he hasn't become the impact pass rusher the Bills hoped for when drafting him in the second round. Basham remains on the roster but faces competition for playing time. While not a complete bust, he needs to show significant improvement.
Myers has overcome his injury-ridden rookie season to become the Packers' starting center. In 2022 and 2023, he started all 17 games each season, providing stability to Green Bay's offensive line. Myers has shown solid skills in both pass protection and run blocking, though he's still working on consistency.
Myers plays smart and is a leader on the line. While he hasn't yet reached Pro Bowl level, Myers has proven to be a reliable second-round pick. He's an essential part of the Packers' offense, particularly in their transition to a new quarterback. Myers has successfully avoided the "bust" label and is seen as a long-term solution at center for Green Bay.
Davis's NFL career has been disappointing compared to his college accolades. After barely playing for Minnesota in his rookie year, he was waived in 2022. He briefly joined the Saints and Giants practice squads but hasn't established himself as an NFL-caliber player. In 2023, Davis was out of the league entirely.
His struggles to make an NFL roster, let alone see significant playing time, have unfortunately labeled him as a draft bust. Davis's case serves as a reminder that college success doesn't always translate to the pro level. While still young enough for a potential comeback, he faces a steep uphill battle to revive his NFL career.
Mond's NFL career has been disappointing since his limited rookie appearance. The Vikings waived him before the 2022 season, and he was claimed by the Cleveland Browns. He spent 2022 on the Browns' practice squad without playing a game. In 2023, Mond joined the Indianapolis Colts' practice squad but didn't see any regular-season action.
His inability to secure a backup role or show significant development has led many to consider him a draft bust. Mond's struggles highlight the difficult transition from college to the NFL for quarterbacks. While still young, it will be hard to establish himself as an NFL-caliber quarterback. His future in the league remains uncertain, and he may need to explore other opportunities to revive his career.
Robinson's NFL career has been severely hampered by injuries. After a limited rookie season, he played only two games in 2022 before suffering a knee injury that ended his season. In 2023, Robinson was placed on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list and didn't play at all. When healthy, he showed some promise as a versatile defensive back, but his inability to stay on the field has prevented him from developing into the player the Giants hoped for.
While it's premature to label him a definitive bust due to circumstances largely beyond his control, Robinson's NFL future is uncertain. He'll need to prove his health and show significant improvement to secure a long-term role in the league.
Koonce has shown gradual improvement since his limited rookie season. In 2022, he played in 17 games, primarily on special teams, recording 9 tackles. His 2023 season saw a significant increase in playing time and production, with 8 sacks and 43 tackles in 17 games, including 11 starts. Koonce has developed into a valuable rotational pass rusher for the Raiders, showing the potential that made him a third-round pick.
While he's not yet a full-time starter, his progress has been encouraging. Koonce has avoided the "bust" label and is now seen as a promising young player in the Raiders' defensive scheme. His continued development suggests he could become an even more impactful player in the future.
Moore's career has been a wild ride. After a promising rookie season with the Jets (43 catches, 538 yards, 5 TDs), he struggled in 2022, requesting a trade due to lack of targets. The Jets traded him to the Cleveland Browns in 2023. With the Browns, Moore showed improvement (59 catches, 640 yards, 2 TDs in 2023), benefiting from a more stable quarterback situation.
While he hasn't become a star, Moore has demonstrated potential as a versatile receiver. His route-running and speed are assets, but consistency remains a challenge. Moore has avoided the "bust" label, but he's yet to fully live up to his second-round draft status. His future looks brighter in Cleveland, where he's found a better fit in the offense.
Eichenberg has faced challenges in his NFL career. After struggling at left tackle as a rookie, he moved to guard in 2022. His 2022 season was cut short by injury, playing only 8 games. In 2023, Eichenberg started 14 games, showing some improvement but still facing inconsistency issues. He's been more effective as a run blocker than in pass protection.
While not a complete bust, Eichenberg hasn't lived up to his second-round draft status. The Dolphins have been patient with his development, but he needs to show significant improvement to secure a long-term starting role. His versatility is valuable, but he must enhance his overall performance to avoid being labeled a disappointment.
Samuel Jr. has become a solid starter for the Chargers. After an encouraging rookie season (2 interceptions, 11 passes defended), he's maintained consistent production. In 2023, he recorded 2 interceptions and 13 passes defended. Samuel Jr. has shown good ball skills and coverage ability, though he sometimes struggles against larger receivers due to his size.
He's proven to be a reliable second-round pick, avoiding the "bust" label and establishing himself as a key part of the Chargers' secondary. While he may not be a shutdown corner, Samuel Jr. is a valuable contributor and has room for further growth. His football IQ and instincts are praised by coaches.
Moore's NFL career has been marked by glimpses of potential and injury setbacks. His rookie season showed promise in a gadget role (54 catches, 435 yards). 2022 saw increased production (41 catches, 414 yards in 8 games) but was limited by hamstring issues. In 2023, Moore played 13 games, recording 40 catches for 352 yards.
While explosive with the ball, he's struggled to establish a consistent role in the Cardinals' offense. Injuries and a lack of a defined position have hindered his development. Moore has avoided being labeled a bust due to his playmaking ability, but he needs to stay healthy and find a more stable role to live up to his second-round draft status.
Freiermuth has emerged as a reliable target for the Steelers. After a strong rookie season (60 catches, 497 yards, 7 TDs), he's maintained solid production. In 2022, despite quarterback inconsistencies, he recorded 63 catches for 732 yards and 2 TDs but dropped to 32/308/2 in 2023. Freiermuth has become a go-to option in the red zone and on crucial downs. His blocking has improved, making him a well-rounded tight end.
Analysts praise his route-running and hands. Freiermuth has exceeded expectations for a second-round pick, establishing himself as one of the better young tight ends in the league. He's an important part of the Steelers' offense and is expected to continue his upward trajectory.
Bolton has become a cornerstone of the Chiefs' defense since being drafted in the second round. In his rookie 2021 season, he recorded 112 tackles and showed promise. 2022 was a breakout year, with Bolton amassing 180 total tackles, 2 interceptions, and a memorable fumble return touchdown in Super Bowl LVII.
His 2023 season, though hampered by a wrist injury, still saw him record 60 tackles in 10 games. Bolton's instincts, tackling ability, and leadership have made him integral to Kansas City's defense. He's particularly effective against the run and has improved in pass coverage. Far from being a bust, Bolton has outperformed his draft position and is considered one of the best young linebackers in the NFL.
Holland has quickly established himself as one of the NFL's top young safeties. Since his rookie year in 2021, he's been a playmaker for Miami's secondary. In 2022, Holland recorded 96 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 1.5 sacks. His 2023 season was equally impressive with 74 tackles, 1 interceptions, and 4 passes defended. Holland's versatility allows him to excel in coverage, run support, and as a blitzer.
He's become a key component of the Dolphins' defense, often tasked with matching up against top tight ends and slot receivers. Holland has far exceeded expectations for a second-round pick and is considered one of the best draft values from his class.
Stokes' NFL career has been a mix of promise and setbacks. He had a strong rookie season in 2021, starting 14 games and recording 14 passes defended. However, his 2022 season was cut short after 9 games due to ankle and knee injuries. 2023 was even more challenging, with Stokes playing only 4 games before returning to injured reserve.
When healthy, Stokes has shown the speed and coverage skills that made him a first-round pick. However, his inability to stay on the field has hindered his development and impact. While it's premature to label him a bust due to injuries, Stokes faces a crucial 2024 season to prove his durability and fulfill his potential in the Packers' secondary.
Radunz has struggled to live up to his second-round draft status. After playing sparingly as a rookie in 2021, he saw increased playing time in 2022 but suffered a season-ending knee injury after 11 games. His 2023 season was limited to a backup role, appearing in 11 games with only 2 starts. Radunz has faced challenges in transitioning from FCS college football to the NFL, struggling with consistency in both pass protection and run blocking.
While the Titans have bided their time with his development, he has yet to secure a starting role. Radunz's versatility to play multiple positions on the line has kept him on the roster, but he needs to show significant improvement to avoid being labeled a draft disappointment.
Dickerson has overcome early injury concerns to become a stalwart on the Eagles' offensive line. After a solid rookie season in 2021, he earned Pro Bowl honors in both 2022 and 2023. Dickerson has started every game he's played, providing consistency and strength to Philadelphia's interior line. His size and power make him an excellent run blocker, while his pass protection has steadily improved.
Dickerson has formed a formidable duo with Jason Kelce, contributing significantly to one of the NFL's best offensive lines. He's far exceeded expectations for a second-round pick and is considered a cornerstone of the Eagles' offense for years to come.
Campbell has developed into a solid starter for the Jaguars since being drafted in the second round in 2021. After a rookie season with some growing pains, he showed significant improvement in 2022, recording 3 interceptions and 15 passes defended. His 2023 season was nearly as strong, with 1 interceptions and 5 passes defended in 14 games. Campbell's size, speed, and improving technique have made him a reliable cover corner.
He's particularly effective in man coverage and has shown growth in zone schemes. While not yet a Pro Bowl-level player, Campbell has become an important part of Jacksonville's secondary and has lived up to his draft position. Coaches praise his work ethic and steady improvement, viewing him as a long-term piece of the Jaguars' defense.
Carman's NFL career has been disappointing relative to his second-round draft status. After struggling to earn playing time as a rookie in 2021, he faced similar challenges in 2022 and 2023. Carman has bounced between guard positions and even saw time at tackle, but has failed to secure a consistent starting role. In 2023, he appeared in 12 games with only 3 starts.
His technique and consistency issues have prevented him from becoming a reliable protector for Joe Burrow. While the Bengals haven't given up on Carman, he's dangerously close to being labeled a draft bust. He faces a critical 2024 season to prove he can be a valuable part of Cincinnati's offensive line rotation.
Roche, a sixth-round pick by the Steelers in 2021, has struggled to find a consistent role in the NFL. After being waived by Pittsburgh, he spent 2021 and part of 2022 with the Giants, showing flashes as a rotational pass rusher. However, he was waived by New York in 2022 and spent time on their practice squad. In 2023, Roche bounced between the Steelers' practice squad and active roster, appearing in only 3 games.
While he's shown some potential as a situational pass rusher, Roche has yet to establish himself as a regular contributor. His NFL future is uncertain, and he'll need to make big strides to secure a long-term role.
Melifonwu's NFL career has been a journey of adaptation. Drafted as a cornerback in the third round in 2021, he transitioned to safety due to his size and skill set. After an injury-limited rookie year, Melifonwu saw increased playing time in 2022 and 2023. In 2023, he appeared in 15 games, recording 2 interceptions and 8 passes defended.
While he hasn't become a full-time starter, Melifonwu has shown promise in his new role, particularly in sub-packages. His versatility to play multiple positions in the secondary is valued by the coaching staff. Melifonwu has avoided the "bust" label but needs to continue improving to secure a more prominent role in Detroit's defense.
Brown, a third-round pick in 2021, has become a regular starter for the Bills but has faced consistency issues. After a promising rookie season, he started 12 games in 2022 and 16 in 2023. Brown's athleticism and size make him an intriguing prospect, but he's struggled at times with pass protection, particularly against elite edge rushers.
His run blocking has been more consistent. While not a bust, Brown hasn't fully lived up to the Bills' hopes of him becoming a reliable bookend tackle. Coaches appreciate his toughness and work ethic, but he needs to improve his technique and consistency to secure his long-term future as a starter. The 2024 season will be crucial for Brown's development.
Adebo has developed into a solid contributor for the Saints' secondary since being drafted in the third round in 2021. His rookie season was promising, with 3 interceptions and 8 passes defended. In 2022 and 2023, Adebo maintained consistent production, recording 4 interceptions over two seasons. His 2023 performance included 76 tackles and 18 passes defended in 14 games. Adebo has shown good ball skills and improved tackling ability.
While he occasionally struggles with penalties and consistency, he's become a reliable starter for New Orleans. Coaches like his competitiveness and football IQ. Adebo has outperformed his draft position and is viewed as a key piece of the Saints' defense moving forward. He's avoided the "bust" label and continues to show potential for further growth.
Carter's NFL career started promisingly with the Jets, rushing for 639 yards as a rookie in 2021. However, his role diminished in subsequent seasons due to team additions and inconsistent performance. In 2022, he rushed for 402 yards, and his 2023 season was split between the Jets and Cardinals after being waived midseason. With Arizona, Carter served primarily as a backup.
While he's shown potential as a versatile back with receiving ability, Carter has struggled to establish himself as a lead runner. He's avoided being labeled a bust due to his fourth-round draft status, but he hasn't lived up to early expectations. Carter's future likely lies in a committee backfield role, where his pass-catching skills can be utilized.
Schwartz, a third-round pick in 2021, has struggled to make an impact in the NFL. His blazing speed hasn't translated to consistent production. In three seasons, Schwartz has totaled just 14 receptions for 186 yards and 1 touchdown. He's faced challenges with route running and catching consistency.
The Browns have tried to utilize his speed on gadget plays and as a deep threat, but with limited success. Schwartz has also contributed on special teams. While it's premature to label him a definitive bust given his draft position, he's dangerously close to that territory. His NFL future is uncertain, and he'll need to improve significantly to keep a roster spot beyond his rookie contract.
Golston, a third-round pick in 2021, has developed into a solid rotational player for the Cowboys' defensive line. After a quiet rookie season, he saw increased playing time in 2022 and 2023. In 2023, Golston appeared in all 17 games, recording 1.5 sacks and 25 tackles. While not a standout starter, he's proven valuable in Dallas's defensive line rotation, showing an ability to play both inside and outside.
Coaches appreciate his work ethic and steady improvement. Golston has avoided the "bust" label by becoming a reliable contributor, even if he hasn't become a star. His role is likely to remain as a rotational player, but he's providing good value for his draft position.
