NFL Draft grades: 10 first-round picks that get an A
By Joe Romano
The 2018 NFL draft has concluded but the evaluation of the picks is just getting started. Some teams fared better than others in the first round, these ten were the best.
After a crazy first round, like always, it’s a bit premature to say who won or lost a certain draft. However, what is a good exercise is to investigate the picks on how they fit with their new team. This list of 10 prospects will be the best fits between team and player in the first round of the 2018 NFL draft.
Denzel Ward – Cleveland Browns (Pick #4)
Cleveland started off the night with a surprise pick in quarterback Baker Mayfield. It could be said though that their second top five pick was more of a shocker. The team selected Ohio State corner Denzel Ward with the fourth-overall pick.
Throughout the draft process this pick remained a mystery, much like the first pick. General manager John Dorsey did a great job of keeping his draft plans a secret. When it came time to submit the pick, the team selected the draft’s top corner. That pick kicks off this list in what could be a home run for the Browns.
Ward brings a type of corner play that Cleveland lacks over the past few years. He may be undersized but he brings an exceptional burst of speed on the outside. That speed was on display at the combine when he posted a 4.32 40 yard dash. As the draft’s top corner, he is more than just a burner. Ward possesses a rare ability to turn and run on the outside and great ball skills when challenging receivers.
Cleveland is overhauling their secondary this offseason and Ward is another piece. New corners Jamar Taylor and E.J. Gaines will shuffle in with the rookie. The latter of which may be an ideal player to line up in the slot to start his career.