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NFL Draft grades: Cowboys, Buccaneers get high marks

By Rucker Haringey

NORMAN, OK - SEPTEMBER 22: CeeDee Lamb #2 of the Oklahoma Sooners catches the game winning touchdown against the Army West Point Black Knights at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Norman, Oklahoma. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images)
NORMAN, OK - SEPTEMBER 22: CeeDee Lamb #2 of the Oklahoma Sooners catches the game winning touchdown against the Army West Point Black Knights at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on September 22, 2018 in Norman, Oklahoma. (Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images) /
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Derrick Brown, Carolina Panthers
TAMPA, FLORIDA – JANUARY 01: Derrick Brown #5 of the Auburn Tigers reacts to a play during the 2020 Outback Bowl against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Raymond James Stadium on January 01, 2020 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) /

Atlanta Falcons: C

The Falcons grade is really weighed down for reaching for A.J. Terrell in Round 1. They could’ve waited until Day Two and drafted a similar prospect at a much lower price.

Atlanta did bounce back by plucking Marlon Davidson off the board in Round 2. It’ll take him some time to learn to play inside, but he could emerge as a top-notch pass rusher at the tackle position.

The Falcons need Matt Hennessy to grow into Alex Mack’s long-term replacement at center to justify picking him in Round 3. He’s got a decent chance to do that, but it’s hard to see him developing into a Pro Bowler or anything special.

It’s worth noting here that Atlanta suffered by not having any picks in the fifth or sixth round. That contributes to a pretty soft class for the Falcons.

Carolina Panthers: A

Some might criticize Carolina for passing on Isaiah Simmons at No. 7, but finding an impact defensive tackle was a desperate need. The Panthers can pencil Derrick Brown as a quality starter at defensive tackle right away.

Coming back in Day 2 and landing both Yetur Gross-Matos and Jeremy Chinn boost the team’s final grade. Both guys have a chance to start right away for Matt Rhule in the team’s revamped defense.

The Panthers finally got around to filling their needs at cornerback on Day 3. Tony Pride Jr has a ton of speed but he never lived up to his athletic ability at Notre Dame. He’s still a worthwhile gamble for a fourth round pick. Kenny Robinson may be listed as a safety but he’ll see plenty of work as a big nickel as well.

Rhule even managed to grab one of his former Baylor guys in Round 6 in the form of defensive tackle Bravion Roy. He’ll be a valuable reserve for Carolina a s space eater in the middle of their line.

The Panthers came into the draft with a clear plan to improve their defense. They did that from top to bottom with this class.

New Orleans Saints: B

Cesar Ruiz doesn’t necessarily fill a big need for the Saints, but he was the best interior offensive line prospect in the class. He’ll help New Orleans right away somewhere up front.

Stopping Zack Baun’s draft fall in Round 3 could pay even bigger dividends for Sean Payton down the line. He’s a little small, but he can rush the passer and make some plays in coverage. His versatility gives him a high ceiling for the Saints.

New Orleans does get dinged for only having three picks before moving back into Round 7 to grab Tommy Stevens. They did well with what they had to work with, but could have conceivably moved around to grab a little more quantity.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: A

The Buccaneers knew they had to find a starting tackle in this draft and Tristan Wirfs is definitely that guy. He could end up being the best tackle in this year’s draft class.

The Round 2 pick of Antoine Winfield might be even better. He’s going to make big plays for the team’s secondary right away. He’s the kind of weapon that can turn a playoff game around with a crucial forced turnover.

Tyler Johnson should give Brady with another weapon so he’s good value in Round 5. This class might be a little top-heavy but the duo of Wirfs and Winfield will really help this team win now. Mission accomplished for the Buccaneers front office.

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