Every NFL team’s greatest draft class

PITTSBURGH, PA. - DECEMBER 30, 1978: (L to R) Wide receivers John Stallworth #82 and Lynn Swann #88 of the Pittsburgh Steelers celebrate Pittsburgh's victory after the AFC Divisional Playoff game on December 30, 1978 against the Denver Broncos at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by: Bill Amatucci Collection/Diamond Images/Getty Images) /

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SAN FRANCISCO – SEPTEMBER 16: Offensive linebacker Russ Grimm #68 of the Washington Redskins holds off San Francisco 49ers defense during a game at Candlestick Park on September 16, 1990 in San Francisco, California. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) /

Tennessee Titans: 1987

Notable Selections

1: RB Alonzo Highsmith

1b: WR Haywood Jeffires

3: QB Cody Carlson

5: RB Spencer Tillman

6: LB Al Smith

6b: Toby Caston

10: WR Curtis Duncan

11: G John Davis

Best Pick: WR Haywood Jeffires

How Did This Class Change The Franchise?

It’s an original AFL franchise that has still only made one Super Bowl appearance (1999) and that came under the club’s current name and home. But when the Tennessee Titans were still the Houston Oilers back in 1987, they came away with a solid draft class.

It included a pair of wide receivers (Haywood Jeffires and Curtis Duncan) who made big impacts in the “Run and Shoot” offense commandeered by Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Warren Moon. However, keep in mind that this very talented team would make seven consecutive playoff appearance from 1987-93 but never reached the AFC title game.

Washington Commanders: 1981

Notable Selections

1: G Mark May

3: G Russ Grimm

5: DE Dexter Manley

8: WR Charlie Brown

9: DT Darryl Grant

12: TE Clint Didier

Best Pick: G Russ Grimm

How Did This Class Change The Franchise?

Hall of Fame head coach Joe Gibbs first season with the franchise came in 1981. That year, the club came up with a draft bonanza – getting contributions from a lot of different rounds. These players were pivotal performer in some or all four of the franchise’s Super Sunday appearances over 10 years from 1982-91.

Pro Football Hall of Fame guard Russ Grimm – who did play in all four Super Bowls over that stretch – was a key member of “The Hogs.” Defensive end Dexter Manley was a fearsome pass-rusher, two-time wide receiver Charlie Brown was an underrated performer and 12th-round pick Clint Didier was quite the steal.

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