NFL Draft 2021: A New Era of Gridiron Talent Emerges
The NFL Draft 2021 has come and gone, leaving us with an impressive array of gridiron talent that is poised to call the football field home for the foreseeable future. From jaw-dropping trades to surprising picks, this year’s draft provided plenty of excitement for both fans and players alike. Join us as we take a deep dive into the picks that stole the show, the teams that emerged winners and losers, and the exciting prospects awaiting us as we look forward to the upcoming NFL season.
Table of Contents
- The Top Picks of the NFL Draft 2021
- The Winners of the NFL Draft 2021
- The Losers of the NFL Draft 2021
- The Future Gridiron Stars
- Toys and Gadgets: Enjoying the NFL Experience Off the Field
The Top Picks of the NFL Draft 2021
With the first pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, the Jacksonville Jaguars selected Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawrence. Widely regarded as the best QB prospect since Andrew Luck, Lawrence boasts an impressive skill set that includes a strong arm, excellent field vision, and a winning pedigree. As the focal point of the Jaguars’ rebuilding effort, he is expected to have an immediate impact on the field and become a potential franchise quarterback.
The second pick saw the New York Jets add BYU passer Zach Wilson to their roster, a player with tantalizing upside and remarkable arm talent. Although he may need time to adjust to the NFL’s speed and complexities, Wilson has the tools to become a star in the Big Apple.
With the third overall selection, the San Francisco 49ers chose North Dakota State QB Trey Lance. Lance’s dual-threat capabilities and impressive athleticism make him an intriguing option for head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offensive system. While he may not start right away, his ceiling is one of the highest in this year’s quarterback class.
Other notable selections from the first round include:
- Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons (4th overall)
- Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals (5th overall)
- Jaylen Waddle, WR, Miami Dolphins (6th overall)
- Penei Sewell, OT, Detroit Lions (7th overall)
- Patrick Surtain II, CB, Denver Broncos (9th overall)
- DeVonta Smith, WR, Philadelphia Eagles (10th overall)
- Justin Fields, QB, Chicago Bears (11th overall, via trade with New York Giants)
- Mac Jones, QB, New England Patriots (15th overall)
The Winners of the NFL Draft 2021
While it’s impossible to know for sure which teams will truly benefit the most from the NFL Draft 2021, several organizations emerged as “winners” due to their savvy selections and draft dealings.
Chicago Bears
The Bears made a bold move by trading up to the 11th overall pick to select Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields. With a strong arm, impressive accuracy, and excellent mobility, Fields has the potential to become the franchise quarterback that has eluded Chicago for decades. By addressing their most pressing need in a decisive manner, the Bears earned high marks during this year’s draft.
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers found a franchise left tackle in Northwestern’s Rashawn Slater with their 13th overall pick. With many draft experts considering Slater a top-10 talent, the Chargers filled a significant need while acquiring an excellent value pick. Additionally, the team also managed to snag cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. in the second round, helping solidify their defense for the upcoming season.
Cleveland Browns
The Browns found great value and talent throughout the NFL Draft 2021. The addition of speedy linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah in the second round was an absolute steal, while first-round selection Greg Newsome II should eventually become a key contributor in their secondary. These selections, in addition to talented wide receiver Anthony Schwartz, add electric playmakers to an already loaded roster.
The Losers of the NFL Draft 2021
Unfortunately, not every team left the NFL Draft 2021 with a broad smile on their faces. Some organizations made questionable decisions or simply missed out on opportunities to bolster their rosters.
Las Vegas Raiders
Despite having glaring needs on defense, the Raiders chose to select offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood with the 17th overall pick. Although Leatherwood brings a wealth of experience from Alabama, many draft experts had him pegged as a late first- or early second-round talent. The pick left many fans and analysts scratching their heads.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints’ first-round selection of Houston defensive end Payton Turner was another puzzling decision. While Turner has potential, he was widely seen as a second- or even third-round talent. With other high-profile defenders still on the board, New Orleans may have missed out on some better options to help their roster.
Green Bay Packers
The Packers entered the NFL Draft 2021 amid swirling rumors surrounding quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ future with the organization. The team needed a home run to quell the storm, but instead, they opted for Georgia cornerback Eric Stokes with their first-round pick. Stokes has potential, but he lacks the immediate impact that may have appeased Rodgers and helped the team in the short term.
The Future Gridiron Stars
After the dust settles from the NFL Draft 2021, we’ll be left to ponder which of these talented athletes will go on to make their mark in the NFL. Will Trevor Lawrence live up to the hype in Jacksonville? Can Justin Fields become the franchise quarterback Chicago has longed for? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the future of the gridiron appears bright with these exciting newcomers.
Toys and Gadgets: Enjoying the NFL Experience Off the Field
While we wait for the NFL season to kickoff, fans can stay engaged with the sport they love by indulging in some adult toys and gadgets that celebrate the game. From video games like Madden NFL to remote-controlled drones emblazoned with team logos, there are countless ways to enjoy the NFL experience!
Video Games
Madden NFL is the go-to video game for football fans. With intricate team and player management, realistic gameplay, and the ability to play as your favorite NFL team or college squad, Madden NFL is a must-have for gridiron enthusiasts looking to recreate the experience on their gaming console.
Drones
Capture aerial footage or simply enjoy flying your favorite NFL team’s drone! These remote-controlled gadgets are perfect for outdoor fun and showcasing your team pride. Some models even come equipped with cameras for capturing stunning perspectives of your local football field.
Virtual Reality
Emerge into a virtual gridiron world with NFL-themed VR experiences. Test your skills as a quarterback or immerse yourself in the bone-crushing, adrenaline-pumping action of professional football. Virtual reality technology is steadily improving, making these experiences more realistic and enjoyable each year.
So, while the NFL Draft 2021 has come to its conclusion, the excitement of the gridiron is just beginning. From the newly drafted players who will soon take the field to the off-the-field gadgets and games, there’s always something to enjoy for football fans of all ages.