Every NFL Team's Hidden Gem in the 2016 Draft
The 2016 NFL draft was a month ago, so we've known which rookies landed where for quite a while. Now that offseason workouts have begun around the league, we're finally starting to get an idea of how rookie players are going to fit with their new teams and which rookies could surprise.
As we know by now, the biggest surprises don't always come from the first few rounds of the draft. Last year's surprises included guys like Stefon Diggs—a fifth-round pick who produced more than 700 receiving yards for the Minnesota Vikings—and fourth-round linebacker Jake Ryan, who racked up 50 tackles for the Green Bay Packers.
Today, we're going to look at one player from each NFL team who can become a surprise player in the next couple of years. These hidden gems weren't taken at the top of the draft—we're actually completely ignoring players taken during the first two days of the draft—but still have the talent to bring impact this season and beyond.
Our choices will be based on factors such as player potential, scheme fit, veteran competition, general expectation and coaching. We'll also factor in reports from early offseason workouts and activities where applicable.
Do you agree with our choices? Be sure to let us know in the comments section.
Arizona Cardinals: Evan Boehm, C
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The Arizona Cardinals used a fourth-round selection, 128th overall, on former Missouri center Evan Boehm. While the selection of a center is rarely a sexy move, it's one that could yield huge dividends for the Cardinals.
Last year, the center position was a borderline disaster for Arizona. Pro Football Focus credits 2015 starter Lyle Sendlein with allowing 20 quarterback hurries, rating him 57th overall among centers for the season.
Sendlein is out and Boehm will have the opportunity to compete for the starting job as a rookie. His biggest competition for the job will be A.Q. Shipley, who played just 149 snaps last year, according to Pro Football Focus.
Shipley is in the final year of his contract, so even if he wins the job this year Boehm could be in line to solidify the position for the future. Former Missouri and current Cardinals teammate Markus Golden, though, seems to believe Boehm has the goods to earn his spot right away.
“He’s one of those guys, man,” Golden said, per Kyle Odegard of the Cardinals' official website. “He’s a dog. I expect big things.”
Atlanta Falcons: De'Vondre Campbell, LB
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By selecting players like Keanu Neal and Deion Jones, the Atlanta Falcons made it clear they valued defensive speed in this year's draft. Fourth-round pick (115th overall) De'Vondre Campbell fits right into that draft strategy.
Though he is raw, Campbell brings both quickness and range to the Atlanta defense. He ran a 4.58-second 40 at the scouting combine and has shown the ability to excel as a run defender and a pass-rusher.
Bleacher Report NFL Draft Lead Writer Matt Miller wrote the following of Campbell before the draft:
"A freak frame, Campbell is big, athletic, coordinated and moves through space like a safety or tight end. He has natural ability as a pass-rusher and led the Gophers in sacks during the last season. Campbell largely wins with length and speed on the edge, but he had success against Big Ten talent.
An effective and involved tackler, Campbell sticks with the play and pops off the film as a clean-up tackler. He’s aggressive and physical at the point of attack and has no problem hunting for the ball in the middle of the field.
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The 6'3", 232-pound Campbell believes his size gives him an advantage in coverage as well.
“I can guard tight ends, running backs and also get in those passing windows and a lot of stuff other people can’t because I’m a lot taller than the average linebacker,” Campbell said during rookie minicamp, per D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.
Expect Campbell to have an immediate impact as a special teams contributor and as sort of a rotational linebacker-safety hybrid.
Baltimore Ravens: Keenan Reynolds, WR
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Former Louisiana Tech running back Kenneth Dixon probably has the most impact potential of the Baltimore Ravens' Day 3 selections. However, we're going with former Navy quarterback and sixth-round pick (182nd overall) Keenan Reynolds as our hidden gem of the Baltimore class.
Reynolds didn't generate a ton of buzz heading into the 2016 draft because he was primarily a rushing quarterback for a service academy. This is also why expectations for him at the pro level are likely to be tempered.
Reynolds' combination of size (5'11", 205 pounds) and on-field ability, however, make him a player worth watching in Baltimore. He is an exceptional player with the football in his hand, and Reynolds rushed for 1,373 yards in 2015 alone. His 88 rushing touchdowns are the most ever by a player in FBS history.
With the Ravens, Reynolds will likely spend most of his early time as a situational receiver and special teams contributor. His ability to find open space with the ball in his hands should allow him to thrive in both roles.
However, we shouldn't expect the Ravens to ignore Reynolds' natural ability to run out of the backfield. He's just too good at it. Expect Reynolds to instead fill multiple roles early as he continues to develop into a playmaking utility piece for the Ravens offense.
Buffalo Bills: Jonathan Williams, RB
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Former Arkansas running back Jonathan Williams was pretty well hidden in 2015. A foot injury that required surgery caused him to miss the entire regular season, and injury concerns are why the Buffalo Bills were able to snag him in the fifth round (156th overall).
If he can get back to pre-injury form, though, Williams could prove to be one of the biggest steals in the entire draft. He racked up an impressive 1,190 yards to go with 12 touchdowns in 2014. He also averaged more than 5.0 yards per carry in all three of his collegiate seasons.
According to Bleacher Report's Matt Miller, however, Williams' biggest asset could be his ability to produce as a receiving back.
"On third down, Williams can be an exciting playmaker on swing passes and screen plays," Miller wrote before the draft. "He's comfortable running routes and looks the ball into his hands like a seasoned pro. If Williams can regain his 2014 form, he could be one of the best running backs in the class."
Williams seems to agree that he can provide an impact in a variety of ways.
“I’m a fighter,” he recently said, per Tyler Dunne of the Buffalo News. “I’m a lot more versatile than people give me credit for. Because of the system I was in, I had to change my style to fit to that system.”
With guys like LeSean McCoy and Karlos Williams already on the roster, Jonathan Williams will likely have to earn his proverbial stripes as a third-down back as a rookie. However, the Bills should have little trouble finding roles for him—and one role could be that of future offensive star.
Carolina Panthers: Beau Sandland, TE
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The Carolina Panthers just seem to love big, physical pass-catchers who possess that large catch radius. The selection of former Montana State tight end Beau Sandland in Round 7 (252nd overall) only further drives that theory home.
Sandland may be a bit of a project after spending most of his college career playing lower-tier competition (he did spend a season at Miami, but was used sparingly). However, his workout numbers and game film show enough potential to believe he can be a major weapon for Carolina.
Bleacher Report's Matt Miller talked about Sandland's film before the draft:
"A crafty player with moves at the line of scrimmage, Sandland is excellent with the ball in his hands. He can get behind coverage and do work in various alignments and formations. He's a finisher with toughness in everything he does. The game film shows enough quickness to get loose at the line of scrimmage and the follow-up speed to run up the seam with separation. Sandland brings that same fight to the table as a blocker.
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Sandland ran a solid 4.74-second 40 at the combine to go with 23 reps of the 225-pound bench press and an impressive 35.0-inch vertical. These are the measurables of a quality tight end, and that's exactly what Sandland can become with a little seasoning.
Expect Sandland to work his way into the offense as a situational tight end. If he can continue to grow and develop, however, Sandland could eventually become the heir apparent to nine-year veteran Greg Olsen at the position.
Chicago Bears: Jordan Howard, RB
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The Chicago Bears have a couple of capable running backs on their roster, but rookie fifth-round pick (150th overall) Jordan Howard has the goods to make his mark as an early-down back.
A bruising, 6'0", 230-pound rusher, Howard projects as a powerful between-the-tackles runner at the pro level. He could partner with second-year back Jeremy Langford to give the Bears a fearsome young duo in the backfield.
Langford showed plenty as a pass-catcher in 2015 but averaged just 3.6 yards per carry. Howard seems to have the type of field vision that Langford currently lacks.
"Howard is an easy, natural runner with next-level instincts," Bleacher Report's Matt Miller wrote before the draft. "He reads his keys in the blocking game and finds small inside lanes. He spots cutback lanes and will get small to slip through cracks in the line. Once he finds daylight, Howard has the burst to pick up plus yardage."
Howard amassed 1,213 yards rushing at Indiana last season. He also averaged a whopping 6.1 yards per carry and reached the end zone nine times on the ground. Howard probably won't be as dominant at the pro level, but don't be surprised if he emerges as a big-time contributor and an eventual starter in Chicago.
Cincinnati Bengals: Christian Westerman, OG
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The Cincinnati Bengals managed to land a few late-round steals during the 2016 draft. However, the selection of former Arizona State guard Christian Westerman in Round 5 (161st overall) might prove to be the biggest.
The 6'3", 298-pound Westerman has all the physical tools to be an early contributor and a future long-term starter along the Cincinnati offensive line. Bleacher Report's Matt Miller actually rated Westerman as his second-best guard coming into the draft, writing the following:
"A plug-and-play guard, Westerman locates well at the second level and shows the same awareness in pass protection. He has the quickness to shoot to cut off speed rushers and the hand placement to lock up a bull rush. At Senior Bowl practices, Westerman was rarely moved off his spot and was impressive in handling speed and power in position drills. Westerman will be a favorite for general managers who like a player with a mean streak and finisher mentality.
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Westerman should provide an ideal depth presence as a rookie, and he has a ton of value as a rotational player. He should be able to contribute at both guard spots as well as at center. He also should be able to develop into a starter for Cincinnati down the road.
Cleveland Browns: Scooby Wright III, LB
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With a whopping 14 players selected in this year's draft, the Cleveland Browns provided plenty of hidden-gem candidates. However, we're going with seventh-round pick (250th overall) Scooby Wright III as the sleeper pick of the bunch.
The Arizona product may be a bit undersized at 6'0" and 239 pounds, but Wright was a proven producer at the college level. In 2014, he racked up an impressive 163 total tackles, 14.0 sacks and 29.0 tackles for a loss.
Unfortunately, a torn meniscus limited Wright to just three games this past season, which is a big reason why he fell to the seventh round. As a potential inside linebacker in Cleveland's 3-4 base defense, however, Wright could be a star.
“I am a monster Scooby Wright fan,” NFL Network’s Charles Davis said before the draft, per Michael Lev of the Arizona Daily Star. “We have that term of ‘ball magnet.’ Some guys are around it. He was way better than that."
Don't be surprised if Wright not only earns a role in Cleveland as a rookie but also earns a starting job on the interior.
Dallas Cowboys: Anthony Brown, CB
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Rookie sixth-round pick (189th overall) Anthony Brown has the skills and the speed to be an early and a longtime contributor for the Dallas Cowboys.
Brown turned quite a few heads at the scouting combine by posting a 4.35-second 40. However, it is the Purdue product's game film that should generate the most excitement.
Bleacher Report's Matt Miller explained before the draft:
"Brown shows up on film as the best player on the Purdue roster, so he's easy to spot. He's a true man-coverage cornerback with closing speed, instincts and the hips to turn and run through transitions against NFL talent. Not only that, but Brown is a willing tackler in the run game.
A patient, poised cornerback in man and zone coverage alike, Brown doesn't panic against speed and doesn't back down against power. He shows the awareness to find and attack the ball, scoring 16 pass breakups in the last two seasons.
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Brown's coverage skills and scheme versatility should allow him to get into the lineup as a rotational player early as a rookie. The Cowboys have a functional secondary—Pro Football Focus rates Dallas 13th in pass coverage for the 2015 season—but there are plenty of questions surrounding depth and the long-term view.
Expect Brown to have an immediate and sustained impact for the Cowboys.
Denver Broncos: Will Parks, DB
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Former Utah running back Devontae Booker may look like the Denver Broncos' strongest late pick from this draft in a few years, but sixth-round selection (219th overall) Will Parks is more of a hidden gem.
The former Arizona safety isn't likely to step into a starting role because of the depth the Broncos possess in the secondary. However, Parks is a versatile defender who can fill a variety of roles in the defense.
At 6'1" and 194 pounds, Parks has the size and the length to play either safety or cornerback. At Arizona, however, Parks spent a lot of his time near the line of scrimmage, which could lead him toward a linebacker-safety hybrid role at the pro level.
Parks amassed 76 total tackles, 7.0 tackles for a loss and seven passes defended in 2015.
“We don’t go toward the box safety that much where you can only play inside,” defensive coordinator Wade Phillips recently said, per Cameron Wolfe of the Denver Post. “The way we pick safeties, basically [the Broncos go with] guys that are versatile.”
Parks fits the Broncos' mold perfectly. Expect him to provide depth at multiple positions early and to stand out on special teams. Don't be surprised if he parlays his early opportunities into a significant role as a hybrid defender.
Detroit Lions: Antwione Williams, LB
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One thing that rookie fifth-round pick (169th overall) Antwione Williams definitely brings to the Detroit Lions is versatility.
Williams filled multiple linebacker roles during his time at Georgia Southern, and he even played some at safety. At 6'3" and 245 pounds, he has the size teams want in a hybrid defender, and he has shown the ability to make plays on the field, especially against the run.
Williams produced 107 tackles, 10.5 tackles for a loss and 4.0 sacks just last season.
Though Williams is likely to begin his pro career as a depth player, his ability to play multiple positions gives him a ton of value, especially when compared to his draft position. Williams doesn't have a problem taking on multiple roles, either.
Williams recently explained, via Carlos Monarrez of the Detroit Free Press:
"I feel like I can play anything that the coaches need me to play. I’m pretty much learning everything. I’m not just stuck to one position, learning just one thing. You need me to play mike (middle linebacker) this week, I can play mike. You need me to play sam (strong-side linebacker) next week, I can play sam. I feel that I’m a versatile player. I can play out in space. I move really well. So it’s exciting. I can bring the boom, too.
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The Lions should love the production and the overall depth that Williams can provide. Pulling the trigger in Round 5 was a brilliant move.
Green Bay Packers: Trevor Davis, WR
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Rookie fifth-round pick (163rd overall) Trevor Davis is staring down a crowded receiver room with the Green Bay Packers, but there is plenty or reason to believe he can crack the lineup and become a regular contributor.
The Cal product possesses good size for the receiver position at 6'1" and 188 pounds. He also has enough straight-line speed to be considered a vertical threat at the pro level. Davis logged an impressive 4.42-second 40-yard dash at this year's scouting combine.
Davis hauled in 40 receptions for 672 yards in 2015 with a strong 16.8 yards-per-catch average.
If he can get into the receiver rotation early, Davis should have opportunities to be another deep threat alongside star Jordy Nelson. Having returned 45 kicks for 1,110 yards while at Cal, Davis may also provide immediate value as a return specialist. Green Bay was smart to grab him when it had the chance.
"Any time you can get a weapon in the fifth round, you have to try and do that," Packers director of football operations Eliot Wolf said of Davis, per Lori Nickel of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "He was still sitting there on the board and we were fortunate enough to pick him."
Houston Texans: Tyler Ervin, RB
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The Houston Texans picked up running back Lamar Miller in free agency this offseason, and Miler presumably will own the starting job. However, this doesn't mean that rookie fourth-round pick (119th overall) Tyler Ervin won't get his opportunities to make an impact.
The 5'10", 192-pound San Jose State product has the size, quickness and hands to be a dangerous third-down back and kick returner. He also has the long speed—he ran a 4.41-second 40 at the combine—to be a real breakaway threat as a change-of-pace runner.
In 2015 alone, Ervin racked up 1,601 yards rushing, 45 receptions, 334 receiving yards and 13 total touchdowns.
Ervin may be a bit undersized, which is likely why teams allowed him to slip into the fourth round. However, he can play a variety of roles—perhaps even catching passes at receiver—and gives the Texans a lot of quick-strike capability. Expect many of the teams that passed on him to regret the decision at some point in 2016.
Indianapolis Colts: Antonio Morrison, ILB
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The Indianapolis Colts struggled defensively in 2015, finishing the year ranked 26th in total defense with an average of 379.1 yards per game allowed. Improving the defense this year has to be a priority, which is why rookie defenders are going to get their opportunities to contribute.
One Day 3 rookie (fourth round, pick No. 125) who could wind up contributing in a big way is linebacker Antonio Morrison. The former Florida standout is a tackling machine who can make plays inside Indianapolis' 3-4 base defense and on special teams. Despite returning from a significant knee injury, Morrison racked up 103 total tackles in 2015.
New defensive coordinator Ted Monachino made it clear earlier this year that he placed a lot of value on his front seven and on the pass rush.
“There are a lot of different ways you can look at pass coverage but the way I look at it—the best pass defense is a good pass rush,” Monachino said in January, per Kevin Bowen of the Colts' official website.
Morrison also brings some pass-rushing value, so there's a chance he can be more than just a thumping run-stuffer and special teams star.
"Morrison plays with the style you want from an inside linebacker," Bleacher Report's Matt Miller wrote before the draft. "He’s rugged, tough and hits like a ton of bricks. While he doesn’t offer much upside in pass coverage, he does show the instincts and burst to chase quarterbacks through the A-gap on delayed pressures."
Expect Morrison to be an immediate contributor on early downs with the potential to develop into a long-term starter.
Jacksonville Jaguars: Tyrone Holmes, OLB
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Over the past couple of years, the Jacksonville Jaguars have worked to add players capable of generating a pass rush. Though he is likely a bit of a project, rookie sixth-round pick (181st overall) Tyrone Holmes looks like he can be another one.
The Montana product doesn't have a lot of game film against top-tier competition to evaluate. However, he has all the measurables of a future NFL sack artist. The 6'4", 250-pound Holmes ran an impressive 4.59-second 40 at his pro day.
Against the competition he did face, Holmes was dominant. In 2015 alone, he posted 87 tackles, 18.0 sacks and 21.5 tackles for a loss. He was named Stats FCS Defensive Player of the Year for his efforts.
Holmes will probably be a situational pass-rusher early in his pro career, but could eventually see more time as an outside linebacker. Holmes wasn't used at the position much at Montana, but his defensive line coach Brian Hendricks believes he has the capability.
"In our defense, we have some zone pressures, and we would drop him into coverage," Hendricks said, per Ryan O'Halloran of the Florida Times-Union. "But we didn’t use him too much like that because we wanted to use him at what he was best at. But he’ll be able to move in space. At his pro day, a lot of teams put him through types of drills."
Holmes should be an early contributor in Jacksonville with plenty of potential to become an eventual star.
Kansas City Chiefs: Kevin Hogan, QB
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Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith isn't likely to see any real competition from rookie and former Stanford starter Kevin Hogan anytime soon. However, the fifth-round pick (162nd overall) can still be a sneaky gem of a player in the long run.
At 6'3" and 218 pounds, Hogan has the size NFL teams want out of a quarterback. He doesn't have the strongest arm or the most impressive athletic skills, though, and this is why he wasn't a coveted prospect heading into the draft. However, Hogan has great leadership skills and plenty of starting experience.
At Stanford, he showed control over a pro-style offense. In 2015, he completed 67.8 percent of his passes and tossed 27 touchdowns with eight interceptions. The Chiefs should feel good about the idea of Hogan filling in as a spot starter if necessary.
Say what you will about backup quarterbacks, but they play an important role in the NFL. The backup-quarterback position can make or break a team's season when injuries begin to mount. Hogan can solidify that position for the foreseeable future in Kansas City.
Hogan, however, may not be limited to only being a backup over the long haul with the Chiefs.
Experience and football intelligence led Chris Burke of SI.com to label Hogan one of the draft's more underappreciated prospects.
"Hogan’s game looks to be that of a sharp, valuable long-term backup with a chance to develop into a starter," Burke wrote of Hogan. "Think of the Redskins’ Colt McCoy or the currently unsigned Matt Flynn, with an upside of the Chargers’ Philip Rivers, who has a cleaner game but similar mechanics."
We're not sure Hogan has the upside of Rivers, but he certainly appears to have the skills of a quality backup with the potential to start down the line.
Los Angeles Rams: Josh Forrest, LB
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Sixth-round selection (190th overall) Josh Forrest looks to be a rotational linebacker as a rookie for the Los Angeles Rams, but he has the skills to thrive in that role.
An athletic, rangy linebacker, Forrest can make plays against both the run and the pass. He racked up an impressive 93 tackles to go with 3.5 sacks and two interceptions in 2015. Bleacher Report's Matt Miller wrote the following of Forrest before the draft:
"Athletic on the tape, Forrest moves well enough to be a pass-rusher off the edge or through inside gaps. He has the length (33 ½” arms) to keep blockers off his frame and locks out fullbacks and tight ends to stack-and-shed.
When chasing the ball, Forrest has the quickness to run down outside plays and will show catch-up speed to recover if he’s late to his read. Forrest’s ability to move laterally makes him a possible 4-3 outside linebacker or an inside linebacker in all schemes.
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At 6'3" and 249 pounds, Forrest definitely has the size needed to play either outside or inside in L.A.'s 4-3 base defense. Expect him to provide depth at both spots and to makes plays as a situational defender and a special teams standout.
The Rams' defensive strength is its front, but adding a guy like Forrest helps strengthen the group of middle defenders behind it.
Miami Dolphins: Thomas Duarte, TE
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In the seventh round of the draft (pick No. 231), the Miami Dolphins selected former UCLA receiver Thomas Duarte. In his new home, Duarte will likely spend most of his time at tight end.
Though Duarte was a wideout in college and possesses no tight end experience, he could emerge as a valuable weapon in new head coach Adam Gase's offense. The 6'2" and 231-pound Duarte isn't going to be the biggest tight end on the field, but he is a natural pass-catcher with a high level of athleticism. He ran a solid 4.72-second 40 at the scouting combine to go with a 33.5-inch vertical and a 118.0-inch broad jump.
Duarte is likely to be a receiving-only tight end or a hybrid player in Miami. However, he can thrive in this role, as Bleacher Report's Matt Miller explained before the draft:
"Duarte plays the ball well in traffic and can make contested catches. When the ball is in his hands, he hits another gear and can run away from tacklers. He's effective at manipulating defenders and getting them to take false steps, which he uses to create separation. Duarte is a willing blocker in the run game. He can execute stalk blocks and hold up cornerbacks on the edge of the play.
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Expect Duarte to start out as a rotational player in the Dolphins offense, but to work into the rotation more as he learns to use his new position to create mismatches. Don't be surprised if Duarte replaces Jordan Cameron as the team's top receiving tight end next year.
Cameron's current deal expires after the 2016 season.
Minnesota Vikings: Stephen Weatherly, DE
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The Minnesota Vikings scooped up a number of smart draft selections this year, but seventh-round pick (227th overall) Stephen Weatherly may prove to be the biggest surprise.
The former Vanderbilt edge-rusher has an excellent combination of size and athleticism. He measured in at 6'4" and 267 pounds at the scouting combine and posted a 4.61-second 40 and 23 reps of the 225-pound bench press.
Weatherly produced 46 total tackles, 3.5 sacks and 9.5 tackles for a loss in 2015. In Minnesota, he will likely begin his career as a rotational pass-rusher.
“We’re projecting him as a defensive end,” Vikings general manager Rick Spielman said of Weatherly, per Andrew Krammer of ESPN 1500 in Minnesota. “[Defensive line coach] Andre Patterson went all the way back to his freshman year in 2013 and pulled all his plays as a defensive end…We will need some refinement from a technical standpoint, but he has a lot of upside as a pass rusher in a 4-3 defense.”
Expect Weatherly to immediately fill a role as a versatile backup and special teams contributor. Given some time, he could become one of the better situational edge-rushers on Minnesota's roster.
New England Patriots: Elandon Roberts, ILB
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The New England Patriots may value roster depth and special teams contribution more than any team in the NFL. This is precisely why sixth-round pick (214th overall) Elandon Roberts can make his mark as a rookie in 2016.
Roberts is a bit undersized at 6'0" and 235 pounds, but he was an extremely productive defender at the University of Houston. Last year alone, he amassed 142 total tackles, 19.0 tackles for a loss, 6.0 sacks and an interception.
His willingness to study the game and to give his all on the field will likely earn Roberts plenty of opportunities in New England's defense. Bleacher Report's Matt Miller wrote the following of Roberts before the draft:
"In pass situations, Roberts gets a deep vertical drop with ease and has the feet and hips to survive in coverage against NFL offenses. He’s quick to recognize the play and lets his eyes take him to the ball. Roberts is a bouncy, balanced player in space and in the box.
Taking on the run, Roberts gets good scrape and meets the ball at the point of attack. His 88 solo tackles are proof of his playmaking ability, and he’s quick enough to flash and make plays in the backfield. A vocal leader who truly loves the game, Roberts will help on special teams early on.
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Don't be surprised if Roberts becomes an immediate special teams star and an eventual starter. Whatever the role, he appears up to the challenge.
“Whatever they want me to do, I’m going to do," Roberts recently said, per Michael Whitmer of the Boston Globe. "That’s what I’m focused on right now. Whatever the Patriots want, I’ll get it done.”
New Orleans Saints: David Onyemata, DT
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The New Orleans Saints selected only two players on Day 3 of the draft, but the first pick of the day could prove to be a most wise investment. In the fourth round (120th overall), the Saints gambled on former Manitoba defensive tackle David Onyemata.
Onyemata is extremely raw, having played just four years of American football. However, he has the physical and athletic tools necessary to develop into a top-tier pass-rusher over time.
Bleacher Report's Matt Miller explained why Onyemata's traits are enticing before the draft:
"If you want power, Onyemata has power. He's a Mack truck coming out of his stance and can rock offensive linemen back with his hands. He's a violent, aggressive player who will look to run through blockers as he gets after the quarterback.
Onyemata's body type and athleticism are eye-catching, especially when you consider he could easily add 10 pounds of muscle. A good defensive line coach will see his raw traits and believe they can develop him into a top-tier pass-rusher with time.
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Overall, Onyemata is a clear project of a defensive lineman. However, he should be able to contribute early as a situational pass-rusher. He also has the potential to develop into a cornerstone of the Saints defensive front.
“Give him two years with our defensive line coach and he’ll be a starter. He’s talented, quick and strong,” one NFL scout said before the draft, per Justin Dunk of Sportsnet.ca. “That young guy is one of my top sleepers. If he’s still there in round five I’m going to fight for him.”
Coming from Canada, Onyemata is a hidden-gem prospect in the truest sense.
New York Giants: Paul Perkins, RB
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Rookie fifth-round pick (149th overall) Paul Perkins might not step into a starting role with the New York Giants. However, the productive and elusive back can certainly find an immediate role and grow from there into a potential star.
The 5'10", 208-pound UCLA product has adequate size and strength for the position—he produced 19 reps of the 225-pound bench press at the combine. However, it's his open-field elusiveness and ability to contribute in multiple phases that make Perkins special.
Perkins racked up 1,343 yards rushing in 2015 to go with 30 receptions and 242 receiving yards. He scored a total of 15 touchdowns in 2015.
It's actually a bit surprising that Perkins lasted all the way until Round 5, but that could be due to the nature of the position. There wasn't a lot of hype surrounding this year's running back class outside of Ezekiel Elliott and Derrick Henry.
Before the draft, Bleacher Report Featured Columnist Ryan McCrystal named Perkins his "most underrated weapon" in the draft and made a strong case for him to be the second back off the board behind Elliott.
"Due to scheme, some teams may prefer a more traditional downhill runner like Alabama's Derrick Henry," McCrystal wrote. "But Perkins offers the more complete skill set. With such a well-rounded game, it's easy to envision Perkins as a rookie feature back during the 2016 season."
New York's backfield is immediately better with Perkins a part of it. Expect him to make his fair share of plays in 2016 and beyond.
New York Jets: Charone Peake, WR
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The New York Jets don't have the biggest need at the wide receiver position, but they still took a flier on former Clemson wideout Charone Peake in the seventh round (241st overall). What the Jets are getting is a pass-catcher with monumental upside.
Bleacher Report's Matt Miller actually rated Peake his ninth-best receiver in this year's class, and explained before the draft why he can be a difference-maker:
"Peake knows how to sell his route with head fakes and hip shakes and is a better technician than you expect from a one-year starter. His body control and gliding running style combine to make him a tough player to read in his route stem.
Peake is an explosive vertical threat with the speed to take the top off the defense. He ran a 4.45 on a slow track in Indianapolis and then followed it up with a 4.37 at the Clemson pro day. That speed shows on film, and it showed in a week of practices at the Senior Bowl, where Peake consistently beat defenders deep.
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Peake didn't generate a ton of attention heading into the draft because of knee injuries and a series of NFL receivers that sat in front of him on the depth chart. He logged just 99 receptions in five seasons at Clemson, and 50 of those came this past season.
It won't be surprising to see Peake earn an early role in the offense and to eventually develop into a longtime starter on the outside.
Oakland Raiders: DeAndre Washington, RB
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Rookie fifth-round pick (143rd overall) DeAndre Washington isn't likely to earn the Oakland Raiders' starting running back spot any time soon—that job should be in the firm grasp of Latavius Murray. However, he can provide plenty of explosive offensive firepower as a change-of-pace back.
The 5'8", 204-pound Texas Tech product is elusive in the open field and can damage opposing defenses as a pass-catcher out of the backfield. He caught 41 passes for 385 yards last season to go with 1,492 yards rushing.
Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie said the following of Washington, via Eddie Paskal of the team's official website: "He’s the one guy that, every time you watch him play, it was very difficult for the first guy to bring him down. He had power, quickness and he had speed. He was the kind of guy that can do it all. He’s tough, instinctive. We just thought he was a really good football player. We think he’s going to help our team a lot."
Expect Washington to help the Oakland offense plenty in 2016 and over the next few seasons.
Philadelphia Eagles: Blake Countess, DB
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Former Auburn defensive back Blake Countess wasn't invited to this year's scouting combine, and he didn't generate a lot of noise coming into the draft. This is likely because his 5'9", 184-pound frame is far less than ideal for the safety position he often played in college.
Of course, safety isn't the only position Countess played at Auburn. He also spent time on the outside at cornerback and inside defending slot receivers. This versatility, along with some fairly impressive athleticism, is why Countess can prove to be a gem of a player at the next level.
Countess ran a solid 4.48-second 40 at his pro day to go with an impressive 36.5-inch vertical and a 4.19-second short shuttle. The Philadelphia Eagles liked what they saw and ultimately pulled the trigger on Countess in the sixth round (196th overall).
“He was a favorite player of ours,” executive vice president of football operations Howie Roseman said of Countess, per Alex Smith of the Eagles' official website. “He has some traits of guys like [Rodney] McLeod when he plays [safety]. He’s also played nickel, he can play nickel, he can play corner… Phenomenal character kid and just somebody that we had really kind of earmarked.”
Expect Countess to get on the field early as a rotational defensive back, special teams standout and depth player. Once the Eagles decide on a position for him, Countess could become a regular contributor and a potential star.
Pittsburgh Steelers: Jerald Hawkins, OT
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The Pittsburgh Steelers came into the draft with needs along the offensive line. The Steelers are rated just 27th in pass blocking by Pro Football Focus for the 2015 season and won't benefit from the return of left tackle Kelvin Beachum.
Beachum, who missed 10 games due to injury in 2015, signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars this offseason.
Fortunately, Pittsburgh may have found a longtime starter for its offensive line in fourth-round pick (123rd overall) Jerald Hawkins.
Hawkins played both left and right tackle during his time at LSU. This versatility, along with his overall talent, makes Hawkins a tremendous value in Round 4. Bleacher Report's Matt Miller actually graded Hawkins as his sixth-best tackle in this year's class, and wrote the following before the draft:
"A long, lean tackle prospect built in the mold of former first-rounders Luke Joeckel and Jake Matthews, Hawkins uses his length and agility well to protect the edge. Unlike Joeckel, Hawkins has power in his punch and can roll back pass-rushers with his timing and impact. Hawkins doesn’t give up his inside shoulder thanks to his poise and length, and he’ll slide his feet to reset and counter secondary pass-rushing moves.
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Hawkins immediately provides depth at both tackle spots, and he can be groomed to be an eventual starter at either. This, of course, is assuming Hawkins doesn't win a starting job outright as a rookie. Steelers offensive line coach Mike Munchak recently pointed out why Hawkins' knowledge of pro-style offense gives him an edge coming into the NFL.
"He's been involved with a lot of different aspects where they'll be in a two-back offense, two-tight-end offense, a spread offense," Munchak said of Hawkins, per Jerit Roser of NOLA.com." So as an offensive lineman, he understands those concepts."
Don't be surprised if Hawkins is starting at some point in his rookie season.
San Diego Chargers: Derek Watt, FB
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In today's pass-driven NFL, we don't always think of fullbacks as hidden gems. However, San Diego Chargers sixth-round pick (198th overall) Derek Watt has the potential to be exactly that—and not just because he is J.J.'s little brother.
Watt spent part of his time as Wisconsin opening holes for second-year Chargers running back Melvin Gordon. This should immediately add value to Watt's presence in two-back sets as the pair should have some already-established chemistry.
Watt also brings value to the San Diego offense with his ability to make plays as a pass-catcher.
"I take pride in trying to catch the ball out of the backfield and be more versatile, rather than just a blocker," Watt recently said, per Eric D. Williams of ESPN.com. "More so my senior year, I'd flex out and be the wide receiver. I caught a handful of balls split out this season, so I'm comfortable out there."
Watt caught 15 passed for 139 yards last season.
The ability of Watt to provide offensive ammunition as both a run-blocker and as a pass-catcher is huge. He should be able to work himself into a long-term role in San Diego and his selection late in the draft was a smart move for a team looking for offensive upgrades.
San Francisco 49ers: Aaron Burbridge, WR
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The San Francisco 49ers came into the 2016 draft in need of wide receivers. Pro Football Focus rates last year's team just 29th in the NFL in receiving, and that group included now-departed star Anquan Boldin.
For some reason, the 49ers waited until the sixth round (213th overall) to draft a receiver. Yet, they may have found a gem in former Michigan State wideout Aaron Burbridge.
The 6'0", 206-pound Burbridge is the type of strong, physical receiver the team just lost in Boldin. Also, like Boldin, Burbridge has shown the ability to haul in tough catches. He caught 85 passes last season for 1,258 yards and seven touchdowns.
Burbridge isn't much of a field-stretcher, but he can operate well in space and should make for a nice fit in new head coach Chip Kelly's offense. The 49ers aren't deep at the receiver position, either, so Burbridge should see plenty of early opportunities. Of course, it's that ability to make difficult catches that is going to earn Burbridge playing time and allow him to thrive as a pro.
“I’ve said it publicly, the guy can catch a BB in the dark,” Michigan State head coach Mark Dantonio recently told the 49ers' official website. “He’s got great hand-eye coordination. He makes all the 50-50 catches. He’s a very competitive person. He’ll go over the middle, catch the ball and get north immediately."
Seattle Seahawks: Kenny Lawler, WR
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The Seattle Seahawks have spent the past few years assembling a big and physical receiving corps, and rookie seventh-round pick (243rd overall) Kenny Lawler fits the group perfectly.
Lawler wasn't highly coveted during the draft, likely because of the average measurables—like a 4.64-second 40 and a 31-inch vertical jump—he produced at the scouting combine. However, Lawler is a tremendous pass-catcher who should immediately contribute in critical passing situations and in the red zone.
Bleacher Report's Matt Miller actually compared Lawler to Chicago Bears possession receiver Eddie Royal and wrote the following of him before the draft:
"Lawler tracks the ball beautifully in the air and shows the footwork and body control to adjust over either shoulder and pull in the ball. He's able to either create a basket to let the ball drop in over the top or turn, leap and attack the ball in the air depending on the coverage he's seeing. Lawler has good length (33 ⅜") and hand size (10 ½"), which makes him a threat in the red zone. His 13 touchdowns in 2015 highlight what he can do on back-shoulder fades and pylon routes.
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According to the Seahawks' official website, Lawler "impressed both the Seahawks coaching staff and the media" with his acrobatic catches during rookie minicamp earlier this month.
Lawler isn't going to be a downfield burner in Seattle's offense, but his possession-receiver potential makes him a huge bargain at the bottom of the draft.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Ryan Smith, CB
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers selected a couple of defensive backs in this year's draft, which makes perfect sense. Pro Football Focus rates Tampa dead last in pass coverage for the 2015 season.
This is precisely why rookie fourth-round pick (108th overall) Ryan Smith should get an opportunity to immediately step in and compete for significant playing time. The former North Carolina Central star has all the tools to be a standout player at the pro level.
The 5'11", 189-pound pass defender posted a strong 4.47-second 40 at the scouting combine to go with a 36.0-inch vertical and 18 reps of the 225-pound bench press. He has the combination of size and athleticism that NFL teams want from a cornerback, which largely outweighs his small-school background.
Smith doesn't believe his small-school status will prevent him from having an impact in multiple phases for the Buccaneers.
"I think I can help the team out a lot," Smith recently said, per Scott Smith of the Buccaneers' official website. "When I'm out there, it's indescribable. I did special teams all my life, in college, and I made plays. I'm going to continue to do the same thing at the next level. I'm going to give it my all, so I know for a fact I'm going to be a major part for this team."
Expect Smith to compete for early playing time as a situational defensive back and a special teams ace. Before long, he could solidify himself as the team's primary slot corner.
Tennessee Titans: Aaron Wallace, LB
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Late-round draft picks typically have to bring a certain degree of versatility into the NFL in order to make a roster. Luckily, seventh-round selection (222nd overall) Aaron Wallace is bringing plenty of that to the Tennessee Titans.
Wallace was able to produce in a variety of roles during his time at UCLA, and he typically made the most of his opportunities. Just last season, he produced 65 tackles, 7.0 sacks and 12.5 tackles for a loss. His ability to contribute as both a run-stopper and a pass-rusher should earn him more opportunities at the pro level.
His first opportunity will likely come as a depth player at multiple linebacker spots. According to head coach Mike Mularkey, it seems that Wallace is definitely up to that job.
“Aaron Wallace practiced at all four linebackers positions the first day,” Mularkey said during rookie minicamp, per Terry McCormick of the Herald-Citizen. “That kind of gives you an indication of where he's at and his ability to pick up things.
Given Dick LeBeau's history of utilizing and showcasing versatile defenders in his attacking schemes, Tennessee's defensive coordinator should find plenty of uses for Wallace. Expect Wallace to be a solid rotational player early on with potential to develop into a multiposition starter.
Washington Redskins: Matthew Ioannidis, DT
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The Washington Redskins came into the 2016 draft needing to upgrade their run defense. The team lost defensive tackle Terrance Knighton in free agency and is rated just 29th in run defense by Pro Football Focus for the 2015 season, anyway.
This is exactly why versatile Temple product Matthew Ioannidis can be a valuable asset for the Redskins as a rookie and moving forward. A 6'3", 299-pound space-eater, Ioannidis can fill multiple roles in Washington's defensive front.
Versatility is one of the things Washington general manager Scot McCloughan pointed to when describing Ioannidis' fit. McCloughan said the following, per Rob Rang of CBSSports.com:
"In base, we're looking at him more at nose, but he can still play the three [technique]. But in sub, which we're in a lot more than base, he can move around the line. The thing about him too, again, he's not the prettiest, he's not the best athlete, but he's a football player. You know what, he's a tough son of a gun that I respect a lot.
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Even if Ioannidis only begins his career as a rotational player, he can immediately improve Washington's run defense. He should be a longtime piece of the Redskins defense, and he could prove to be a true steal as a fifth-round selection (152nd overall).
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