2012 NFL Draft Grades: Ranking Best Values of Round 1

No other word is tossed about so cavalierly during the NFL draft than "value." This guy is excellent value at this pick, that guy is great value in a weak class at that position, Mel Kiper Jr. places a premium value on extra-hold styling gel, etc.

I guess I'll join the value party.

While watching the NFL draft last night, I couldn't help but think that several teams got excellent value landing certain players at certain slots. Let's take a look at those picks.

Feel free to add your own favorite picks in the comments. I value your opinion.

1. David DeCastro, Pittsburgh Steelers

Sometimes, good things do happen to those who wait.

The Pittsburgh Steelers had an absolute gem fall to them with the 24th pick, as DeCastro will end up being the best offensive lineman in this class in my opinion.

He's regularly compared to Steve Hutchinson, who has only been a seven-time All-Pro and Pro Bowl selection. High praise, indeed.

DeCastro will live up to it. He's fundamentally sound, tough as nails and a hard worker. He'll instantly improve a patchwork line in Pittsburgh.

2. Melvin Ingram, San Diego Chargers

I had Ingram coming off the board with the seventh pick, so the Chargers landing him with the 18th pick was fantastic value.

Not only that, but San Diego's primary need heading into this draft was improving the pass rush, and if there's one thing Ingram can do, he's help in that area.

Ingram is one of the more versatile players in this draft, and while he'll likely make the move to outside linebacker in San Diego's 3-4, he can probably contribute as a defensive end in a pinch as well. To me, he brings the versatility of a Justin Tuck, who can rush the passer either inside or outside.

I loved this pick for San Diego. Ingram will be a stud.

3. Michael Brockers, St. Louis Rams

The Rams came into the day with the sixth overall pick, and they turned that into Brockers and a second-round pick from the Dallas Cowboys, who selected Morris Claiborne.

That's pretty solid value at that pick.

Brockers is one of the two elite defensive tackles in the draft in my opinion (the Eagles took the other, Fletcher Cox), and Jeff Fisher said the Rams were considering him at No. 6 after the Jacksonville Jaguars traded up to select Justin Blackmon at No. 5.

Now, the Rams find themselves with a huge upgrade on the defensive line and three picks in the second round (33, 39, 45).

If the Rams nail those picks (and the two first-rounders they have coming from Washington over the next two seasons after the RGIII trade), the team will be remembered for having one of the best drafts in NFL history.

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