AFC East Team Grades
By: Alex Khvatov
Buffalo Bills
In my opinion, the Bills had the best draft this year. Ed Oliver (Houston) slipped to No.9 and is a fantastic fit as a three-technique in a 4-3 defense. He is a disruptive DT with a non-stop motor. Versatile OL Cody Ford (Oklahoma) is a major steal at the top of the second round. Third round picks FAU RB Devin Singletary should develop into a nice change-of-pace back and Ole Miss TE Dawson Knox is a terrific athlete with great speed and major upside. LB Vosean Joseph (Florida) was the best selection on day three. The fifth rounder has very good speed and excels as a run defender. I am surprised they didn’t address the WR position.
Overall Grade A
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins traded a second-round pick for QB Josh Rosen. That was a bargain, and I strongly believe that they have finally found their franchise QB. They spent a first-round pick on Christian Wilkins (Clemson) who is a disruptive DT. He is a good pass rusher, but an average run defender. Third rounder OG Michael Deiter (Wisconsin) is an experienced, versatile player who excels as a run blocker. I wasn’t too thrilled about their day three picks.
Overall Grade B-
New York Jets
The Jets took DT Quinnen Williams (Alabama), the best player available with the No.3 overall pick. He has good size and quickness. He has good pass rush repertoire moves and knows how to use his hands. He is projected as a NT in a 3-4 defense. Third rounder edge rusher Jachai Polite (Florida) fell due to character concerns. However, he has a quick first step and showed a knack for getting after the QB during his last season with the Gators. He projects as a 3-4 OLB. ILB Blake Cashman (Minnesota) was a good value pick in the fifth round. He has sideline-to-sideline speed, is a good tackler and has fluid hips.
Overall Grade B-
New England Patriots
WR N’Keal Harry (Arizona State) was the last pick in the first round. He has very good size, strength and ball skills. He excels in contested situations and is a red-zone threat. He is an average route runner who struggles creating separation. Second rounder Joejuan Williams (Vanderbilt) has outstanding size and excels in press coverage. He has fluid hips and mirrors the receiver well. DE Chase Winovich (Michigan) was a steal in the third round. This was the best pick that the Patriots made during the entire draft. The Pats added more depth to their backfield by selecting RB Damien Harris (Alabama) in the third round. Auburn QB Jarrett Stidham was chosen in the fourth round. Byron Cowart (Maryland) was a great value pick in the fifth round. He has the versatility to play DE or DT in a 4-3 scheme. He is a good run defender.
Overall Grade B
