NFL Draft Grades 2016: Full Results, Analysis and Reaction from Round 1

The mock drafts are done, the picks have been turned in and the first round of the 2016 NFL draft has come to a close. Just like that, potential future Pro Bowlers have found their new homes as they look to parlay their collegiate success into productive NFL careers.  

It is no secret the teams that draft well are the ones who typically find themselves in the playoffs on a consistent basis, and this year’s first round will be no different. Some teams performed better than others and added important building blocks to the foundation of their franchises, while others missed on opportunities to add difference-makers at critical positions.

With that in mind, here are results, grades and analysis for every first-round pick before a closer look at some notable selections who will turn in impressive rookie seasons for their new teams.

Notable First-Round Selections

No. 4 Dallas Cowboys: RB Ezekiel Elliott, Ohio State

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The Dallas Cowboys were 4-12 last season and finished in last place in the NFC East, but their offense will be so explosive in 2016 that they will be back in the playoffs. Running back Ezekiel Elliott is a major reason why. 

The Ringer painted an enticing picture for Cowboys fans:

Forget value for a sec. Darren McFadden rushed for 1,100 yards behind the Cowboys’ line last year. Without Romo. This could be silly.

— The Ringer (@ringer) April 29, 2016

Many rookies are long-term projects, but Elliott is a win-now pick for a franchise with a closing window. Pro Football Focus suggested as much: “With [Tony] Romo’s back (and age) the Cowboys’ window is short. Elliott is a complete back with positive grades in every major category in 2015.”

Elliott was one of the faces of college football the last two seasons as he helped lead Ohio State to a national title and a Fiesta Bowl victory. The defending Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year scored 41 touchdowns the last two years alone and became a household name when he topped 200 yards rushing in each of the Buckeyes’ three final games to end the 2014 campaign with a national championship.

He topped off that streak with four rushing touchdowns against Oregon, and he also scored four times against Notre Dame in his final collegiate game at the Fiesta Bowl this season.

Elliott reached that production because he boasts the vision to see holes develop up front, the speed (4.47 40-yard dash) to burst through them or bounce plays to the outside and the toughness to …

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