Evaluating The 2019 NFL Draft: The 10 Best Players Five Years Later

David

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Post on Jun 12, 2025

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Evaluating the 2019 NFL Draft: The 10 Best Players Five Years Later

The 2019 NFL Draft, now five years in the rearview mirror, offers a fascinating case study in evaluating draft success. While some picks were instant hits, others took time to develop, and some unfortunately never lived up to the hype. This retrospective analyzes the draft's top performers, considering their contributions, longevity, and overall impact on their respective teams. We'll explore which players from this class have cemented their legacies as elite NFL talent.

Methodology: Our ranking considers a combination of factors including Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors, statistical achievements, team impact, and sustained performance over the past five seasons. This is not simply a ranking of raw statistics, but a holistic evaluation of a player's overall contribution to their team's success.

The Top 10 Players from the 2019 NFL Draft (Five Years Later):

1. Nick Bosa (DE, San Francisco 49ers): Bosa's dominance was immediately apparent. He's a perennial Defensive Player of the Year candidate, consistently racking up sacks and disrupting opposing offenses. His impact transcends mere statistics; he's a true game-changer.

2. Quinnen Williams (DT, New York Jets): Williams has steadily improved each season, developing into a force in the Jets' defensive line. While his early career was slightly inconsistent, his recent performances solidify his place amongst the 2019 draft's best.

3. Josh Allen (QB, Buffalo Bills): Allen's transformation from a raw talent with a powerful arm to a refined, highly accurate quarterback is a testament to his dedication and coaching. He's become a legitimate MVP candidate and a cornerstone of the Bills' success. Learn more about Allen's evolution in our article: [Link to a hypothetical article about Josh Allen's development].

4. Montez Sweat (DE, Washington Commanders): Sweat has consistently produced high sack numbers and has shown great potential as a pass rusher. His combination of speed and power makes him a nightmare for offensive tackles.

5. Devin White (LB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers): White is a tackling machine and a leader on the Buccaneers' defense. He's a vital part of their championship-winning team and demonstrates consistent, high-level play.

6. TJ Hockenson (TE, Minnesota Vikings): Traded to the Vikings, Hockenson has flourished, proving himself a top-tier tight end capable of both receiving and blocking. He's a vital piece of their offensive puzzle.

7. DK Metcalf (WR, Seattle Seahawks): Known for his incredible athleticism and size, Metcalf is a deep threat and a red-zone target. While he's had some injury concerns, his impact on the Seahawks' offense is undeniable.

8. Marquise Brown (WR, Arizona Cardinals): A speed demon, Brown has consistently shown his ability to stretch the field. His career has taken some unexpected turns, but his explosive playmaking remains valuable.

9. Brian Burns (DE, Carolina Panthers): Burns is a disruptive force off the edge, consistently pressuring quarterbacks. He’s shown improvement year after year, establishing himself as one of the better edge rushers in the league.

10. Parris Campbell (WR, Chicago Bears): While hampered by injuries earlier in his career, Campbell has shown flashes of brilliance, making a strong resurgence with the Chicago Bears. His potential has not been fully realized yet, but he’s on the list due to the consistent development he's shown despite facing adversity.

Conclusion:

The 2019 NFL Draft delivered a significant amount of talent. While some early projections missed the mark, this list highlights the players who have proven their worth and significantly impacted their respective teams. Five years on, the class continues to shape the NFL landscape, and future rankings will be fascinating to revisit. What are your thoughts on this list? Share your opinions in the comments below!