Revisiting The 2021 NFL Draft: The 10 Best Players

David

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Post on May 30, 2025

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Revisiting the 2021 NFL Draft: The 10 Best Players

The 2021 NFL Draft is now firmly in the rearview mirror, giving us enough time to assess which players truly lived up to the hype and established themselves as top-tier talent. While some first-round picks struggled to find their footing, others exceeded expectations and became foundational pieces for their respective franchises. This article revisits that draft class, highlighting the ten best players based on their performance and impact through the 2023 season. We'll be looking beyond just stats, considering factors like leadership, durability, and overall team contribution.

Methodology: This ranking isn't solely based on raw statistics, although those certainly played a role. We considered a player's overall impact on their team, their consistency throughout the season, their development trajectory, and their projected future value. This is a subjective ranking, naturally, but grounded in objective performance data.

The Top 10 Players from the 2021 NFL Draft:

1. Ja'Marr Chase (WR, Cincinnati Bengals): Chase's rookie season was nothing short of sensational. He immediately established himself as a top-flight receiver, showcasing exceptional route running and ball-tracking skills. His impact on the Bengals' offense was undeniable, propelling them to the Super Bowl. He continues to be a dominant force in the league.

2. Mac Jones (QB, New England Patriots): While his later seasons haven't been as impressive, Jones's rookie year demonstrated his accuracy and ability to manage an NFL offense. His performance solidified his status as a promising young quarterback, though his subsequent struggles highlight the complexities of the QB position.

3. Micah Parsons (LB, Dallas Cowboys): Parsons burst onto the scene with a dominant rookie campaign, showcasing incredible versatility and explosiveness. He's consistently ranked among the league's best linebackers and is a true game-changer on defense.

4. Patrick Surtain II (CB, Denver Broncos): Surtain II quickly proved his worth as a lockdown cornerback, displaying exceptional coverage skills and physicality. He's become a cornerstone of the Broncos' defense and a nightmare for opposing receivers.

5. Jaylen Waddle (WR, Miami Dolphins): Waddle's speed and elusiveness make him a constant threat in the Dolphins' offense. He's consistently produced big plays and formed a potent duo with Tua Tagovailoa.

6. Alijah Vera-Tucker (OG, New York Jets): Vera-Tucker transitioned seamlessly to the NFL, demonstrating impressive strength and athleticism at guard. He has become a vital part of the Jets' offensive line.

7. Rashod Bateman (WR, Baltimore Ravens): Despite injury concerns, Bateman has shown flashes of brilliance when healthy, demonstrating exceptional hands and route-running ability. His potential is immense.

8. Creed Humphrey (C, Kansas City Chiefs): Humphrey has been a rock-solid center for the Chiefs, providing consistent protection for Patrick Mahomes. His performance speaks volumes about his consistency and importance.

9. Kwity Paye (DE, Indianapolis Colts): While not reaching the immediate impact of some others, Paye's development has been steady, and his role as a pass rusher will be increasingly important for the Colts' defense.

10. Zaven Collins (LB, Arizona Cardinals): Collins displayed his athleticism and versatility early in his career, but consistent performance has been a work in progress. His raw talent still makes him a player to watch in the coming seasons.

Conclusion:

The 2021 NFL Draft produced a talented crop of players. While some have yet to fully realize their potential, this list showcases ten individuals who have already made significant contributions to their teams and established themselves as key players in the league. The coming years will further define their legacies, but their early success is a testament to their skills and the success of their respective NFL teams' scouting departments. Which player from this list do you believe will have the most impactful career? Share your thoughts in the comments below!