Ten Years Later: Evaluating The Best Of The 2019 NFL Draft Class

David

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Post on Jun 13, 2025

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Ten Years Later: Evaluating the Best of the 2019 NFL Draft Class

The dust has settled on the 2019 NFL Draft. A decade later, it's time to look back and assess which players truly lived up to the hype, exceeding expectations and cementing their legacies. While some high-profile picks flamed out, others blossomed into superstars, shaping the landscape of the league. This retrospective analyzes the best performers from that memorable draft, considering their overall impact and longevity.

The Top Tier: Instant Impact and Lasting Success

The 2019 draft boasted a strong top tier, producing several players who quickly became cornerstone pieces for their franchises.

• Kyler Murray (Cardinals, #1 Overall): While his Cardinals tenure ended with a trade, Murray's electrifying talent was undeniable. His dual-threat abilities transformed Arizona's offense, though injuries unfortunately hampered his consistency. His early-career success, however, solidifies his place among the top performers of the class.

• Nick Bosa (49ers, #2 Overall): Bosa’s dominance is unquestionable. A consistent force on the defensive line, he's earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and a Defensive Player of the Year award, proving his worth as a top-two pick. His impact on San Francisco's defense has been immeasurable. He's a model of consistency and a true game-changer.

• Josh Allen (Jaguars, #7 Overall): While not a first-round pick, Allen deserves mention. Initially overshadowed by other picks, Allen's career trajectory has been phenomenal. He's become a reliable and consistent pass rusher, making a significant contribution to his team's defensive success.

Beyond the Headlines: Solid Contributors and Unexpected Gems

While the top picks often garner the most attention, the 2019 draft also yielded several players who provided significant value to their teams, exceeding expectations in their roles.

• A.J. Brown (Titans, #51 Overall): A second-round steal, Brown quickly established himself as one of the league's premier wide receivers. His combination of size, speed, and physicality makes him a nightmare matchup for defenses.

• Brian Burns (Panthers, #16 Overall): Burns' explosive speed and pass-rushing prowess have made him a consistent threat off the edge. He's become a cornerstone of the Panthers' defense, consistently racking up sacks and creating havoc in the backfield.

The Lessons Learned: Drafting Beyond the Hype

The 2019 NFL Draft serves as a reminder that draft success isn’t solely about selecting the highest-ranked prospects. Thorough scouting, player character assessments, and understanding team needs are crucial for building a successful roster. While some high-profile picks didn't pan out as hoped, others – like A.J. Brown – proved that finding value in later rounds is vital.

Looking Ahead:

Analyzing the 2019 NFL Draft class a decade later provides valuable insights into player development, scouting accuracy, and the long-term impact of draft decisions. It emphasizes the importance of assessing not only talent but also character, work ethic, and injury history when building a championship contender. The 2019 class serves as a valuable case study for NFL teams as they navigate future drafts.

What are your thoughts on the 2019 NFL Draft class? Share your opinions in the comments below!