Two Years Later: Ranking The Top 10 Players From The 2021 NFL Draft

David

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Post on May 30, 2025

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Two Years Later: Ranking the Top 10 Players from the 2021 NFL Draft

The 2021 NFL Draft, now two years in the rearview mirror, provided a fascinating mix of immediate impact players and slower burns. While some picks solidified their status as elite, others have faced challenges and are still proving their worth. Let's revisit the top 10 picks and rank them based on their performance and overall contribution to their respective teams through the 2023 season. This isn't just about stats; it's about impact, consistency, and future potential.

Methodology: Our ranking considers a combination of on-field performance (statistics, Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors), team impact, and overall projected future value. It's a subjective assessment, acknowledging the inherent complexities of evaluating young NFL players.

1. Ja'Marr Chase (WR, Cincinnati Bengals): Chase's explosive rookie season cemented his place at the top. His incredible receiving yards and touchdowns propelled the Bengals to the Super Bowl. He continues to be a dominant force, proving his worth as a number one receiver and a cornerstone of Cincinnati's offense. His consistent performance makes him a clear frontrunner.

2. Micah Parsons (LB, Dallas Cowboys): Parsons has been a disruptive force from day one, showcasing incredible versatility and athleticism. His ability to rush the passer, play in coverage, and stop the run makes him a truly unique linebacker. He's already earned All-Pro honors and is widely considered one of the league's best defensive players.

3. Mac Jones (QB, New England Patriots): While his sophomore season was a step back, Jones’s rookie year showed promise, and he's still seen as a potential franchise quarterback. His accuracy and decision-making are valuable assets. The Patriots' offensive struggles reflect a team-wide issue, not solely a Jones issue. His future remains uncertain but holds potential for significant improvement.

4. Kyle Pitts (TE, Atlanta Falcons): Pitts' immense talent is undeniable, but injuries and inconsistent quarterback play have hampered his production. His athleticism and receiving skills are elite, and with improved offensive support, he could easily climb this ranking in the coming years.

5. Penei Sewell (OT, Detroit Lions): Sewell has quickly established himself as a cornerstone of Detroit's offensive line. His dominance in pass protection has significantly improved the Lions' offensive performance. He's a vital component to their resurgence.

6. Zach Wilson (QB, New York Jets): Wilson's NFL journey has been a rollercoaster. He’s faced significant challenges and inconsistencies. While his future remains uncertain, he has shown flashes of potential, and his development will significantly impact the Jets' outlook.

7. Trey Lance (QB, San Francisco 49ers): Lance's career has been stalled by injuries, limiting his opportunities to showcase his talent. His high draft position reflects the belief in his potential, but his limited game time makes it difficult to accurately assess his current standing.

8. Justin Fields (QB, Chicago Bears): Fields’ dual-threat abilities have tantalized fans, but his consistency needs improvement. While he's shown flashes of brilliance, reducing turnovers and improving his accuracy are crucial for future success. His athleticism alone gives him a high ceiling.

9. Jaylen Waddle (WR, Miami Dolphins): Waddle's speed and agility have made him a valuable asset to the Dolphins' offense. While his production may not be as headline-grabbing as Chase’s, his consistent contributions are essential to Miami’s success.

10. Patrick Surtain II (CB, Denver Broncos): Surtain II has shown the skills and potential to be a lockdown cornerback. His strong play in coverage and physicality makes him a significant contributor to the Denver defense. He continues to improve and solidifies his spot in the NFL.

Conclusion:

The 2021 NFL Draft continues to shape the league. While some players have already established themselves as stars, others are still striving to reach their full potential. The next few years will be crucial in determining the ultimate success of these top ten picks, and this ranking offers a snapshot of their progress two years into their NFL careers. It will be fascinating to see how this list evolves in the future. What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below!