Who Are The 10 Best Players From The 2021 NFL Draft?

David

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Post on May 29, 2025

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Who Are the 10 Best Players from the 2021 NFL Draft?

The 2021 NFL Draft delivered a mixed bag of results, with some players exceeding expectations and others failing to live up to their high draft positions. Three years later, the dust has settled, and we can finally assess which players from that class have cemented themselves as elite NFL talent. This isn't about potential, it's about proven performance. Here are our picks for the 10 best players from the 2021 NFL Draft:

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors including Pro Bowl selections, All-Pro honors, statistical dominance, team impact, and overall contribution to their respective franchises. It’s a subjective evaluation based on performance through the 2023-2024 season.

1. Ja'Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals: Chase’s explosive rookie season solidified his place as one of the league's premier wide receivers. His incredible route running, exceptional hands, and big-play ability have made him a consistent threat for the Bengals' offense. His impact is undeniable, making him a top choice in any 2021 draft retrospective.

2. Mac Jones, QB, New England Patriots: While his trajectory has been less meteoric than Chase's, Jones's consistent performance and leadership have made him a valuable asset for the Patriots. His accuracy and decision-making have proven crucial to New England's offensive success, despite facing challenges in a changing NFL landscape.

3. Micah Parsons, LB, Dallas Cowboys: Parsons’ immediate impact on the Cowboys’ defense was electrifying. He’s a game-changing pass rusher and run stopper, showcasing versatility and an unmatched athleticism. His Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections are testament to his undeniable talent.

4. Patrick Surtain II, CB, Denver Broncos: Surtain II has quickly established himself as one of the league's top cornerbacks. His size, athleticism, and technical skills allow him to excel in man coverage and contribute significantly to his team's defensive success. His consistent performance makes him a cornerstone of the Broncos’ defense.

5. Rashawn Slater, OT, Los Angeles Chargers: Slater’s impact on the Chargers' offensive line has been significant. His ability to consistently protect Justin Herbert has been invaluable to the team's offensive success. Despite injuries, his presence has made a noticeable difference when he’s healthy.

6. Jaylen Waddle, WR, Miami Dolphins: Waddle's speed and elusiveness have transformed the Dolphins' passing game. He's a constant deep threat and a reliable target for Tua Tagovailoa, showcasing exceptional playmaking ability.

7. Alijah Vera-Tucker, OG, New York Jets: A key part of the Jets' improved offensive line, Vera-Tucker's versatility and consistent performance make him a crucial component of their offensive success. He provides solid run blocking and pass protection, a key asset for any NFL team.

8. Kwity Paye, DE, Indianapolis Colts: Paye has shown flashes of brilliance, demonstrating his potential as a powerful pass rusher. While his consistency needs improvement, his disruptive plays and athleticism make him a player to watch in the coming years.

9. Trey Sermon, RB, San Francisco 49ers: Despite not reaching his initial expectations, Sermon's contributions, especially in short-yardage situations, have showcased glimpses of his potential as a powerful runner. He still needs to prove himself as a consistent back.

10. Najee Harris, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers: While not always flashy, Harris has established himself as a workhorse back for the Steelers, providing consistent yardage and reliability in the ground game. His durability and contributions have made him a valuable asset.

Honorable Mentions: Several other players from the 2021 draft deserve recognition, including Creed Humphrey (C), Zaven Collins (LB), and Devonta Smith (WR). The future will reveal if they can climb into the top ten.

Conclusion: The 2021 NFL Draft yielded a number of talented players who have significantly impacted their teams. This list represents our assessment of the top performers based on their contributions to date. The coming years will undoubtedly reshape this ranking as players continue to develop and new stars emerge. What are your thoughts? Share your top 10 in the comments below!