Draft Report Cards

With the draft behind us I think it's about time I grade each team's draft class. I grade each team based on whether or not they filled their needs, the players they drafted and whether that player was the best available at his respective position, and the draft day trade(s) they may have made. There will be a piece for each division. First up: the AFC North

Baltimore Ravens- A+
The Ravens' draft had me saying, "classic Ozzie Newsome." The man takes the best player available and has a keen eye not just for talent, but talent that fits with what his coaches want/need in a player. The defense looks much improved after adding C.J. Mosley, Timmy Jernigan, and Terrence Brooks with its first three picks and all their positional needs were addressed.

Cincinnati Bengals- C+
Darqueze Dennard and Jeremy Hill should make an instant impact. They didn't address the safety position, surprisingly, but the coaches might look to see if sixth round pick Marquis Flowers can make the transition from outside linebacker to strong safety, in attempts to find the next Kam Chancellor. Overall, I thought Cinci could have made some better choices.

Cleveland Browns- B+
The Browns were extremely active in the first round via trades. With only six total picks in the draft, the Cleveland brass made the most of what they had. Selecting Justin Gilbert to pair with Joe Haden, and Johnny Manziel to compete with Brian Hoyer for the starting quarterback job. Offensive lineman Joel Bitonio could end up starting at one of the guard spots, the team also added a versatile linebacker in Christian Kirksey, and running back Terrance West and cornerback Pierre Desir provide talent and depth. Why aren't they graded higher? Because, despite the news that standout wide receiver Josh Gordon is facing a one-year suspension, Cleveland didn't draft a wide receiver.

Pittsburgh Steelers- B-
Ryan Shazier is a lock start next to Lawrence Timmons in Dick LeBeu's defense. Stephon Tuitt is a classic prototype of a 3-4 end. However, I was bewildered by the organization's decision not to draft a cornerback until the fifth round, when they selected Shaquille Richardson. Cornerback was arguably their greatest position of need and thanks it remains so after the draft.