The Ultimate Draft Classes- Ranking the Top 10 NFL Drafts of All Time

We're about to dive deep into the top 10 NFL drafts of all time, exploring not just the standout picks, but the overall depth and impact of each class. Before we kick off our countdown, let's address a significant change in draft history: the junior rule.

The Junior Effect: A Gradual Game-Changer

In 1990, the NFL made a momentous decision, allowing juniors to declare for the draft. At first glance, you'd expect this change to immediately supercharge the draft pool. However, the reality was more nuanced.

In that inaugural year, only 28 underclassmen declared. Former NFL scout Dan Shonka explains, "There was still a stigma attached to leaving school early. Many players and their families valued that senior year, both for athletic development and getting a degree."

It wasn't until the mid-90s that junior declarations began to surge. The watershed moment came in 1997 when 53 underclassmen declared, including future Hall of Famers like Orlando Pace and Tony Gonzalez.

So why didn't this rule change immediately create the ultimate draft class? Several factors were at play:

1. Gradual Adoption: The trend took time to catch on among players and colleges.
2. Evaluation Challenges: NFL teams had to adapt to scouting younger, less developed players.
3. Risk vs. Reward: Many top juniors still opted to stay in school to improve their draft stock.
4. College Impact: Top programs retained talent longer, maintaining a strong senior class for several years.

With this context in mind, let's countdown the top 10 drafts that truly changed the game, junior rule or not:

1. 2004 NFL Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 255
• Pro Bowlers: 39
• Players with 5+ years in the NFL: 128

Standout picks:

• Eli Manning (1st overall)
• Philip Rivers (4th overall)
• Ben Roethlisberger (11th overall)
• Larry Fitzgerald (3rd overall)

This draft class is remembered primarily for its quarterbacks. The draft-day trade between the Chargers and Giants, swapping Eli Manning and Philip Rivers, set the stage for two franchise-altering selections. Both quarterbacks, along with Ben Roethlisberger, would go on to lead their teams to Super Bowl victories.

But it wasn't just about the signal-callers. Larry Fitzgerald, selected third overall by the Cardinals, would become one of the most consistent and productive receivers in NFL history. The draft also produced defensive stalwarts like Vince Wilfork and Jared Allen, the latter a fourth-round steal by the Chiefs.

An interesting anecdote from this draft involves Ben Roethlisberger. The Steelers, picking 11th, weren't initially planning to take a quarterback. However, when Roethlisberger fell to them, they couldn't pass up the opportunity. This decision would shape the franchise for the next 18 years.

1. 2007 NFL Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 255
• Pro Bowlers: 34
• Players with 5+ years in the NFL: 122

Standout picks:

• Calvin Johnson (2nd overall)
• Joe Thomas (3rd overall)
• Adrian Peterson (7th overall)
• Darrelle Revis (14th overall)

The 2007 draft class was notable for its depth of talent across multiple positions. Calvin Johnson, nicknamed "Megatron," would redefine the wide receiver position with his combination of size, speed, and athleticism. Joe Thomas anchored the Browns' offensive line for 11 seasons, making the Pro Bowl in each of his first 10 years.

Adrian Peterson, selected seventh by the Vikings, would become one of the most dominant running backs of his era. His rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, as he set the NFL single-game rushing record with 296 yards against the Chargers.

This draft also showcased the value of later-round picks. Marshal Yanda, selected in the third round by the Ravens, developed into one of the best guards in NFL history. The 49ers found a gem in the fourth round with Dashon Goldson, who would become a key part of their defense in the early 2010s.

1. 1981 NFL Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 332
• Hall of Famers: 7
• Pro Bowlers: 45

Standout picks:

• Lawrence Taylor (2nd overall)
• Ronnie Lott (8th overall)
• Mike Singletary (38th overall)
• Howie Long (48th overall)

The 1981 draft class was a goldmine of defensive talent that would shape the NFL for years to come. Lawrence Taylor, selected second overall by the Giants, revolutionized the linebacker position and terrorized quarterbacks for 13 seasons.

Ronnie Lott, picked eighth by the 49ers, became the cornerstone of their dynasty's defense. His versatility allowed him to excel at both cornerback and safety. Mike Singletary, chosen in the second round by the Bears, would become the heart and soul of the famed '85 Bears defense.

An interesting story from this draft involves Howie Long. Selected in the second round by the Raiders, Long was initially considered a project player. However, he quickly developed into one of the most feared defensive ends in the league, showcasing the potential hidden in later rounds.

1. 1996 NFL Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 254
• Hall of Famers: 5
• Pro Bowlers: 37

Standout picks:

• Jonathan Ogden (4th overall)
• Marvin Harrison (19th overall)
• Ray Lewis (26th overall)
• Terrell Owens (89th overall)

The 1996 draft class is notable not just for its top-end talent, but also for its depth. Jonathan Ogden, selected fourth overall by the newly relocated Baltimore Ravens, would redefine the left tackle position with his combination of size and athleticism.

Ray Lewis, picked 26th by the same Ravens team, became the face of the franchise and one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history. His leadership and intensity were key factors in both of Baltimore's Super Bowl victories.

This draft also highlighted the value of mid-round picks. Terrell Owens, selected in the third round by the 49ers, would go on to be one of the most productive (and controversial) receivers in NFL history.

An interesting anecdote from this draft involves the Jaguars' selection of Tony Boselli with the second overall pick. Boselli was the first-ever draft pick for the expansion Jaguars and quickly became one of the best left tackles in the game, setting a high standard for the young franchise.

1. 1985 NFL Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 336
• Hall of Famers: 5
• Pro Bowlers: 25

Standout picks:

• Bruce Smith (1st overall)
• Jerry Rice (16th overall)
• Chris Doleman (4th overall)
• Andre Reed (86th overall)

The 1985 draft class produced some of the most iconic players of the late 80s and 90s. Bruce Smith, the first overall pick by the Bills, would retire as the NFL's all-time sack leader. His dominance on the defensive line was a key factor in the Bills' four straight Super Bowl appearances.

Perhaps the most significant pick of this draft came at 16th overall, when the 49ers traded up to select Jerry Rice. Rice would go on to rewrite the record books and is widely considered the greatest wide receiver, if not the greatest player, in NFL history.

This draft also showcased the value of late-round picks. Andre Reed, selected in the fourth round by the Bills, formed a dynamic partnership with Jim Kelly and was a crucial part of Buffalo's high-powered offense.

An interesting story from this draft involves the Bears' selection of William Perry, nicknamed "The Refrigerator," with the 22nd pick. Initially criticized as a reach, Perry became a fan favorite and even scored a touchdown in Super Bowl XX as a fullback.

1. 2011 NFL Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 254
• Pro Bowlers: 45 (as of 2021)
• Players with 5+ years in the NFL: 131

Standout picks:

• Cam Newton (1st overall)
• Von Miller (2nd overall)
• J.J. Watt (11th overall)
• Richard Sherman (154th overall)

The 2011 draft class is notable for its depth of talent, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. This draft saw a record 56 underclassmen declare, showcasing how the junior rule had evolved over two decades to reshape the draft landscape.

Cam Newton, selected first overall by the Panthers, brought a new dimension to the quarterback position with his combination of passing and rushing abilities. He would go on to win the NFL MVP award in 2015, leading the Panthers to a Super Bowl appearance.

Von Miller, picked second by the Broncos, became one of the most feared pass rushers in the league. His performance in Super Bowl 50, where he was named MVP, cemented his status as a game-changing defensive player.

Perhaps the biggest steal of this draft was Richard Sherman, selected in the fifth round by the Seahawks. Sherman transformed from a converted wide receiver to the cornerstone of the "Legion of Boom" secondary that led Seattle to a Super Bowl victory.

An interesting anecdote from this draft involves J.J. Watt. Despite being selected 11th overall by the Texans, Watt was booed by some fans who wanted the team to draft a more high-profile player. Watt would go on to prove those doubters wrong, winning three Defensive Player of the Year awards and becoming one of the most dominant defensive players of his generation.

1. 1989 NFL Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 335
• Hall of Famers: 5
• Pro Bowlers: 37

Standout picks:

• Troy Aikman (1st overall)
• Barry Sanders (3rd overall)
• Derrick Thomas (4th overall)
• Deion Sanders (5th overall)

The 1989 draft class is remarkable for its concentration of talent at the top of the draft. Four of the first five picks would go on to have Hall of Fame careers, a feat unmatched in draft history.

Troy Aikman, selected first overall by the Cowboys, would become the cornerstone of Dallas' 1990s dynasty, leading the team to three Super Bowl victories. Barry Sanders, picked third by the Lions, dazzled fans with his elusive running style and retired as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history.

Derrick Thomas, chosen fourth by the Chiefs, revolutionized the outside linebacker position with his pass-rushing prowess. Deion Sanders, selected fifth by the Falcons, became "Prime Time," redefining the cornerback position and even contributing as a dangerous return man and occasional wide receiver.

An interesting story from this draft involves the Packers' selection of Tony Mandarich with the second overall pick. Dubbed "The Incredible Bulk," Mandarich was hyped as a can't-miss prospect but became one of the biggest busts in draft history. His failure stands in stark contrast to the success of the players drafted around him, serving as a cautionary tale about draft hype.

1. 1957 NFL Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 360
• Hall of Famers: 9

Standout picks:

• Jim Brown (6th overall)
• Sonny Jurgensen (43rd overall)
• Don Maynard (109th overall)
• Jim Parker (8th overall)

The 1957 draft class stands out as one of the most talent-rich in the pre-merger era. This draft produced an astounding nine Hall of Famers, shaping the NFL for years to come.

Jim Brown, selected sixth overall by the Browns, is often considered the greatest running back in NFL history. His combination of power, speed, and durability set new standards for the position. Brown led the NFL in rushing in eight of his nine seasons before retiring at the peak of his career to pursue acting.

Sonny Jurgensen, picked in the fourth round by the Eagles, became one of the most prolific passers of his era. His career spanned 18 seasons, and he led the NFL in passing yards five times.

An interesting anecdote from this draft involves Paul Hornung, the first overall pick by the Packers. Hornung was selected as a quarterback but found his greatest success as a halfback and kicker in Vince Lombardi's offense. This versatility earned him the nickname "The Golden Boy" and showcased the importance of adaptability in the NFL.

1. 1983 NFL Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 335
• Hall of Famers: 8
• Pro Bowlers: 42

Standout picks:

• John Elway (1st overall)
• Dan Marino (27th overall)
• Eric Dickerson (2nd overall)
• Jim Kelly (14th overall)

The 1983 draft class is often referred to as the "Year of the Quarterback," and for good reason. This draft produced three Hall of Fame quarterbacks in the first round alone: John Elway, Jim Kelly, and Dan Marino.

John Elway, selected first overall, famously forced a trade from the Colts to the Broncos. He would go on to lead Denver to five Super Bowl appearances, winning two. Dan Marino, who surprisingly fell to 27th overall, rewrote the NFL record books with his prolific passing, though a Super Bowl victory eluded him.

This draft wasn't just about quarterbacks, though. Eric Dickerson, picked second overall by the Rams, set the single-season rushing record in his second year, a mark that still stands today.

An interesting story from this draft involves Jim Kelly. Selected 14th overall by the Bills, Kelly initially opted to play in the USFL. When that league folded, Kelly joined the Bills and led them to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances, an unprecedented feat.

1. 1974 Pittsburgh Steelers Draft

Stats:

• Total players drafted: 21 (by the Steelers alone)
• Hall of Famers: 4
• Starters on Super Bowl winning teams: 5

Standout picks:

• Lynn Swann (21st overall)
• Jack Lambert (46th overall)
• John Stallworth (82nd overall)
• Mike Webster (125th overall)

The 1974 Steelers draft class stands alone as the greatest in NFL history. In a single draft, the Steelers selected an unprecedented four future Hall of Famers, laying the foundation for their dynasty of the 1970s.

Lynn Swann, their first-round pick, became one of the most acrobatic and clutch receivers in NFL history, famous for his Super Bowl performances. Jack Lambert, selected in the second round, anchored the fearsome "Steel Curtain" defense with his intense play and leadership.

John Stallworth, a fourth-round selection, formed a dynamic receiving duo with Swann, both making crucial plays in the Steelers' Super Bowl victories. Mike Webster, chosen in the fifth round, became one of the greatest centers in NFL history, starting 150 consecutive games for Pittsburgh.

What makes this draft class even more remarkable is the story behind it. The Steelers' success was partly due to their innovative use of BLESTO, a scouting combine that gave them an edge in player evaluation. Art Rooney Jr., who headed the Steelers' scouting department, credited the team's willingness to look beyond traditional football powerhouses for talent.

An often-overlooked aspect of this draft is that the Steelers also signed Donnie Shell as an undrafted free agent. Shell would go on to have a Hall of Fame career as well, making this draft class even more impressive.

Conclusion

From the pre-merger era to the modern-day NFL, these draft classes shaped dynasties, launched legendary careers, and changed the game we love. While the junior rule didn't immediately create a super-draft, it has undoubtedly enriched the talent pool over time.

The evolution of the draft, from the introduction of the junior rule to the sophisticated scouting combines of today, showcases how the process of identifying and selecting talent has become increasingly complex and crucial to NFL success.

As we look back on these historic draft classes, it's clear that building a championship team is about more than just first-round picks. It's about finding value in every round, identifying players who fit your system, and sometimes, a bit of luck.

So the next time the draft rolls around, remember: you're not just watching a player selection process. You're witnessing the potential birth of the next great NFL storyline. Who knows? Maybe the picks you're watching will be part of a draft class we're still talking about decades from now.