The top NFL draft picks have played a crucial role in shaping the league’s history, turning struggling franchises into contenders and producing some of the greatest players ever. Each year, teams make critical decisions that can define their future, selecting young talents who have the potential to become game-changers. In this article, Win Tips will take a deep dive into the impact of the top NFL draft picks.
10 top NFL draft picks
Below are the top 10 NFL draft picks that you can follow:
10. Todd Gurley – Los Angeles Rams (2015, Round 1, Pick 10)
The Los Angeles Rams took a chance on Todd Gurley despite his college knee injury, and it paid off in a big way. He quickly became one of the NFL’s best running backs, winning Offensive Player of the Year in 2017 and leading the Rams to Super Bowl LIII.
Unfortunately, knee issues shortened his prime, and he retired early. Despite this, his impact on the Rams was undeniable, and he remains one of the most electrifying running backs of his era.
9. Eli Apple – New York Giants (2016, Round 1, Pick 10)
A cornerback out of Ohio State, Eli Apple was picked by the New York Giants in 2016 with high expectations. However, his tenure in New York was marred by inconsistent play and locker room issues.
After bouncing around several teams, Apple found success with the Cincinnati Bengals, helping them reach Super Bowl LVI. Though he has never lived up to his draft position, he remains a serviceable NFL cornerback.
8. Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs (2017, Round 1, Pick 10)
Without a doubt, Patrick Mahomes is the greatest player ever selected at the 10th overall spot. Drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2017, Mahomes quickly became the face of the NFL.
Under the guidance of Andy Reid, Mahomes has won multiple MVP awards, led the Chiefs to three Super Bowl victories, and revolutionized the quarterback position with his creativity, arm strength, and poise. His selection changed the trajectory of Kansas City’s franchise forever.
7. Josh Rosen – Arizona Cardinals (2018, Round 1, Pick 10)
One of the most controversial picks on this list, Josh Rosen was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2018 as their potential franchise quarterback. However, his career never took off.
After a disappointing rookie season, Arizona moved on, drafting Kyler Murray the following year. Rosen bounced around multiple teams but never secured a starting job. He remains a cautionary tale about the unpredictability of the draft.
6. Devin Bush – Pittsburgh Steelers (2019, Round 1, Pick 10)
The Pittsburgh Steelers traded up to select Devin Bush, a standout linebacker from Michigan, in 2019. He was expected to fill the void left by Ryan Shazier and become the leader of the defense.
Bush started strong, earning All-Rookie Team honors, but injuries and inconsistent play have hindered his career. While he still has the talent to be a productive player, he has yet to reach the elite level the Steelers envisioned.
5. Jedrick Wills Jr. – Cleveland Browns (2020, Round 1, Pick 10)
The Cleveland Browns drafted Jedrick Wills Jr. in 2020 to solidify their offensive line. The former Alabama tackle transitioned from the right to the left side in the NFL, helping protect Baker Mayfield and later Deshaun Watson.
While Wills has had his ups and downs, he remains an important piece of the Browns’ offensive line. If he continues to develop, he could become one of the league’s better-left tackles.
4. DeVonta Smith – Philadelphia Eagles (2021, Round 1, Pick 10)
A Heisman Trophy-winning wide receiver from Alabama, DeVonta Smith was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021 and quickly made an impact. His precise route-running, strong hands, and ability to create separation have made him a key playmaker for the Eagles' offense.
Paired with A.J. Brown, Smith has been part of one of the league’s best-receiving duos, helping Philadelphia reach Super Bowl LVII. His contributions will continue to be crucial as the Eagles pursue another championship.
3. Garrett Wilson – New York Jets (2022, Round 1, Pick 10)
The New York Jets struck gold in 2022 when they selected Garrett Wilson, a wide receiver from Ohio State. Wilson immediately showcased his elite route-running, speed, and catching ability, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year and quickly becoming the Jets' top receiving threat.
Despite inconsistent quarterback play, Wilson has proven to be a reliable weapon, and with Aaron Rodgers joining the team, the young receiver has an opportunity to elevate his game even further. If he continues his upward trajectory, he could become one of the NFL’s top wideouts.
2. Darnell Wright – Chicago Bears (2023, Round 1, Pick 10)
A dominant offensive tackle from Tennessee, Darnell Wright was chosen by the Chicago Bears in 2023 to fortify their offensive line. Known for his physicality and pass-blocking skills, Wright was a key part of the Bears’ rebuilding strategy, helping protect their young quarterbacks and establish a more effective run game.
His rookie season showed promise, and Chicago hopes he will anchor their line for years to come. With the Bears looking to return to playoff contention, Wright’s ability to control the trenches will be essential.
1. J.J. McCarthy – Minnesota Vikings (2024, Round 1, Pick 10)
The most recent addition to this prestigious list, J.J. McCarthy, was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2024 NFL Draft. The former Michigan Wolverines quarterback led his college team to a national championship, displaying an impressive mix of accuracy, athleticism, and leadership.
Minnesota, looking for their next franchise quarterback, hopes McCarthy can become the successor to Kirk Cousins, who held the role for several years. His development will be crucial to the Vikings' success, and if he lives up to expectations, he could become one of the franchise’s greatest draft picks.
Final thought
The impact of the top NFL draft picks extends far beyond draft day, shaping the future of teams and the league as a whole. Some players live up to the hype, becoming legends who redefine their positions, while others struggle under the immense pressure of high expectations. Regardless of the outcome, these selections remain pivotal moments in NFL history, filled with excitement and speculation.
