2016 NFL Draft Midseason Grades For Every 1st Round Pick

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Oct 30, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) runs with the ball in overtime against Philadelphia Eagles safety Rodney McLeod (23) at AT&T Stadium. The Cowboys beat the Eagles 29-23 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

Dallas Cowboys

Top Pick: Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Ohio State

Sometimes the best 1st round picks are the ones that are the safest and most obvious. The Cowboys desperately needed a running back. Elliott was by far the best in the draft class. Often the worst thing a team can do is overthink a pick. Put him behind the top offensive line in football and let him run. In six games he already has over 700 yards and five touchdowns. To think he’s just 21-years old. Many great years could be ahead for this young man.

Grade: A

Hidden Gem: Dak Prescott, QB, Mississippi State

This is by far the biggest steal of the draft. Most people had severe reservations about Dak Prescott being a viable starting quarterback in the NFL. He’s answered those critics by leading the team to a 6-1 record. He’s over 1,700 yards already with nine touchdowns to just two interceptions. A 4th round rookie should not be playing this well. Granted he’s had a lot of help from great protection and scheming but much of the success is well-earned.

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