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The Top Ten 2016 NFL Draft Classes

By Brady Lunt

Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the 2016 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the 2016 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas (13) catches a touchdown against Arizona Cardinals cornerback Brandon Williams (13) in the fourth quarter at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; New Orleans Saints wide receiver Michael Thomas (13) catches a touchdown against Arizona Cardinals cornerback Brandon Williams (13) in the fourth quarter at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Draft Picks

  • 12 – Sheldon Rankins, DT, Louisville
  • 47 – Michael Thomas, WR, Ohio St.
  • 61 – Vonn Bell, S, Ohio St.
  • 120 –  David Oneymata, DT, Manitoba (Canada)
  • 237 – Daniel Lasco, RB, Cal

The New Orleans Saints concluded 2016 with a 7-9 record, marking the third-straight season they finished under .500 (all at seven wins). While the underwhelming records continue to pile on, the Saints’ 2016 draft class offers a glimpse of a bright future for the franchise.

The Saints started the draft by selecting defensive tackle Sheldon Rankins out Louisville. Known for his ability to rush the passer, Rankins flashed his sky-high potential by finishing the season with four sacks and making a strong impact on a defense in desperate need of a spark. With his talent and versatility, Rankins looks to be every bit the foundational player the Saints were hoping for.

Immediately following, the Saints’ selected Ohio St. WR Michael Thomas. During the pre-draft process, his size and catch radius were impressive, but he was still seen as developmental player that need to improve on footwork and technique. However, judging by his rookie season, you can definitely see the impact he’s had on this offense. Thomas hit it off with Brees early, catching all six of his targets for 58 yards. Since then, he’s amassed an incredible 1,137 yards and nine touchdowns. Despite having more experienced receivers like Brandin Cooks and Willie Snead on the roster, Thomas produced at an extremely high level and became Brees’ favorite target. He will be a fun player to watch entering the 2017 season.

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