Re-Drafting the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft
23. Minnesota Vikings: Jarran Reed, DT
Original Pick: WR Laquon Treadwell
Three wide receivers went in a row here and none of them have been overly productive. Laquon Treadwell to the Minnesota Vikings was the worst pick of the bunch. Jarran Reed stands out as one of the best players left on the board and would have filled a minor need at the defensive tackle position for the Vikings at the time.
24. Cincinnati Bengals: Jaylon Smith, LB
Original Pick: CB William Jackson III
Jaylon Smith‘s major knee injury suffered late in his final college season was absolutely devastating. He was clearly one of the best defensive prospects in the 2016 draft class and was a likely top 10 selection. However, the uncertainty around his knee caused him to slip to the second round where the Cowboys scooped him up.
Smith has become a good player for the Cowboys, showing impressive range and athleticism at the linebacker position. The Cincinnati Bengals would have been much better off with him on the roster as opposed to cornerback William Jackson.
25. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kendall Fuller, CB
Original Pick: CB Artie Burns
Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Artie Burns was another major bust in the 2016 NFL Draft. Instead of missing on Burns, the Steelers take cornerback Kendall Fuller, whose hard-nosed play would have fit well in Pittsburgh.
Fuller is a very good slot cornerback who shows good overall coverage ability and is strong against the run. Snagging him with the 25th pick would have been a home run.