NFL Draft: Tackles Lead Rookie Power Rankings Through Week One
11. Creed Humphrey, C, Chiefs
It’s hard to already state that a player was a steal in the 2021 NFL Draft, but it’s looking that way with Creed Humphrey. Humphrey looked excellent pass protecting in a phone booth for the Chiefs, and even flashed the explosion to get to the second level, something that was difficult for him in college.
12. Zach Wilson, QB, Jets
Zach Wilson was under a ton of pressure against the Panthers, but made the most of it in a near comeback. He made plays under pressure and on the move, showing off great velocity and accuracy in the process. Wilson had a bad turnover, but those are common for rookies.
13. Trey Smith, G, Chiefs
Trey Smith was a top NFL Draft prospect for some time, but medicals cost him a shot at being picked higher. Smith also struggled with waist-bending, but corrected it well throughout training camp and earned a starting spot. Smith buried some guys on Sunday showing off the finishing ability. He also worked well on stunts with Humphrey.
14. Odafe Oweh, DE, Ravens
Athleticism and speed are good traits to have on the edge, and Oweh has them in spades. He used that explosion and speed to create pressure on the outside and flashed some good hand usage. Oweh should get more opportunities to rush as the year goes on.
15. Josh Myers, C, Packers
He didn’t have the flashiest debut, but Josh Myers looked solid at center. He stayed controlled in pass protection with good power and hand usage, and flashed movement skills in space in the run game. Myers is clearly the best Packers 2021 NFL Draft pick so far.
16. Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jaguars
The top pick in the 2021 NFL Draft should end up higher by season’s end, but it was a rougher debut for him. Three interceptions didn’t help, but he had the wow throws that showed the potential and why he was the top pick.
17. Alijah Vera-Tucker, G, Jets
The offensive line wasn’t great as a whole for the Jets, but Vera-Tucker looked very good. He received stunts with ease, worked to the second level efficiently, and had good footwork and a strong anchor to keep the pocket intact.
18. Rondale Moore, WR, Cardinals
Rondale Moore only had four catches, but his explosion and speed were evident. He gets into his stem quickly, can stack quickly with his speed, and showed great field vision and curvilinear speed after the catch on his catch on a designed screen.
19. Jaycee Horn, CB, Panthers
The top corner picked in the 2021 NFL Draft, Jaycee Horn stayed competitive in coverage against Elijah Moore with efficient transitions and physicality at the line. He came up to make a great tackle against the run as well.
20. Elijah Molden, CB, Titans
Elijah Molden looked great in the slot for the Titans, and was the bright spot on the defense. He knew his assignments after pre-snap motion, stayed physical against the run, and sticky in coverage in the short and intermediate area of the field.