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AFC South Draft Grades by Lindsay H. Jones (May 1, 2016 7pm)

 

 

#1.) Jacksonville Jaguars

Grade: A

Analysis: Jacksonville’s hot offseason continued through the draft. The Jags managed to snag defensive back Jalen Ramsey, whom many considered to be the draft’s best defensive player, at No. 5, and still land linebacker Myles Jack in the second round. Jack might be a long-term medical risk with concerns about his knee, but right now it’s fun to imagine this revamped defense that also includes 2015 first-round defensive end Dante Fowler, who missed his entire rookie year.

 

#2.) Houston Texans

Grade: B+

Analysis: Houston is clearly trying to do everything it can to help new starting quarterback Brock Osweiler. Notre Dame WR Will Fuller should stretch the field working opposite DeAndre Hopkins. But two of the best picks might end up being interior OL Nick Martin, who has an NFL pedigree as the brother of Cowboys OL Zack Martin, and WR Braxton Miller, who doesn’t appear close to reaching his potential yet at that new position.

 

Tie #3.) Tennessee Titans

Grade: B

Analysis: The Titans made the most of the draft haul they got from the Rams in exchange for moving back from the No. 1 spot. Picking Michigan State OT Jack Conkin at No. 8 after another trade was a safe move, and the Titans may have gotten a steal in the second round with Clemson DE Kevin Dodd. The most confusing pick may have been the second-round pick of the reigning Heisman Trophy winner in Alabama RB Derrick Henry. Henry playing with QB Marcus Mariota might sound appealing, but what does it mean for DeMarco Murray?

 

Tie #3.) Indianapolis Colts

Grade: B

Analysis: GM Ryan Grigson had to hit on this draft after a disastrous 2015 season, and he deserves some credit for acknowledging and addressing  the offensive line and Andrew Luck's protection. First-round pick center Ryan Kelly of Alabama looks like a Day 1 starter, so that’s a good first step, as was picking up two more offensive tackles.

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