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Why franchise tag should be George Pickens’ last resort, per Jason McCourty

The Dallas Cowboys received immense value when they traded Day 2 and Day 3 draft picks to the Pittsburgh Steelers for wide receiver George Pickens, but that savvy move also burdened the organization with another potential contract dilemma. Now, after recording 93 receptions for 1,429 yards and nine touchdowns last season, the Second-Team All-Pro is […] The post Why franchise tag should be George Pickens’ last resort, per Jason McCourty appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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Re-Drafting Every NFL Team’s BEST QB Ever (But They Can Only Pick One)

If every NFL team could go back in time and only use one draft pick to select a quarterback in their history? Who would it be? Some are obvious, but others are up for a fun debate. With that, let’s dive into a hypothetical re-draft of every NFL team’s best QB ever — with the rule being that they can only take ONE. Which QB will each NFL team choose if they have a chance for a re-draft? Arizona Cardinals: Kurt WarnerNov. 6, 2005; Tempe, AZ, USA; Quarterback (13) Kurt Warner of the Arizona Cardinals against the Seattle Seahawks at Sun Devil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Copyright © 2005 Mark J. Rebilas Warner spent the final four seasons of his career with Arizona, but he was only their undisputed starter for the last two. What did the two-time MVP and Super Bowl 34 champion do in those two years? Oh, you know, throw for 56 touchdowns, lead Arizona to two NFC West division crowns, four playoff wins, and a trip to Super Bowl 43. Warner tried out for the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent in 1994. It wasn’t until a successful career in the Arena Football League that NFL teams took notice. In this “what-if” exercise, Arizona wastes no time drafting Warner in 1994. Atlanta Falcons: Matt RyanAugust 16, 2008; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) throws a pass against the Indianapolis Colts in the first half at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine USA TODAY Sports No change here. The Falcons used the No. 3 pick of the 2008 NFL Draft on ‘Matty Ice’ and never looked back.  He holds every franchise passing record, took them to the playoffs six times, won 2016 MVP honors, and nearly guided the club to its only Super Bowl championship. Of course, there’s that whole 28-3 thing. But it doesn’t take away from the remarkable 15 years he provided Falcons fans. Baltimore Ravens: Lamar JacksonDec 7, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (8) runs with the ball against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the first half at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images Yes, Trent Dilfer and Joe Flacco led the Ravens to Super Bowl championships. But let’s be clear, they were surrounded by legendary defenses. Jackson is far and away the most talented QB this NFL team has ever had, even if rumors about a split-up persist. Baltimore actually had to trade up to snag Jackson 32nd overall in 2018. In a do-over, they would use the No. 25 pick — used on South Carolina tight end Hayden Hurst — to take Jackson. Buffalo Bills: Josh AllenJosh Allen (Image Credits: Imagn) With all due respect to Jim Kelly, Allen is easily the most skilled and well-rounded QB the Bills have ever had. We know, Allen hasn’t taken Buffalo to a single Super Bowl yet, let alone four like Mr. Kelly. But Allen has never played on the star-studded teams that Kelly enjoyed in the ‘90s. And just remember how gloomy things were for this franchise before Allen was drafted seventh overall in 2018. Carolina Panthers: Cam NewtonCarolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton yells “I’m back!” after scoring a rushing touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals in a game in 2021. Easy call here. Newton was considered the ultimate “boom-or-bust” QB prospect entering the 2011 NFL Draft. Carolina took a chance on “Super Cam” and took him first overall in what turned out to be one of the greatest classes in league history. The 2015 league MVP dazzled with his electrifying dual-threat game. He led Carolina to four playoff appearances, including a trip to Super Bowl 50. If injuries didn’t derail him over his final three seasons as a Panther, Newton would have a strong case for the Hall of Fame. Chicago Bears: Sid Luckman If the Bears didn’t draft Luckman second overall in 1939, there’s no telling how bad the franchise’s history would look. But alas, the great George Halas hit the jackpot on this pick. And the rest is history. Luckman led the Bears to four NFL Championships in the 1940s. The 1943 NFL MVP also worked as their vice president and QBs coach after his playing career, making his legacy all the more celebrated in Windy City. Cincinnati Bengals: Joe BurrowJoe Burrow (Photo Via Imagn Images) Ken Anderson, Andy Dalton, and Boomer Esiason all played far more games than Burrow has in a Bengals uniform. But he’s unquestionably the best QB this NFL franchise has ever had. If not for injuries and a competent front office, Burrow would maybe have a ring or two by now. It remains to be seen if he’ll get them to the promised land. But for now, Cincy can’t have a single regret about taking him first overall in 2020. Cleveland Browns: Otto GrahamUnknown date & Location; USA; FILE PHOTO; Cleveland Browns quarterback Otto Graham (60) in a portrait session. Mandatory Credit: Darryl Norenberg-USA TODAY Sports Like the Bears, the undisputed GOAT of Browns QBs played more than a half-century ago. Graham spent his entire 10-year career with the Browns, spanning from 1946 to 1955. The No. 4 pick of 1944 won three MVP awards and led this otherwise sad franchise to NFL championships in 1950, ‘54, and ‘55. Dallas Cowboys: Roger StaubachJan 18, 1976; Miami, FL, USA; FILE PHOTO; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle (64) Steve Furness chases Dallas Cowboys quarterback (12) Roger Staubach during Super Bowl X at the Orange Bowl. The Steelers defeated the Cowboys 21-17 to earn their 2nd consecutive Super Bowl title. Mandatory Credit: Photo By Malcolm Emmons- USA TODAY Sports © Copyright Malcolm Emmons Sorry to Troy Aikman, but Staubach is easily the greatest Cowboy to ever line up behind center. Aikman was great, yes, but a lot of QBs could have won three Super Bowls with his supporting cast. Staubach is the QB who put the Cowboys on the football map in the first place. Joining forces with legendary coach Tom Landry, Staubach — not drafted until the 10th round at 129 overall in 1964 — led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl triumphs in the ‘70s. Unlike Aikman, Staubach was also named to an All-Decades team and the NFL’s 100th Anniversary All-Time Team. Denver Broncos: John ElwayJohn Elway warms up before the Super Bowl against the Atlanta Falcons in Miami on Jan. 31, 1999. Elway was drafted first overall by the Baltimore Colts in 1983. He refused to play for them and was traded to the Broncos. The nine-time Pro Bowler would lead Denver to five AFC titles and two Super Bowl titles in his career. The Colts couldn’t do much. Elway didn’t wanna play there. So in our hypothetical exercise, let’s say the Colts use the No. 1 pick on either Dan Marino or Jim Kelly, allowing Denver to select Elway with the No. 4 pick. Everyone would be happy in this do-over. Detroit Lions: Bobby LayneNov 25, 1962; Cleveland, OH, USA; FILE PHOTO; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback (22) Bobby Layne in action against the Cleveland Browns at Cleveland Stadium. The Browns defeated the Steelers 35-14. Mandatory Credit: David Boss-USA TODAY Sports © Copyright David Boss After short stints with the Bears and New York Bulldogs, Layne joined the Lions franchise in 1950.  Layne led the Lions to NFL championships in 1950, ‘53, and ‘57. As Detroit fans know all too well, the franchise hasn’t been the same since it traded the Hall of Famer to the Steelers in 1958. Detroit hasn’t been to an NFL championship game since trading Layne – another clear-cut indicator that he’s the best QB they’ve ever had. Green Bay Packers: Bart StarrNov 29,1962; Detroit, MI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback #15 Bart Starr throws a pass during the Detroit Lions 26-14 win against the Packers at Tiger Stadium. Starr won the NFL most valuable player award in 1966, won the MVP of Super Bowl I and II and only lost one playoff game during his 16-year Hall of Fame career. Mandatory Credit: Photo By Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports It’s the great debate: Starr, Brett Favre, or Aaron Rodgers?  We have to go with Starr, because he’s the one who put this franchise on the map with Vince Lombardi. I mean, he’s a five-time NFL champion who led the Packers to victories in Super Bowls 1 and 2. He laid out the Packers’ winning culture. Take Favre and Rodgers away, and the legacy of Starr still lives on. By the way, hard to believe Starr wasn’t drafted until the 17th round at 200 overall in 1956, huh? Houston Texans: C.J. StroudSep 21, 2025; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud (7) reacts after an interception in the 4th quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Travis Register-Imagn Images As the NFL’s youngest franchise, the Texans haven’t been blessed with a whole lot of quality QB play. Matt Schaub and Deshaun Watson didn’t last long in Houston, whereas Stroud has quickly helped the Texans re-emerge as a contender in the AFC. We’re still waiting for him to regain that MVP-like form we saw in his 2023 rookie year. At the very least, he’s efficient enough as a game manager on a team that leans on its lights-out defense to win. Indianapolis Colts: Peyton ManningDec 26, 2010; Oakland, CA, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning (18) gestures during the game against the Oakland Raiders at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum. The Colts defeated the Raiders 31-26. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-USA TODAY Sports Not a single regret for the Colts here. They took Manning first overall in 1998 and never looked back. “The Sheriff” turned them into an NFL powerhouse in the 2000s, leading them to 11 playoff appearances, two AFC Championship wins, and a Super Bowl 41 victory. Jacksonville Jaguars: Trevor Lawrence Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) runs on the field before an NFL football matchup at EverBank Stadium, Sunday, Sept. 21, 2025, in Jacksonville, Fla. The Jaguars defeated the Texans 17-10. You can easily argue that Mark Brunell is the best Jags’ QB ever. But he was drafted by the Packers in 1993. The Jaguars didn’t enter the league until 1995, so they couldn’t have drafted him. Lawrence has brought mixed results since going first overall in 2021. But three winning seasons and two playoff appearances in five years are nothing to laugh at, considering how horrible the Jags have been in the 21st century. Kansas City Chiefs: Patrick MahomesKansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images) The Chiefs got heat for trading up to take Mahomes 10th overall in 2017 when they already had Alex Smith. Not sure about you, but we don’t think Mahomes has been too shabby with three rings and two MVP awards, with likely more to follow after his injury. Las Vegas Raiders: Ken StablerDec 4, 1977; Los Angeles, CA, USA: FILE PHOTO; Oakland Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler (12) in action against the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Long Photography-USA TODAY Sports John Madden coached plenty of Hall of Famers in Oakland, but Stabler proved to be the final piece needed to get Al Davis’ group over the top. The No. 52 pick of 1968 spent his first 10 NFL seasons with the Raiders. The four-time Pro Bowler won MVP honors in 1974, leading the Raiders to a Super Bowl 11 championship triumph. This was their first of three Super Bowls over an eight-year period. Los Angeles Chargers: Dan FoutsSAN DIEGO – NOVEMBER 29: Quarterback Dan Fouts #14 of the San Diego Chargers looks to pass during a game against the Denver Broncos at Jack Murphy Stadium on November 29, 1987 in San Diego, California. Fouts completed 23 out of 48 passes for 322 yards and 2 interceptions. The Broncos won 31-17. (Photo by George Rose/Getty Images) Take your pick between Fouts and Philip Rivers. But Rivers never earned an All-Pro nod. Fouts was a two-time first-team and two-time second-team all-pro. Rivers led the NFL in passing yards once as the lead QB. Fouts did it four times. So yes, it’s hard to go against the No. 63 pick of 1973. The Bolts were a mostly irrelevant franchise before he arrived. Fouts took them to the playoffs four times in his Hall of Fame career — and Rivers may never go to Canton. Los Angeles Rams: Kurt WarnerSep 23, 2001; San Francisco, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; St. Louis Rams quarterback Kurt Warner (13) and offensive linemen Adam Timmerman (62), Andy McCollum (67) and Tom Nutten (61) at the line of scrimmage against the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park. Mandatory Credit: Peter Brouillet-USA TODAY NETWORK The Rams have had many great QBS in their history, but Warner was the most talented of them all. He was a tremendous late-bloomer success story. But…imagine if the Rams drafted him back in 1994 instead of waiting until ‘98 to give him a chance? Hey, you know how star-studded those Rams teams were. Warner could have easily won multiple rings if he had come aboard much earlier. Miami Dolphins: Dan MarinoNov 13, 1983; Foxboro, MA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino (13) in action against the New England Patriots at Foxboro Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-USA TODAY Sports Yes, Bob Griese led the Dolphins to two Super Bowl championships. But we can’t act like he was a better QB than Marino.  Miami drafted ‘Dan the Man’ 27th overall in 1983, a legendary QB class that also included Jim Kelly and John Elway. If Marino had more luck in the postseason, he’d be in the conversation for QB GOATS. Rings aside, he’s a top-five most talented QB in NFL history. Just ask those who watched him sling it. Minnesota Vikings: Fran TarkentonOct 3, 1965; Los Angeles, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Minnesota Vikings quarterback (10) Fran Tarkenton sets to throw a pass as Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle (75) Deacon Jones pressures him at Memorial Coliseum. The Vikings defeated the Rams 38-35. Mandatory Credit: David Boss-USA TODAY Sports © Copyright David Boss Arguably the greatest draft pick in franchise history, Tarkenton slipped to the Vikings in round three at No. 29 overall in 1961. He won NFL MVP honors in 1975 and led Minnesota to three Super Bowl appearances in his Hall of Fame career. The Vikings have had many “good” QBs in their history in the NFL. But none of them had the longevity, consistency, and all-world production Tarkenton provided over two stints in Minnesota. New England Patriots: Tom BradySep 10, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots former quarterback Tom Brady speaks during a halftime ceremony in his honor during the game between the Philadelphia Eagles and New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports Shocker! The best to ever do it is the Patriots’ entry. Who’da thought? You all know the story. The No. 199 pick of the 2000 NFL Draft entered the league with no expectations. Fast forward to now, and he’s the undisputed GOAT with seven Super Bowl rings — six as a Patriot — three MVPS and the proud owner of every major passing record. New Orleans Saints: Drew BreesDec 11, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) throws the ball as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Noah Spence (57) pressures during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the New Orleans Saints 16-11. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports The Saints signed Brees as a free agent in 2006 when the Chargers opted to roll with Philip Rivers as their QB. And the rest is history. Brees cemented himself as one of the all-time greats over his 15 years in New Orleans. At the time of his retirement, the Super Bowl 44 champion and MVP winner was the league’s all-time passing yards and TDs leader before Tom Brady surpassed him. New York Giants: Eli ManningNew York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) waves to the fans as he exits the field at MetLife Stadium for possibly the last time in his career. The Eagles defeat the Giants, 34-17, on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford. Nyg Vs Phi The Chargers actually drafted Eli first overall in 2004. He refused to play for them and was traded to the Giants, who had selected Philip Rivers fourth overall. In this do-over, the Bolts would just take Rivers first, and the Giants would take Eli at fourth overall. He wasn’t consistent by any means. But flags fly forever. Eli led the Giants to two Super Bowl championships. And he’s the franchise’s all-time passing yards and TDs leader by a healthy margin. New York Jets: Joe NamathUnknown date; Boston, MA, USA: FILE PHOTO; New York Jets quarterback Joe Namath (12) in action against the Boston Patriots. Mandatory Credit: Dick Raphael-USA TODAY Sports Take away Broadway Joe’s career, and the Jets are by far the saddest franchise in North American sports. Fortunately, Namath led this otherwise abhorrent franchise to its lone Super Bowl championship back in the 1968 season — when the Jets notably beat the heavily-favored Colts. The Jets took Namath first overall in 1965, when they were in the AFL. The St. Louis Cardinals took him 12th overall in the ‘65 NFL Draft. Good thing Namath went to the Jets. Otherwise…. Philadelphia Eagles: Donovan McNabbOctober 6, 2002;Jacksonville,FL,USA; #5 Quarterback Donovan McNabb of the Philadelphia Eagles scrambles against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Alltel Stadium. CREDIT: Paul Chapman/ USA TODAY Sports He’s not in the Hall of Fame like Sonny Jurgensen or Norm Van Brocklin. And he didn’t lead them to a Super Bowl like Nick Foles or Jalen Hurts. Still, it’s hard to go against McNabb here. The No. 2 pick of 1999 earned six Pro Bowl nods and helped the Eagles re-emerge as a juggernaut in the 2000s. He and Andy Reid led Philly to five NFC title games and a Super Bowl 39 appearance. McNabb was long gone when Foles led Philly to its first Super Bowl championship in 2017. Still, the former QB was instrumental in helping Philly go from perennial disappointment to perennial NFL contenders. Pittsburgh Steelers: Terry BradshawUnknown date; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Chuck Noll (left) on the sidelines with quarterback Terry Bradshaw (12). Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons- USA TODAY Sports There’s a small crowd of Steelers fans who would prefer Ben Roethlisberger on this list. But Big Ben didn’t win four rings like Bradshaw. He never won an MVP like Bradshaw. He never earned All-Pro honors or All-Decade honors like Brashaw, either. Yeah, the Black and Gold struck gold, alright, by drafting Bradshaw first overall in 1970. Need anything else? San Francisco 49ers: Joe MontanaJan 20,1985; Palo Alto, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana (16) on the field against the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XIX at Stanford Stadium. Montana was voted the games most valuable player as he completed 24 of 35 passes for a Super Bowl record 331 yards and three touchdowns, and rushed five times for 59 yards including a 6 yard touchdown as the 49ers defeated the Dolphins 38-16 marking their 2nd Super Bowl championship. Mandatory Credit: Malcolm Emmons-US PRESSWIRE If not for Brady, Montana would be the greatest draft steal in NFL history. The 49ers didn’t take him until round three at No. 82 overall. Little did everyone know that this pick would turn the league upside down. Montana led the 49ers to four Super Bowl championships. And let’s be real, would Steve Young have led the 49ers to their fifth Super Bowl if he didn’t get to learn behind ‘Joe Cool’ in the first place? Seattle Seahawks: Russell WilsonDec 21, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) throws the ball during warmups before the game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports Wilson’s tenure with the Seahawks ended on ugly terms, but there’s no debating who the best QB in franchise history is for this NFL team. Seattle’s legendary 2012 draft class included the jackpot selection of Wilson in round three at No. 75 overall. He took Seattle to the postseason eight times in 10 years. They won two NFC titles and Super Bowl 48 in the 2013 season. Oh, and he has those nine Pro Bowl nods as a Seahawk on his resume. Not bad, even for the now journeyman. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Tom Brady20. Tom Brady, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2021) – 374.7 points He only played three seasons with the Bucs, but the GOAT sure made ‘em memorable. If you’re a Bucs fan, your only complaint is “what if” they drafted TB12 in the first place? As previously noted, he wasn’t taken until round six at No. 199 overall in 2000. He led the Bucs to one Super Bowl title, but it would have been far more if Tampa had landed him 20 years earlier, before 2020 free agency. Tennessee Titans: Warren MoonDec 9, 1984; Anaheim, CA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Houston Oilers quarterback Warren Moon (1) and guard Mike Munchak (63) in action against Los Angeles Rams defensive linemen Reggie Doss (71) and Reggie Doss (77) at Anaheim Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Brouillet-USA TODAY NETWORK Moon is the longest-tenured Titans QB ever. Only one of three Hall of Fame signal-callers to wear this jersey, the others being George Blanda and Ken Stabler. Moon played for the Titans/Houston Oilers franchise from 1984 to ‘93. The nine-time Pro Bowler led them to six playoff appearances and holds every franchise passing record by a country mile. Not bad for a former CFL star who didn’t make it to the NFL until 1984 as an undrafted free agent. Washington Commanders: Sammy BaughUnknown date & Location; USA; FILE PHOTO; Washington Redskins quarterback Sammy Baugh in a portrait session. Mandatory Credit: Darryl Norenberg-USA TODAY Sports Sonny Jurgensen and Joe Theisman deserved shout-outs. But Baugh, who played way-back-when from 1937 to 1952, Baugh led Washington to NFL championships in 1937 and ‘42. The six-time Pro Bowler was the ultimate Swiss Army Knife, also playing punter and safety. Baugh was also named to the NFL’s 75th and 100th Anniversary All-Time teams.

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Dallas Cowboys sign former Chiefs two-time Super Bowl winner as Dak Prescott gets another wide receiver target

THE Dallas Cowboys have signed a former Kansas City Chiefs two-time Super Bowl champion, who can now help Dak Prescott. The Cowboys have added a wide receiver days after the…

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Cowboys Tipped Off Eagles That Steelers Were Targeting Makai Lemon: Report

One of the biggest stories to come out of the 2026 NFL draft was the wild situation involving USC wide receiver Makai Lemon.The Philadelphia Eagles ultimately drafted the reigning Biletnikoff award winner with the 20th overall pick after trading up from 23 with the Dallas Cowboys.The rare in-division trade was a shocker to many, especially […] The post Cowboys Tipped Off Eagles That Steelers Were Targeting Makai Lemon: Report appeared first on HEAVY.

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Cowboys rookie from 2026 NFL Draft class who will make biggest impact in Year 1

The Cowboys rookie from the 2026 NFL Draft class who will make the biggest impact in Year 1 isn’t hard to identify. It will be Caleb Downs, and the moment Dallas traded up to get him, the blueprint became crystal clear. The Cowboys didn’t tiptoe into this draft. They attacked it with intent. Dallas signaled […] The post Cowboys rookie from 2026 NFL Draft class who will make biggest impact in Year 1 appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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Cowboys bold predictions for 2026 NFL Draft class during rookie season

The Dallas Cowboys made it clear that they were willing to make big moves during the 2026 NFL Draft. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones declared that “every kind of trade” was possible before the draft. Dallas delivered on that promise, trading up one spot in the first round to land Caleb Downs. The Cowboys certainly made […] The post Cowboys bold predictions for 2026 NFL Draft class during rookie season appeared first on ClutchPoints.

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Cowboys’ Latest Prediction Hints at George Pickens Departure

The Dallas Cowboys are fresh off of having a solid all-around 2026 NFL Draft. Being able to land both safety Caleb Downs and pass rusher Malachi Lawrence in the first round was a big upgrade for a defense that badly needed help.Later in the draft, the Cowboys were able to get a major potential steal […] The post Cowboys’ Latest Prediction Hints at George Pickens Departure appeared first on HEAVY.

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10 “Can’t-Miss” 2026 NFL Draft Prospects That Will Be Big Time Busts

With the 2026 NFL Draft now in the books, it’s a good time to peer into the crystal ball and look at which draft selections will go down as disappointments. Whether it’s because of their limited skill set or the team they landed with, a handful of highly-touted 2026 rookies aren’t in a position to reach their potential whatsoever. With that, let’s dive into the ten 2026 NFL Draft picks who are sure to go down as big-time busts. Which players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft end up as a bust? Rueben Bain Jr.Dec 28, 2024; Orlando, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. (4) warms up prior to the game against the Iowa State Cyclones at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images For a while, the Miami Hurricanes edge rusher was expected to be a top-five pick. But NFL teams got scared when his arm length was measured at just 30 ⅞ inches. According to ESPN, Bain’s arm length is the shortest for an edge rusher drafted in the first round since 2003. So you already had the concerns about his physicality and build. That was only the start of it. Shortly before the draft began, news emerged that Bain had been involved in a serious car accident in 2024 that killed one of the passengers in his car after he rear-ended another vehicle. His friend, 22-year-old Destiny Betts, spent three months in a coma before tragically dying. Nonetheless, these concerns didn’t stop the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from using the No. 15 pick on Bain. After the selection, Bucs GM Jason Licht emphasized that the Bucs had been aware of the fatal car accident involving Bain for a while. Still, it’s not too early to already think the Bucs will regret this pick. These guys just LOVE using early picks on pass rushers. Can someone tell us how Logan Hall, Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, and Calijah Kancey panned out again? Fair or not, teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and New England Patriots have found success in taking chances on players with off-the-field legal issues or character concerns and turning them into stars. The Buccaneers? Not so much. Bain’s short arm length will be a serious problem for him to work around in the NFL. And given that Tampa already had enough pass-rushers before the draft, this pick is a red flag in every aspect. Good luck with it, Tampa. You’re gonna need it. Kenyon SadiqKenyon Sadiq (Image Credits: Imagn) The Oregon product was the consensus top tight end coming into this year’s draft. But there are only so many great tight ends in the NFL these days, so that’s not really saying much. There were several obvious knocks against Sadiq entering the NFL draft. Among them, he’s considered relatively small for a tight end at 6-foot-3 and 240 pounds. His production at Oregon wasn’t off-the-charts, either. Sadiq had his most productive year in 2025, catching 51 passes for 560 yards and eight touchdowns. Ho hum. Drops were especially alarming for Sadiq at Oregon. So, when the New York Jets drafted him 16th overall? Yeah, the joke just wrote itself. The Jets can’t find a quarterback to save their lives. Now we’re supposed to think that they’ll magically unlock the potential of Sadiq? Good luck with that. Geno Smith isn’t saving this franchise. Also, how many targets can Sadiq expect in an offense featuring Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, and Omar Cooper Jr.? We were excited about Sadiq’s potential, but quite frankly, the Jets are the worst landing spot for him. Go ahead and chalk him up as one of the latest Jets draft busts. Caleb BanksFeb 25, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Florida defensive lineman Caleb Banks (DL02) speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images The Minnesota Vikings raised some eyebrows here by using the No. 18 pick on Florida defensive tackle Caleb Banks. It felt like a reach given how much his stock had fallen in the weeks leading up to the draft, due to a serious foot injury that required surgery. One of our other issues here is that Banks is going to a Minnesota Vikings team that’s not exactly renowned for getting the most out of interior defensive linemen. Last year, they signed veteran defensive tackles Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen to big-money deals. Both were released at the start of the offseason. So now you’re talking about a player who had up-and-down production in college, who had a serious foot injury, going to a team that hardly gets the most out of its interior defensive linemen. Plus, yanno, recent Minnesota first-round picks like JJ McCarthy, Dallas Turner, and Jordan Addison haven’t exactly lit it up yet. Banks would have been a better fit on a team with stronger roster development, like the Kansas City Chiefs, Seattle Seahawks, Baltimore Ravens, or Green Bay Packers. The Vikings are sure to thrust him into a starting role come Week 1, something Banks certainly isn’t ready for. Malachi LawrenceFeb 26, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; UCF defensive lineman Malachi Lawrence (DL48) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images The Dallas Cowboys struck gold when they moved up one spot to select Ohio State safety Caleb Downs at No. 11 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. But their second first-round pick, Malachi Lawrence, certainly leaves a lot to be desired. Dallas’ makeover on defense since the Micah Parsons trade certainly looks a lot better on paper. Quinnen Williams, Rashan Gary, and now Caleb Downs. But Malachi Lawrence? Yeah, about that…. Dallas could have easily traded down and nabbed Lawrence in round two. Instead, they reached from a completely unpolished prospect with limited physical abilities and “meh” production over his tenure at UCF. Remember what happened last time Dallas reached in round one for a defensive lineman? Yeah, Mazi Smith didn’t pan out. So don’t hate on us for already questioning this pick and projecting a disappointing tenure in Dallas. De'Zhaun StriblingJan 8, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Mississippi Rebels wide receiver De’Zhaun Stribling (1) against the Miami Hurricanes during the 2026 Fiesta Bowl and semifinal game of the College Football Playoff at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images The San Francisco 49ers traded down from the No. 27 spot with the Miami Dolphins. The ‘Phins took San Diego State cornerback Chris Johnson. The 49ers obtained the No. 30 pick and then traded it to the New York Jets, who selected Indiana wideout Omar Cooper Jr. Finally, the 49ers opened up round two by selecting De’Zhaun Stribling, the big-bodied wide receiver out of Ole Miss. We’re sure optimistic San Francisco fans love this pick, but it’s truly a head-scratcher for us. Stribling has talent, yes. But what exactly is he going to do on a star-studded 49ers offense headlined by Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, newcomer Mike Evans, and 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall? This isn’t so much a question about Stribling’s skill set as it is about his fit in the 49ers offense. Kyle Shanahan’s system leans heavily on the ground game and screen passes. Stribling is a serious threat and contested catch specialist who “checks notes” reminds us entirely of Mike Evans. Stribling has the tools to be a star in this league, but the 49ers aren’t the team for him to maximize his ceiling. Just imagine if he landed on another contender with less offensive weaponry, like the Green Bay Packers, Denver Broncos, Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, or Seattle Seahawks. Max IheanachorMax Iheanachor (Image Credits: Imagn) Just when the Pittsburgh Steelers were planning to take USC wide receiver Makai Lemon at No. 21 overall? Their Pennsylvania state rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles, jumped up one spot via trade to take Lemon at No. 20 in the NFL Draft. The Steelers, clearly rattled and panicky, reached for Arizona State offensive tackle Max Iheanachor and took him with the No. 21 pick. Taking a lineman was the first shocker here. The second aspect of this shocker? It was such a giant reach, with more polished linemen on the board. The Steelers used 2023 and 2024 first-round picks on offensive linemen Broderick Jones and Troy Fautanu, respectively. O-line was far from a pressing need, and yet they reached for Iheanachor anyway. Make it make sense! Jones hasn’t come as advertised, and the jury’s still out on Fautanu. Pittsburgh’s inability to draft and develop first-round picks in recent years has been well-documented, so don’t blame us for feeling like Iheanachor is a disaster pick waiting to happen. And for all the love he gets as a steady pass-blocker? His run-blocking was lackluster at best, and he committed eight penalties in his final season of college ball, per Pro Football Focus. Chris JohnsonChris Johnson (Image Credits: Imagn) More highly-regarded cornerbacks like Colton Hood and Avieon Terrell were on the board when the Miami Dolphins took Chris Johnson with the No. 27 pick. Not only did we dislike this pick in terms of value, but the fit itself couldn’t be much worse for Johnson. If you go back to 2020 — ahem, Tua Tagovailoa over Justin Herbert — the Dolphins have been horrific when it comes to day-one picks. So pardon us for already thinking Johnson is going to be a bust simply because he’s stuck on a team that clearly doesn’t know how to develop talent. But it was also a big-time reach for the Dolphins. Again, how do you leave Hood and Terrell on the board? Johnson’s knocks included his lack of speed and the fact that he’s undersized at 6-feet-tall and 193 pounds. And since the Dolphins have one of the worst defensive units in the league, we’re skeptical this is the place for him to maximize his potential. Keylan RutledgeJan 29, 2026; Mobile, AL, USA; National offensive lineman Keylan Rutledge (77) of Georgia Tech takes a breather during National Senior Bowl practice at Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images Nobody was surprised when the Houston Texans addressed the offensive line in round one. But trading up via the Buffalo Bills to reach for Georgia Tech guard Keylan Rutledge? Yep, that one leaves a lot of raised eyebrows. The Texans had plenty of more polished offensive linemen to choose from. And respectfully, this organization has been abhorrent when it comes to developing offensive linemen. Rutledge struggled with penalty issues in his final season at Georgia Tech. His over-aggression was one of Rutledge’s main issues in college, and he won’t have much support on a lousy Texans squad. Ty SimpsonTy Simpson (Image Credits: Imagn) Simpson entered the 2026 NFL Draft as the consensus No. 2 quarterback in this year’s class…behind only Fernando Mendoza, who went first-overall to the Las Vegas Raiders. The Los Angeles Rams landed the No. 13 pick from the Atlanta Falcons, who had given up their 2026 first-rounder a year earlier to snag James Pearce Jr. With their 2026 first-rounder, the Rams snagged the Alabama quarterback. Rams head coach Sean McVay didn’t seem all too thrilled with the pick from GM Les Snead. And that was telling, because McVay and Snead usually see eye-to-eye and have a tremendously successful coach-GM relationship. As Aaron Rodgers, Patrick Mahomes, and Jordan Love would happily tell you, it’s not the worst idea to find a succession plan in the first round if your starting QB is on borrowed time. But there’s just a lot about this Simpson pick that doesn’t make sense. Yes, Matthew Stafford is about to enter his age-38 season. He also hasn’t displayed any signs of slowing down, as evidenced by his MVP Award-winning 2025 campaign. With the way Stafford is playing, shouldn’t the Rams have prioritized drafting a player who could help them win now? It’s not like Simpson is a sure thing to succeed. He comes from the Alabama QB factory. Weren’t Tua Tagovailoa and Mac Jones supposed to be the real deal? Bryce Young doesn’t look like a superstar now, does he? In his final college season, Simpson threw for 3,567 yards, 28 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Good? Yes. But also, any Alabama starting quarterback should be putting up such numbers. Simpson could be waiting two to three years to succeed Stafford in LA. And with his limited skill set and ceiling? Being a top-15 pick just seems like poor value on the Rams’ end. Add it all up, and it just already feels like he could go down as a mega bust in La La Land. Remember, Stetson Bennett was once viewed as Stafford’s successor in LA. And, well, we know where that went. K.C. ConcepcionKC Concepcion (Image Credits: Imagn) The Texas A&M product was widely projected to be a mid-to-late first-round pick. Sure enough, the Cleveland Browns drafted him at No. 24 overall. For us, this isn’t so much a Concepcion issue as a Cleveland issue. His talent and skill set are undeniable. Unfortunately for Concepcion, he landed on one of the few teams that has no idea how to draft and develop skill position guys. We kept drawing up scenarios of Concepcion landing on an established contender like the Philadelphia Eagles or Buffalo Bills. Instead, Concepcion is stuck on a team that, ahem, has Shedeur Sanders and Dillon ‘freaking’ Gabriel as its quarterbacks. Yay. This guy had to go to an actual contender to maximize his potential, not a consistent bottom-feeder like the Browns.  Also, Concepcion will be competing with Jerry Jeudy, Quinshon Judkins, Harold Fannin Jr. and fellow rookie wideout Denzel Boston for targets. Now, try telling us why the Browns are a good fit for him?

Read more10 “Can’t-Miss” 2026 NFL Draft Prospects That Will Be Big Time Busts

Former Packers Starting Playmaker Signs With NFC Rival

The Green Bay Packers just completed a successful 2026 NFL Draft. Despite not having a first-round pick, general manager Brian Gutekunst and the front office brought in some nice young talent who could help immediately.In the second round, the Packers brought in cornerback Brandon Cisse. They added defensive tackle Chris McLellan in the third round […] The post Former Packers Starting Playmaker Signs With NFC Rival appeared first on HEAVY.

Read moreFormer Packers Starting Playmaker Signs With NFC Rival