AFC East 2016 NFL Draft Analysis: Round 1

By Ryan Whitfield

Twitter: @RyanWhitfieldNE

I’ve discussed grades for AFC East Pre-Draft Offseason moves previously, so let’s now look at how they did in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft.

Miami Dolphins – Pick 13

Laremy Tunsil – OT

Grade A

A lot of Drama around Tunsil on Thursday, but who cares, it’s just a little weed. You need to upgrade your Linebackers and Offensive line and this guy is sitting there at 13? What may have not been ideal for Tunsil turned out to be a blessing for Miami. The fact that Tunsil and Miami coach Adam Gase share an agent may have played a key role here too. No brainer.  Great pick.

With the #13 pick in the 2016 #NFLDraft, the @MiamiDolphins select OT Laremy Tunsil. pic.twitter.com/JBgtrpLet1

— NFL (@NFL) April 29, 2016

Buffalo Bills – Pick 19

Shaq Lawson DE

Grade B

Lawson is a good player, good athlete and has a lot of upside. Typical Rex pick here though. Defense first. Sure there’s a hole to fill after Mario Williams departure, but I’d be working on improving that offense. An offensive line that could use improvement, a tight end, or perhaps some wide receiver help?  No?  Okay, Rex.  Like the player, don’t love the pick.

With the #19 pick in the 2016 #NFLDraft, the @buffalobills select DE Shaq Lawson! pic.twitter.com/AYy0ucOncn

— NFL (@NFL) April 29, 2016

New York Jets – Pick 20

Darron Lee OLB

Grade A

I love this pick. Lee is a freak and I was surprised he was still there the second half of the first round.  In a division full of playmakers, having him out there will be key for New York this year and going forward.  He’s athletic and can be a vital three down linebacker for a team with a good secondary and a great front four.  I don’t say this often, but the Jets got this one right.

With the #20 pick in the 2016 #NFLDraft, the @nyjets select LB Darron Lee! pic.twitter.com/ONVWUidi8K

— NFL (@NFL) April 29, 2016

New England Patriots – No Pick

No Pick

Grade F

God I wish Deflategate would end…