The 2020 NFL Draft: A New Era Begins
The 2020 NFL Draft marked a new chapter in the history of the league, as teams scoured the country for the next generation of football stars. Held virtually for the first time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the draft nonetheless generated immense excitement and anticipation amongst fans and analysts alike.
With the first pick of the draft, the Cincinnati Bengals selected Joe Burrow, the Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback from Louisiana State University. Burrow's selection was widely anticipated, given his stellar performance in college and the Bengals' need for a franchise quarterback. His arrival in Cincinnati signaled a new era for a team that has struggled in recent years.
But the draft wasn't just about Burrow. Teams across the league made strategic moves to bolster their rosters, eyeing both immediate impact and long-term potential. Here's a closer look at some of the key picks and stories from the 2020 NFL Draft.
Arizona Cardinals: Finding Value in the Middle Rounds
While most teams focus on the early rounds to find their stars, the Arizona Cardinals showed that value can be found deeper into the draft. With the 72nd pick, they selected offensive lineman Josh Jones from Houston. Jones may not have been a household name entering the draft, but the Cardinals saw something special in his raw talent and potential.
Jones' selection was a testament to the Cardinals' scouting department, which has a reputation for unearthing hidden gems. His addition to the roster could provide a much-needed boost to the team's offensive line, which has been a weak spot in recent seasons.
Cleveland Browns: Building for the Future
The Cleveland Browns entered the 2020 NFL Draft with seven picks and a clear plan: build for the future. After finishing 6-10 in 2019, the Browns were eager to turn things around. They did so by making strategic selections throughout the draft, focusing on both sides of the ball.
In the first round, the Browns selected offensive tackle Jedrick Wills with the 10th overall pick. Wills, a standout at Alabama, was widely regarded as one of the top offensive line prospects in the draft. His arrival in Cleveland could help stabilize the team's offensive line and provide a solid foundation for years to come.
The Browns also made key additions on defense, selecting linebacker Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah in the second round and safety Grant Delpit in the third. These picks not only addressed immediate needs but also injected youth and talent into a defense that has struggled in recent years.
Cincinnati Bengals: A New Era Begins with Burrow
As mentioned earlier, the Cincinnati Bengals made history by selecting Joe Burrow with the first overall pick. Burrow's arrival signaled a new era for the franchise, which has long been searching for a franchise quarterback.
Burrow's selection was met with widespread approval from fans and analysts. His accuracy, poise, and leadership abilities were on full display during his time at LSU, where he led the Tigers to a national championship. His arrival in Cincinnati gives the Bengals a legitimate chance to compete in the AFC North and beyond.
Later Rounds: Diamonds in the Rough
While the early rounds of the draft garner most of the attention, the later rounds often provide teams with opportunities to find hidden gems. This was certainly the case in the 2020 NFL Draft, as teams scoured the country for players who may have flown under the radar during their collegiate careers.
One such player was wide receiver Chase Claypool, selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the second round. Claypool, a standout at Notre Dame, had a breakout season in 2019 but was somewhat overshadowed by other receivers in the draft class. However, the Steelers saw something special in his raw talent and athleticism, making him a key addition to their offense.
Conclusion
The 2020 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment for teams across the league, as they looked to bolster their rosters and build for the future. From the top pick to the later rounds, teams made strategic selections based on their specific needs and long-term goals.
The draft not only provided fans with excitement and anticipation but also showcased the league's commitment to finding and developing talent from all corners of the country. As these newcomers take the field in the coming seasons, we will see how their selections shape the future of the NFL.
