Rather than grading draft classes, an exercise I enjoy doing and believe has some merit, I like evaluating draft classes based on a “wisdom of crowds” approach.
This approach looks at where a player was expected to be drafted and compares that to where they were drafted.
Using that, we can see which players were draft day steals and which players were drafted well ahead of consensus.
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Top 10 Biggest Defensive Steals & Values, 2025 NFL Draft:
10. Trey Amos, CB, Washington Commanders
Expected to go 38 — Drafted with pick 61
He provides physicality and fluidity in coverage with a track record of limiting opposing quarterbacks, making him a valuable asset for Washington’s secondary.
9. Malaki Starks, S, Baltimore Ravens
Expected to go 16 — Drafted with pick 27
He brings a blend of speed, intelligence, and physicality, projecting as a long-term solution at safety for Baltimore’s defense.
8. Jack Sawyer, EDGE, Pittsburgh Steelers
Expected to go 65 — Drafted with pick 123
He combines athleticism with play strength, offering Pittsburgh a high-upside edge rusher to enhance their pass rush rotation.
7. Travis Hunter, CB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Expected to go 1 — Drafted with pick 2
He possesses exceptional versatility by excelling as both a cornerback and wide receiver and is poised to be a game-changing talent for Jacksonville.
6. Xavier Watts, S, Atlanta Falcons
Expected to go 48 — Drafted with pick 96
He exhibits strong instincts and tackling ability, making him a reliable presence in the secondary and a valuable addition to Atlanta’s defense.
5. Bradyn Swinson, EDGE, New England Patriots
Expected to go 68 — Drafted with pick 146
He showcases a quick first step and solid bend around the edge, providing New England with a promising pass-rushing prospect to bolster their defensive front.
4. Shavon Revel Jr, CB, Dallas Cowboys
Expected to go 35 — Drafted with pick 76
He combines impressive size and speed while excelling in press-man coverage, and has the tools to develop into a starting-caliber cornerback for Dallas.
3. Jihaad Campbell, LB, Philadelphia Eagles
Expected to go 14 — Drafted with pick 31
He offers rare athleticism and versatility, capable of impacting both pass coverage and run defense, fitting seamlessly into Philadelphia’s defensive scheme.
2. Mike Green, EDGE, Baltimore Ravens
Expected to go 17 — Drafted with pick 59
He brings explosive pass-rushing ability with 17 sacks last season and has the potential to become a dominant force on the edge for Baltimore.
1. Will Johnson, CB, Arizona Cardinals
Expected to go 9 — Drafted with pick 47
He demonstrates elite man coverage skills with exceptional ball instincts and a physical presence that can immediately upgrade Arizona’s secondary.