Top 100 prospects have been scooped up but Saturday is still stocked with NFL difference
The top 100 prospects are off the board but plenty of playmakers remain for teams to pick through Saturday in the NFL draft ‘s final four rounds.
Defense became the focus Friday after a record-setting 23 offensive players were selected in the first round, including the first 14 picks, an unprecedented wait for the first defender to come off the board.
The Atlanta Falcons, who provided the biggest shocker in years by taking quarterback Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8 after signing free agent QB Kirk Cousins for $180 million, kicked off the shift by moving up to take Clemson defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro with the third pick of the second round.
The Washington Commanders then took Illinois defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton and a total of 20 defensive players went in a round that had seven trades as teams were wheeling and dealing to get their guy.