
Day 1 of the NFL Draft is the launching pad for college prospects destined to be stars. The right fit can unlock a player’s true potential while lifting whatever savvy team drafted him to new heights, paving the way for playoff runs and Pro Bowl invitations for years to come.
That’s not how it always works out, though. While the first round has the highest hit rate when it comes to pumping out reliable starters compared to the six that follow, it’s still the backdrop to broken dreams and disappointing performances.