2019 NFL Redraft: Rewriting History For Gridiron Glory

The year 2019 (MMXIX) was a common year that unfolded with a unique blend of global events, cultural shifts, and, for sports enthusiasts, a highly anticipated NFL Draft. It was a period marked by significant moments, from the US Women's soccer team clinching the World Cup to the ongoing political landscape under President Donald Trump. Overall, 2019 was a year full of ups and downs, with memorable moments that will undoubtedly stay with us for a long time, shaping our collective memory of that era. As we look back, we recall the major events, the memorable music, and the famous figures who defined that time. But beyond the headlines, for football fans, 2019 also brought a fresh crop of talent into the National Football League, a class whose true impact would only become clear years later.

Now, with the benefit of hindsight and several seasons of professional play under their belts, it's time to revisit that pivotal year. Imagine we could turn back the clock to April 2019, armed with the knowledge we possess today. Who would teams have selected? Which players would soar up draft boards, and who would tumble? This article delves into the fascinating hypothetical of a 2019 NFL Redraft, meticulously re-evaluating the original selections based on career performance, impact, and overall value. We’ll explore how the landscape of the league might have been irrevocably altered, transforming franchises and player legacies alike.

The Original 2019 NFL Draft Landscape

The 2019 NFL Draft was held in Nashville, Tennessee, and was highly anticipated, as most drafts are. Kyler Murray, the dynamic dual-threat quarterback from Oklahoma, was selected first overall by the Arizona Cardinals. This pick set the tone for a draft class that was perceived to be rich in defensive line talent, with players like Nick Bosa and Quinnen Williams expected to be immediate impact players. Other notable early picks included defensive end Josh Allen to the Jaguars, linebacker Devin White to the Buccaneers, and defensive tackle Ed Oliver to the Bills. Looking back, the original draft order reflected team needs and perceived talent at the time. Quarterbacks were a hot commodity, but the 2019 class didn't boast a consensus "generational" talent beyond Murray. Instead, it was praised for its depth in edge rushers and interior defensive linemen. However, as is always the case with the NFL Draft, the true success of a class is only revealed years down the line, after players have had the chance to develop, adapt to the professional game, and prove their worth. Many players who were overlooked or drafted in later rounds have since emerged as Pro Bowl talents, while some early picks have struggled to live up to their initial billing. This stark reality is precisely why a 2019 NFL Redraft becomes such a compelling exercise.

Why a 2019 NFL Redraft Matters Now

The beauty of a redraft lies in its ability to correct past "mistakes" and highlight hidden gems. It’s not just a fun thought experiment; it’s a valuable tool for understanding player development, the nuances of scouting, and the unpredictable nature of professional sports. Five years removed from that Tuesday in April 2019, we have a clear picture of who succeeded, who struggled, and who became indispensable.

Unforeseen Player Trajectories

One of the most fascinating aspects of any redraft is observing how players' careers diverge from their draft-day expectations. Some players drafted highly might have plateaued or faced injury setbacks, while others, taken in the middle or late rounds, have blossomed into superstars. Take, for instance, players like A.J. Brown or Terry McLaurin, who were not first-round picks but have undeniably become elite wide receivers. Conversely, some top-10 picks have had solid but not spectacular careers, making their original draft slot seem like an overreach in retrospect. The 2019 NFL Redraft allows us to acknowledge these unforeseen trajectories and adjust their perceived value accordingly.

The Benefit of Hindsight for Teams

For NFL franchises, the draft is the lifeblood of sustained success. A single draft class can make or break a team's fortunes for years to come. With hindsight, teams would undoubtedly make vastly different choices in the 2019 NFL Redraft. Imagine the impact on the Arizona Cardinals if they had selected a different player at #1 overall, or the Buffalo Bills if they had landed a top-tier offensive lineman who later became a Pro Bowler. This exercise isn't about shaming past decisions but about learning from them, understanding how player evaluation evolves, and appreciating the sheer difficulty of projecting future NFL success. It offers a glimpse into what "could have been" for many teams, potentially altering Super Bowl trajectories and franchise identities.

Revisiting the Top 10 Picks: A New Order

The original top 10 of the 2019 NFL Draft featured a mix of quarterbacks, defensive linemen, and linebackers. In a redraft scenario, this order would be dramatically shaken up. Player performance, consistency, and overall impact would dictate the new pecking order.

Quarterbacks: Who Rises to the Top?

Kyler Murray was the only quarterback taken in the top 10 of the original 2019 draft. While he's had moments of brilliance and won Offensive Rookie of the Year, his career has been marked by injuries and inconsistency, not quite reaching the elite tier of NFL quarterbacks. In a 2019 NFL Redraft, the top quarterback might still be Murray, but his draft stock would likely fall from the No. 1 overall spot, given the emergence of other non-QB stars. There isn't another clear-cut elite QB from this class, which highlights the difficulty of finding franchise signal-callers. Gardner Minshew, a sixth-round pick, has carved out a respectable career as a backup and spot starter, demonstrating that value can be found anywhere.

Defensive Dominators: Reshaping the Front Seven

The 2019 class was indeed strong on defense, and many of those players would retain high spots in a redraft. Nick Bosa, the second overall pick, has lived up to his billing, becoming one of the league's most dominant edge rushers and a Defensive Player of the Year winner. Quinnen Williams, the third pick, has also developed into an elite interior defensive lineman. However, other defensive players who were taken later, such as Maxx Crosby (fourth round), have significantly outplayed their original draft position and would undoubtedly leap into the top 10, or even top 5, of a 2019 NFL Redraft. Their consistent disruption and impact on games would make them highly coveted assets.

Mid-Round Gems: The Steals of the 2019 Class

The true measure of a strong draft class often lies in the mid-rounds, where teams find players who become core contributors without the fanfare of a first-round pick. The 2019 class delivered handsomely in this regard. Wide receivers like A.J. Brown (51st overall, 2nd round), Deebo Samuel (36th overall, 2nd round), and Terry McLaurin (76th overall, 3rd round) have all developed into Pro Bowl-caliber pass-catchers, far exceeding their draft positions. Other notable mid-round steals include: * **Maxx Crosby (DE, 106th overall, 4th round):** From a relatively unknown prospect to one of the NFL's most relentless and productive pass rushers. He's a foundational piece for any defense. * **D.K. Metcalf (WR, 64th overall, 2nd round):** His unique blend of size and speed has made him a consistent deep threat and red-zone target. * **Elgton Jenkins (OG/C, 44th overall, 2nd round):** A versatile and dominant offensive lineman who can play multiple positions at a high level. * **Diontae Johnson (WR, 66th overall, 3rd round):** A shifty route-runner and dynamic return specialist. * **Dawson Knox (TE, 96th overall, 3rd round):** Developed into a reliable receiving tight end for the Bills. These players represent incredible value for the teams that drafted them, and in a 2019 NFL Redraft, they would all see their stock skyrocket, with many moving into the first round.

Late-Round Surprises and Undrafted Stars

Beyond the mid-rounds, the 2019 class also produced several late-round and even undrafted players who have defied expectations. These are the true diamonds in the rough, proving that talent evaluation is an art, not a science. * **Marquise Blair (S, 137th overall, 5th round):** Though injuries have hampered his career, when healthy, he showed flashes of potential. * **Dre Greenlaw (LB, 148th overall, 5th round):** A key component of the 49ers' stout defense, known for his physicality and instincts. * **Kendall Hinton (WR/QB, Undrafted):** Known for his emergency QB performance, but has carved out a role as a receiver. * **Cole Holcomb (LB, 173rd overall, 5th round):** A productive and reliable tackler. * **Allen Lazard (WR, Undrafted):** Became a reliable target for Aaron Rodgers in Green Bay. * **Jakobi Meyers (WR, Undrafted):** Consistently productive as a slot receiver and reliable target. These players highlight the fact that a player's draft position is merely a starting point. Their dedication, work ethic, and opportunity ultimately determine their success. In a 2019 NFL Redraft, these late-round and undrafted players would certainly be on team radars much earlier, some even potentially moving into the mid-rounds.

Impact on Franchises: Winners and Losers of the Redraft

A hypothetical 2019 NFL Redraft would profoundly impact the fortunes of many franchises. Teams that originally missed out on top talent would have a second chance to build a stronger foundation. * **Original Winners (who would still be high picks):** * **San Francisco 49ers (Nick Bosa):** Bosa has been everything they hoped for and more. He'd still be a top pick. * **New York Jets (Quinnen Williams):** Williams has become a dominant force on their defensive line. * **Tennessee Titans (A.J. Brown):** Though he's since been traded, his performance for the Titans (and Eagles) was elite. They'd still pick him high. * **Seattle Seahawks (D.K. Metcalf):** A perfect fit for their offense, Metcalf has been a consistent playmaker. * **Original Losers (who would make different picks):** * **Arizona Cardinals (Kyler Murray at #1):** While Murray is good, the #1 overall pick could have yielded a truly generational talent like Nick Bosa or a top-tier offensive lineman. * **Oakland Raiders (Clelin Ferrell at #4):** Ferrell struggled to live up to his draft slot. They'd undoubtedly pivot to a player like Maxx Crosby (who they got later anyway) or a top receiver. * **Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Devin White at #5):** White had a great start but has been inconsistent. A redraft would see them target a more impactful player. The ripple effect of these changes would be immense, potentially shifting power dynamics within divisions and conferences. A redraft emphasizes how crucial every pick is, especially in the early rounds, and how the right selection can elevate a franchise for years to come.

The Legacy of the 2019 Class: A Redraft Perspective

The 2019 NFL Draft class, when viewed through the lens of a redraft, stands out for its remarkable depth at wide receiver and its strong defensive line talent. While it may not have produced a consensus top-tier quarterback beyond the initial hype around Kyler Murray, it delivered an abundance of Pro Bowl-caliber players at other crucial positions. The legacy of the 2019 class is one of unexpected stars and significant value found outside the traditional top picks. It serves as a testament to the fact that NFL success isn't solely determined by draft slot but by a combination of player talent, coaching, scheme fit, and sheer determination. This class has provided numerous game-changers who have shaped their respective teams and the league as a whole. The 2019 NFL Redraft is not just about correcting past mistakes; it's about celebrating the true impact and value of every player in that memorable year.

Crafting the Ultimate 2019 NFL Redraft Board

Now, for the main event: our ultimate 2019 NFL Redraft. This board is based on five years of NFL performance, considering player impact, consistency, durability, and overall value relative to their position.

Top 5 Picks Reimagined

1. **Arizona Cardinals (Original Pick: Kyler Murray) -> Nick Bosa (DE, Ohio State)** * *Why:* Bosa has been the most dominant and impactful player from this class, winning Defensive Player of the Year and consistently being a top-tier pass rusher. His presence would transform any defense. 2. **San Francisco 49ers (Original Pick: Nick Bosa) -> A.J. Brown (WR, Ole Miss)** * *Why:* Brown is an elite, game-changing wide receiver who consistently produces at a high level. His ability to create separation and make contested catches would be invaluable. The 49ers would get a true #1 receiver to pair with their run game. 3. **New York Jets (Original Pick: Quinnen Williams) -> Maxx Crosby (DE, Eastern Michigan)** * *Why:* Crosby's relentless motor and consistent production make him a top-tier edge rusher. He has significantly outplayed his original fourth-round draft slot and would be an instant impact player for the Jets. 4. **Oakland Raiders (Original Pick: Clelin Ferrell) -> Quinnen Williams (DT, Alabama)** * *Why:* Williams has developed into one of the league's best interior defensive linemen, a dominant force against both the run and pass. The Raiders would get a foundational piece for their defense. 5. **Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Original Pick: Devin White) -> Chris Lindstrom (OG, Boston College)** * *Why:* Lindstrom has quietly become one of the best offensive guards in the NFL, a cornerstone of the Falcons' offensive line. Elite offensive line play is crucial, and Lindstrom provides consistent, high-level performance.

Picks 6-10: Solidifying Rosters

6. **New York Giants (Original Pick: Daniel Jones) -> Elgton Jenkins (OG/C, Mississippi State)** * *Why:* Jenkins is an incredibly versatile and dominant offensive lineman who can play guard, center, or tackle at a high level. He would immediately upgrade the Giants' offensive line, providing stability for any quarterback. 7. **Jacksonville Jaguars (Original Pick: Josh Allen) -> D.K. Metcalf (WR, Ole Miss)** * *Why:* Metcalf's unique physical gifts and consistent production make him a premier deep threat and red-zone weapon. The Jaguars would get a dynamic receiver to elevate their passing game. 8. **Detroit Lions (Original Pick: T.J. Hockenson) -> Brian Burns (DE, Florida State)** * *Why:* Burns has consistently been a productive pass rusher, providing pressure off the edge. He would significantly bolster the Lions' defensive line. 9. **Buffalo Bills (Original Pick: Ed Oliver) -> Josh Allen (DE, Kentucky)** * *Why:* Allen has been a very good, consistent pass rusher for the Jaguars. While not Bosa, he's a solid, reliable edge presence who would fit well with the Bills' defense. 10. **Denver Broncos (Original Pick: Noah Fant) -> Terry McLaurin (WR, Ohio State)** * *Why:* McLaurin has been a remarkably consistent and productive receiver despite often playing with inconsistent quarterback play. He's a true professional and a top-tier talent who would be a great asset for the Broncos. This redraft demonstrates a significant shift from the original draft, emphasizing the long-term impact of players who have proven their worth over multiple seasons. The value found in the mid-rounds, particularly at wide receiver and defensive end, is truly remarkable.

Conclusion

The 2019 NFL Redraft is more than just a fun exercise; it's a testament to the unpredictable nature of player development and the critical importance of long-term evaluation in the National Football League. As we've seen, the true stars of the 2019 class weren't always the ones who heard their names called first on draft night. Players like Nick Bosa, A.J. Brown, and Maxx Crosby have emerged as foundational pieces for their franchises, demonstrating the immense value of consistent high-level performance. Reflecting on the year 2019, with its myriad of global events and memorable moments, the NFL Draft of that year stands out as a pivotal point for many teams. The lessons learned from this redraft underscore the importance of patience, thorough scouting, and the understanding that a player's journey is rarely linear. Which picks from the 2019 class surprised you the most in retrospect? Share your thoughts and your own redraft picks in the comments below! And if you enjoyed this deep dive, be sure to explore our other redraft analyses for different NFL Draft classes.

Details

Details

Details

Detail Author:

• Name : Josiah Crooks
• Username : simeon.williamson
• Email : russel.thora@yahoo.com
• Birthdate : 1986-01-29
• Address : 246 Roscoe Divide West Magdalenshire, OH 26959-1333
• Phone : 870-745-8622
• Company : West LLC
• Job : Dot Etcher
• Bio : Beatae et saepe accusantium. Fuga omnis aliquam eum impedit voluptas. Corporis illum debitis vel quisquam impedit officiis.

Socials

facebook:

• url : https://facebook.com/mchristiansen
• username : mchristiansen
• bio : Dolores ut consequatur reiciendis velit.
• followers : 3768
• following : 1102

tiktok:

• url : https://tiktok.com/@christiansen2008
• username : christiansen2008
• bio : Est ut ut minus aut ex nam assumenda. Cum dicta quod iste quia vitae.
• followers : 2368
• following : 859

linkedin:

• url : https://linkedin.com/in/mchristiansen
• username : mchristiansen
• bio : A nam officia ut laborum est sit.
• followers : 2795
• following : 439