Division by Division NFL Draft Recap, Part 4: AFC and NFC West
With the NFL Draft in the rearview, I’ll be breaking down each class by division. For this edition, we’ll take a look at the West divisions in both conferences. To read my recaps of the North, East, and South divisions, click on the links below:
In this series, I’ll be giving my thoughts on the overall classes and highlighting my favorite selections and a surprise pick for each squad, as well as giving my “Draft Grade.” My grades are very much grounded in process and perceived value, relying on consensus rankings and my own evaluation of the class. An average Draft from that perspective would garner a “C” grade. The following grading scale will be used for all class evaluations:
A = Exemplary selection process and value added
B = Good process and solid overall prospect value
C = Average process and value added
D = Poor process or value added
F = Failure to effectively plan and execute a competent Draft strategy
With that in mind, let’s dive into my evaluation of the AFC and NFC West team Drafts.
AFC WEST
DENVER BRONCOS
Favorite Pick: RB RJ Harvey (2nd Rd)
Surprise Pick: CB Jahdae Barron (1st Rd)
Draft Grade: B-
My Take: The Broncos’ 2025 draft class focused on adding versatile playmakers to Sean Payton’s offense and bolstering the defense, with RB RJ Harvey standing out as a dynamic, Alvin Kamara-like runner who should thrive as a rookie in their scheme. The Barron pick in the first round was surprising just because I believed them to be targeting an offensive playmaker with that pick, and guys like WR Matthew Golden and RB Omarion Hampton were still available, but his confidence and fit opposite Patrick Surtain Jr. could pay off greatly. It felt like things fell off for Denver after Day 2 on paper. The process was solid but not spectacular, earning a B- for balancing immediate contributors with some questionable value picks.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Favorite Pick: OT Josh Simmons (1st Rd)
Surprise Pick: WR Jalen Royals (4th Rd)
Draft Grade: B+
My Take: Kansas City’s draft class is a masterclass in finding value without overreaching, with OT Josh Simmons as a potential long-term left tackle steal despite his injury history, perfectly suiting their need to protect Patrick Mahomes. The selection of WR Jalen Royals in the fourth round was a surprise, as his deep-threat ability was projected for Day 2, making him a sneaky good fit for Andy Reid’s offense. Additions like DT Omarr Norman-Lott and CB Nohl Williams bolster an already stout defense, showing GM Brett Veach’s knack for finding impact players. This well-rounded class, with strong fits for a contending roster, earns a B+ for its smart selections and high upside.
LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
Favorite Pick: RB Ashton Jeanty (1st Rd)
Surprise Pick: QB Cam Miller (6th Rd)
Draft Grade: A
My Take: The Raiders hit a home run in 2025, landing RB Ashton Jeanty in the first round, a workhorse back who transforms their offense and pairs beautifully with their trade for Geno Smith. Drafting QB Cam Miller in the sixth round was a head-scratcher, given his small-school background and their QB situation, but his athleticism offers developmental intrigue. Picks like WR Jack Bech and OT Charles Grant add depth and upside, reflecting a clear vision to rebuild the offense. This draft’s exceptional talent haul and strategic fit earn an A, as the Raiders maximized value and addressed critical needs.
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Favorite Pick: DT Jamaree Caldwell (3rd Rd)
Surprise Pick: TE Oronde Gadsden II (5th Rd)
Draft Grade: C+
My Take: The Chargers’ draft class leaned into Jim Harbaugh’s physical identity, with DT Jamaree Caldwell shining as a third-round gem who can disrupt along the defensive line right away. The fifth-round pick of TE Oronde Gadsden II was unexpected due to his injury history, but his pro-ready frame could make him a steal if he stays healthy. While RB Omarion Hampton and WR Tre Harris add offensive firepower, the lack of an early edge rusher and some inconsistent value picks temper enthusiasm. This class gets a C+ for addressing needs but missing opportunities for higher-impact selections.
NFC WEST
ARIZONA CARDINALS
Favorite Pick: CB Will Johnson (2nd Rd)
Surprise Pick: CB Denzel Burke (5th Rd)
Draft Grade: B-
My Take: Arizona’s draft class focused on rebuilding the defense, with CB Will Johnson as a second-round steal whose elite coverage skills should anchor their secondary for years. Double-dipping at Corner with Burke in the fifth round was surprising, with other more pressing needs like WR looming over the roster. DL additions like Deone Nolen and EDGE Eric Burch bring athleticism, though LB Jacob Simon’s fourth-round selection felt like a slight reach. The Cardinals’ process was solid, addressing key roster holes, but I can’t get fully on board with the team ignoring some of their offensive needs.
LOS ANGELES RAMS
Favorite Pick: ED Josiah Stewart (3rd Rd)
Surprise Pick: RB Jarquez Hunter (4th Rd)
Draft Grade: B
My Take: The Rams played the draft smartly, trading out of the first round for future assets while still landing EDGE Josiah Stewart in the third round, a high-motor player who fits their defensive scheme perfectly. Taking RB Jarquez Hunter in the fourth round was a bit of a surprise, as his skill set overlaps with existing backs, but his physicality could add depth. The real value added was in the 2026 1st Round pick acquired from Atlanta in their trade back, and I like the Terrance Ferguson fit at TE for McVay. This strategic, need-focused class earns a B for its balance and long-term potential.
SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS
Favorite Pick: DT Alfred Collins (2nd Rd)
Surprise Pick: DT CJ West (4th Rd)
Draft Grade: B
My Take: The 49ers went defense-heavy to counter salary-cap losses, with DT Alfred Collins in the second round standing out as a versatile lineman who complements Nick Bosa beautifully. It was surprising to see another DT selection in West with other needs (OT for instance) but his raw skill set is intriguing, and he adds depth to a thinning defensive front. RB Jordan James offers late-round upside for Kyle Shanahan’s run game, though picks like LB Nick Martin felt less inspired. This class earns a B for addressing defensive needs with strong early picks but missing out on some OL help is a tough miss in my opinion.
SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Favorite Pick: QB Jalen Milroe (3rd Rd)
Surprise Pick: TE Elijah Arroyo (2nd Rd)
Draft Grade: B+
My Take: Seattle’s draft class is a gem, with QB Jalen Milroe in the third round as a dynamic, Lamar Jackson-like talent who could thrive under Mike Macdonald’s vision. The second-round pick of TE Elijah Arroyo was unexpected, given his injury concerns, but his potential as a pass-catching weapon adds intrigue. OL Grey Zabel and S Nick Emmanwori address key needs with high-upside players, making this draft feel cohesive. The Seahawks’ bold yet calculated approach earns a B+ for excellent value and schematic fit.
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