Finding hidden gems in the NFL Draft can change a team’s future. Fifth-round picks often go unnoticed, but some become stars.
The NFL Draft is a mix of strategy and luck. Teams hope to find talented players who can make an impact. The fifth round, in particular, has seen many surprising successes. These players, though not selected early, have proven their worth on the field.
The best 5th round picks NFL drafts have given us include players who made unexpected impacts on the field. These players often exceed expectations, proving that talent can shine from any draft position. From skilled defenders to star receivers, the best 5th round picks NFL fans admire today highlight the value of looking beyond early rounds for greatness.
Introduction To Legendary Late-round Steals
The NFL Draft is where dreams come true for many players. While first-round picks get most of the attention, the later rounds often hold hidden gems. These late-round steals can become legendary figures in the NFL. The fifth round is particularly interesting. It has produced some outstanding talent. Let’s explore the significance of fifth-round picks and their historical impact on the NFL.
Significance Of 5th Round Picks
Fifth-round picks often have a chip on their shoulder. They may not have the hype of early-round selections. Yet, they bring grit and determination to the field. These players work hard to prove they belong in the NFL.
Teams scout deeply to find these hidden gems. Coaches look for players with unique skills or untapped potential. When a fifth-round pick succeeds, it validates the team’s scouting efforts. It also shows that talent can be found in any round.
Fifth-round picks can fill crucial roles on a team. They often become reliable starters or key backups. Their success stories inspire future draft classes. They remind us that every pick matters in the NFL Draft.
Historical Impact On Nfl
Some of the best NFL players were fifth-round picks. Richard Sherman is one of them. He was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round. Sherman became one of the best cornerbacks in NFL history.
Another example is Stefon Diggs. He was a fifth-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings. Diggs is now one of the top wide receivers in the league. His career shows that great talent can be found in later rounds.
Terrell Davis is another legendary fifth-round pick. The Denver Broncos drafted him in the fifth round. Davis went on to become a Hall of Famer and Super Bowl MVP. His impact on the game is unforgettable.
These players have made significant contributions to the NFL. Their success stories motivate teams to look for talent in every round. They remind us that the NFL Draft is full of surprises.
Fifth-round picks may not always be household names. But their impact on the game is undeniable. They show that hard work and determination can lead to greatness. The NFL is richer because of these legendary late-round steals.
Criteria For Evaluating 5th Round Picks
Evaluating the best 5th round picks in NFL history requires specific criteria. These criteria help to measure a player’s success and impact on the field. We look at various factors to judge a player’s worth. These factors include performance metrics and career longevity.
Performance Metrics
Performance metrics play a key role in evaluating 5th round picks. Statistics such as touchdowns, tackles, and yards gained are vital. These numbers show a player’s contribution during games. Consistency in performance also matters. Players with steady stats over several seasons stand out. Awards and recognitions further highlight top performers. Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors are important markers.
Career Longevity
Career longevity is another critical factor. Players with long careers offer more value. They bring experience and stability to their teams. Longevity also means fewer injuries and better physical conditioning. Coaches and teammates rely on these players for leadership. Players who play many seasons usually adapt well to changes in the game. Their ability to stay relevant is a testament to their skill and hard work.
Tom Brady: The Ultimate Steal
Tom Brady is often considered the best 5th round pick in NFL history. Drafted 199th overall in the 2000 NFL Draft, Brady’s journey to greatness is remarkable. Let’s explore his early career challenges and his impressive achievements and legacy.
Early Career Challenges
Tom Brady faced many obstacles early in his career. He was not a starter at the University of Michigan. He had to wait for his chance behind established players. Many NFL teams overlooked him due to his average performance in college.
Brady’s draft combine performance was not outstanding. Scouts questioned his athletic ability. His draft report highlighted his lack of speed and arm strength. This made him a low priority for many teams.
Despite these challenges, Brady’s determination shone through. He was drafted by the New England Patriots in the 6th round. He started as a backup to Drew Bledsoe. Brady seized the opportunity when Bledsoe got injured in 2001.
Achievements And Legacy
Tom Brady’s list of achievements is extensive. He has won seven Super Bowl titles. This is the most by any player in NFL history. Brady has also earned five Super Bowl MVP awards.
His regular-season stats are equally impressive. Brady has thrown for over 80,000 yards and 600 touchdowns. He holds numerous records, including the most career wins by a quarterback.
Brady’s legacy extends beyond individual stats. He is known for his leadership and work ethic. Many consider him the greatest quarterback of all time. His story is an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.
| Category | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Super Bowl Titles | 7 |
| Super Bowl MVP Awards | 5 |
| Career Passing Yards | 80,000+ |
| Career Touchdowns | 600+ |
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Richard Sherman: From 5th Round To All-pro
Richard Sherman stands out as one of the best 5th round picks in NFL history. Drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2011 NFL Draft, Sherman quickly proved his worth. He transformed from an underrated 5th rounder to an All-Pro cornerback.
Draft Day Doubts
Many teams overlooked Richard Sherman during the draft. Scouts doubted his speed and technique. Sherman had played wide receiver before switching to cornerback. This change caused concerns about his adaptability. Teams hesitated, thinking he lacked experience in his new position.
Yet, the Seattle Seahawks took a chance on him in the 5th round. They saw his potential. Sherman carried a chip on his shoulder from being overlooked. This fueled his desire to prove everyone wrong.
Defensive Dominance
Richard Sherman quickly became a key player for the Seahawks. His coverage skills and interceptions stood out. Opposing quarterbacks feared throwing in his direction. Sherman became known for his trash talk, which intimidated many receivers.
His leadership on the field was unmatched. Sherman’s performance helped the Seahawks win Super Bowl XLVIII. He earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and All-Pro honors. His journey from the 5th round to an elite cornerback is inspiring.
Kam Chancellor: The Enforcer
Kam Chancellor, known as “The Enforcer,” is one of the best 5th round picks in NFL history. His impact on the field was immense, especially for the Seattle Seahawks. Drafted in the fifth round, Chancellor’s journey is a testament to the value that lower-round picks can bring to a team.
Draft Background
Kam Chancellor was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the 5th round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He was the 133rd overall pick. At the time, many teams overlooked him due to his college performance and position. Chancellor played college football at Virginia Tech. His potential was evident, but many doubted his NFL readiness. This skepticism allowed the Seahawks to secure a future star at a bargain.
Impact On Seattle Seahawks
Chancellor’s impact on the Seahawks was immediate and profound. He quickly became a key player in Seattle’s “Legion of Boom” defense. His physical style of play earned him the nickname “The Enforcer.” Chancellor’s presence on the field was intimidating. He was known for his hard hits and strong coverage skills.
During his career, Chancellor helped lead the Seahawks to multiple playoff appearances. His leadership and performance were crucial in Seattle’s Super Bowl XLVIII victory. Chancellor’s stats are impressive:
- Four Pro Bowl selections
- Two-time Second-Team All-Pro
- 12 career interceptions
- 607 total tackles
His contributions were not just on the stat sheet. Chancellor’s leadership and presence boosted team morale. He was a mentor to younger players and a respected figure in the locker room. His ability to read plays and make crucial tackles set him apart.
Chancellor’s legacy with the Seahawks is enduring. His impact is felt both on and off the field. Fans and teammates remember him as a true enforcer and leader. His story is a reminder of the hidden gems that can be found in the later rounds of the NFL Draft.
Credit: sportsnaut.com
Zach Thomas: The Undersized Overachiever
Zach Thomas is a name that stands out in NFL history. Drafted in the fifth round, his journey is inspirational. Despite being undersized, he made a mark with his sheer determination and skill. Let’s dive into his scouting reports and Pro Bowl performances that highlight his remarkable career.
Scouting Reports
Many scouts overlooked Zach Thomas due to his size. At 5’11” and 228 pounds, he didn’t fit the typical linebacker mold. But his heart and instincts were unmatched.
| Attribute | Comment |
|---|---|
| Size | Undersized for a linebacker |
| Speed | Average but quick to react |
| Instincts | Exceptional football IQ |
| Work Ethic | Unmatched dedication |
Scouts noted his exceptional football IQ and ability to read plays. His quick reactions made up for any perceived physical limitations. Zach’s work ethic was also a highlight, showing his dedication to the game.
Pro Bowl Performances
Zach Thomas’s Pro Bowl appearances are testaments to his talent. He earned seven Pro Bowl selections during his career.
- 1999
- 2000
- 2001
- 2002
- 2003
- 2005
- 2006
These selections show his consistency and excellence on the field. Each year, he performed at a high level, proving critics wrong. His leadership and tenacity were evident in every game.
Thomas’s Pro Bowl stats further highlight his impact:
| Year | Tackles | Interceptions | Sacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1999 | 133 | 1 | 0 |
| 2000 | 145 | 1 | 1 |
| 2001 | 155 | 2 | 0 |
| 2002 | 156 | 1 | 1 |
| 2003 | 153 | 0 | 0 |
| 2005 | 162 | 2 | 1 |
| 2006 | 165 | 1 | 0 |
His tackles and interceptions consistently impressed fans and analysts alike. Zach Thomas’s story is one of grit, determination, and excellence. He truly is the undersized overachiever of the NFL.
Jared Allen: Sack Specialist
Jared Allen is an unforgettable name in the NFL world. Known for his impressive sack numbers, Allen has earned his place among the best 5th round picks. His journey from draft day to stardom is nothing short of inspiring.
Draft Journey
Jared Allen entered the NFL Draft in 2004. Many teams overlooked him, doubting his potential. He was selected in the 5th round by the Kansas City Chiefs. This was a turning point in his career.
Despite being a late pick, Allen had a strong start. He quickly proved his worth on the field. His dedication and hard work were evident in every game.
Career Highlights
Jared Allen’s career is filled with remarkable achievements. He is known for his sack numbers, making him a defensive powerhouse. With 136 sacks in his career, he ranks among the top sack leaders in NFL history.
Allen earned several Pro Bowl selections. He also received multiple All-Pro honors. His performance in 2011 was exceptional. He recorded 22 sacks that season.
He played for several teams, including the Chiefs, Vikings, Bears, and Panthers. Each team benefited from his skills and leadership. His impact on the field was undeniable.
Jared Allen’s legacy continues to inspire future players. His journey from a 5th round pick to a sack specialist is a testament to his talent and determination.
Credit: sportsnaut.com
Honorable Mentions
The NFL Draft is full of surprises, especially in the later rounds. While first-round picks often get the spotlight, many talented players emerge from the shadows of the fifth round. Let’s explore some of the best fifth-round picks in NFL history. Here are the honorable mentions that made a significant impact.
Notable 5th Round Picks
Not all great players come from the first rounds. Some notable fifth-round picks include:
- Tom Brady – Drafted by the New England Patriots in 2000, Brady became a legend. He has won multiple Super Bowls and MVP awards.
- Richard Sherman – Selected by the Seattle Seahawks in 2011. Sherman is known for his lockdown defense and leadership.
- Stefon Diggs – Picked by the Minnesota Vikings in 2015. Diggs has become one of the league’s top wide receivers.
Future Potential Stars
Several recent fifth-round picks show promise for the future:
- George Kittle – Drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2017. Kittle has established himself as a top-tier tight end.
- Matt Milano – Selected by the Buffalo Bills in 2017. Milano is a key part of the Bills’ strong defense.
- Jordan Howard – Picked by the Chicago Bears in 2016. Howard has shown potential as a reliable running back.
These players prove that talent can be found in every round of the NFL Draft. Their stories inspire scouts and fans alike. Keep an eye on the fifth round. You never know who might become the next big star.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Are The Best 5th Round Nfl Picks?
Some of the best 5th round NFL picks include Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, and Tyreek Hill. These players have made significant impacts on their teams and have achieved notable success in their careers.
Why Are 5th Round Picks Valuable?
5th round picks are valuable because they often provide great talent at a lower cost. Teams can find hidden gems and future stars without using high draft picks.
Which 5th Round Pick Became A Pro Bowler?
Richard Sherman, a 5th round pick, became a Pro Bowler multiple times. His excellent performance has made him one of the top cornerbacks in the league.
How Do Teams Find Successful 5th Round Picks?
Teams find successful 5th round picks through thorough scouting and analysis. They look for players with potential that others may have overlooked.
Conclusion
The NFL Draft’s fifth round holds hidden gems. These players often surprise fans and teams. Their journey proves talent can shine anytime. Each of our top five picks has made a significant impact. Their stories inspire future draftees. Keep an eye on the fifth round.
You might witness the next big star emerging from there. Always remember, talent isn’t just found in the first round. The next NFL legend could be waiting in later rounds. Stay tuned and enjoy the game!
