Which player was the NFL Draft’s top pick at number 27?

The NFL Draft is one of the most anticipated events in professional football, serving as a critical moment where franchises select young talent to build their teams. While the top overall pick often receives the most attention, selections throughout the first round, including the 27th overall pick, have produced impactful players. This article explores the history of the 27th pick in the NFL Draft, analyzing notable selections, team strategies, and the long-term success of these players.

Historical Overview of the 27th Pick

The 27th overall selection has yielded a mix of Pro Bowlers, solid starters, and role players. While it may not carry the prestige of a top-five pick, teams have used this slot to secure valuable talent that contributed significantly to their success. Over the years, the 27th pick has been utilized by various franchises looking to fill key roster gaps, whether on offense, defense, or special teams.

Notable 27th Overall Picks in NFL Draft History

Several players selected at No. 27 have gone on to have successful careers, proving that talent can be found throughout the first round. Here are some of the most impactful players drafted at this position:

1. Roddy White (2005, Atlanta Falcons)
   Roddy White became one of the most productive wide receivers in Falcons history. Over his 11-season career, he accumulated over 10,000 receiving yards and became a key target for quarterback Matt Ryan. White earned multiple Pro Bowl selections and helped Atlanta become a perennial playoff contender.
2. Larry Johnson (2003, Kansas City Chiefs)
   A powerful running back out of Penn State, Johnson enjoyed a productive career with the Chiefs. He had back-to-back seasons with over 1,700 rushing yards in 2005 and 2006, establishing himself as one of the top backs in the league during that period.
3. DeAndre Baker (2019, New York Giants)
   Baker was highly touted as a shutdown cornerback coming out of Georgia. Although his career faced challenges, his selection at No. 27 demonstrated how teams look for elite defensive backs late in the first round.
4. Rashaad Penny (2018, Seattle Seahawks)
   A dynamic running back from San Diego State, Penny was expected to bring explosiveness to Seattle’s ground game. Though injuries have impacted his career, he has shown flashes of brilliance when healthy.
5. Tre’Davious White (2017, Buffalo Bills)
   White developed into one of the best cornerbacks in the league, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors while becoming a key piece of the Bills’ dominant defense.
6. Kevin Johnson (2015, Houston Texans)
   Johnson played as a cornerback for multiple teams, contributing as a defensive back in different schemes.

Patterns and Trends in No. 27 Selections

Examining past drafts, we can observe trends in how teams utilize the 27th pick:

• Defensive Backs and Wide Receivers Are Common
  Many teams have used this pick to select cornerbacks and wide receivers. Positions requiring athleticism and skill often remain available at this stage, making it a valuable spot for filling such needs.
• Running Backs Have Been Hit or Miss
  While players like Larry Johnson had standout seasons, others, like Rashaad Penny, faced injuries that limited their impact.
• Strong Defensive Focus
  Several defensive players selected at No. 27 have made a significant impact in the NFL. Defensive backs, linebackers, and edge rushers are often chosen to bolster a team’s defensive unit.

How the 27th Pick Contributes to a Team’s Success

Despite not being a top-10 selection, a well-scouted player at No. 27 can become a franchise cornerstone. Many teams use this pick to address a missing piece in their roster rather than drafting based solely on potential.

For instance, Tre’Davious White became a crucial part of the Bills’ secondary, helping them contend for AFC dominance. Similarly, Roddy White played a significant role in Atlanta’s offensive success.

Challenges of the 27th Pick

While the 27th overall pick can yield great talent, it also comes with challenges:

• Injury Concerns – Some players drafted at this position have struggled with injuries, limiting their career longevity.
• Development Time – Late first-round picks sometimes require more time to develop compared to top-10 selections who are expected to start immediately.
• Scheme Fit – Players drafted at this spot often need the right coaching and system to maximize their potential.

Recent No. 27 Selections (2020-Present)

• 2023 – Anton Harrison (OT, Jacksonville Jaguars) – A promising offensive lineman expected to bolster Jacksonville’s protection for Trevor Lawrence.
• 2022 – Devin Lloyd (LB, Jacksonville Jaguars) – A talented linebacker contributing to the Jaguars’ defense.
• 2021 – Rashod Bateman (WR, Baltimore Ravens) – A receiver with potential who has shown glimpses of being a top target in Baltimore’s offense.

The 27th overall pick in the NFL Draft has produced some remarkable players over the years. While not every selection turns into a superstar, many contribute significantly to their teams. From Pro Bowl receivers to shutdown cornerbacks, this draft position remains a valuable asset for teams looking to strengthen their rosters. The key lies in proper scouting, player development, and ensuring that the pick fits the team’s overall strategy.

As the NFL Draft continues to evolve, teams will keep using the 27th pick as an opportunity to land impact players, proving that talent exists at every stage of the first round.