Going into Friday, I figured Rounds 2 and 3 would be dominated by defense. Not exactly going out on a limb, I know, but defense did in fact carry the day. The 42 defensive players taken in Rounds 2 and 3 are most in the common draft era, and the 58 in total through the first three rounds is also the most during that time. The big surprise for many is that quarterback Connor Cook is still available going into Day 3, but some good offensive players were due to drop in a draft where defensive talent is the dominant theme.
Here are a few favorites and a few question marks from the second and third rounds, with a number of notes added. If you don't see your team here, remember, I'm going to break down every team in my draft grades when it's all said and done.
Liking it
Yes, that's the first time I've used a college logo in this file. What's the deal? Well ...
Detroit Lions: Detroit needed a big, run-stuffing type on the defensive line, and I couldn't have imagined they'd get a player like A'Shawn Robinson all the way down at No. 46. This was my 20th-ranked player overall. And I think Robinson has a little pass-rush in him that can be developed.
Seattle Seahawks: Goodbye Brandon Mebane, hello Jarran Reed. Again, like Detroit, the Seahawks got a player at No. 49 I had rated far higher (No. 21). This guy has big-time talent as a run defender, and he's more athletic than he looks. Seattle moved down in Round 1 and added a draft pick, and they used a little of that added currency to move up. Nice work. Seattle is having a great draft so far.