The 2013 NFL Draft
The 2013 NFL Draft was a momentous occasion, shaping the landscape of the league for years to come. It was a draft filled with both brilliant selections and questionable decisions, with many players living up to the hype and others failing to meet expectations.
Impact of the Top Picks
The top picks of the 2013 draft have had a significant impact on their respective franchises. The first overall pick, Eric Fisher, was selected by the Kansas City Chiefs to protect their young quarterback, Alex Smith. Fisher has developed into a solid left tackle, but he hasn’t quite lived up to the expectations of a number one pick.
The second overall pick, Luke Joeckel, was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars to protect their franchise quarterback, Blake Bortles. Joeckel struggled early in his career, but he has shown flashes of brilliance and has become a reliable left tackle.
The third overall pick, Dion Jordan, was selected by the Miami Dolphins to bolster their pass rush. Jordan was a highly-touted prospect, but he struggled to stay healthy and never lived up to his potential.
The fourth overall pick, Lane Johnson, was selected by the Philadelphia Eagles to protect their franchise quarterback, Nick Foles. Johnson has developed into one of the best right tackles in the league, providing a solid foundation for the Eagles’ offense.
The fifth overall pick, Barkevious Mingo, was selected by the Cleveland Browns to improve their pass rush. Mingo was a highly-touted prospect, but he struggled to make a significant impact in Cleveland and was eventually traded to the New England Patriots.
The sixth overall pick, Geno Smith, was selected by the New York Jets to be their franchise quarterback. Smith struggled in his time with the Jets, but he has shown flashes of brilliance in his career.
The seventh overall pick, Sharrif Floyd, was selected by the Minnesota Vikings to bolster their defensive line. Floyd was a dominant force in college, but he struggled to stay healthy in the NFL and his career was cut short due to injuries.
The eighth overall pick, Dee Milliner, was selected by the New York Jets to improve their secondary. Milliner was a highly-touted prospect, but he struggled to stay healthy and never lived up to his potential.
The ninth overall pick, Ezekiel Ansah, was selected by the Detroit Lions to improve their pass rush. Ansah was a raw prospect coming out of college, but he developed into a dominant pass rusher and was a Pro Bowler in 2015.
The tenth overall pick, Cordarrelle Patterson, was selected by the Minnesota Vikings to be their dynamic offensive weapon. Patterson has been a productive player throughout his career, but he has never lived up to the expectations of a top-ten pick.
Standout Players and Teams
The 2013 draft produced several standout players who have made a significant impact on the league.
- Ezekiel Ansah: The ninth overall pick by the Detroit Lions, Ansah quickly established himself as a dominant pass rusher. He was a Pro Bowler in 2015 and has been a consistent force on the Lions’ defense.
- DeAndre Hopkins: The 27th overall pick by the Houston Texans, Hopkins has developed into one of the best wide receivers in the league. He is a reliable target for any quarterback and has consistently put up impressive numbers.
- Le’Veon Bell: The 48th overall pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bell is one of the most talented running backs in the league. He has been a workhorse for the Steelers and has consistently been among the league leaders in rushing yards and receptions.
- Alec Ogletree: The 30th overall pick by the St. Louis Rams, Ogletree has developed into a reliable linebacker. He is a key piece of the Rams’ defense and has been a consistent performer throughout his career.
- Travis Kelce: The 63rd overall pick by the Kansas City Chiefs, Kelce has developed into one of the best tight ends in the league. He is a mismatch nightmare for opposing defenses and has consistently put up impressive numbers.
Several teams had successful drafts in 2013, adding key pieces that helped them compete for championships.
- Kansas City Chiefs: The Chiefs drafted several key players in 2013, including Travis Kelce, Eric Fisher, and Knile Davis. These players helped the Chiefs build a strong foundation for their future success.
- Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks drafted several key players in 2013, including Richard Sherman and Jeremy Lane. These players were instrumental in helping the Seahawks win Super Bowl XLVIII.
- Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles drafted several key players in 2013, including Lane Johnson, Zach Ertz, and Matt Barkley. These players helped the Eagles build a strong offense and compete for a playoff spot.
Notable Trades and Surprises
The 2013 NFL Draft had several notable trades and surprises.
- The St. Louis Rams traded up to the second overall pick to select quarterback Sam Bradford. This was a bold move by the Rams, but it didn’t pay off as Bradford struggled with injuries and inconsistency throughout his career.
- The Cleveland Browns traded down from the sixth overall pick to the ninth overall pick. This move allowed them to acquire two additional picks, including a second-round pick, which they used to select Barkevious Mingo.
- The Buffalo Bills traded up to the ninth overall pick to select quarterback EJ Manuel. This was a risky move by the Bills, as Manuel was a relatively unknown prospect coming out of college. He struggled to live up to the hype and was eventually replaced by Tyrod Taylor.
The 2013 NFL Draft was a mixed bag of successes and failures. Some teams hit on their picks, while others missed the mark. But overall, the draft produced several talented players who have gone on to have successful careers in the NFL.
Notable Players Drafted in 2013: 2013 Nfl Draft
The 2013 NFL Draft was a treasure trove of talent, with several players going on to have successful and impactful careers in the league. These players have not only left their mark on their respective teams but have also become household names in the world of football.
Impactful Players from the 2013 Draft
This section will highlight the top 5 players from the 2013 draft and analyze their career trajectories.
- Luke Joeckel, Offensive Tackle, Jacksonville Jaguars (No. 2 Overall): Joeckel was a highly touted prospect coming out of Texas A&M, known for his size and athleticism. He started all 16 games for the Jaguars in his rookie season, but unfortunately, injuries plagued his career. He was traded to the Seattle Seahawks in 2017, where he continued to struggle with injuries and ultimately retired in 2019.
- Eric Fisher, Offensive Tackle, Kansas City Chiefs (No. 1 Overall): Fisher, a standout from Central Michigan, was selected first overall by the Chiefs. He immediately stepped into a starting role and became a cornerstone of their offensive line. He was a key part of the Chiefs’ success, helping them reach the playoffs multiple times and eventually win Super Bowl LIV in 2020. He was released by the Chiefs in 2021 and signed with the Indianapolis Colts, where he played one more season before retiring.
- Giovani Bernard, Running Back, Cincinnati Bengals (No. 37 Overall): Bernard, a dynamic and elusive running back from North Carolina, quickly established himself as a valuable asset for the Bengals. He was a consistent threat both running and receiving, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses. He was a key part of the Bengals’ offensive success, and his career was unfortunately cut short due to injuries.
- DeAndre Hopkins, Wide Receiver, Houston Texans (No. 27 Overall): Hopkins, a dominant wide receiver from Clemson, was drafted by the Texans in the first round. He quickly became one of the most feared receivers in the league, known for his exceptional route-running, hands, and ability to make contested catches. He was a consistent threat for the Texans, racking up numerous Pro Bowl appearances and All-Pro selections. In 2020, he was traded to the Arizona Cardinals, where he continued to dominate.
- Le’Veon Bell, Running Back, Pittsburgh Steelers (No. 48 Overall): Bell, a talented and versatile running back from Michigan State, was drafted by the Steelers in the second round. He quickly became one of the most productive running backs in the league, known for his powerful running style and exceptional vision. He was a key part of the Steelers’ success, leading the league in rushing yards in 2014 and 2017. However, contract disputes and off-field issues led to his departure from the Steelers in 2019. He signed with the New York Jets but struggled to replicate his previous success and later played for the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Career Highlights of Top 5 Players
The following table summarizes the career highlights of the top 5 players drafted in 2013.
| Player | Team | Pro Bowls | All-Pro Selections | Super Bowl Wins | Other Notable Accomplishments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luke Joeckel | Jacksonville Jaguars, Seattle Seahawks | 0 | 0 | 0 | Started all 16 games as a rookie |
| Eric Fisher | Kansas City Chiefs, Indianapolis Colts | 3 | 1 | 1 | Super Bowl LIV Champion (2020) |
| Giovani Bernard | Cincinnati Bengals | 1 | 0 | 0 | Led the Bengals in receiving yards in 2014 |
| DeAndre Hopkins | Houston Texans, Arizona Cardinals | 7 | 5 | 0 | Led the NFL in receiving yards in 2019 |
| Le’Veon Bell | Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Jets, Kansas City Chiefs, Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 3 | 2 | 0 | Led the NFL in rushing yards in 2014 and 2017 |
The 2013 NFL Draft’s Lasting Legacy
The 2013 NFL Draft was a pivotal moment in the history of the league, shaping the rosters and fortunes of numerous teams for years to come. It was a draft brimming with talent, featuring future superstars and impactful role players who have left their mark on the NFL. The lasting legacy of this draft is multifaceted, encompassing the careers of standout players, the impact on subsequent drafts, and the long-term influence on the league’s competitive landscape.
Impact on the League, 2013 nfl draft
The 2013 draft ushered in a new wave of talent that significantly impacted the league’s competitive landscape. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Seattle Seahawks, who had been struggling for years, found their future stars in this draft. The success of these teams, largely fueled by their 2013 draft picks, demonstrated the importance of finding talent through the draft and its ability to rapidly shift the power dynamics within the league. The impact of this draft extended beyond the immediate success of individual teams, influencing the strategies and philosophies of teams in subsequent drafts. Teams began placing a greater emphasis on identifying and drafting players with specific skillsets, recognizing the potential for immediate impact and long-term contributions.
Notable Players
The 2013 draft produced a wealth of talent, with numerous players becoming household names and shaping the landscape of the NFL.
- Eric Fisher (Kansas City Chiefs): The first overall pick, Fisher was selected to be the cornerstone of the Chiefs’ offensive line. He provided stability and protection for the franchise’s quarterback, contributing to the team’s resurgence and playoff appearances.
- Luke Joeckel (Jacksonville Jaguars): Selected second overall, Joeckel was expected to be a dominant left tackle for the Jaguars. While his career was plagued by injuries, he showcased flashes of brilliance, demonstrating his potential as a franchise-caliber player.
- Dee Milliner (New York Jets): The Jets selected Milliner with the ninth overall pick, hoping he would solidify their secondary. Despite a promising start, Milliner struggled with injuries and consistency, leading to a short-lived career.
- Le’Veon Bell (Pittsburgh Steelers): A standout running back, Bell was selected in the second round by the Steelers. He quickly emerged as one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers, racking up impressive rushing and receiving yards while establishing himself as a key offensive weapon.
- DeAndre Hopkins (Houston Texans): The Texans selected Hopkins in the first round, recognizing his potential as a game-changing receiver. Hopkins quickly became one of the league’s most dominant wide receivers, known for his exceptional route running, ball skills, and ability to make big plays.
- Tyrann Mathieu (Arizona Cardinals): The Cardinals selected Mathieu in the third round, recognizing his exceptional talent and playmaking ability. Mathieu quickly became a fan favorite and a key piece of the Cardinals’ defense, showcasing his versatility and impact on the field.
- Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs): Selected in the third round by the Chiefs, Kelce was a relatively unknown tight end entering the draft. However, he quickly developed into one of the league’s most dominant tight ends, showcasing his exceptional athleticism, receiving skills, and ability to create mismatches.
- Alec Ogletree (St. Louis Rams): Ogletree, a standout linebacker, was selected in the second round by the Rams. He quickly established himself as a force in the middle of the Rams’ defense, showcasing his tackling ability and instincts.
- Zach Ertz (Philadelphia Eagles): Ertz, a talented tight end, was selected in the second round by the Eagles. He quickly developed into a reliable target for the Eagles’ quarterbacks, becoming a valuable weapon in the passing game.
- Johnathan Cyprien (Jacksonville Jaguars): Cyprien, a hard-hitting safety, was selected in the second round by the Jaguars. He quickly became a key player in the Jaguars’ defense, known for his physicality and ability to make big plays.
- Sheldon Richardson (New York Jets): Richardson, a dominant defensive tackle, was selected in the first round by the Jets. He quickly established himself as one of the league’s most disruptive defensive players, showcasing his strength, athleticism, and ability to create havoc in the trenches.
- Eddie Lacy (Green Bay Packers): Lacy, a powerful running back, was selected in the second round by the Packers. He quickly became a key piece of the Packers’ offense, known for his ability to run through tackles and find the end zone.
- Cordarrelle Patterson (Minnesota Vikings): Patterson, a dynamic wide receiver and return specialist, was selected in the first round by the Vikings. He quickly became a threat to score every time he touched the ball, showcasing his exceptional speed and athleticism.
- Kenny Vaccaro (New Orleans Saints): Vaccaro, a hard-hitting safety, was selected in the first round by the Saints. He quickly became a key player in the Saints’ defense, known for his physicality and ability to make big plays.
- Jarvis Landry (Miami Dolphins): Landry, a shifty slot receiver, was selected in the second round by the Dolphins. He quickly established himself as a reliable target for the Dolphins’ quarterbacks, known for his ability to make tough catches and move the chains.
Impact on Subsequent Drafts
The success of players from the 2013 draft, particularly those who made an immediate impact, influenced the strategies of teams in subsequent drafts. Teams began placing a greater emphasis on drafting players with specific skillsets and potential for immediate impact. The 2013 draft also served as a reminder of the importance of identifying and developing talent at all positions, not just focusing on “blue chip” prospects.
Most Impactful Players
The 2013 NFL Draft is considered one of the most impactful in recent memory, producing a wealth of talent that has shaped the league for years to come. Among the most impactful players from this draft are:
- Le’Veon Bell (Pittsburgh Steelers): Bell established himself as one of the league’s most dynamic running backs, earning three Pro Bowl selections and a First-Team All-Pro nod. His impact on the Steelers’ offense was undeniable, as he consistently racked up impressive rushing and receiving yards.
- DeAndre Hopkins (Houston Texans): Hopkins quickly emerged as one of the league’s most dominant wide receivers, earning five Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro nods. His ability to make big plays and consistently produce at a high level has made him one of the most feared receivers in the league.
- Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs): Kelce has transformed into one of the most dominant tight ends in NFL history, earning eight Pro Bowl selections and five First-Team All-Pro nods. His exceptional athleticism, receiving skills, and ability to create mismatches have made him a key weapon in the Chiefs’ offense.
- Tyrann Mathieu (Arizona Cardinals/Kansas City Chiefs): Mathieu has become one of the league’s most versatile and impactful defensive players, earning three Pro Bowl selections and two First-Team All-Pro nods. His ability to play multiple positions and make big plays has made him a force on the field.
- Sheldon Richardson (New York Jets/Seattle Seahawks): Richardson established himself as one of the league’s most disruptive defensive tackles, earning one Pro Bowl selection and a First-Team All-Pro nod. His strength, athleticism, and ability to create havoc in the trenches made him a force to be reckoned with.
The 2013 NFL Draft was a wild one, with tons of surprises and a few future stars coming off the board. One of those guys was Tavon Austin, who was drafted eighth overall by the Rams. You can check out his journey from the draft to the pros on tavon austin instagram , where he shares behind-the-scenes moments and even some throwback pics from his time in college.
It’s pretty cool to see how far he’s come since that draft night, and I’m sure he’s got some great stories to tell about his time in the NFL.
The 2013 NFL Draft was a wild ride, and one of the biggest surprises was when the Rams snagged Tavon Austin with the eighth overall pick. His speed was electric, and you can check out his full NFL stats here to see if he lived up to the hype.
Of course, the draft was full of other big names, but Austin was definitely one of the most exciting prospects that year.
