The NFL Scouting Combine is the first sign for everyone to get serious about draft talk. It gives football fans just under two months to prepare for a new name to walk across the stage as Roger Goodell says, “With the first overall pick…” Will they become the new face of the league? Or will they flame out before the end of their rookie deal? History gives us a good sense of how No. 1 overall picks have done in the past. Here is a list of every person taken first overall since 2000.
The first overall pick in the NFL Draft is a prestigious position, as it signifies that the team selecting that player believes they are the best prospect available. Over the years, there have been some hits and some misses with the No. 1 pick, but one thing is for sure – it is always an exciting moment for fans and players alike.
Since the year 2000, there have been several players who have been selected with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft. Some of these players have gone on to have successful careers, while others have struggled to live up to the expectations placed upon them.
One of the most successful No. 1 overall picks since 2000 is quarterback Peyton Manning, who was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the 1998 NFL Draft. Manning went on to have a Hall of Fame career, winning two Super Bowls and earning numerous accolades along the way.
Other notable No. 1 overall picks since 2000 include quarterback Eli Manning, who was selected by the New York Giants in the 2004 NFL Draft and went on to win two Super Bowls, and quarterback Cam Newton, who was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the 2011 NFL Draft and won an MVP award in 2015.
Of course, not every No. 1 overall pick has been a success. Players like quarterback JaMarcus Russell, who was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the 2007 NFL Draft, and quarterback David Carr, who was selected by the Houston Texans in the 2002 NFL Draft, failed to live up to the hype and were considered busts.
Overall, the first overall pick in the NFL Draft is a coveted position that comes with high expectations. While some players have thrived in this role, others have struggled to meet the demands placed upon them. As the 2022 NFL Draft approaches, football fans will be eagerly anticipating which player will be selected with the first overall pick and how they will fare in the league.
