Draft Results NFL 2014: An In-Depth Look At The Impact And Outcomes

The 2014 NFL Draft was a monumental event that left a lasting impact on the league. Held at Radio City Music Hall in New York City from May 8 to May 10, it featured a diverse group of talented athletes who would go on to shape the future of football. Teams strategically picked players to fill gaps, enhance their rosters, and build for the future. The draft results NFL 2014 saw many surprises, with some teams making bold moves and others opting for safe bets.

The draft class of 2014 is often remembered for its depth and the emergence of several key players who would become stars in the NFL. Among them were quarterbacks, wide receivers, and defensive players who have since made significant contributions to their teams. The decisions made during this draft have had long-term effects, influencing team dynamics and performance in the subsequent seasons. Evaluating the draft results NFL 2014 offers valuable insights into the strategies and foresight of NFL franchises.

For fans, analysts, and teams alike, the draft results NFL 2014 provided plenty of drama and intrigue. It was a draft that not only highlighted the skills of the athletes involved but also showcased the tactical acumen of team executives and scouts. This comprehensive examination of the draft results NFL 2014 will delve into the selections, the impact of those picks, and the overall outcomes that have shaped the league in the years that followed.

Table of Contents

• Overview of the 2014 NFL Draft
• Top Picks and Their Impact
• Surprises and Unexpected Moves
• Team Strategies and Successes
• Who Were the Quarterbacks Drafted in 2014?
• Wide Receivers Making a Mark
• Defensive Players: A Strong Class?
• Analysis of the Draft Results NFL 2014
• Long-Term Effects on Teams
• Notable Undrafted Players
• Lessons Learned from the 2014 Draft
• Legacy of the 2014 NFL Draft
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Conclusion

Overview of the 2014 NFL Draft

The 2014 NFL Draft was a pivotal event for teams looking to bolster their rosters with fresh talent. Held at the iconic Radio City Music Hall in New York City, it spanned three days, from May 8 to May 10. The draft featured 256 picks over seven rounds, with each team aiming to select players who could make an immediate impact or develop into future stars.

The Houston Texans held the first overall pick and selected Jadeveon Clowney, a defensive end from South Carolina, who was widely regarded as a generational talent. His selection set the tone for a draft that was characterized by a mix of high-profile selections and strategic gambles.

This draft was noted for its depth, particularly at the wide receiver and defensive line positions. Analysts and scouts praised the class for its potential to produce numerous Pro Bowl-caliber players. As the draft unfolded, teams made calculated decisions, balancing immediate needs with long-term goals. The draft results NFL 2014 were closely scrutinized, with fans and experts eager to see how the chosen players would fare in the professional ranks.

Top Picks and Their Impact

The top picks of the 2014 NFL Draft have had varying degrees of success and impact on the league. Jadeveon Clowney, selected first overall by the Houston Texans, was expected to be a game-changing defensive presence. While injuries have hampered his career, Clowney has shown flashes of brilliance and remains a formidable force on the field.

Quarterback Blake Bortles, taken third overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars, had an up-and-down career with the team. Despite leading the Jaguars to an AFC Championship game appearance, inconsistency marked his tenure, and he eventually parted ways with the team.

Wide receiver Sammy Watkins, selected fourth overall by the Buffalo Bills, showcased his talent with impressive speed and playmaking ability. However, injuries have limited his impact over the years, leading to multiple team changes.

Defensive Standouts

Khalil Mack, chosen fifth overall by the Oakland Raiders, quickly established himself as one of the premier defensive players in the league. His exceptional pass-rushing skills and versatility earned him numerous accolades, including Defensive Player of the Year honors.

Aaron Donald, selected 13th overall by the St. Louis Rams, has become one of the most dominant defensive tackles in NFL history. With multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards to his name, Donald's impact on the field is undeniable, making him a cornerstone of the Rams' defense.

Surprises and Unexpected Moves

The draft results NFL 2014 were not without surprises and unexpected moves that caught fans and analysts off guard. One of the most talked-about moments was the Cleveland Browns' decision to trade up to the 22nd overall pick to select quarterback Johnny Manziel. Dubbed "Johnny Football," Manziel's college success and charismatic personality made him a polarizing figure. Unfortunately, his NFL career was short-lived, marred by off-field issues and inconsistent play.

Another surprise was the fall of Teddy Bridgewater, a highly-touted quarterback prospect from Louisville, to the 32nd overall pick, where he was selected by the Minnesota Vikings. Bridgewater's late selection puzzled many, but he went on to have a promising start to his career before injuries derailed his progress.

Unexpected Trades

The 2014 draft also featured several unexpected trades, as teams maneuvered to position themselves for coveted players. The Buffalo Bills made a bold move by trading up to acquire Sammy Watkins, sacrificing future draft capital to secure the dynamic wide receiver. This decision was met with mixed reactions, as the long-term impact on the team's roster was debated.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys surprised many by selecting offensive lineman Zack Martin with the 16th overall pick. While some expected the Cowboys to address their defensive needs, Martin's selection proved to be a masterstroke, as he quickly became one of the league's premier guards.

Team Strategies and Successes

The 2014 NFL Draft showcased a variety of team strategies and approaches to building successful rosters. Teams employed different tactics based on their immediate needs, long-term goals, and available talent. Some franchises prioritized filling specific positional gaps, while others focused on acquiring the best player available regardless of position.

For instance, the New York Giants prioritized bolstering their offensive line, selecting guard Weston Richburg in the second round. This move addressed a critical need and provided quarterback Eli Manning with better protection. The Giants' strategy paid off, as Richburg became a key contributor to the team's offensive success.

Building for the Future

In contrast, the Green Bay Packers adopted a strategy centered around long-term development. By selecting players like wide receiver Davante Adams in the second round, the Packers focused on cultivating young talent to complement their established stars. Adams has since become one of the league's elite wide receivers, proving the effectiveness of the Packers' approach.

The San Francisco 49ers also demonstrated a successful draft strategy by selecting linebacker Chris Borland in the third round. Borland's immediate impact on the field was evident, as he quickly became a standout performer. Although his career was cut short by an early retirement, Borland's brief tenure highlighted the 49ers' ability to identify and maximize talent.

Who Were the Quarterbacks Drafted in 2014?

The 2014 NFL Draft featured a number of quarterback selections, with teams looking to find their future franchise leaders. The first quarterback off the board was Blake Bortles, selected third overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Bortles was viewed as a promising prospect with a strong arm and physical tools to succeed at the professional level.

Johnny Manziel, chosen 22nd overall by the Cleveland Browns, was another high-profile quarterback selection. His college success and electrifying playing style generated significant buzz, but his NFL career was plagued by off-field issues and inconsistent performances.

Other Notable Quarterback Selections

Teddy Bridgewater, selected 32nd overall by the Minnesota Vikings, was considered a steal at the end of the first round. Despite concerns about his size and arm strength, Bridgewater impressed with his poise and accuracy, leading the Vikings to the playoffs in his second season.

Derek Carr, picked 36th overall by the Oakland Raiders, has emerged as one of the more successful quarterbacks from the 2014 draft class. His strong leadership and passing abilities have made him a cornerstone of the Raiders' offense, earning Pro Bowl selections and leading the team to the playoffs.

Wide Receivers Making a Mark

The 2014 NFL Draft was renowned for its strong class of wide receivers, many of whom have gone on to have impactful careers. Sammy Watkins, selected fourth overall by the Buffalo Bills, was one of the most highly anticipated receivers in the draft. Known for his speed and playmaking ability, Watkins showed flashes of brilliance despite battling injuries throughout his career.

Mike Evans, chosen seventh overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, quickly established himself as a dominant force at the receiver position. With his size, athleticism, and ability to make contested catches, Evans has consistently been one of the league's top receivers, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections.

Other Impactful Receivers

Odell Beckham Jr., selected 12th overall by the New York Giants, made an immediate impact with his electrifying play and highlight-reel catches. His spectacular one-handed catch against the Dallas Cowboys became an iconic moment in NFL history, and Beckham has continued to be a dynamic playmaker throughout his career.

Brandin Cooks, picked 20th overall by the New Orleans Saints, has been a productive receiver for multiple teams. Known for his speed and versatility, Cooks has consistently been a deep threat and reliable target, contributing to the success of offenses in New Orleans, New England, and Los Angeles.

Defensive Players: A Strong Class?

The 2014 NFL Draft featured a strong class of defensive players, many of whom have had significant impacts on their teams. Jadeveon Clowney, selected first overall by the Houston Texans, was the most high-profile defensive pick. Despite dealing with injuries, Clowney has been a disruptive force on the field, known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks and stop the run.

Khalil Mack, chosen fifth overall by the Oakland Raiders, has been one of the standout defensive players from the draft. His exceptional pass-rushing skills and versatility have made him a dominant force, earning multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections.

Other Notable Defensive Players

Aaron Donald, picked 13th overall by the St. Louis Rams, has become one of the most dominant defensive players in NFL history. His ability to disrupt offenses from the interior line has earned him multiple Defensive Player of the Year awards and solidified his status as one of the league's elite defenders.

Ryan Shazier, selected 15th overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers, was another impactful defensive player from the 2014 draft. Known for his speed and athleticism, Shazier quickly became a key contributor to the Steelers' defense before a career-ending injury.

Analysis of the Draft Results NFL 2014

Analyzing the draft results NFL 2014 reveals a class filled with both successes and disappointments. While some players have gone on to become stars in the league, others have struggled to make a lasting impact. The draft highlighted the importance of scouting, development, and team fit in determining a player's success at the professional level.

Several players from the 2014 draft have become cornerstone pieces for their respective teams. Khalil Mack and Aaron Donald, for example, have been instrumental in their teams' defensive success, consistently earning accolades for their performances. Their impact underscores the value of selecting high-character players with strong work ethics and a commitment to improvement.

Lessons in Team Building

The draft also provided valuable lessons in team building and the importance of strategic planning. Teams like the Green Bay Packers and San Francisco 49ers demonstrated the benefits of focusing on long-term development and roster depth, as their selections have continued to pay dividends in subsequent seasons.

Conversely, the struggles of players like Johnny Manziel and Justin Gilbert, both selected in the first round by the Cleveland Browns, highlight the risks associated with high-profile gambles. Their lack of success serves as a cautionary tale for teams considering similar moves in future drafts.

Long-Term Effects on Teams

The long-term effects of the 2014 NFL Draft have been felt across the league, as teams have reaped the benefits of successful selections or dealt with the consequences of missed opportunities. The draft results NFL 2014 have influenced team dynamics, roster construction, and overall performance in the years that followed.

For teams like the Oakland Raiders and St. Louis Rams (now Los Angeles Rams), the selections of Khalil Mack and Aaron Donald, respectively, have provided a strong foundation for their defenses. Both players have been instrumental in their teams' success, contributing to playoff appearances and, in the Rams' case, a Super Bowl victory.

Impact on Team Strategies

The draft also impacted team strategies, as franchises adjusted their approaches based on the outcomes of their selections. The Cleveland Browns, for example, underwent a series of changes in leadership and strategy following the struggles of their 2014 first-round picks. This shift ultimately led to a more successful rebuilding process, culminating in a playoff appearance in the 2020 season.

Similarly, the Green Bay Packers have continued to benefit from their focus on developing young talent, as players like Davante Adams have become key contributors to the team's sustained success. This approach has allowed the Packers to remain competitive while navigating the challenges of roster turnover and salary cap constraints.

Notable Undrafted Players

While the draft results NFL 2014 featured many high-profile selections, several undrafted players also emerged as valuable contributors to their teams. These players, overlooked during the draft, have demonstrated the importance of perseverance and determination in achieving success at the professional level.

One notable undrafted player from the 2014 class is Malcolm Butler, a cornerback who signed with the New England Patriots. Butler quickly made a name for himself with his game-winning interception in Super Bowl XLIX, solidifying his place in NFL history. His success highlights the potential for undrafted players to make significant impacts when given the opportunity.

Other Undrafted Success Stories

Another undrafted player who found success is Chris Harris Jr., a cornerback who signed with the Denver Broncos. Harris has become one of the league's top defensive backs, earning multiple Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections. His journey from undrafted free agent to NFL star serves as an inspiration to aspiring players and a reminder of the value of hard work and dedication.

These success stories underscore the importance of scouting and development, as teams continue to seek out hidden gems who can contribute to their success. The 2014 class of undrafted players has shown that talent can be found outside of the draft, and that determination and opportunity can lead to remarkable achievements.

Lessons Learned from the 2014 Draft

The 2014 NFL Draft provided numerous lessons for teams, players, and fans alike. One key takeaway is the importance of thorough scouting and evaluation, as teams strive to identify players who possess both talent and the right character to succeed at the professional level.

The draft also highlighted the significance of team fit and coaching in maximizing a player's potential. Players like Aaron Donald and Khalil Mack have thrived in systems that cater to their strengths and allow them to excel. This underscores the importance of aligning a player's skills with a team's overall strategy and philosophy.

Managing Expectations and Risks

Another lesson from the 2014 draft is the need for teams to manage expectations and risks when selecting high-profile players. The struggles of Johnny Manziel and Justin Gilbert serve as cautionary tales, emphasizing the importance of due diligence and careful consideration when making draft decisions.

Finally, the success of undrafted players like Malcolm Butler and Chris Harris Jr. demonstrates the value of perseverance and the potential for overlooked talent to make significant contributions. This reinforces the need for teams to maintain an open mind and explore all avenues for acquiring talent.

Legacy of the 2014 NFL Draft

The legacy of the 2014 NFL Draft is one of both triumph and disappointment, as it produced a mix of stars and busts that have left a lasting impact on the league. The draft results NFL 2014 have influenced team strategies, player development, and the overall landscape of the NFL.

Players like Khalil Mack, Aaron Donald, and Odell Beckham Jr. have become household names, celebrated for their exceptional performances and contributions to their teams' success. Their achievements serve as a testament to the talent and potential of the 2014 draft class.

Enduring Lessons and Insights

The 2014 draft also offers enduring lessons and insights for teams and players, emphasizing the importance of scouting, development, and strategic planning. As teams continue to navigate the challenges of roster construction and talent acquisition, the lessons learned from the 2014 draft remain relevant and valuable.

Ultimately, the legacy of the 2014 NFL Draft is one of growth and evolution, as the league continues to adapt and learn from the successes and failures of its past. The draft results NFL 2014 serve as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of the NFL and the constant pursuit of excellence that drives the sport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the number one pick in the 2014 NFL Draft?

The number one pick in the 2014 NFL Draft was Jadeveon Clowney, a defensive end from South Carolina, selected by the Houston Texans.

Which quarterback was drafted first in 2014?

Blake Bortles was the first quarterback drafted in 2014, selected third overall by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Who was the biggest surprise pick in the 2014 draft?

One of the biggest surprise picks was Johnny Manziel, selected 22nd overall by the Cleveland Browns, given the hype and controversy surrounding him.

Which wide receiver had the most impact from the 2014 draft?

Odell Beckham Jr. is considered to have had a significant impact with his dynamic playmaking ability and memorable performances.

How did the 2014 draft affect the Cleveland Browns?

The 2014 draft was challenging for the Browns due to the struggles of their first-round picks, leading to changes in leadership and strategy.

Were there any notable undrafted players from the 2014 class?

Yes, Malcolm Butler and Chris Harris Jr. were notable undrafted players who went on to have successful NFL careers.

Conclusion

The 2014 NFL Draft was a defining moment for the league, producing a diverse array of players who have left their mark on the sport. From high-profile picks to undrafted success stories, the draft results NFL 2014 illustrate the unpredictable and dynamic nature of the NFL. As teams continue to build for the future, the lessons and legacies of the 2014 draft remain integral to the ongoing evolution of the league.