2) 2018 draft class
Key hits – LB Roquan Smith, WR Anthony Miller, DL Bilal Nichols
Key misses – LB Joel Iyiegbuniwe, DE Kylie Fitts
This class is easily the most difficult to evaluate. On one hand, the 2018 draft class still has loads of potential across the board as players head into their third year. On the other hand, however, you can make the argument that most of the selections have not developed after showing strong potential in their rookie seasons. As of now, the potential is still there and there have not been any mammoth busts to speak of, keeping this class second from the top.
The selection of linebacker Roquan Smith was universally praised by experts, many expecting him to become the next great linebacker in the team’s storied history. Smith has shown quite a bit and aside from some hiccups, he’s on the trajectory to become a great defender for years to come. Pace’s second-round selections, however, are still a bit unknown.
Offensive lineman James Daniels has been average through two seasons and wasn’t able to make the switch to center prior to the 2019 campaign. Wide receiver Anthony Miller, their other pick on Day 2, was poised for a breakout year after totaling seven touchdowns during his rookie year, but struggled to play consistently last season and dealt with injuries. Both players still have high ceilings and will be expected to be key contributors next season, but the clock is ticking.
The other hits this draft include defensive lineman Bilal Nichols, who was drafted in the fifth-round. Like Miller, Nichols shined during his rookie year and claimed a starting spot next to defensive end Akiem Hicks in 2019. He dealt with injuries as well and needs to rebound this season. Wide receiver Javon Wims, the team’s final pick in the draft, has carved out a nice role for himself. He’s a big target in the passing game and on special teams.
Only one draft pick is no longer on the team (outside linebacker Kylie Fitts) and each player has a role to play. Linebacker Joel Iyiegbuniwe was seen as a reach on draft day and isn’t a player on defense, but has a spot as a key contributor on special teams. Overall, this class is very much unknown two years later. But given the potential and lack of true misses, they slide in as Pace’s second-best draft class.
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