The NFL Draft’s most shocking picks and blunders

The NFL Draft is a stage for dreams and surprises, but some selections leave fans and analysts stunned. Here’s a look at some of the most jaw-dropping picks and one unforgettable clock mishap.

In 1973, the Oakland Raiders stunned everyone by selecting punter Ray Guy in the first round (23rd overall). A punter in Round 1? Unheard of, yet Guy’s legendary career validated the gamble. 

Similarly, in 2000, the Raiders raised eyebrows again, drafting kicker Sebastian Janikowski 17th overall. His powerful leg made it less shocking over time, but the pick was bold.

Running back Ricky Williams was a head-scratcher in 1999 when the Saints traded their entire draft to move up to No. 5 for him. The cost was steep, and while Williams was talented, the trade’s magnitude shocked the league.

 In 2006, the Texans’ choice of defensive end Mario Williams over Reggie Bush and Vince Young at No. 1 sparked outrage. Mario’s solid career eventually quieted critics, but the pick was polarizing.

Quarterback selections often fuel shock. In 2010, the Broncos’ Tim Tebow pick at No. 25 stunned due to his unpolished mechanics. In 2012, the Browns’ Brandon Weeden, a 28-year-old rookie, was a baffling first-rounder (No. 22). The Giants’ 2019 selection of Daniel Jones at No. 6 felt like a huge reach, as did the Packers’ 2020 pick of Jordan Love at No. 26, especially with Aaron Rodgers still thriving. The Falcons’ 2024 selection of Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8, despite signing Kirk Cousins, left analysts puzzled.

Guard Cole Strange shocked in 2022 when the Patriots took him 29th overall, far higher than projected. 

But nothing matches the Vikings’ 2003 debacle, letting the clock expire not once, but  twice while trying to trade, missing their pick entirely.

These moments remind us: the draft is as unpredictable as it is thrilling.

This article originally appeared on Touchdown Wire: Some of the most head scratching NFL Draft picks in history