Array
The first round of the NFL draft typically features the bulk of the class’ elite players hearing their names called by commissioner Roger Goodell. But a few marquee names always slide into Day 2, and this year’s event was no exception.
When the action resumes Friday, there should be several potentially high-impact starters up for the taking. Several could be scooped up quickly in the first few selections, though others could see their waits extended even further.
Here are the best players still available entering Round 2 of the draft, with their pre-draft USA TODAY Sports big board ranking listed in parentheses.7. Brian Branch, S/CB, Alabama
Whether in coverage or working downhill against the run, Branch tends to find the ball. The 6-0, 190-pounder is the kind of versatile slot defender that defensive coordinators covet. Branch won’t wow anyone with his size, speed or strength, but there’s no denying the value of his reliability and well-rounded game.
NFL Draft Hub: Latest NFL Draft mock drafts, news, live picks, grades and analysis14. Michael Mayer, TE, Notre Dame
Amid the proliferation of tight ends who more closely resemble wide receivers, Mayer stands out as a hulking target still capable of elevating an aerial attack despite his athletic limitations. The 6-5, 249-pounder compensates for his unremarkable speed by deftly setting up defenders with his route running and boxing them out mid-air for any jump balls. Also a fierce run blocker, Mayer can be an immediate asset to an offense as an in-line tight end who can be frequently targeted and move people in the run game. 16. Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
The link to his father, former Steelers great and ex-assistant coach Joey Porter, will continue to follow him throughout his career. But the younger Porter made a name for himself by smothering receivers at the line of scrimmage and challenging them at the catch point on any pass thrown in his direction. Flags will follow him consistently unless he cleans up his overly handsy approach, but he has the physical and mental makeup to thrive in press coverage.27. Josh Downs, WR, North Carolina
Whether facing zone or man coverage, Jones repeatedly finds a way to position himself for the ball thanks to his crafty footwork and pacing as a route runner. His 5-9, 171-pound frame will likely relegate him to the slot to limit his exposure against bigger cornerbacks who can push him around, but he can still be a high-volume target who can be productive at every level of the field.28. Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
With his 6-7 and 264-pound build, Washington long looked destined to be an anomaly as an NFL tight end. But when he ran a 4.64-second 40-yard dash at the combine, he established himself as a true outlier. He might not end up seeing extensive action as a receiver beyond work as a red-zone weapon, but his immense upside as a run blocker make him an intriguing possibility for offenses, especially those that routinely deploy two tight ends.
