Top 2018 NFL Draft Picks
The 2018 NFL Draft featured an exceptional class of talent, with several players capturing national attention for their remarkable athletic abilities, compelling personal stories, and impressive NFL Combine performances. Here are profiles of four standout prospects who made waves during the draft process.
Josh Allen
Hailing from Firebaugh, California, Josh Allen was a multi-sport athlete in high school, excelling in basketball, football, and baseball. His versatility and competitive spirit were evident early in his athletic career. However, his path to NFL stardom faced a significant obstacle during his first year at the University of Wyoming when he suffered a broken collarbone.
Despite this setback, Allen demonstrated resilience and determination, returning stronger and more focused. At the NFL Combine, he posted an impressive score of 5.95, showcasing his physical capabilities. Scouts described Allen as broadly athletic with an exceptional ability to find and exploit unique opportunities on the field. His combination of size, arm strength, and mobility made him one of the most intriguing quarterback prospects in the draft.
Josh Rosen
Josh Rosen entered college football as the top recruit in 2015, carrying immense expectations and media attention. Known for his polished quarterback mechanics and football intelligence, Rosen's college career showcased his strong footwork and ability to read defenses effectively.
However, his journey wasn't without challenges. Rosen experienced a shoulder injury that required surgery, raising concerns among NFL scouts about his durability and long-term health. Despite this, he posted an NFL Combine score of 6.20 and was widely described as intelligent, confident, and very capable.
To maximize his draft stock, Rosen needed to continue refining his technique and demonstrate that his shoulder was fully recovered. His cerebral approach to the game and natural leadership qualities made him an attractive prospect for teams seeking a franchise quarterback.
Shaquem Griffin
Shaquem Griffin's story is one of the most inspiring in recent NFL Draft history. Born with a prenatal condition affecting his left hand, Griffin overcame extraordinary physical limitations to become an elite linebacker prospect. His determination and work ethic served as an inspiration to athletes and fans alike.
At the NFL Combine, Griffin delivered a performance that stunned scouts and media observers:
- 40-yard dash: 4.38 seconds—exceptionally fast for a linebacker
- Bench press: 20 reps at 225 pounds—demonstrating remarkable upper body strength
Griffin excelled in break-away sprints and displayed agile movement that belied concerns about his physical limitation. However, scouts noted he needed improvement in certain strength challenges and tackling consistency to succeed at the professional level. His speed, instincts, and heart made him a compelling prospect who proved that determination can overcome perceived obstacles.
Saquon Barkley
Widely considered one of the premier talents in the 2018 NFL Draft, Saquon Barkley entered the draft process with sky-high expectations. At the NFL Combine, he posted an outstanding score of 7.45, cementing his status as an elite prospect.
Barkley's athleticism was on full display with an exceptional 41-inch vertical leap—a remarkable feat for a running back of his size. Scouts described him as a hard worker with a unique combination of strength and speed that set him apart from other running back prospects.
What truly distinguished Barkley was his football intelligence and vision. He demonstrated an elite ability to read defensive players and avoid tackles, making him extremely difficult to bring down in the open field. His combination of physical gifts, work ethic, and natural instincts led many analysts to consider him a potential shining star of the NFL Combine and a transformative talent at the running back position.
The 2018 Draft Legacy
The 2018 NFL Draft class represented a diverse array of talent—from multi-sport athletes to players who overcame significant adversity. Each of these prospects brought unique qualities to the draft process, demonstrating that success in the NFL requires a combination of physical ability, mental toughness, football intelligence, and unwavering determination.
Compare Your Intelligence to NFL Players
Want to see how your cognitive abilities stack up against NFL draft prospects? Take our Full IQ Test (50 questions, 12 minutes) or Quick IQ Test (25 questions, 6 minutes). Then explore our Wonderlic Score Database to see how current and former NFL players performed on their intelligence assessments.