The 2014 NFL Draft is in the rearview mirror and grades have already been passed out to all 32 teams. But who really did their homework and grabbed a big-time contributor later in the draft? We'll take a look at the five best bargain picks in each division this week, continuing today with AFC East and NFC East teams:
AFC East
Miami Dolphins, fifth round (171st overall)
Tripp was an outside linebacker a lot of people were high on before the draft, and he certainly has some upside as a fifth-round pick. He's not the fastest on the field, but he can get down the line just fine. He'll be a special-teams coach's best friend and has all the tools to turn into a starter at linebacker if things break his way.
New York Jets, seventh round (233rd overall)
His knee is still a concern, but this is just a tremendous value for the Jets this late in the draft. He can stand up or put his hand in the ground and will likely do both for Rex Ryan. He can find his way to the backfield or set the edge if needed. He'll be tremendous on special teams, as well, and should be one of the hardest workers on the team.
New York Jets, fourth round (137th overall)
He's probably more of a guard than a tackle in the NFL, but there should be no concerns about moving him inside given how strong he is. He's a small-school kid but handled things just fine when playing top competition and, with a little refinement, should become a starter for the Jets. He still needs a little bit of work against top defensive tackles when pass blocking but should be able to open up running lanes for backs with ease.
New England Patriots, fourth round (140th overall)
A dependable lineman who does what is asked and rarely misses an assignment. Fleming is a great fit as the Patriots look to get a little younger along the offensive line and will help on an NFL team's limited roster because he can play both guard and tackle.
Buffalo Bills, seventh round (237th overall)
Yes, yes, there are plenty of red flags with Henderson, who has gone from No. 1 recruit to seventh-round pick. Perhaps his draft slot will help serve as a wake-up call for him because there's definitely some talent there. He's shown flashes and, if an NFL coach can get the most out of him, he's a huge steal as late as he went in the draft.
NFC East
Dallas Cowboys, fifth round (146th overall)
He's not a burner, but he's got the size to be a contributor for the Cowboys, especially in the red zone. It's not often you see somebody who put up the numbers he did in college fall to the fifth round, but the team certainly gets a nice possession guy who can play multiple spots in the Dallas offense. If he continues to get stronger, he'll see plenty of playing time.
Philadelphia Eagles, fifth round (141st overall)
Of the pair of Oregon players Chip Kelly picked, Hart makes a lot more sense given his size and abilities. He's reunited with his old defensive line coach and should be flexible enough to play a number of spots on the line depending on the situation. He's got better feet and hands than people would guess for somebody of his stature, and he can certainly develop into a starter for the Eagles down the road.
Dallas Cowboys, seventh round (248th overall)
The Cowboys haven't had a solid safety combination in years but might be able to turn Dixon into a starter eventually. He's definitely somebody who can play closer to the line of scrimmage to stop the run but has enough coverage skills to not be a huge liability. For a seventh-round pick, he should be one of the team's top special-teams players before making an impact on defense.
New York Giants, fifth round (174th overall)
A smart, hard-working player who knows what it takes to play in the NFL from his dad (long-time NFL offensive lineman Derek Kennard), the younger Kennard could help the Giants out at both linebacker and defensive end. He'll pick up the defensive system quickly and should be able to contribute early on special teams. He's not an explosive pass rusher, but he still manages to get to the quarterback more than you would think.
Washington Redskins, sixth round (186th overall)
He won't be the primary back in D.C. but should do well grabbing carries when he can as a backup. He can take it to the house if he gets an opening and should be able to contribute a few good series each game. He didn't have a ton of opportunities to add something to the passing game but could in the right situations for Washington.
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