Looking for deep football analysis on the most underrated slot in the draft? This episode explores the historical significance of the 11th pick in the National Football League. We look at the high-stakes gamble of this draft pick, where teams find the thin line between a perennial All-Pro and a major NFL draft bust.
From scouting elite NFL draft prospects to breaking down the NFL news that shapes the first round, we’re covering it all. Join Ed and Darin for Day 11 of their 32 Straight day journey into the legends of the gridiron!
Overview
A thorough examination of the 11th pick in NFL draft history reveals a multifaceted narrative that intertwines hope, expectation, and the harsh realities of professional football. The speakers articulate a clear message: drafting at this juncture can yield a transcendent talent or a disheartening misfire. They draw upon historical examples, recounting the remarkable careers of players like J.J. Watt, while also acknowledging the dark shadows cast by notorious failures.
This exploration serves as a poignant reminder of the stakes involved in the draft process, where every decision can reverberate through the annals of a franchise’s history. The dialogue culminates in a vibrant ranking of the most impactful players selected at this position, offering listeners insights into the critical factors that contribute to a player’s success or failure at the professional level. Ultimately, the discourse encapsulates the essence of the NFL draft as a crucible of potential, fraught with uncertainty and opportunity.
List of 11th Overall Selections in the First 44 NFL Drafts
| Year | Tm | Player | Pos |
| 1937 | PHI | Fran Murray | B |
| 1938 | RAM | Jim Benton | E |
| 1939 | BKN | Pug Manders | FB |
| 1940 | CRD | George (Snuffy) Stirnweiss | B |
| 1941 | PHI | Art Jones | WB |
| 1942 | PIT | Vern Martin | BB |
| 1943 | DET | Dave Schreiner | E |
| 1944 | RAM | Tony Butkovich | B |
| 1945 | GNB | Walt Schlinkman | FB |
| 1946 | CRD | Mac Wenskunas | C |
| 1947 | CHI | Don Kindt | DB |
| 1948 | CRD | Jim Spavital | FB |
| 1949 | CHI | Dick Harris | C |
| 1950 | SFO | Leo Nomellini HOF | DT |
| 1951 | RAM | Bud McFadin | DT |
| 1952 | NYG | Frank Gifford HOF | HB |
| 1953 | CLE | Doug Atkins HOF | DE |
| 1954 | SFO | Bernie Faloney | B |
| 1955 | CHI | Ron Drzewiecki | HB |
| 1956 | RAM | Charlie Horton | B |
| 1957 | RAM | Del Shofner | E |
| 1958 | BAL | Lenny Lyles | DB |
| 1959 | CLE | Rich Kreitling | E |
| 1960 | SFO | Monty Stickles | TE |
| 1961 | SFO | Billy Kilmer | QB |
| 1962 | CLE | Leroy Jackson | HB |
| 1963 | CHI | Dave Behrman | C |
| 1964 | CLE | Paul Warfield HOF | WR |
| 1965 | DET | Tom Nowatzke | FB |
| 1966 | SFO | Stan Hindman | DE |
| 1967 | SFO | Cas Banaszek | T |
| 1968 | DET | Greg Landry | QB |
| 1969 | MIA | Bill Stanfill | DE |
| 1970 | DEN | Bobby Anderson | RB |
| 1971 | CHI | Joe Moore | RB |
| 1972 | GNB | Jerry Tagge | QB |
| 1973 | NWE | Sam Cunningham | RB |
| 1974 | RAM | John Cappelletti | RB |
| 1975 | RAM | Dennis Harrah | G |
| 1976 | CIN | Billy Brooks | WR |
| 1977 | HOU | Morris Towns | T |
| 1978 | DET | Luther Bradley | DB |
| 1979 | NOR | Russell Erxleben | P |
Since 1980
Special thanks to Pro-Football-Reference.com for sharing the information used above.
