2013 NFL Draft

The 2013 NFL Draft, held at Radio City Music Hall in New York City from April 25-27, is often viewed with a critical lens. While it didn't produce a large number of immediate superstars, it did yield some very good NFL players, including some who are still playing at a high level.

✦ The 2013 NFL Draft had a mix of results, with some early picks not panning out, but later picks like Travis Kelce and DeAndre Hopkins becoming NFL stars.

The Kansas City Chiefs selected offensive tackle Eric Fisher from Central Michigan with the first overall pick. Fisher went on to have a decent career with the Chiefs, contributing to their offensive line for many years. However, he didn't quite live up to the expectations that come with being the top pick.

✦ The early part of the first round included:

2nd Overall: Jacksonville Jaguars selected Luke Joeckel, OT, Texas A&M

3rd Overall: Miami Dolphins selected Dion Jordan, DE, Oregon

4th Overall: Philadelphia Eagles selected Lane Johnson, OT, Oklahoma

5th Overall: Detroit Lions selected Ezekiel Ansah, DE, BYU

While Lane Johnson has had a very good career, becoming a cornerstone of the Philadelphia Eagles' offensive line, other early picks like Joeckel and Jordan struggled to find consistent success in the NFL.

✦ Here are some other notable first-round selections:

8th Overall: St. Louis Rams selected Tavon Austin, WR, West Virginia

10th Overall: Tennessee Titans selected Chance Warmack, OG, Alabama

13th Overall: New York Jets selected Sheldon Richardson, DT, Missouri

20th Overall: Chicago Bears selected Kyle Long, OG, Oregon

27th Overall: Houston Texans selected DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Clemson

While the early part of the first round was somewhat underwhelming, the latter part produced some excellent players. DeAndre Hopkins has emerged as one of the premier wide receivers in the NFL, showcasing incredible talent and consistency. Kyle Long, when healthy, was a very good offensive guard for the Bears.

One of the draft's biggest success stories came later in the draft. The Kansas City Chiefs selected tight end Travis Kelce from the University of Cincinnati in the third round (63rd overall). Kelce has become one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, known for his exceptional receiving skills and playmaking ability. He is considered a lock for the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Another notable player from this draft is wide receiver Keenan Allen, selected by the San Diego Chargers in the third round (76th overall). Allen has consistently been one of the league's best route runners.

The 2013 draft also produced running back Le'Veon Bell (Pittsburgh Steelers, 2nd round) and cornerback Darius Slay (Detroit Lions, 2nd round), both of whom have had multiple Pro Bowl selections.

In conclusion, the 2013 NFL Draft is a mixed bag. While the top of the draft didn't produce a lot of long-term stars, players like Lane Johnson, DeAndre Hopkins, Travis Kelce, and Darius Slay have had significant impacts on the league. Travis Kelce is the player from this draft most likely to make the Pro Football Hall of Fame.