Biggest NFL Draft Steals of the Last Decade

Jalen Hurts - 2020, Round 2 (53rd Overall)

Drafted amid skepticism, Hurts proved his critics wrong with MVP-caliber play and a Super Bowl appearance. His leadership and dual-threat ability make him one of the best value picks of the modern era.

DK Metcalf - 2019, Round 2 (64th Overall)

Passed on by several teams due to concerns about his route-running, Metcalf’s size-speed combo quickly silenced doubters. He’s been Seattle’s WR1 from day one - an instant-impact second-round gem.

Darren Waller - 2015, Round 6 (204th Overall)

Originally a wideout, Waller’s conversion to tight end unlocked his elite athleticism. He became one of the league’s best receiving TEs, a rare sixth-round success story fueled by resilience and talent.

Stefon Diggs - 2015, Round 5 (146th Overall)

A fifth-rounder who rose to All-Pro level, Diggs’ crisp route-running and clutch play made him a top receiver in both Minnesota and Buffalo. Few late-round picks have transformed teams like he has.

Alvin Kamara - 2017, Round 3 (67th Overall)

A dual-threat back with elite vision and hands, Kamara became the centerpiece of New Orleans’ offense. His balance and versatility made him one of the NFL’s most dangerous weapons - and a third-round jackpot.

Justin Jefferson - 2020, Round 1 (22nd Overall)

Falling outside the top 20 picks now looks absurd. Jefferson broke rookie receiving records and quickly became one of the league’s most explosive pass-catchers. For a 22nd pick, his production is elite value.

George Kittle - 2017, Round 5 (146th Overall)

Overlooked for his blocking, Kittle evolved into an All-Pro tight end known for his physicality and yards after catch. He’s been a core piece of San Francisco’s offense - a fifth-round pick who turned into a star.

Dak Prescott - 2016, Round 4 (135th Overall)

Drafted to back up Tony Romo, Prescott became Dallas’ starter as a rookie and never looked back. His poise, leadership, and consistent production made him one of the biggest quarterback steals of the decade.

Cooper Kupp - 2017, Round 3 (69th Overall)

Coming out of Eastern Washington, few saw Kupp becoming a dominant NFL receiver. His 2021 triple crown season - leading the league in receptions, yards, and touchdowns - made him one of the best mid-round finds in modern history.

Patrick Mahomes - 2017, Round 1 (10th Overall)

Mahomes wasn’t a top pick, but he became a generational quarterback. Multiple MVPs, Super Bowl rings, and record-breaking performances make him one of the greatest draft values ever - a true franchise-altering steal at No. 10.