What Happened to the Top 10 Picks of the 2019 NFL Draft ?
The 2019 NFL Draft’s top 10 delivered stars, solid players and disappointments. Their career paths varied from dominance to injury struggles.
- Rajat Srivastava
- 4 min read
The 2019 NFL Draft’s top 10 picks had a range of success stories and letdowns. Kyler Murray, Nick Bosa, and Josh Allen became stars, while Quinnen Williams and Josh Jacobs also shined as reliable leaders. A few others like Daniel Jones and T.J. Hockenson showed flashes of brilliance but faced injury issues. Clelin Ferrell and Devin Bush underperformed in comparison to the expectations. Overall, this draft showed that picking up the top talents isn’t always the safest bet in NFL.
10. Devin Bush - Pittsburgh Steelers
Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Devin Bush started his career strong, showing speed and instincts as a rookie. However, a serious ACL injury in 2020 slowed his growth, and he struggled to regain his form with the Steelers. After moving on to Browns, Bush became more of a rotational linebacker rather than a defensive star. Though his career hasn’t matched early expectations, he remains a hardworking player with experience.
9. Ed Oliver - Buffalo Bills
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Ed Oliver carved out a strong role as a disruptive defensive tackle for the Bills. His explosiveness and quickness off the line has been consistent for his team. Ed strongly pressures the quarterbacks and stops the run. While not always the main man, Oliver has been a steady and valuable part of Buffalo’s defense. His toughness and energy make him a respected and reliable anchor.
8. T.J. Hockenson – Detroit Lions
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
T.J. Hockenson has become one of the NFL’s most reliable tight ends. Drafted by Detroit in 2019, he developed into a strong pass catching threat before being traded to Minnesota, where he performed well alongside Justin Jefferson. He often provides quarterbacks with a dependable target. Injuries have slowed him at times, but when healthy, Hockenson is among the league’s most promising tight ends.
7. Josh Allen – Jacksonville Jaguars
Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Josh Allen has emerged as one of the NFL’s premier pass rushers. From a standout rookie season to a record breaking sacks in 2023, he has been the driving force of the Jaguars’ defense. His explosive speed and relentless approach has helped him secure a massive contract to remain Jacksonville’s leader. Allen is expected to keep dominating and eventually lead the Jaguars into the playoffs.
6. Daniel Jones - New York Giants
Mykal McEldowney/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Daniel Jones has had an inconsistent career from the time he has entered NFL. At times, he has been good with his athleticism and deep passing, even helping the Giants to a playoff win in 2022. However, injuries and turnovers have slowed his progress, raising questions about his long term ability. Jones is a talented but inconsistent quarterback who is still fighting to secure his place in the league.
5. Josh Jacobs – Las Vegas Raiders
Robert Goddin-Imagn Images
Josh has been as one of the league’s most productive running backs. Drafted by the Raiders in 2019, he carried their offense for years before joining the Packers in 2024. In his first season with Green Bay, he rushed for over 1,300 yards and 15 touchdowns, immediately justifying his value. Powerful, dependable and versatile, Jacobs is the main man in the Packers’ offensive game plan.
4. Clelin Ferrell - Las Vegas Raiders
Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Clelin Ferrell was a surprise pick at number four and never quite lived up to expectations with the Raiders. Despite occasional instances of solid play, he struggled to consistently make an impact as a pass rusher. Ferrell later became more of a rotational player with other teams, contributing in limited roles. While still playing, Ferrell is often remembered as one of the bigger flops of this draft.
3. Quinnen Williams - New York Jets
Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK
Quinnen Williams has developed into one of the NFL’s top defensive linemen. After some early struggles, he transformed the Jets’ defensive front. His power, quickness, and ability to disrupt both the run and pass makes Williams the heart of New York’s defense. With his consistent dominance and leadership, he remains central to the Jets’ hopes of building a championship level team.
2. Nick Bosa - San Francisco 49ers
David Gonzales-Imagn Images
Nick Bosa quickly became one of the NFL’s most feared pass rushers. He burst onto the scene as Defensive Rookie of the Year and later Defensive Player of the Year, he anchors the 49ers’ defense. His strength and relentless energy make him a consistent sack threat. With a massive contract extension securing his future, Bosa continues to be the driving force behind San Francisco’s championship plans.
1. Kyler Murray – Arizona Cardinals
Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Kyler Murray entered the league with big expectations as the first overall pick in 2019. He brought in speed, quickness and arm talent. He became Rookie of the Year and a dual-threat nightmare for defenses. Despite injuries and inconsistency, Murray has shown flashes of brilliance as both a passer and runner. His future depends on staying healthy and leading Arizona’s offense with calmness, creativity and explosive ability.