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NFL Draft: Grading each first round pick after five weeks

By Michael Johnson

CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 07: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns reacts to a play in the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium on October 7, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)
CLEVELAND, OH - OCTOBER 07: Baker Mayfield #6 of the Cleveland Browns reacts to a play in the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at FirstEnergy Stadium on October 7, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /
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ORCHARD PARK, NY – AUGUST 26: Billy Price #53 of the Cincinnati Bengals comes set at the line during the first half of a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on August 26, 2018 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY – AUGUST 26: Billy Price #53 of the Cincinnati Bengals comes set at the line during the first half of a preseason game against the Buffalo Bills at New Era Field on August 26, 2018 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images) /

21. Cincinnati Bengals – Billy Price

The Cincinnati Bengals defeated the Colts and Ravens in their first two weeks and Billy Price was the center. Andy Dalton tossed six touchdowns over that time period. What stands out with Price is his ability to run block. As a matter of fact, Joe Mixon rushed for 95 and 84 yards, respectively in those two games.

Unfortunately, Price got injured after that nice start, putting a damper on his rookie contributions. The timetable on his return is unclear. The Bengals will need to fill the loss of a rookie since Trey Hopkins played terribly as his replacement and since Price looked so impressive in early, limited action.

Grade: B+

22. Tennessee Titans – Rashaan Evans

Like every Alabama prospect entering the NFL, evaluators touted Rashaan Evans as a polished prospect. While he wasn’t the same prospect as C.J. Mosley before him, he entered the league and Tennessee Titans roster with a special set of skills. Key among them being his football intellect and ability to rush the passer. In fact, head coach Mike Vrabel praised his ability go after the quarterback.

Unfortunately on film, Evans has struggled against the run. With other linebackers in the 2018 draft class playing at a high level, Evans has a steep hill to climb to catch his peers. He’s a smart player with a lot of talent and it’s really early, so he can improve. However, his lackluster performance against the Bills saw him record just two tackles. And that’s hard to ignore.

Grade: D

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