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2021 NFL Draft: Grading every first-round pick after rookie year

By Randy Gurzi

Jan 9, 2022; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) throws the ball during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2022; Jacksonville, Florida, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) throws the ball during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at TIAA Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-USA TODAY Sports /
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2021 NFL Draft
Dec 26, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Detroit Lions offensive tackle Penei Sewell (58) blocks against the Atlanta Falcons during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

Grading every rookie from the 2021 NFL Draft: Penei Sewell, OT, Detroit Lions

2021 Stats: 

  • 16 games started

After the Cincinnati Bengals took Ja’Marr Chase at No. 5, it left Penei Sewell on the board for the Detroit Lions to take when they came on the clock at No. 7. Sewell, who was considered a plug-and-play starter, ended up being exactly that.

Sewell started out at right tackle and did an admirable job there but as Max Gerber of Lions Wire pointed out, he actually improved when Taylor Decker was hurt and Sewell moved to the left side. He then kept the job as they moved the veteran to the right side.

"“Sewell went on to start eight games at left tackle while Decker dealt with an injury and finished the season on the right side of the line. What’s most impressive is that he improved when he shifted over to the right side. Sewell earned a 77.0 PFF grade while allowing just five sacks all season. Up against some of the top defenders in the NFL such as Aaron Donald and Khalil Mack, Sewell was able to go toe-to-toe with them and not let them win.” — Gerber, Lions Wire"

Detroit wound up with a franchise left tackle and with Decker on the other side, they have two very capable starting tackles. There’s a lot more to clean up but they hit a home run here.

Grade: A

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