Best NFL First-Round Picks by Draft Slot

These are the best first-round draft picks since the A FL-NFL merger in 1970. Like Elway in Denver, Manning will always be remembered as an Indianapolis Colt, a fact that made his recent move to the Broncos such a headline-grabber. Manning already owns 11 Pro Bowl trips, eight All-Pro nominations, four NFL MVPs, as well as a Super Bowl trophy and MVP honor. Manning’s incredible ability to read defenses and make adjustments at the line led to the Colts giving him more control of the offense than just about any quarterback has ever had.  It can be argued that the NFL may have seen greater players than Manning, and possibly even greater quarterbacks. No player taken No. 1 overall since 1970, however, has been better than Manning. Runner-ups: John Elway (1983, Colts) and Bruce Smith (1985, Bills) Honorable Mention: Mario Williams (2006, Texans); Eli Manning (2004, Chargers); Michael Vick (2001, Falcons); Orlando Pace (1997, Rams); Drew Bledsoe (1993, Patriots); Troy Aikman (1989, Cowboys); Bo Jackson (1986, Buccaneers); Earl Campbell (1978, Oilers); Lee Roy Selmon (1976, Buccaneers); Terry Bradshaw (1970, Steelers)

Taylor may have been the most intimidating defensive player the league has ever seen, especially since he often fired off the ball toward the quarterback’s blindside. His Credentials: 10-time Pro Bowl selection, 10-time All-Pro, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1980s, member of NFL’s 75th anniversary team, two-time Super Bowl champion, NFL MVP in 1986, three-time Defensive Player of the Year, Rookie of the Year in 1981, inducted into Hall of Fame in 1999, ranked No. 3 on NFL’s top 100 players of all-time list, ninth all-time in sacks Others in Consideration: Calvin Johnson (2007, Lions); Julius Peppers (2002, Panthers); Donovan McNabb (Eagles, 1999); Tony Boselli (1995, Jaguars); Marshall Faulk (1994, Colts); Eric Dickerson (1983, Rams); Tony Dorsett (1977, Cowboys); Randy White (1975, Cowboys)

Munoz left his mark as the game’s best left tackle and, in the minds of many, the most dominant offensive lineman in NFL history. His Credentials: 11-time Pro Bowl selection, 11-time All-Pro, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1980s, Walter Payton Man of the Year winner in 1991, member of NFL’s 75th anniversary team, inducted into Hall of Fame in 1998, ranked No. 12 on NFL’s top 100 players of all-time list, started 183 career games Others in Consideration: Larry Fitzgerald (2004, Cardinals); Andre Johnson (2003, Texans); Steve McNair (1995, Oilers); Cortez Kennedy (1990, Seahawks); Barry Sanders (1989, Lions)

There may not have been a more versatile athlete in league history. "Sweetness" rushed for 16,726 yards (second most all-time), caught 492 passes, threw for eight touchdowns and often punished defenders with his blocking. His Credentials: Nine-time Pro Bowl selection, nine-time All-Pro, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1970s and ’80s, Super Bowl XX champion, 1977 NFL MVP, member of NFL’s 75th anniversary team, inducted into Hall of Fame in 1993, ranked No. 5 on NFL’s top 100 players of all-time list, second in career rushing yards, fourth in career rushing touchdowns Others in Consideration: Philip Rivers (2004, Giants); Edgerrin James (1999, Colts); Charles Woodson (1998, Raiders); Jonathan Ogden (1996, Ravens); Derrick Thomas (1989, Chiefs); Chris Doleman (1985, Vikings); Dan Hampton (1979, Bears); John Hannah (1973, Patriots)

"Prime Time" dominated the game on defense and special teams, scoring touchdowns as a kick returner, punt returner, cornerback and even as a wide receiver. His Credentials: Eight-time Pro Bowl selection, eight-time All-Pro, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1990s, 53 career interceptions, more than 5,700 return yards, AP Defensive Player of the Year in 1994, two-time Super Bowl champion, elected to Hall of Fame in 2011, ranked No. 34 player of all time on NFL’s top 100 list Others in Consideration: LaDainian Tomlinson (2001, Chargers); Junior Seau (1990, Chargers); Mike Haynes (1976, Patriots)

Jones helped pave the way for eight separate 1,000-yard rushing seasons (five by Shaun Alexander alone) and was part of a terrific turnaround for a once-struggling franchise, as the Seahawks made five straight postseasons from 2003-07, advancing to the Super Bowl once. His Credentials: Nine-time Pro Bowl selection, seven-time All-Pro, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s, started 180 games, number 71 retired by Seattle Seahawks Others in Consideration: Torry Holt (1999, Rams); Tim Brown (1988, Raiders); Lomas Brown (1985, Lions); James Lofton (1978; Packers); John Riggins (1971, Jets)

Bailey has been an elite playmaker at corner, even as he enters the late stages of his career. His Credentials: 11-time Pro Bowl selection, six-time All-Pro, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s, 50 career interceptions, member of Broncos’ 50th anniversary team Others in Consideration: Adrian Peterson (2007, Vikings); Thomas Jones (2000, Cardinals); Bryant Young (1994, 49ers); Sterling Sharpe (1988, Packers); Phil Simms (1979, Giants)

Lott's ball-hawking skills combined with his punishing style made him one of the greatest defensive backs in NFL history. His Credentials: 10-time Pro Bowl selection, eight-time All-Pro, four-time Super Bowl champion, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1980s and 1990s, member of NFL’s 75th anniversary team, tied for sixth all-time in career interceptions (63), ranked No. 11 on NFL’s list of 100 greatest players, inducted into Hall of Fame in 2000 Others in Consideration: James Farrior (1997, Jets); Willie Roaf (1993, Saints); Leslie O’Neal (1986, Chargers); Mike Munchak (1982, Oilers); Ottis Anderson (1979, Rams)

Matthews was a true ironman, starting 292 games across every position on the offensive line. His Credentials: 14-time Pro Bowl selection, 10-time All-Pro, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1990s, second all-time in career games played (296), ranked No. 78 on NFL’s list of 100 greatest players, inducted into Hall of Fame in 2007 Others in Consideration: Kevin Williams (2003, Vikings); Brian Urlacher (2000, Bears); Fred Taylor (1998, Jaguars); Richmond Webb (1990, Dolphins); Jerome Brown (1987, Eagles)

Woodson was a ballhawk and premier athlete.  When he was healthy and on the field, Woodson was better than just about every defensive back to play the game. His Credentials: 11-time Pro Bowl selection, eight-time All-Pro, Super Bowl XXXV champion, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1990s, named to NFL’s 75th anniversary team, 1993 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, third all-time in interceptions (71), ranked No. 41 on NFL’s list of 100 greatest players, inducted into Hall of Fame in 2009 Others in Consideration: Terrell Suggs (2003, Ravens); Willie Anderson (1996, Bengals); Jerome Bettis (1993, Rams); Herman Moore (1991, Lions); Marcus Allen (1982, Raiders); Isiah Robertson (1971, Rams)

Irvin was part of the famed "Triplets," with Troy Aikman and Emmitt Smith, that helped make the Cowboys a dynasty in the 1990s. His Credentials: Five-time Pro Bowl selection, three-time All-Pro, three-time Super Bowl champion, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1990s, finished with 750 career receptions and 65 touchdowns, ranked No. 92 on NFL.com’s 100 Greatest Players list, inducted into Hall of Fame in 2007 Others in Consideration: Patrick Willis (2007, 49ers); DeMarcus Ware (2005, Cowboys); Ben Roethlisberger (2004, Steelers); Dwight Freeney (2002, Colts); Wilber Marshall (1984, Bears)

Right up until that final season, Sapp obliterated offensive linemen.  He had 10 sacks in 2006, his next-to-last year, marking the fourth time in his career that he hit double digits in that category. His Credentials: Seven-time Pro Bowl selection, six-time All-Pro, Super Bowl XXXVII champion, 1999 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1990s and 2000s, finished with 96.5 career sacks Others in Consideration: Haloti Ngata (2006, Ravens); Warrick Dunn (1997, Buccaneers); Jim Lachey (1985, Chargers); Clay Matthews (1978, Browns)

Over an illustrious 15-year career (12 seasons with Kansas City, three with Atlanta), Gonzalez has chalked up 1,149 receptions and more than 13,000 yards. He’s also found the end zone 95 times. His Credentials: 12-time Pro Bowl selection, nine-time All-Pro, No. 2 all-time in total catches, 11th-most yards receiving in league history, No. 9 on career touchdowns list, holds record for most catches in a season by a tight end (102), named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s Others in Consideration: John Abraham (2000, Jets); Keith Jackson (1988, Eagles); Kellen Winslow (1979, Chargers); Mike Kenn (1978, Falcons); Franco Harris (1972, Steelers)

From 1986 until an injury ended his 1996 campaign, Kelly was a remarkable force in Buffalo’s no-huddle offense. His Credentials: Inducted into NFL Hall of Fame in 2002, five-time Pro Bowl selection, three-time All-Pro, led Bills to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances, ranked No. 18 all-time in passing yards Others in Consideration: Darrelle Revis (2007, Jets); Jeremy Shockey (2002, Giants); Eddie George (1996, Oilers); Ruben Brown (1995, Bills); Randy Gradishar (1974, Broncos)

Smith might be the hardest hitter in NFL history. He and fellow safety Steve Atwater combined to give the Broncos one of the league's most-feared defensive backfields. His Credentials: Six-time Pro Bowl selection, four-time All Pro pick, 30 career interceptions, played all 14 NFL seasons with Denver Others in Consideration: Jason Pierre-Paul (2010, Giants); Albert Haynesworth (2002, Titans); Deltha O’Neal (2000, Broncos); Anthony Miller (1988, Chargers); John L. Williams (1986, Seahawks)

Rice owns virtually every major NFL receiving record.  No matter how you slice it, the NFL has never seen a player as dominant for as many seasons as Rice was. His Credentials: Inducted into NFL Hall of Fame in 2010, 13-time Pro Bowl selection, 12-time All-Pro, two-time Offensive Player of the Year, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1980s and 1990s, three-time Super Bowl winner, holds multiple NFL records (most all-time receptions, yards receiving, receiving touchdowns and total touchdowns), ranked No. 1 player of all-time by NFL.com Others in Consideration: Troy Polamalu (2005, Steelers); Julian Peterson (2000, 49ers); Hugh Douglas (1995, Jets); Chester McGlockton (1992, Raiders)

Smith stands in the record books as the most productive running back in league history. He set a standard at the running back position that may never be equaled. His Credentials: Inducted into NFL Hall of Fame in 2010, eight-time Pro Bowl selection, six-time All-Pro, leading rusher in NFL history with 18,355 yards, most TDs for a running back with 164, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1990s, three-time Super Bowl winner Others in Consideration: Steve Hutchinson (2001, Seahawks); Doug Williams (1978, Buccaneers); Louis Wright (1975, Broncos)

Monk had to wait a while to get into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, but his credentials are more than worthy. His Credentials: Inducted into NFL Hall of Fame in 2008, three-time Pro Bowl selection, two-time All-Pro, caught a pass in 183 consecutive games, set then-NFL record with 106 catches in 1984 season, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1980s, three-time Super Bowl winner Others in Consideration: Joe Flacco (2008, Ravens); Alfred Williams (1999, Bengals); Eddie Kennison (1996, Rams); Tom Darden (1972, Browns)

McDaniel didn't play a high-profile position, but he absolutely dominated at guard. His Credentials: Inducted into NFL Hall of Fame in 2009, 12-time Pro Bowl selection, nine-time All-Pro, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1990s, started 220 career games and 202 consecutively Others in Consideration: Casey Hampton (2001, Steelers); Shaun Alexander (2000, Seahawks); Marvin Harrison (1996, Colts); Joey Browner (1983, Vikings); Jack Tatum (1971, Raiders)

Youngblood played a remarkable 201 straight games, missing his first and only contest in 1984, his final season. His Credentials: Inducted into NFL Hall of Fame in 2001, seven-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time All-Pro, NFC Defensive Player of the Year in 1975 and ’76, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1970s, missed just one game in 14-year career Others in Consideration: Tamba Hali (2006, Chiefs); Steve Atwater (1989, Broncos); Haywood Jeffires (1987, Oilers); Mike Quick (1982, Eagles)

The questions about Moss’ attitude and work ethic still follow him, but there’s no denying what a nightmare he’s been for opposing defenses. His Credentials: Seven-time Pro Bowl selection, five-time All-Pro, tied for No. 2 all-time in receiving touchdowns (153), No. 9 all-time in receptions (954), 1998 Rookie of the Year, 2007 Comeback Player of the Year, voted to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s, named 65th-best player in NFL history by the NFL Network in 2011. Others in Consideration: Vince Wilfork (2004, Patriots); Jerry Robinson (1979, Eagles); Lynn Swann (1974, Steelers)

Even though Rison’s career never measured up to the NFL’s elite wide receivers, he proved to be a solid, and sometimes spectacular, player for several different teams. His Credentials: Five-time Pro Bowl selection, four-time All-Pro, Super Bowl XXXI champion, made 743 career catches for 10,205 yards and 84 touchdowns, only receiver in NFL history to catch a TD pass for seven different teams Others in Consideration: Percy Harvin (2009, Vikings); Harris Barton (1987, 49ers); Hanford Dixon (1981, Browns); Jack Reynolds (1970, Rams

No matter where he winds up in the record books, “The Wizard of Oz” will forever stand as the groundbreaker for the modern-day tight end explosion. His Credentials: Three-time Pro Bowl selection, seven-time All-Pro, named to NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 1980s; 662 career catches; 47 career touchdowns, played in 198 consecutive games, inducted into Hall of Fame in 1999 Others in Consideration: Antoine Winfield (1999, Bills); Ty Law (1995, Patriots); Bruce Armstrong (1987, Patriots)

Even 10 seasons into his career, the 33-year-old remains a force in Baltimore’s secondary and has earned a spot as one of the best ever at his position. His Credentials: Eight-time Pro Bowl selection, eight-time All-Pro, 2004 AP Defensive Player of the Year, holds NFL record for longest interception return (107 yards), named to NFL All-Decade Team for 2000s, has 57 career regular-season interceptions and six touchdowns Others in Consideration: Chris Johnson (2008, Titans); Aaron Rodgers (2005, Packers); Steven Jackson (2004, Rams); Dallas Clark (2003, Colts); Eric Moulds (1996, Bills); James Brooks (1981, Chargers)

He played 17 seasons in the NFL and suited up for every regular season game in 12 of them. Over a career spanning seven teams, “Mount Washington” established himself as one of league’s top nose tackles. His Credentials: Played 17 NFL seasons, four-time Pro Bowler, three-time All-Pro, Super Bowl XXXVIII champion, 34.5 career sacks Others in Consideration: Jon Beason (2007, Panthers); Santonio Holmes (2006, Steelers); Stanley Morgan (1977, Patriots)

Lewis may have lost a step or two from his prime — he had 161 tackles in 2001, then matched that number in 2003 — but he remains one of the NFL’s fiercest inside linebackers. His Credentials: 13-time Pro Bowl selection; 10-time All-Pro; Super Bowl XXXV champion and MVP; Has made 2,016 regular-season tackles and 40.5 sacks; Two-time AP Defensive Player of the Year winner (2000, 2003); Ranked No. 2 in games started among active players (221) Others in Consideration: Clay Matthews (2009, Green Bay); Alan Faneca (1998, Pittsburgh); Dana Stubblefield (1993, San Francisco); Joe DeLamielleure (1973, Buffalo)

Marino was the first of the NFL's super prolific quarterbacks, 20 years before the league become pass-happy.  He still holds several passing records, including the most games with more than 400 yards passing (13), the most comeback wins and the most seasons leading the league in completions (6). His Credentials: Nine-time Pro Bowl selection; eight-time All-Pro; NFL MVP and Offensive Player of the Year in 1984; Comeback Player of the Year in 1994; 61,361 passing yards, 420 touchdowns in career; Held single-season passing record (5,084) until 2011; Held records for most career yards and touchdowns until 2007; Holds records for most game-winning drives in the fourth quarter and overtime (51); Inducted into Hall of Fame in 2005 Others in Consideration: Roddy White (2005, Falcons); Larry Johnson (2003, Chiefs); Neal Anderson (1986, Bears)

The Tampa Bay defense may not have been the dominant unit it was without Brooks’ presence.  He wound up being selected to the NFL’s All-Decade Team for the 2000s, alongside Ray Lewis and Brian Urlacher at linebacker. His Credentials: Played all 14 seasons with Tampa Bay, 11-time Pro Bowler, nine-time All-Pro, Super Bowl XXXVII champion, 2002 Defensive Player of the Year, voted to NFL’s 2000s All-Decade Team, 1,715 career tackles and 25 interceptions Others in Consideration: Darrell Green (1983, Redskins); Ezra Johnson (1977, Packers); Trevor Pryce (1997, Broncos)

His Pro Bowl appearance this year marked his fourth consecutive season on the team.  Mangold has, quite simply, been one of the league’s best centers — not to mention one of the league’s best linemen, overall — for several years. His Credentials:  94 career regular-season starts, including 80 consecutive from 2006-11; four-time Pro Bowler; three-time All-Pro selection Others in Consideration:  Hakeem Nicks (2009, Giants)

From 2004-11 Wayne averaged just shy of 90 catches per season and three times (2007, ’09, ’10) topped the century mark, with a high of 111 grabs in 2010. His Credentials: 862 career catches (15th-best all time) for 11,708 yards and 73 touchdowns; five-time Pro Bowl pick; three-time All-Pro; Super Bowl XLI champion Others in Consideration: Patrick Kerney (1999, Falcons), Heath Miller (2005, Steelers), Joseph Addai (2006, Colts)

Asomugha developed into such a pure lock-down cornerback during his eight seasons with the Raiders that offenses avoided him, often at the expense of their top receivers. His Credentials: Three-time Pro Bowl selection; four-time All-Pro; two-time winner of Raiders’ MVP award; 350 career tackles; 14 career interceptions Others in Consideration: Al Wilson (1999, Broncos), Todd Heap (2001, Ravens), Greg Olsen (2005, Bears)

Teams hope they can find contributors at the bottom of the draft’s first round. New England landed itself quite the gem back in 2005. His Credentials: 104 career regular-season starts, four Pro Bowl trips, three All-Pro selections, voted to Patriots’ 50th anniversary team in 2009, two Super Bowl appearances Others in Consideration: Ben Watson (2004, Patriots); Mathias Kiwanuka (2006, Giants)