While big names on the NFL Draft get picked on the first day, the real action begins on Day 3, Rounds 4 through 7. During this round, teams where teams find hidden gems. These players often start quiet but end up shining bright. From “Mr. Irrelevant” to Super Bowl champs, here are the best late-round picks since 2011.
Who Are the Best Day 3 NFL Draft Picks of the Last Decade?
Every year, fans focus on the draft’s first night when big names get picked. However, during the later days, especially the third day, is when players who work hard and have the hunger to prove themselves get picked. Here are the players who were all picked on Day 3 but had huge careers.
1) Jason Kelce
Jason Kelce, picked 191st in 2011, became a legend. The Philadelphia Eagles took a chance on the Cincinnati center. He started 193 games over 13 years. Kelce earned six All-Pro honors. He helped win a Super Bowl in 2018. His leadership made him a fan favorite before he retired.
2) George Kittle
George Kittle went 146th in 2017. His college stats at Iowa weren’t very impressive: 48 catches, 10 touchdowns. But his blocking stood out. The San Francisco 49ers saw potential and gambled. In the end, the move paid off, as Kittle became a top tight end. He’s made five Pro Bowls with 460 catches and 37 touchdowns.
3) Brock Purdy
Brock Purdy was the last pick in 2022, No. 262. They called him “Mr. Irrelevant.” But he proved them wrong. Injuries pushed the Iowa State QB into the San Francisco 49ers’ lineup. He led them to the NFC Championship as a rookie. In year two, he went 12-4 and reached the Super Bowl.
4) Amon-Ra St. Brown
Amon-Ra St. Brown, drafted 112th in 2021, there were 16 receivers who were picked before him. The USC star joined the Detroit Lions and quickly became a starter. He’s caught over 100 passes each of the last two seasons. His All-Pro nod last fall showed he’s among the best.
5) Tyreek Hill
Tyreek Hill, picked 165th in 2016, was known for his speed. The Kansas City Chiefs used him as a receiver and returner. He made the Pro Bowl every year, including as a return specialist in 2016. Now with the Miami Dolphins, Hill helped win a Super Bowl in 2019.
6) Stefon Diggs
Stefon Diggs went 146th in 2015. The Maryland standout joined the Minnesota Vikings. He quickly became a starter. Later, with the Buffalo Bills, he earned four straight Pro Bowls. Now with the Houston Texans, Diggs has over 800 career catches and keeps climbing.
7) Richard Sherman
Richard Sherman, drafted 154th in 2011, was the 24th cornerback taken. But he became a cornerstone of Seattle’s “Legion of Boom” defense. The Seahawks won the Super Bowl in 2013. Sherman’s skills and smarts made him a nightmare for quarterbacks.
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