The NFL Draft is one of the most eagerly anticipated events in professional sports, offering teams a chance to inject new talent into their rosters. However, not every draft class meets expectations, and some have gone down in history as particularly overrated. One of the drafts often mentioned in discussions about underwhelming outcomes is the 2017 draft, specifically the selection of Raekwon McMillan and Jalen Tetairoa. While the two players had high expectations placed on them, their careers have left many questioning the hype surrounding their selections.
Raekwon McMillan, a linebacker from Ohio State, was selected by the Miami Dolphins in the second round of the 2017 draft. Coming into the draft, McMillan was lauded for his leadership and his ability to excel against both the run and the pass. He was seen as a future cornerstone for the Dolphins’ defense, a linebacker who could anchor the team’s middle for years to come. Unfortunately, McMillan’s career has been largely defined by inconsistency and injury.
After a promising start to his rookie season, McMillan tore his ACL during training camp, sidelining him for the entire year. When he returned in 2018, he struggled to make a significant impact, showing little of the dominance that had made him such a highly-touted prospect. Despite being given opportunities to play in 2019 and beyond, McMillan’s performance never lived up to the expectations set for him. After being traded to the New England Patriots, McMillan’s career trajectory seemed to stall further, and he never became the standout linebacker that was anticipated.
Similarly, Jalen Tetairoa, another highly-touted prospect, entered the draft with significant potential but has never truly lived up to the pre-draft hype. Known for his size, speed, and raw talent, Tetairoa was expected to make an immediate impact on whichever team selected him. However, he has struggled to find his place in the NFL, bouncing from team to team without ever solidifying a permanent role. His inconsistency on the field and inability to meet expectations have left fans and analysts alike questioning whether he was ever truly deserving of the high draft status he received.
Conclusion
The 2017 NFL Draft, particularly the selections of Raekwon McMillan and Jalen Tetairoa, is often considered one of the most overrated in recent memory. While both players entered the league with high expectations, their inability to fulfill their potential has led to disappointment. The draft class, marked by missed opportunities and unrealized potential, serves as a cautionary tale about the unpredictable nature of the NFL Draft. Despite the promise these players showed in college, their professional careers serve as a reminder that success in the NFL is never guaranteed.
