2016 NFL Draft: Where Are They Now?

The 2016 NFL Draft: A Look Back at the Top 10 Picks

The 2016 NFL Draft class is often remembered for the highly debated No. 1 pick between Jared Goff and Carson Wentz, and the bizarre draft-day slide of Laremy Tunsil. But beyond the headlines, this draft produced a wealth of talent that has significantly shaped the league. Seven of the top 10 picks went on to make Pro Bowls, five earned First-Team All-Pro honors, and remarkably, only one failed to make an NFL roster in 2025. Let’s dive into how the careers of these top prospects have unfolded.

1. Jared Goff, QB, Los Angeles Rams

The Los Angeles Rams kicked off the draft by selecting Jared Goff, a polished pocket passer from California. Despite initial struggles as a rookie, including a winless seven-game stretch as a starter, Goff’s career trajectory dramatically shifted with the hiring of Sean McVay. Under McVay, Goff transformed into a top-tier quarterback, leading the Rams to an 11-5 record in 2017 and a Super Bowl appearance in 2018, where he threw for nearly 300 yards per game. After a slight regression in 2019 and 2020, Goff was traded to the Detroit Lions. In Detroit, he revitalized his career, guiding the team to an NFC Championship game appearance in 2023 and enjoying his best statistical season in 2024, earning MVP consideration. While playoff performances have occasionally been a talking point, Goff has solidified himself as a top 10 quarterback, praised for his regular-season prowess despite a perceived lack of mobility.

2. Carson Wentz, QB, Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles traded up to select Carson Wentz from North Dakota State. A physically imposing quarterback with a big arm and mobility, Wentz showed immense promise early on. He set rookie records for completions and attempts and was in the MVP conversation in his second year before a season-ending injury. While his backup, Nick Foles, led the Eagles to a Super Bowl victory, Wentz returned to a similar level of play in 2017, though injuries and team struggles followed. Reports emerged of him being a polarizing figure, with some teammates describing him as selfish, while others defended his character and commitment. His career saw a significant decline after 2017, marked by inconsistency, turnovers, and further injuries. Wentz bounced between the Colts, Commanders, Rams, Chiefs, and Vikings, serving primarily as a backup, ultimately unable to recapture his early-career brilliance.

3. Joey Bosa, EDGE, San Diego Chargers

The San Diego Chargers drafted Joey Bosa, a defensive end from Ohio State, expecting immediate impact. He delivered, recording 10.5 sacks in 12 games as a rookie and earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. Bosa quickly developed into a premier pass rusher, forming a formidable duo with Melvin Ingram. Despite battling injuries that caused him to miss significant time in 2018 and again in 2022 and 2023, Bosa consistently produced when healthy, earning five Pro Bowl selections. After a decade with the Chargers, which included a $135 million contract extension, he moved to the Buffalo Bills in 2025, leading the league in forced fumbles. Injuries have been a recurring theme, but Bosa’s talent and production have cemented his status as an elite defender.

4. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Dallas Cowboys

Ezekiel Elliott was considered the complete package at running back, and the Dallas Cowboys immediately leaned on him. As a rookie, he led the NFL in carries and yards, showcasing size, vision, and durability. Despite facing a six-game suspension in 2017 due to domestic violence allegations, he still led the league in yards per game. Elliott continued his dominant run through 2019, earning over 2,000 all-purpose yards in 2018 and signing a lucrative $90 million extension. However, his effectiveness began to wane in 2020 and 2021, with Tony Pollard emerging as the more efficient back. By 2022, Elliott looked like a shell of his former self, and Dallas moved on. He spent time with the Patriots and returned to Dallas as a backup before landing on the Chargers’ practice squad in 2025. Elliott’s career serves as a cautionary tale of rapid decline due to wear and tear, age, or a lack of offseason focus.

5. Jalen Ramsey, DB, Jacksonville Jaguars

Jalen Ramsey entered the league as a highly touted defensive back from Florida State, possessing elite size, speed, and athleticism. He immediately made an impact for the Jaguars, finishing second in Rookie of the Year voting. Ramsey’s second year saw him reach elite status, playing a pivotal role in the Jaguars’ run to the AFC Championship game. After a turbulent 2019 season, which included a trade demand, he was dealt to the Los Angeles Rams. In LA, Ramsey continued his dominant play, earning a Super Bowl ring in 2021 and playing a key role in their defense. He was later traded to the Miami Dolphins. Despite a significant knee injury in 2023, he returned to form in 2024. In 2025, Ramsey transitioned to a safety role with the Pittsburgh Steelers. With eight Pro Bowls, three First-Team All-Pro selections, and a Super Bowl title, Ramsey is widely regarded as one of the best cornerbacks of the past decade.

6. Ronnie Stanley, OT, Baltimore Ravens

Ronnie Stanley was considered a safe bet as a polished technician at offensive tackle. He quickly secured a starting role for the Ravens, excelling in pass protection. His career took off in 2019, coinciding with Lamar Jackson’s MVP season, earning him First-Team All-Pro honors and a lucrative contract extension. Unfortunately, his career has been significantly hampered by injuries since 2020, including multiple surgeries on his ankle and other ailments. While he returned to Pro Bowl form in 2024, starting all 17 games, he settled back into an average starter role in 2025. Stanley developed into an elite left tackle early on, but injuries prevented him from sustaining that level consistently.

7. DeForest Buckner, DL, San Francisco 49ers

DeForest Buckner, a towering defensive end from Oregon, was praised for his run defense, pass rush ability, and versatility. He quickly became a starting defensive end for the 49ers and, after a scheme change to a 4-3 defense, emerged as a top pass rusher. Buckner earned his first Pro Bowl in 2018 and was named Second-Team All-Pro in 2019 as the 49ers reached the Super Bowl. Due to salary cap constraints, he was traded to the Indianapolis Colts, where he signed a significant contract and immediately proved his worth, earning First-Team All-Pro honors in 2020. Buckner has maintained above-average to elite play throughout his career, though he missed significant time in 2024 and 2025 due to injuries. His ability to rush the passer and durability through his first eight seasons highlight his consistent impact.

8. Jack Conklin, OT, Tennessee Titans

Jack Conklin was an elite run blocker from Michigan State, projected as an NFL-ready starter. He lived up to the hype as a rookie, helping the Titans boast the league’s top offensive line and earning First-Team All-Pro honors. After a slight dip in performance and an ACL tear in 2018, Conklin bounced back strong in 2019, playing a key role in the Titans’ dominant run game that reached the AFC title game. He then signed with the Cleveland Browns, where he was a cornerstone of their offensive line in 2020, earning another First-Team All-Pro nod and contributing to their first playoff win in decades. However, like many on this list, injuries became a major factor, including another ACL tear in 2023. Conklin has been a pivotal player in two successful playoff runs driven by strong run games but has struggled with consistent availability since.

9. Leonard Floyd, EDGE, Chicago Bears

Leonard Floyd, an athletic specimen from Georgia, was drafted for his speed and ability to bend around the edge. He started immediately as a rookie but struggled with consistency and injuries, missing four games. His second year was disappointing, and his play didn’t significantly improve through 2019, leading to his release by the Bears. Floyd found a new home with the Los Angeles Rams, where he saw an uptick in production, reaching double-digit sacks for the first time and contributing to their Super Bowl LVI victory. He earned a contract extension but was released after the 2022 season. Floyd then spent time with the Buffalo Bills, reaching double-digit sacks again, before landing with the 49ers for a single season and finishing his career with the Atlanta Falcons in 2025, consistently providing a starting presence despite often grading out as average.

10. Laremy Tunsil, OT, Miami Dolphins (Drafted 13th)

While not a top 10 pick due to a bizarre draft-day incident involving a hacked Twitter account and a gas mask video, Laremy Tunsil was selected 13th overall by the Miami Dolphins. He quickly established himself as a starting left tackle, providing solid protection. Tunsil has been a consistent performer for the Dolphins throughout his career, earning Pro Bowl selections and proving to be a reliable anchor on their offensive line. He has been a cornerstone of their offense, demonstrating the value of a high-level offensive tackle when healthy and available.

Source: The Top 10 Picks From 2016. How Did Their Careers Turn Out? (YouTube)