Rapid Reaction: Picks 25-28: 2015 1st Round Grades

25. Carolina Panthers: LB Shaq Thompson

-The Panthers really didn’t need another OLB, but Thompson is a great athlete that will allow the Panthers to do a lot on defense. Carolina’s defense looks to be very good this upcoming season, and Thompson is just another quality piece.

Grade: A-

26. Baltimore Ravens: WR Breshad Perriman

-The Ravens needed to replace Torrey Smith and Perriman gives them a legit deep threat to keep Joe Flacco happy. There are some concerns about his hands and consistency, but he’s got excellent size and speed and should fit in pretty well. The fact that he can learn from Steve Smith doesn’t hurt either.

Grade: B+

27. Dallas Cowboys: CB Byron Jones

-With the top 2 RB’s gone the Cowboys were pretty much set to go defense here. They could have gone pass rusher or DT, but they decided to bolster their secondary with CB Byron Jones who has been rising up draft boards after his incredible  Combine and Pro Day.

Grade: B

28. Detroit Lions (via Denver): G Laken Tomlinson

-The Lions definitely needed OL help, but taking Laken Tomlinson was a bit of a surprise here. He’s probably the top pure guard on the board, but probably more of a mid-2nd round guy. The Lions could have bolstered the line with a tackle like Jake Fisher or T.J. Clemmings.

Grade: B