In his first 10 seasons in the Major Leagues, Jose Abreu was named to three All-Star Games, earned three Silver Slugger Awards, and won an MVP in the truncated 2020 season — soon, he is in A-ball.

The Houston Astros announced on Tuesday they will send the first baseman down to the minor leagues on Tuesday as he continues to struggle at the Major League level.

Abreu signed a three-year deal worth nearly $60 million with Houston prior to the 2023 season, and he posted career-lows with a .237/.296/.383 slashline — in 22 big league games this season, he’s hitting .099.

General manager Dana Brown said the decision was made after a meeting that included himself, Abreu, coaches and front-office personnel — as Abreu is long-non-arbitration eligible, he needed to accept the option.

Brown said Abreu was very receptive during their conversation and had a good attitude about the move.

“José Abreu is an outstanding human being,” Brown said. “He is unselfish and he’s a teammates guy and he wants to get himself back to what he was doing last fall. And so, in the midst of this conversation, you could see that this guy is passionate and determined to get back to helping his team.

José Abreu #79 of the Houston Astros breaks his bat in the seventh inning against the Atlanta Braves at Minute Maid Park on April 15, 2024 in Houston, Texas.  All players are wearing the number 42 in honor of Jackie Robinson Day.  (Tim Warner/Getty Images)

“And so he unselfishly was on board with an agreement with going back to West Palm Beach and getting some extra at-bats, getting some detailed instruction on what we could do to get him back,” Brown continued.

“He got to the point where he was frustrated,” Brown added. “It’s rare to do it. But I think it tells us about his dedication and commitment and I don’t think he sees this as a long-term and I don’t think we see it as a long-term thing. I think it’s more like… let’s go down, let’s make some adjustments. Let’s get the rhythm and timing back. And I think in his eyes, he’s looking at it as, ‘I’ll be back in a couple of weeks or whatever it takes to get better.’”

He has just one extra-base hit and three RBI in the young season.

José Abreu #79 of the Houston Astros bats against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Field on April 08, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.  (Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

It’s not just Abreu who is struggling in Houston — the Astros entered Tuesday at 9-19.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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No. 2 Long Beach State dominated in a three-set sweep against No. 7 Belmont Abbey in the first round of the NCAA tournament on Tuesday at Walter Pyramid. After the 25-18, 25-14, 25-11 victory, the Beach will face No. 3 seed Grand Canyon or No. 6 Ohio State in the national semifinal at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday.

Long Beach State (26-2) overwhelmed the Crusaders with three attackers with double-digit kills. First-team All-American Sotiris Siapanis had 11 kills in 16 swings, followed by 10 kills each from Skyler Varga and Nathan Harlan. Harlan came one kill shy of his career high.

The Beach, which entered the tournament as the nation leader in blocks per set at 3.23, didn’t have a single block in the first two sets despite dominating both. The Beach finally got its block game going as setter Aidan Knipe and middle blocker Simon Torwie teammed to stuff Belmont Abbey’s Jibriel Elhaddad on the first point of the third set. The Beach never trailed in the last game.

Knipe, who was selected a second-team AVCA All-American for the first time in his career, had 37 assists and seven digs.

This is my spin on draft grades. After the NFL Draft each year, I rank my favorite (and least favorite) draft classes, from 1 to 32.

I don’t use any special formula or analytical metric to come up with the order — I simply go by which team got me the most pumped about their draft hauls. Obviously, teams with multiple early-round picks will show up higher in the rankings than those with fewer selections.

Also, future picks or veteran players acquired do not factor into these rankings (even if they’re mentioned in the team breakdowns). Teams are ranked strictly on the prospects drafted and the values of where they were selected.

NFL Draft winners and losers: Mike Jones’ draft review
Bruce Feldman’s draft takeaways: Best picks, sleepers, more
Draft pick grades: Round 1 | Rounds 2-3
Full draft results: Team picks for all 257 selections

The 2024 draft rankings:

Favorite pick: Caleb Williams, QB, USC

Obviously, teams with multiple early-round picks have a decided advantage for this exercise over those with fewer selections. But the Bears aren’t No. 1 merely because they had two top-10 picks. They’re here because of what they did with those picks — and I went back and forth on my “favorite” between Williams and wide receiver Rome Odunze. The answer, though, has to be the quarterback who can be a franchise-changing player for Chicago. I am also a fan of third-round OT Kiran Amegadjie, who has the talent to be Chicago’s left tackle of the future.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Austin Booker, Edge, Kansas

Chicago only had two Day 3 choices, and I’m not going to pick the punter (Tory Taylor). The Bears used a 2025 fourth-round pick to trade back into this draft (at No. 144) and scoop up Booker, who easily could have been drafted on Day 2. Although he isn’t ready for a meaningful role as a rookie, Booker has the promising pass-rush savvy to be a steal when we look back at this selection in two or three years.

Favorite pick: Troy Fautanu, OT/G, Washington

The Steelers had four picks in the top 100, and all four were home runs. Michigan receiver Roman Wilson is a tough cover because of his speed, and linebacker Payton Wilson will fill up the stat sheet (as long as he stays healthy). It also was difficult not to choose center Zach Frazier here, not only because he was a steal at No. 51, but also because he’s a perfect fit for this team. But I have to go with Fautanu, my ninth-ranked player overall. He will be a Band-Aid for the Pittsburgh offensive line with his ability to play either tackle or guard.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Mason McCormick, G, South Dakota State

Pittsburgh remade its offensive line in this draft class. Although not a slam-dunk starter, McCormick adds immediate depth on the interior and will push for early playing time. All three of the Steelers’ Day 3 selections (McCormick, DL Logan Lee and DB Ryan Watts) were standouts during East-West Shrine Bowl week.

Favorite pick: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

No. 10 on my board, Arnold was my highest-graded defensive player in the entire draft — and the Lions were able to trade up and get him at 24. Aside from the talent he brings to the roster, the fit is what makes this one of my favorite picks. Arnold is one of the most competitive players in the draft class, and he’s ideally wired not just for a cornerback, but especially for a Dan Campbell-coached cornerback.

“I’M HOME!” @ArnoldTerrion took the mic to talk directly to his new fanbase 🎤

📺: #NFLDraft on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/UlLfiwJeMU

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— NFL (@NFL) April 26, 2024

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Christian Mahogany, G, Boston College

The Lions had a fascinating Day 3, including trading a 2025 third-round pick to draft Giovanni Manu, a project left tackle with rare tools. But it was Detroit’s two Round 6 picks that stood out — LSU’s Mekhi Wingo and Mahogany, who both ranked inside my top 100. Some medical questions caused Mahogany to fall, but he is a smash-mouth power blocker with lighter feet than expected. It won’t be a surprise if he is competing for a starting role in 2025.

Favorite pick: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

The Eagles are almost always near the top of my annual draft rankings, and this year is no different. Adding defensive back Cooper DeJean in the second round was tremendous value, but having Mitchell fall in their laps at No. 22 was a steal. An outstanding size/speed athlete, the Toledo product plays with high-level ball skills and composure. On top of landing an impressive class, the Eagles also added third-, fourth- and fifth-round selections in the 2025 draft via trade.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Will Shipley, RB, Clemson

The Eagles cleaned up on Day 3, adding a legacy pick (Jeremiah Trotter Jr.), an impact returner (Ainias Smith) and an oversized receiver (Johnny Wilson). I expect Shipley to make an immediate impact as part of the backfield. Though he runs like a grinder, Shipley has athleticism to make defenders miss — especially in the screen game, which should be more of an emphasis for the Eagles under new play caller Kellen Moore.

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Favorite pick: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

The unwritten goal for NFL teams is to come away from each draft with four starters. With 12 selections this year, there is a good chance the Cardinals exceed that number. There is no doubt that the Cardinals considered the other top receivers in this class or trade-down options, but ultimately, they weren’t going to overthink this selection. The No. 2 player on my board, Harrison has a skill set reminiscent of Larry Fitzgerald and will upgrade the Arizona offense immediately.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Xavier Thomas, Edge, Clemson

The Cardinals addressed defensive end in Round 1 (Darius Robinson), but it wouldn’t be a shock if they get more immediate pass-rush production from Thomas. More of a subpackage rusher, he is straight-line explosive with active hands that can affect backfield action.

Favorite pick: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

Honestly, it was something of a three-way tie for my favorite Chargers pick between Alt, Ladd McConkey and Junior Colson. But if I have to choose one, it’s Alt, who was my No. 5  player in the class. With Rashawn Slater and Alt, the Chargers’ tackle situation is now the envy of most teams. McConkey is a quarterback-friendly target for Justin Herbert and Colson is a green-dot linebacker, too — the Chargers crushed their first three picks.

“offensive linemen we look at as weapons” pic.twitter.com/3mBgFfcKDj

— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) April 26, 2024

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Day 3 pick who could surprise: Kimani Vidal, RB, Troy

The Chargers added J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards, but I expect Vidal to play a meaningful role almost immediately. He might not be a home run-hitter, but he is the type of running back Jim Harbaugh appreciates — someone who gets the singles and doubles and can be trusted to stay on the field in any situation.

Favorite pick: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

The Giants drafted several of “my guys” in this draft — Nabers, Andru Phillips and Tyrone Tracy Jr. But it all starts with Nabers, who would have been an easy top-five pick in most other drafts. Luckily for the Giants, they were able to nab him at No. 6, giving their offense the truly explosive threat it had been missing.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Tyrone Tracy Jr., RB, Purdue

Devin Singletary and Eric Gray are solid players, but Tracy has an opportunity to make an immediate impact, both on offense and as a return man. The former wide receiver is at his best as a pass catcher, but as long as he has a lane, Tracy can create big plays. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention TE Theo Johnson, as well, whose value could climb if Darren Waller doesn’t return in 2024.

Favorite pick: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

The Patriots aren’t accustomed to drafting in the top three, but they picked a good year to do so. My No. 2 quarterback in the class, Maye goes to a situation in which he won’t be pressed into action right away, but all the tools are there for him to develop into a top-10 NFL QB. I didn’t love some of the Patriots’ other picks, but they landed Maye, which boosted their spot in these rankings.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Javon Baker, WR, UCF

Following the Maye selection, the Patriots selected four consecutive offensive players to help their young quarterback (two receivers and two offensive linemen). The second of those receivers was Baker, who isn’t a refined player but is plenty exciting. The Alabama transfer averaged 21.9 yards per reception last year and put several explosive plays on tape, even if multiple inefficiencies in his game need to be ironed out.

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Favorite pick: Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan

I think Jayden Daniels quickly will be a dynamic NFL player, but my “favorite” picks by the Commanders were their next two selections: Sainristil and defensive tackle Johnny Newton. Despite being undersized, Sainristil is a smart player — it is no coincidence that he consistently delivered difference-making plays on tape. Another favorite from this class was OT Brandon Coleman. I was ready to defend his high ranking (No. 66) on my board, but the Commanders drafted him at No. 67, and I don’t think they will regret it.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Dominique Hampton, S, Washington

Dan Quinn has a history of tapping into the strengths of oversized safeties, and Hampton could be next. At 6-foot-2 and 215 pounds, Hampton is a premier athlete (4.45-second 40-yard dash) with a versatile background as a cornerback, nickel and on special teams. His lack of difference-making plays stands out, but he can be a solid role player.

Favorite pick: Marshawn Kneeland, Edge, Western Michigan

I’m surprised the Cowboys didn’t draft a running back, but I really like most of the eight selections they did make. With picks 29, 56 and 73, respectively, Dallas drafted my No. 27 (Tyler Guyton), No. 32 (Kneeland) and No. 38 (Cooper Beebe) overall prospects. Kneeland is an impressive athlete at 270 pounds and rushes with balance and heavy hands. Pass rusher was an underrated need for the Cowboys entering the draft, and they landed an ascending player with his best football ahead of him.

That Kneeland Feelin’ 🥹#CowboysDraft | @MKneeland99 pic.twitter.com/zIwJ5x0tKZ

— Dallas Cowboys (@dallascowboys) April 27, 2024

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Caelen Carson, CB, Wake Forest

The Cowboys have one of the NFL’s best starting corner duos in DaRon Bland and Trevon Diggs (who is coming off major injury). But depth is a major question mark, so Carson could see meaningful defensive snaps as a rookie. My 102nd-ranked player (drafted at No. 174), he is a solid athlete with high football IQ and inside-outside versatility.

Favorite pick: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

When doing my final mock draft, I didn’t give much thought to the Raiders drafting Bowers at No. 13 — but it makes sense, as Las Vegas wisely stuck to the “best player available” approach. Even though the Raiders have a solid tight end depth chart, Bowers also will spend time as a part-time slot receiver. He should quickly become the No. 2 pass-catching option in this offense, behind Davante Adams.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Dylan Laube, RB, New Hampshire

I think Decamerion Richardson could surprise with his rare length and speed, and Tommy Eichenberg is just a rock-solid linebacker. But I can’t wait to see Laube carve out a role for himself in the Raiders’ offense. Zamir White and Alexander Mattison will chew up most of the carries, but Laube could finish top five on the team in catches in 2024.

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Favorite pick: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

In typical Ravens fashion, they waited and allowed a good player to fall into their laps late in Round 1. Although I have my concerns with his play strength and body type, Wiggins is a high-level athlete who has the cover skills to make a quick impact. Marlon Humphrey and Wiggins make for an impressive starting cornerback duo.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State

A player who went about 100 spots later than most expected, Tampa hurt himself during the pre-draft process by turning down the Senior Bowl and then running a 4.58 40 at his pro day. He doesn’t have ideal speed or twitch for man coverage, but his size and ball skills are traits worth developing on the outside.

Favorite pick: Jaden Hicks, S, Washington State

If needed, I’ll go down with the ship on this one. Hicks was viewed as a Day 2 prospect by numerous teams, but he fell through the cracks and landed in a favorable situation with Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. Hicks has the intimidation factor of a strong safety and the athletic tools to hold up in coverage. Even if there isn’t a clear path for him to start right away in Kansas City, he will get on the field in some way as a rookie.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Hunter Nourzad, G/C, Penn State

One of the smartest prospects in this class, Nourzad doesn’t have overwhelming athleticism or strength, but he processes everything very quickly and is well-schooled with his technique to gain proper leverage. He has experience at tackle, guard and center and could be a viable starting option at right guard in 2025, if the Chiefs aren’t able to re-sign Trey Smith.

Favorite pick: Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA

With his medical history, Latu was a complicated prospect to project for all of us on the outside. Just based on ability, though, he was easy to appreciate. Despite having average size, length and strength, Latu has a sixth sense for pass rushing. He has a crafty understanding of how to break down the rhythm of blockers with skilled, well-timed moves, which should translate very well (and quickly) to the NFL game.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Tanor Bortolini, G/C, Wisconsin

A player-team fit I had (at No. 117) in my mock draft, Bortolini checks a lot of boxes for what the Colts and general manager Chris Ballard target. He had an historic combine performance with his athletic testing and offers interior versatility at both guard and center. As early as the 2025 season, Bortolini could be the Colts’ starting right guard or center.

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Favorite pick: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

The Vikings’ process was a little complicated, and we can break down those decisions another time. But they came out of the first round with two players who should be cornerstone pieces. McCarthy was a tricky prospect to evaluate because you wanted to see more from his tape, but — like I’ve been saying since the summer — the tools and intangibles are worth cultivating. And McCarthy goes to a favorable situation, which will help accelerate his development.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Khyree Jackson, CB, Oregon

Jackson has taken a winding path to this point. If he can build upon the promise he showed on his 2023 tape, though, the Vikings could have a starting-caliber player. He has rare size (6-4, 194), which allows him to match up and take away air space downfield. His discipline must improve, but Jackson has favorable tools.

Favorite pick: Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

One of my favorite players in this draft class, Murphy is equally disruptive versus the run and when rushing the passer. He can line up across the defensive front and give the Seahawks something a little different than what they had on their line. I also loved Seattle’s Christian Haynes addition, especially outside the top 80.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: DJ James, CB, Auburn

The Seahawks doubled up on Auburn cornerbacks, and it will be interesting to see which one ultimately makes more of an impact. I won’t be surprised if James outplays Nehemiah Pritchett, despite being the later draft pick, because he has quick-reaction skills and the cover confidence required to play a nickel role.

Bringing versatility to the secondary.@Djames00x | @QNTMFiber pic.twitter.com/n2Rjj6tlyV

— Seattle Seahawks (@Seahawks) April 27, 2024

Favorite pick: Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State

The Jets know better than most teams how attrition on the offensive line can derail a season. Tyron Smith is still an above-average left tackle, but he is in on a one-year deal and hasn’t played a full season since 2015. Fashanu gives the Jets insurance at left tackle for 2024 and an exciting long-term plan at the position.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Qwan’tez Stiggers, CB, CFL

Stiggers has an astounding backstory, but there’s more to him than just his inspiring journey. He also has the tools to develop into an impactful role player. Stiggers (6-0, 205) has 4.4 speed and was the CFL Rookie of the Year last season with 12 passes defended and five interceptions.

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Favorite pick: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

This is a great fit for both sides. Yes, Mims only had eight starts at the college level, so bumps in the road should be expected. But he won’t be rushed onto the field. With his traits and natural ability, Mims could stand out as the best offensive tackle from this class when we look back in three years.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Tanner McLachlan, TE, Arizona

McLachlan wasn’t even the first tight end the Bengals drafted on Day 3, but it won’t be surprising if he is the most impactful. He is a terrific athlete for his size (6-5, 244) and consistently moves the chains without putting the ball on the ground (zero drops in 2023 and an 81.8 first-down/touchdown percentage).

Favorite pick: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

Fuaga is considered a right tackle or guard by most teams, but can he play left tackle? There are some questions left to answer, but there is no doubt that the Saints’ offensive line is vastly improved with Fuaga now in the mix. Training camp will determine who plays where, but it is clear the Saints view Fuaga as an offensive tackle with versatility on either side.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina

At No. 150, why not throw a dart on a talented quarterback? Rattler is an average athlete and tends to be too methodical with his process, but he has an NFL arm with the mechanics and poise to handle NFL reps. It will be interesting to track his career, even if he spends most of it on the bench over his first two seasons.

Favorite pick: Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

Josh Allen really hasn’t had a target like this in Buffalo. Coleman’s 40-yard dash won’t wow anyone, but he is a terrific athlete — especially at the catch point, where his basketball background shines. His ability to expand his catch radius and rescue the football is exceptional, and Allen won’t be shy about giving Coleman chances to make plays.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Ray Davis, RB, Kentucky

James Cook will be the starter, but Davis can ascend to RB2 status on the Buffalo depth chart and play a prominent role in 2024. His urgent decision-making, lateral quickness and ability to catch the football perfectly fit what the Bills want to be on offense.

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Favorite pick: Javon Bullard, S, Georgia

The Packers wanted to overhaul their safety position this offseason. They did that by adding Xavier McKinney in free agency and Bullard in the draft. With his ability to rapidly read routes and drive on the football, Bullock can play a nickel role or drop and handle coverage in space. The Georgia coaches raved about his competitive confidence and leadership personality.

Keeping a “G” on the helmet. @cravejaaye 🐶@amfam | #PackersDraft pic.twitter.com/f6lp2tyLNs

— Green Bay Packers (@packers) April 27, 2024

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Day 3 pick who could surprise: Jacob Monk, G/C, Duke

With the future of the Packers’ center position unsettled, I wouldn’t rule out Monk as a possible long-term option. His size and strength are solid, but what separates Monk is his foot quickness and processing skills, which will allow him to compete for reps at both guard and center.

Favorite pick: Graham Barton, G/C, Duke

Though I have mixed feelings about Tampa’s overall haul, the Buccaneers hit a home run with Barton, who should be the immediate starter at left guard. Aside from locking down a starting role, his value will be felt in his versatility, which will help Tampa get its best five linemen on the field — even if injuries happen.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Bucky Irving, RB, Oregon

With his average size and athletic testing, Irving is a trust-the-tape kind of player. He skillfully uses his size and patience to hide behind blockers and pick his way through the heart of the defense. I’m interested to see how the backfield touches will be distributed behind Rachaad White this season.

Favorite pick: Jaylen Wright, RB, Tennessee

A team that prides itself on being the fastest in the league added one of the fastest players in the draft. Wright is a track sprinter with 4.38 speed and shows a lot of promise when he has daylight in front of him. His run tempo and patience are works in progress, but he averaged 7.4 yards per carry in 2023 and will be a home-run hitter as a rookie.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Malik Washington, WR, Virginia

One of the best values in the entire draft class. Undersized at 5-9, 191, Washington plays bigger than that because of his adjustment skills and ability to create with the ball in his hands. Only Nabers and Odunze had more catches of 20-plus yards in 2023. He’s another home-run hitter added to the Miami mix.

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Favorite pick: Jared Verse, Edge, Florida State

The Rams will get steady production from their Day 2 picks (specifically, Braden Fiske and Blake Corum), but adding Verse is a massive upgrade to their pass rush. His relentless energy stands out and often leads to production, as he uses his heavy hands to wear down blocks and reach the quarterback. As the Rams adjust to a post-Aaron Donald era, adding a presence like Verse is a good start.

How it started. How it’s going. pic.twitter.com/FSxZ7dE4Ri

— UAlbany Football (@UAlbanyFootball) April 26, 2024

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Day 3 pick who could surprise: Brennan Jackson, DL, Washington State

Although he isn’t a bendy rusher and his stiffness stands out, Jackson is an urgent competitor with a nonstop motor. His physicality, play strength and pursuit to the football really jump off the film and will serve him well.

Favorite pick: Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida

This is a fun pairing because of Pearsall’s versatility to play across the formation. With his ball skills and savvy, the former Florida pass catcher will develop quick chemistry with QB Brock Purdy and make an impact in Year 1. I also really liked the pick of Dominick Puni in the third round — he will have a chance to become the long-term future at center.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Malik Mustapha, S, Wake Forest

My No. 85 player, Mustapha isn’t a proven playmaker in coverage (which is ultimately why he lasted until the fourth round), but he is an outstanding run defender who won’t make costly mistakes in coverage. He reminds me a lot of Jordan Whitehead and could fight for a spot on defense as the 49ers reshuffle their safety position over the next year or two.

Favorite pick: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

The Titans haven’t minced words — they believe Latham is their present and future left tackle. Yes, there is some projection involved, considering he was a right tackle in college, but Latham has the talent to play anywhere on the offensive line. His play strength jumps out immediately as something that sets him apart.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Jha’Quan Jackson, WR, Tulane

The Titans have plenty of bodies on the wide receiver depth chart, but I like Jackson’s chances to stand out in camp and gradually earn more playing time. He brings route instincts and outstanding speed to create from the slot, adding value as a returner on special teams.

Favorite pick: Jonathan Brooks, RB, Texas

No disrespect to Miles Sanders and Chuba Hubbard, but upgrading the run game was clearly a priority for the Panthers on draft weekend. They did that by grabbing the top back in the draft. Expected to be cleared in July from the ACL injury he suffered last season, Brooks should help make life easier on Bryce Young, especially given his pass-catching skills out of the backfield.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas

The Panthers returned to Austin in the fourth round to add another promising piece on offense. Tommy Tremble and Ian Thomas have been OK options at tight end, but adding an athletic joker like Sanders will give the group another layer. He is a true three-level receiving threat, similar to Gerald Everett.

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Favorite pick: Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia

The Texans didn’t have a draft pick in the top 40, putting them at a disadvantage for these rankings. They did, however, draft two promising players in the second round: Lassiter and Blake Fisher. Although several teams were concerned about his lack of speed, Lassiter’s tape shows a tough, competitive player — and it was clear DeMeco Ryans saw the same thing.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Cade Stover, TE, Ohio State

After their rookie quarterback had a record-setting season, what could the Texans do to help him continue to climb? Adding his college tight end is one idea. Stover might not truly have an A-level trait, but he is well-rounded as an athlete, pass catcher and blocker.

Favorite pick: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

I was underwhelmed by the Jaguars’ draft haul in Rounds 2-7, but I love what they did in Round 1, trading back and adding a high-ceiling receiver. After the Jaguars lost Calvin Ridley this offseason, they reexamined their options and were able to land Thomas, who has both size and speed. His route running is a work in progress, but that is due more to inexperience than lack of ability or know-how.

Brian Thomas Jr. film? Brian Thomas Jr. film!@BrianThomas_11 | #DUUUVAL

— Jacksonville Jaguars (@Jaguars) April 27, 2024

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Javon Foster, OT, Missouri

Foster was a worthwhile swing to take, even if offensive tackle isn’t a glaring need for this team. The Detroit native needs to continue honing his footwork and technique, but he moves well with the length and play strength to match up in the NFL. Foster can be a valuable swing tackle — and, down the line, maybe more.

Favorite pick: Jamari Thrash, WR, Louisville

With limited draft capital (including zero picks in the top 50), it was going to be tough for the Browns to rank very high on this list. They drafted two risky, yet promising players on Day 2 (Mike Hall Jr. and Zak Zinter), but their third pick was probably my favorite of the bunch. Thrash is a twitchy athlete with natural receiving instincts that serve him well as a three-level threat.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Nathaniel Watson, LB, Mississippi State

The Browns added Jordan Hicks and Devin Bush this offseason, but the future of the mike LB position is a question mark. Watson might be able to fill that role, because of his quick-reaction skills and tackling ability — he racked up 250 total tackles over the last two seasons. That quickness downhill allowed him to make numerous plays at the line or in the backfield.

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Favorite pick: Jonah Elliss, Edge, Utah

The Broncos have a glut of pass rushers in their rotation, but Elliss makes the unit even stronger. Although he was a little “out of sight, out of mind” this process after undergoing shoulder surgery in the fall, he is a disruptive presence with upfield explosion and violent hands.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon

Although I wasn’t a fan of what the Broncos did in the first round, reuniting Franklin with his college quarterback is smart drafting. Franklin, who has inconsistencies in his game, was overrated by many throughout the process, but there’s a good chance he winds up looking like a steal. He has legit speed before and after the catch and can make an immediate impact as a rookie.

Favorite pick: Brandon Dorlus, DL, Oregon

When revisiting this list in a few years, I might be completely wrong about the Falcons. Someone has to finish last, though, and the Michael Penix Jr. pick made it pretty easy. Though I am a fan of Ruke Orhorhoro, Dorlus in the fourth round was my favorite pick of this haul. He throws everything he has at blockers and offers the skill set to line up both inside and outside.

Day 3 pick who could surprise: JD Bertrand, LB, Notre Dame

A player with impeccable intangibles, Bertrand has the football character that endeared him to several teams throughout the process. But he also has on-field skills that suggest he can stick and make an impact. His instincts and quick trigger allow him to close on the football.

 (Illustration: John Bradford / The Athletic; Photos of Terrion Arnold, Jayden Daniels and Rome Odunze: Gregory Shamus / Getty Images)