The 2020 NFL Draft was a unique and unforgettable moment in the world of professional football. Unlike any other draft, it took place amid a global pandemic, with players, fans, and team personnel navigating virtual meetings and remote celebrations. But beyond the unusual setup, what truly set the 2020 NFL Draft apart was the sheer level of talent among the players selected. With game-changing quarterbacks, electrifying wide receivers, and defensive prodigies, the 2020 NFL Draft may forever be remembered as one of the most talent-packed drafts in NFL history.
In this article, we’ll look back at some of the most hyped players from the 2020 NFL Draft, delve into their college backgrounds, highlight their careers so far, and examine how this draft class compares to those that followed.
The Stars of the 2020 NFL Draft
The 2020 NFL Draft introduced fans to a new generation of players who were set to leave a lasting impact on the league. Here are some of the most exciting and talked-about players from that class.
Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals
College Background: Joe Burrow’s journey to becoming the first overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft is the stuff of legends. After transferring from Ohio State to LSU, Burrow led the Tigers to an unbeaten season in 2019, capped off by a national championship. His 60 touchdown passes shattered records, and he won the Heisman Trophy in a landslide.
Career So Far: Selected first overall by the Cincinnati Bengals, Burrow brought newfound hope to a struggling franchise. His rookie season ended prematurely due to a severe knee injury, but Burrow bounced back stronger in his second year. In 2021, he led the Bengals to their first Super Bowl appearance in over 30 years. With an unmatched level of poise, accuracy, and leadership, Burrow’s impact has made him a household name. Few picks from the 2020 NFL Draft have had as significant an influence on their teams as Burrow has had on Cincinnati.
Tua Tagovailoa – Miami Dolphins
College Background: Tua Tagovailoa’s career began in the spotlight at Alabama, where he famously threw the game-winning touchdown pass in overtime during the 2018 College Football Playoff National Championship. Known for his quick release and remarkable accuracy, Tua quickly became a fan favorite.
Career So Far: Drafted fifth overall by the Miami Dolphins, Tua entered the NFL carrying immense expectations. His rookie season had its ups and downs, as he struggled with injuries and adjusted to the NFL’s pace. However, in 2022, Tua turned a corner, showcasing improved mechanics and deep-ball accuracy. His partnership with star receiver Tyreek Hill has transformed Miami’s offense, making them one of the most dynamic teams in the league. Tua’s progress since the 2020 NFL Draft has kept him in the spotlight, proving that he has the potential to lead Miami to sustained success.
Justin Herbert – Los Angeles Chargers
College Background: Justin Herbert was a standout quarterback at the University of Oregon, where he displayed a powerful arm, athleticism, and composure on the field. Though he entered the draft under less fanfare than some of his peers, his physical tools and high football IQ made him an intriguing prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Career So Far: Drafted sixth overall by the Los Angeles Chargers, Herbert’s entry into the NFL was abrupt, starting unexpectedly in his rookie season due to an injury to Tyrod Taylor. He seized the opportunity, setting multiple rookie records and winning the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year award. His combination of arm strength, mobility, and clutch playmaking ability has made Herbert one of the most exciting young quarterbacks in the NFL. Few players from the 2020 NFL Draft have made as immediate an impact as Herbert, who is now regarded as a cornerstone of the Chargers franchise.
CeeDee Lamb – Dallas Cowboys
College Background: CeeDee Lamb’s collegiate career at Oklahoma was electric. Known for his ability to make acrobatic catches and gain yards after the catch, Lamb’s talent was undeniable. His playmaking skills made him one of the top wide receiver prospects in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Career So Far: Taken 17th overall by the Dallas Cowboys, Lamb quickly made a name for himself in one of the NFL’s most storied franchises. His chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott has been impressive, and Lamb has become a go-to option for the Cowboys in critical moments. With his combination of speed, agility, and hands, Lamb has quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier receivers. The 2020 NFL Draft class produced several top-tier receivers, but Lamb’s continued growth has made him a standout.
Chase Young – Washington Commanders
College Background: Chase Young was an absolute force on the defensive line at Ohio State, where he recorded 16.5 sacks in his final season. Heralded as a generational talent, Young was widely considered the best defensive prospect in the 2020 NFL Draft.
Career So Far: Drafted second overall by Washington, Young wasted no time making his presence known. He earned the Defensive Rookie of the Year award, becoming the anchor of Washington’s formidable defense. While injuries have hampered his development, Young’s potential remains immense. The 2020 NFL Draft was filled with high-impact defenders, and Young is often considered among the most promising of the group.
Comparing the 2020 NFL Draft to Subsequent Draft Classes
While the 2020 NFL Draft was undeniably special, the classes that followed have also produced their fair share of star players. But how do they stack up against the stacked talent of 2020?
The 2021 Draft Class: The 2021 NFL Draft brought in another wave of talented quarterbacks, including Trevor Lawrence, Zach Wilson, and Justin Fields. However, while Lawrence has shown flashes of potential, none of these quarterbacks have had the immediate success of Burrow or Herbert. In terms of impact, the 2021 class has yet to match the caliber of the 2020 NFL Draft.
The 2022 Draft Class: The 2022 NFL Draft was less quarterback-heavy but produced strong defensive talent, including Aidan Hutchinson and Sauce Gardner. While the class shows promise, it hasn’t yet demonstrated the star power and depth that made the 2020 NFL Draft stand out.
The 2020 NFL Draft remains unique in its combination of high-impact offensive and defensive players, many of whom are already shaping the future of the league. While subsequent draft classes have introduced strong talent, they’ve yet to match the immediate and widespread influence of the 2020 NFL Draft.
Players from the 2020 NFL Draft in the Spotlight for 2025
The 2020 NFL Draft introduced a wave of extraordinary talent into the league, setting high expectations for many young players who have since become key figures for their teams. As we head into the 2025 season, all eyes are on these rising stars to see how they continue to shape the future of the NFL. Let’s dive deeper into the journeys and performances of some of the biggest names from this draft class, highlighting their careers so far and what to expect in the coming season.
Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals
College: LSU
Drafted: 1st overall pick
Joe Burrow came into the NFL as the reigning Heisman Trophy winner and national champion, selected as the top overall pick by the Cincinnati Bengals. Known for his accuracy, calm under pressure, and leadership qualities, Burrow quickly became the face of the Bengals’ franchise. Despite suffering a season-ending knee injury in his rookie year, he made a powerful comeback in 2021, leading Cincinnati to the Super Bowl in just his second season.
2025 Outlook: Burrow has solidified his status as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks. In the current season, he’s once again proving his worth with impressive stats, precision passing, and clutch performances. Although he’s faced a few injuries early on, Burrow’s resilience and determination have kept the Bengals competitive in the AFC. If he continues on this trajectory, he’s likely to lead Cincinnati deep into the playoffs and remain a constant MVP candidate.
Justin Herbert – Los Angeles Chargers
College: Oregon
Drafted: 6th overall pick
Justin Herbert was initially considered a wild card in the draft, with some analysts questioning his ability to adapt to the NFL. However, he quickly proved his doubters wrong, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2020 and setting several records for passing yards and touchdowns by a rookie quarterback. Herbert’s big arm, poise in the pocket, and ability to make smart plays under pressure have made him a fan favorite in Los Angeles.
2025 Outlook: Herbert has been putting up big numbers yet again this season, with multiple games of 300+ passing yards and clutch moments that have kept the Chargers in playoff contention. While the team has struggled with consistency, Herbert’s performances have been one of the few constants. Heading into 2025, he’s expected to continue breaking records and may lead the Chargers into a postseason run if they can address some of their defensive issues.
Tua Tagovailoa – Miami Dolphins
College: Alabama
Drafted: 5th overall pick
Tua Tagovailoa’s journey in the NFL has been marked by both flashes of brilliance and struggles with injury. Drafted by the Miami Dolphins as the franchise’s quarterback of the future, Tua has faced scrutiny due to his injury-prone nature and occasional inconsistency. However, his quick release, accuracy, and field vision have made him a dangerous playmaker, especially when paired with the Dolphins’ speedy receiving corps.
2025 Outlook: Tua has shown significant improvement in 2025, leading the Dolphins to multiple victories with efficient passing and smart decision-making. He’s stayed relatively healthy this season, allowing Miami’s offense to reach new heights. If he can maintain his health and consistency, Tua could be a key piece in leading the Dolphins back to the playoffs and further solidifying his role as the franchise quarterback.
Justin Jefferson – Minnesota Vikings
College: LSU
Drafted: 22nd overall pick
Justin Jefferson has become one of the premier wide receivers in the NFL since his breakout rookie season. Known for his route-running, hands, and ability to make big plays, Jefferson set records in his first two seasons, quickly becoming a favorite target in Minnesota. His “Griddy” dance celebration has become iconic, and he’s considered one of the most entertaining players in the league.
2025 Outlook: Jefferson has continued his dominant performance this season, already racking up impressive yardage and touchdowns. As the focal point of the Vikings’ offense, he’s been a nightmare for defenses and is on track for another Pro Bowl season. If he maintains his pace, Jefferson could be on his way to breaking even more records and securing his place among the NFL’s all-time greats at wide receiver.
Chase Young – Washington Commanders
College: Ohio State
Drafted: 2nd overall pick
Chase Young was one of the most hyped defensive prospects in recent memory, with analysts comparing him to Hall of Fame pass rushers before he even played a snap. Young delivered on the hype in his rookie season, earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and quickly establishing himself as a force on Washington’s defensive line. However, a significant injury in his second season sidelined him and slowed his momentum.
2025 Outlook: After a challenging road to recovery, Chase Young has returned to form this season, showcasing his pass-rushing skills and adding a much-needed boost to the Commanders’ defense. His impact on the field has been noticeable, with multiple sacks and tackles for loss already on his stat sheet. If he continues to stay healthy, Young could play a key role in Washington’s defense and potentially lead them to a strong finish this season.
CeeDee Lamb – Dallas Cowboys
College: Oklahoma
Drafted: 17th overall pick
The Dallas Cowboys selected CeeDee Lamb as an explosive addition to their offense, and he’s lived up to the expectations. Known for his athleticism, strong hands, and ability to make big plays, Lamb has quickly become one of Dak Prescott’s favorite targets. His flashy plays and acrobatic catches have earned him recognition as one of the league’s most promising young receivers.
2025 Outlook: Lamb has been having a productive season in 2025, delivering key performances that have helped keep the Cowboys’ offense competitive. With multiple 100-yard games, he’s consistently shown his value as a top receiver. Heading into the rest of the season, Lamb’s chemistry with Prescott and his ability to find openings in defenses make him a crucial asset for Dallas’ playoff aspirations.
Jonathan Taylor – Indianapolis Colts
College: Wisconsin
Drafted: 41st overall pick
Jonathan Taylor was a standout at Wisconsin, known for his speed, vision, and powerful running style. Selected in the second round, he quickly became the Indianapolis Colts’ feature back, leading the league in rushing yards and touchdowns in 2021. Taylor’s combination of size and speed has made him one of the NFL’s top running backs, capable of breaking big plays and grinding out tough yards.
2025 Outlook: Taylor’s 2025 season has been a bit of a rollercoaster, with flashes of his usual brilliance combined with some struggles in adapting to the Colts’ evolving offensive scheme. Nevertheless, he remains a crucial part of their game plan, and the team will rely heavily on his contributions as they look to make a postseason push. If he can regain his top form, Taylor could once again be a league leader in rushing.
Antoine Winfield Jr. – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
College: Minnesota
Drafted: 45th overall pick
Antoine Winfield Jr. made a name for himself in his rookie season, helping the Buccaneers win the Super Bowl and earning praise for his instincts, tackling, and playmaking ability. Winfield’s aggressive style and high football IQ make him a standout in Tampa Bay’s secondary, and he has already made a name as one of the league’s top young safeties.
2025 Outlook: In 2025, Winfield has continued to build on his impressive resume, contributing several key interceptions and defensive plays for Tampa Bay. As the Buccaneers aim to remain competitive, Winfield’s leadership in the secondary and his ability to read the offense have been essential. His continued growth makes him one of the brightest young stars on Tampa Bay’s roster.
Comparing the 2020 NFL Draft Class to Recent Drafts
The 2020 NFL Draft class has set an extremely high standard, with several players quickly establishing themselves as cornerstones for their franchises. When we look at draft classes in subsequent years, it becomes clear that few can compare to the talent and impact the 2020 class has displayed so early in their careers. The 2021 and 2022 drafts, while promising, have yet to produce the same immediate star power.
In 2021, players like Ja’Marr Chase and Micah Parsons emerged as superstars, but the depth of star talent across multiple positions doesn’t quite reach the level seen in 2020. The 2022 class is still young, but it has shown potential with players like Sauce Gardner and Aidan Hutchinson making early impacts. However, the consistency and immediate influence of the 2020 class remain unmatched.
The 2020 NFL Draft may go down as one of the most stacked classes in NFL history, producing a wealth of young talent that has already reshaped the league. As we continue to follow their careers, we’ll see if this class can maintain its dominance and solidify its place among the greatest draft classes ever.
