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2011 NFL Draft Reaction: First Round Surprises Galore

Ah, this draft has been pure entertainment. The Tennessee Titans and the Minnesota Vikings allowed the Detroit Lions to pick up Nick Fairley with the 13th overall pick, giving Detroit possibly the best defensive line in the NFL.

With that in mind, lets pick out some influential picks and grade them.

Denver Broncos, 2nd overall: Von Miller. Grade: A. Miller is clearly the best linebacker in the 2011 NFL Draft, and playing him alongside Elvis Dumervil is going to make for a very scary defensive front seven against opposing QB's.

Arizona Cardinals, 5th overall: Patrick Peterson. Grade: A+. Peterson has been called the best player in the entire draft, and the Cardinals are showing their fans they are serious about contending again -- immediately. Him and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie are going to make an incredible tandem.

Houston Texans, 11th overall: J.J. Watt. Grade: C. Watt is a good defensive player, but there were so many excellent options left on the board, between Robert Quinn, Ryan Kerrigan, and Da'Quan Bowers, to name a few. Watt seems like the "safe" pick at this juncture.

New York Giants: 19th overall: Prince Amukamara. Grade: B+. I'm a little concerned about his ball skills, but his defensive ability is unquestionable. Should this good cornerback develop some hands, he could be a true standout in the Meadowlands.

There's much more left in tonight's draft, so keep checking back for more coverage.