10 Year History of 26th Pick in the NFL Draft

Dec 15, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Green Bay Packers outside linebacker Clay Matthews (52) on the field before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

2009 – Green Bay Packers – Clay Matthews

Matthews is as well known for his commercials as he is for his stellar play on the field. Matthews exploded with 10 sacks his rookie year and has backed it up with 13.5 the next year and 13 two years after that. Last season Matthews only played in 11 games but still had 7.5 sacks. His play at the OLB position has solidified the Packers defense statistically though they continue to give up big scoring numbers. With Matthews on the outside the Packers have their main pass rusher for years to come, as long as injury doesn’t slow him down. Matthews has improved in his run and pass defense as well over the years and is not just a one dimensional player. Matthews is perhaps the gold standard in the past 10 years of what teams hope to get out of the 26th pick.