NFL Draft, 1st Pick: An Examination of the Past and a Look at the Present

    NFL Draft Scouting has come a long way.     Or has it?     Well, perhaps the tricks of the trade have been refined, and the scouting process has certinaly grown increasingly meticulous.     Despite these developments, however, the term " bust" is still on the tip of any draft enthusiasts tongue--whether in reference to a once prized prospect who has since failed to live up to expecations, or in projecting the demise of a currently draft-eligible player.     When one considers the profusion of professional opinion provided by scouting services and media outlets, it only adds to the perplexity.     Of particular note, it seems, is the science behind the draft's first pick--or lack thereof, for that matter.      There have been 72 "first picks" in the NFL draft, dating back to 1936. In the interest of space, let's take a look at the last 25 and how they fared.  ... [link]