Every football fan knows the story about how the New England Patriots selected Tom Brady in the sixth round of the 2000 NFL draft. But the Baltimore Ravens didn't do badly for themselves 13 picks before one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history was drafted.
Outside linebacker Adalius Thomas, the 186th player picked that year, is the best late-round gem in Ravens' history. He developed into a two-time Pro Bowl player and one of the most versatile defenders of his generation.
Thomas was projected to go as high as the third round after being named Conference USA's defensive player of the year in each of his final two seasons.