NFL Draft Pick Value Chart Calculator
Analyze NFL draft trades using the classic Jimmy Johnson value chart to see who gets the better deal.
Team A Package
Team B Package
Trade Outcome
This result shows the point differential based on the nfl draft pick value chart calculator. A positive value favors Team A, while a negative value favors Team B.
Visual comparison of total trade values.
What is an NFL Draft Pick Value Chart Calculator?
An nfl draft pick value chart calculator is a tool used by NFL teams, analysts, and fans to quantify and compare the value of NFL draft picks. The concept was famously pioneered by former Dallas Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson in the early 1990s. The chart assigns a specific point value to every pick in the draft, from the first overall pick (worth 3,000 points) down to the final pick in the seventh round. The fundamental idea is to provide a standardized framework to evaluate trades. By summing the point values of the picks exchanged by each team, one can determine which side is getting a mathematically “fairer” deal. This nfl draft pick value chart calculator helps demystify the often complex negotiations that happen on draft day.
This tool is essential for General Managers trying to move up or down in the draft. For example, if a team wants to trade up for a coveted quarterback, they can use the nfl draft pick value chart calculator to assemble a package of lower picks that equals the value of the higher pick they desire. A common misconception is that the chart is an absolute rule; in reality, it’s a guideline. Teams often deviate from it based on specific needs, the strength of a draft class, or how highly they value a particular player.
NFL Draft Pick Value Chart Formula and Explanation
The “formula” behind the nfl draft pick value chart calculator is not a mathematical equation but a predefined lookup table of values. The original chart created by Jimmy Johnson was based on his and his staff’s assessment of player value relative to draft position. It follows a steep, non-linear curve, where the value of picks drops off dramatically after the first few selections. For example, the 1st pick is worth 3,000 points, but the 2nd is worth only 2,600, a 400-point drop. The drop from pick 31 to 32 is only 10 points (600 to 590). This reflects the perceived difference between a generational talent and a very good prospect.
Our nfl draft pick value chart calculator uses this standard model. The process is simple:
- Each draft pick is identified by its overall selection number.
- The calculator looks up the corresponding point value from the internal data table.
- When multiple picks are part of a trade package, their individual values are summed to get a total package value.
- The calculator then compares the total values of the packages being exchanged to determine the trade balance.
Full Jimmy Johnson Draft Value Chart
| Pick | Value | Pick | Value | Pick | Value | Pick | Value |
|---|
The standard Jimmy Johnson model used by this nfl draft pick value chart calculator.
Practical Examples of the NFL Draft Pick Value Chart Calculator
Example 1: Trading into the Top 10
Imagine the Atlanta Falcons want to trade up from pick #20 to pick #8 to select a star quarterback.
- Pick #8 Value: 1,400 points
- Pick #20 Value: 850 points
The Falcons need to make up a deficit of 550 points (1,400 – 850). According to the chart, the #35 overall pick is worth exactly 550 points. Therefore, a fair trade would be the Falcons sending picks #20 and #35 to acquire pick #8. Using the nfl draft pick value chart calculator confirms this balance.
Example 2: Acquiring More Day 2 Picks
A team like the New England Patriots holds pick #25 (720 points) but wants to trade down to acquire more picks in the second and third rounds. The Indianapolis Colts offer their second-round pick (#42, 480 points) and their third-round pick (#75, 215 points).
- Patriots Give: Pick #25 (Value: 720 points)
- Colts Give: Pick #42 (480) + Pick #75 (215) = 695 points
In this scenario, the nfl draft pick value chart calculator shows the Patriots are losing 25 points of value. They might ask for a late-round pick (e.g., a 6th rounder) to even out the trade, or accept the minor loss to gain an extra player.
How to Use This NFL Draft Pick Value Chart Calculator
Using this calculator is straightforward and designed for quick analysis of any potential draft day trade scenario.
- Select Picks for Team A: Use the dropdown menu under “Team A Package” to find and select a draft pick. Click the “Add Pick to Team A” button. The pick and its point value will appear in the list.
- Select Picks for Team B: Do the same for Team B. You can add multiple picks to each team’s package to simulate complex trades.
- Review the Results: As you add picks, the calculator instantly updates.
- Total Values: The total point value for each team’s package is shown below their respective list.
- Primary Result: The main display shows the point difference. A positive number means the trade favors Team A; a negative number means it favors Team B.
- Value Chart: The bar chart provides an immediate visual comparison of the two packages.
- Adjust and Reset: You can remove any pick by clicking the ‘X’ next to it. To start over with a new trade, simply click the “Reset Calculator” button.
- Copy Results: Use the “Copy Results” button to get a text summary of the trade, perfect for sharing or saving.
Key Factors That Affect Trade Value
While the nfl draft pick value chart calculator provides an excellent baseline, several real-world factors can influence a pick’s actual trade value.
- 1. Quarterback Premium:
- Picks used to select a potential franchise quarterback are inherently more valuable. Teams are often willing to “overpay” significantly compared to the chart’s value to secure a top QB prospect.
- 2. Prospect Depth in Draft Class:
- In a draft class loaded with talent at a specific position (e.g., wide receiver), a pick in the late first round might be seen as more valuable than usual, as a top-tier player might still be available.
- 3. Team Desperation and Need:
- A team with a major hole in its roster or a new General Manager under pressure to win now might be willing to offer more than the chart suggests to make a splashy move.
- 4. The “5th-Year Option”:
- First-round picks come with the ability for the team to exercise a fifth-year option on the player’s rookie contract. This extra year of team control adds value that is not present for picks from the second round onward.
- 5. Compensatory Picks:
- The original chart was made before compensatory picks could be traded. Now that they are tradable assets, they are factored into negotiations, though they are often valued slightly less than standard picks in the same round.
- 6. Rivalry and Divisional Trades:
- Teams are often hesitant to trade high-value picks to a divisional rival. If they do, they may demand a premium—an extra “tax”—to compensate for the risk of facing the drafted player twice a year. This is a strategic consideration that no nfl draft pick value chart calculator can quantify.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The original chart was created by Jimmy Johnson, the two-time Super Bowl-winning coach of the Dallas Cowboys, in the early 1990s to help him orchestrate numerous trades that built his dynasty.
No. While the Jimmy Johnson chart is the most well-known and serves as a public baseline, most NFL teams now have their own proprietary and more modern analytical models. However, the Johnson chart remains a common reference point for media, fans, and even initial trade discussions.
The steep decline in value reflects the consensus that the first overall pick has the highest probability of being a truly game-changing, franchise-altering player. The perceived gap in talent between the #1 prospect and the rest of the field is immense.
No, the standard chart is position-agnostic. It assigns value to the draft slot itself, not the player or position being selected. In practice, the value is skewed by premium positions like QB, Left Tackle, and Edge Rusher.
Yes. A common rule of thumb is to discount a future pick’s value by one round. For example, a 2027 first-round pick might be valued as equivalent to a 2026 second-round pick in a trade today. This accounts for the time value of waiting a year to make a selection.
The 1999 trade where the New Orleans Saints, under coach Mike Ditka, traded their entire draft (and more) to Washington for the #5 overall pick to select running back Ricky Williams is often cited as one of the most lopsided trades in history.
The calculator is 100% accurate in applying the Jimmy Johnson point system. The debate is about how accurately the point system itself reflects true player value and long-term success, a topic of much discussion among modern NFL analytics experts.
While you could, it’s not recommended. This chart is for the NFL Draft. Fantasy football drafts have entirely different dynamics, player valuations, and positional scarcity. You should look for a dedicated fantasy football trade calculator.
Related Tools and Internal Resources
- 40-Yard Dash to MPH Calculator: Analyze player speed and combine performance with this tool.
- Salary Cap Calculator: Understand the financial implications of signing drafted players.
- Player Contract Analyzer: A great resource for breaking down the details of rookie contracts. Using a nfl draft pick value chart calculator helps in the draft, but this tool helps afterward.
- Team Roster Builder: Plan your team’s future by seeing how new draft picks fit into the roster.
- Historical Draft Analysis: Look back at past drafts to see which trades paid off. This provides context for any nfl draft pick value chart calculator.
- Combine Metrics Database: Compare athletic testing numbers for draft prospects.