Average is really simplifying it, but for a benchmark.....
IMO, it's not a great benchmark, in the DJIA, S&P 500 etal mold. Here's why. Let's say we have 5 teams with a recruiting class full of 3 star recruits. Simplified you could say they are all "average". But IMO it gets much interesting, meaningful - and realistic - if you recognize that each team has recruited a class of players with pro potential. Then you have to ask how well each team develops that potential, how the players "fit", how they shape the roster (depth), what position will they actually play, etc, etc.
IMO, the staff's performance results have been a mixed bag from this perspective recently. They have still shown themselves to be outstanding developers of talent, I'm skeptical of how the team has "fit" together (I'm nearly positive there were locker room issues last year), LB and RB is all the further we have to look to see depth problems, the staff still seems fairly adept at putting players in the right positions (Greg Mabin, for example). I think part of the problem as fans watching recruiting from the cheap seats is that we want to be able to define it, rank it, and benchmark it - when it's really more comparable to a crapshoot.
I want to clarify one point, as "crapshoot" isn't really want to I wanted to say. I worked in the investment world, so my point is closer to selecting a stock. When picking a stock you start with your objectives (winning), style preference (pro style offense), various parameters and measures (physical measurables), asset allocation (roster depth), intangibles (position switch, work ethic, leadership), etc, etc. You do all of your due diligence, as well as technical and fundamental analysis. BUT.....even after you've done everything in your power to make the most informed decision you can, you ultimately have no assurance of success. That's why you diversify. That's the lens through which I see recruiting.