As the excitement builds for the 2024 NFL Draft on April 25, football fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating the big day, eager to see which players will be selected to join the ranks of professional football’s elite. In this highly anticipated draft, all eyes are on the top prospects, with quarterbacks expected to dominate the early selections. With speculation running rampant and mock drafts circulating, the stage is set for a thrilling event that will shape the future of the sport.
No. 1 – Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams (QB) USC
I mean come on; would it be anybody else at this selection? Williams is known for his strong arm, mobility, and poise under pressure. The former Trojan/Sooner has all the makings of a top NFL quarterback. His ability to extend plays and make accurate throws on the run sets him apart from other prospects in the draft. I just hope he leaves the noise and drama at the front door and helps bring Chicago back to an NFL elite status.
No. 2 – Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels (QB) LSU
The Commanders are really the team on the clock because of how sure the Bears are in their pick. I’ve heard from several of my sources online that Daniels is locked in at 2, barring any last-minute trades. Those sources are not 100% right all the time, but Daniels is a very good quarterback. Known for his athleticism and ability to make plays both with his arm and his legs, Daniels brings a dual-threat capability to the quarterback position which is the popular prototype nowadays.
No. 3 – New England Patriots: Drake Maye (QB) UNC
This is more of a prediction based on what I think they should do instead of what they might do. They have been tagged to a quarterback since their season ended because Mac Jones didn’t work, and I don’t think Zappe will either. Maye is known for his accuracy and ability to make all the throws necessary in an NFL offense. He has a quick release and can fit the ball into tight windows with ease. Additionally, his mobility allows him to evade pressure and extend plays when the pocket collapses. Maye could improve his decision-making under pressure. He can be prone to forcing throws into coverage, leading to turnovers which is unacceptable in the NFL.
No. 4 – Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR) OSU
Arizona has been in the discussion of drafting the son of Hall of Famer, Marvin Harrison, for a long time. If the Cardinals move out of this spot it will surprise me, I think all the chatter from General Manager Monti Ossenfort is all smoke. Harrison Jr. is known for his crisp route running and ability to create separation from defenders. His hands are reliable, and he has shown a knack for making tough catches in traffic. Additionally, his speed allows him to stretch the field vertically and make big plays downfield. Harrison Jr. could improve his strength and physicality. At times, he can struggle against physical cornerbacks who try to jam him at the line of scrimmage.
No. 5 – Los Angeles Chargers: JC Latham (OT) Alabama
There have been many discussions online about whether the Chargers will trade down or not. A lot of things can happen between now and pick number five, but I think if Los Angeles and Minnesota for example were going to trade, they would have already done it. With that said, Latham has become the favorite to be drafted by the Chargers, who have been quoted talking about drafting offensive linemen. They need a right tackle but badly need a receiver, so this will be a pick that either haunts or excites Charger fans for a long time.
No. 6 – New York Giants: Malik Nabers (WR) LSU
Many people are on the side of the Giants drafting a quarterback and I understand that. However, I am on the side of them drafting a weapon, wide receiver or tight end. Waller is not guaranteed to play a whole season and the last few receivers they’ve drafted, have yet to really pan out. Drafting a quarterback in this spot is not the answer, the talent at receiver is too good to pass on and you can trade back in the first round if you really want a quarterback in this class. Nabers possesses the knack for making big plays, whether it’s breaking away from defenders or securing contested catches. His size and blocking ability are really his only main concerns and the blocking can be coached.
No. 7 – Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt (OT) Notre Dame
Joe Alt stands tall, both literally and figuratively. His stature as an early Round 1 prospect reflects his NFL-ready attributes and immediate starter potential. Alt combines elite physical tools with a consistent technique, making him an ideal candidate for the left tackle position. In the 40-yard dash, Alt clocks in at 5.05 seconds! That is phenomenal and it is exactly what Tennessee needs, allowing 64 sacks in offense last year (5th most in the NFL).
No. 8 – Atlanta Falcons: Laiatu Latu (EDGE) UCLA
Latu is considered a versatile player with the potential to excel at the next level, despite injury concerns. At full strength, Latu has shown he can be dominant at one of the most premium positions. His skill set makes him scheme-versatile, but his injury history might impact his draft position. Edge rusher will likely be the pick for Atlanta, the question is which one and will it be at 8 or trade down? I think if Latu can stay healthy, this can be a franchise-changing pick. This is a position the Falcons have tried to nail in the draft for years and it has not worked out the way they wanted. Today they have the chance to do that.
No. 9 – Chicago Bears: Dallas Turner (EDGE) Alabama
Turner is a highly regarded prospect, who had a strong pass-rush win rate among edge defenders in 2023. Turner’s time in Alabama showcased his skills as a disruptive force on the field. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and impact plays has elevated his draft stock, yet some teams are still questioning if he has what it takes. I always think Alabama players, especially on defense, are bound to be studs. The Bears already locked up their quarterback of the future…hopefully. The Bears could go with an offensive lineman to protect Williams or go with Odunze at receiver, but I think they will up their defensive pressure. The Bears recorded 30 total sacks on defense last season, ranking second worst in the league. This could be your answer!
No. 10 – New York Jets: Brock Bowers (TE) Georgia
Bowers exhibits remarkable explosiveness in the open field. His ability to generate yards after the catch makes him a dangerous weapon for any offense. Bowers excels in finding gaps in zone coverage. While he possesses exceptional burst and speed, Bowers could work on expanding his route tree, defeating press-man coverage, and consistently creating separation. Basically, he just needs to get on that Robert Saleh protein diet. Jokes aside, at first, I envisioned a receiver, but then they signed Mike Williams. The Jets finished 30th in receiving yards (3,373) and Tyler Conklin is not a game changer at tight end, sorry Tyler.
No. 11 – Minnesota Vikings: J.J. McCarthy (QB) Michigan
This team has been the talk of the draft involving trades and I believed Minnesota either wanted to trade up or would be forced to trade up in order to get their guy. In this scenario, they can draft a guy who has grown up somewhat near the overall area and personally someone I think fits O’Connell’s system pretty well. Did I mention they would not have to trade any of their picks to get a quarterback they like? McCarthy has good size for the quarterback position at 6-2/219. He is also a mobile quarterback, capable of extending plays with his legs and making throws on the run. This mobility, combined with his arm strength, allows him to make all the throws necessary in an NFL offense. McCarthy will need to improve his decision-making. Like many young quarterbacks, he can be prone to forcing throws into tight windows, leading to interceptions.
No. 12 – Denver Broncos: Byron Murphy II (DL) Texas
Denver has not given much information on what they may or may not do at pick number 12, but defense at any position is a much better selection for them in round 1. The offense is abysmal, and I don’t think drafting a quarterback with your first pick is the brightest decision. The Broncos are not very bright though, are they? With that said, it wouldn’t surprise me if Denver or Las Vegas after this pick drafted Penix, genuinely. That is a type of pick those teams would make, definitely 2-4 years ago. With Murphy, the Broncos can plug in a Day 1 starter at a light position on this roster. His impressive performance on the field has caught the eye of evaluators, including the Dallas Cowboys and Seattle Seahawks. However, there are concerns about his size and technical development, making him an intriguing prospect for teams looking to bolster their defense. Most analysts and experts are predicting he won’t make it out of the top-10, I think he will slip a little bit.
No. 13 – Las Vegas Raiders: Michael Penix Jr. (QB) Washington
As I stated above, it would not surprise me if one of these teams (Denver or Vegas) selected Penix and I do not think the Raiders will pass on him. Even though they added Gardner Minshew in free agency, I don’t see him as the long-term plan in Vegas as most people would imagine. Saying that, I believe the Raiders are a perfect fit for a young quarterback right now with how they ended the season last year. They have a great thing going on right now. Culture, hungry players especially on defense, weapons on offense, a coach the players trust, and a top draft pick. Drafting a leader like Penix could be a franchise-changing selection if he is protected and avoids injuries in the league. He is extremely accurate, has a great arm, brings an advantage to an offense being a lefty, is sneaky mobile, and his ball delivery is unbelievable. Again, the injury history is a main concern but also the ability to perform in high-pressure situations.
No. 14 – New Orleans Saints: Olumuyiwa Fashanu (OT) Penn State
Fashanu excels in a zone-based rushing attack, making him a better fit for systems like New Orleans who run the ball a lot and don’t have the most mobile quarterbacks. I expect Fashanu to slip in this draft tonight, but to whom and when is the question. With how Penning has looked with NOLA, not signing 3x Pro Bowler Andrus Peat back, and the injury history of Ryan Ramczyk I don’t blame the Saints for drafting offensive linemen. I think they could draft a cornerback with this pick as well, but I like them to take best available here. If I am correct, Fashanu allowed zero sacks this past season as well…
No. 15 – Indianapolis Colts: Rome Odunze (WR) Washington
The Colts have been reported as being patient in this draft with where they sit and believe some highly talented players can drop to them. Odunze excels in one-on-one coverage, using his quickness to create separation as well with his size. Standing at 6’3”, he leverages his frame to win contested catches and also displays crisp route running allowing him to get open quicker against defenses. At Washington, he excelled in yards after the catch turning short gains into big plays with his acceleration and elusiveness. I think his versatility is something to be desired as he can line up both outside and, in the slot, adapting to various offensive schemes.
No. 16 – Seattle Seahawks: Jared Verse (EDGE) Florida State
I expect the Seahawks to trade back and pick up some more picks, but I don’t like predicting trades and what not in these mock drafts. It’s already hard enough to predict the selections, now you want me to guess trades too. Yeah okay. If Seattle stays at pick 16, they will have plenty of options to add to Mike MacDonald’s roster, and I am with most people saying defense because of his background. I just hope my Seahawks do not reach for someone at pick 16. I think a cornerback is in play, an edge rusher, interior lineman, or a linebacker. I think the Seahawks want to start by building this defense up with Mike at the helm now. Taking a guy like Verse, especially if he drops down to 16, is an absolute steal for Seattle. I have heard great things about Verse, but the majority of scouts and reports have been quiet about him. If he or Byron Murphy II are available at 16, expect Seattle to pounce.
No. 17 – Jacksonville Jaguars: Terrion Arnold (CB) Alabama
The Jaguars have been known to botch draft picks in the past, but the last 3 seasons have been promising. They went from being a team guaranteed to draft in the top-10 to drafting in the bottom half of the first round. With Tyson Campbell on that roster, you are going to have one receiver guarded well overall, but I don’t think Ronald Darby and Darnell Savage are your answers for outside and nickel. Taking a stud like Arnold or Quinyon Mitchell would sure up a position group that will have to face some solid talent in the AFC South. Arnold excels in man-to-man coverage, making him an asset for teams that value run support from their cornerbacks. In most drafts, this guy would probably be a top-12 pick, but with the QBs going high this year he falls to a team like Jacksonville, I think.
No. 18 – Cincinnati Bengals: Graham Barton (OL) Duke
Yes, the Bengals are in the news currently with Tee Higgins and Trey Hendrickson asking for trades. So, some people creating mock drafts will assume WR or DL, which is fine. I think if the Bengals want to play a full season with their former number one pick, then they HAVE to take an anchor inside. The tackles are pretty much taken care of, but the inside is atrocious. Barton is such a talented prospect that is being overshadowed by the number of tackles in this class. He has pre-existing experience at center and projected versatility across all five OL spots, what more could the Bengals want? Protect Joe and this team will be SCARY!
No. 19 – Los Angeles Rams: Johnny Newton (DT) Illinois
With the retirement of Aaron Donald, the Rams are looking for someone to fill that gap and Newton is a great fit for that need. On scouting boards, he holds the distinction of being the top defensive tackle prospect in his class, narrowly edging out Texas’ Byron Murphy II. This guy Newton is violent, a mass of man, and just an absolute monster in the middle. I have a special place for Illinois defenders after my Seahawks drafted Witherspoon last season, but this guy could be a game wrecker if developed. He has some timing issues with neutral zone infractions and lack of length is a problem for him in open field situations.
No. 20 – Pittsburgh Steelers: Troy Fautanu (OT) Washington
Fautanu is an explosive blocker and someone who fits perfectly for Pittsburgh or any team frankly. Mainly because of his versatility to play tackle and guard. He is a very valuable offensive lineman, especially at pick 20. He was considered to be one of the better linemen throughout college football, but that does not mean anything until you block the big dogs. Pittsburgh has brought in two quarterbacks recently and of course they need time to throw, which was the exact reason both quarterbacks struggled with previous teams. If Pittsburgh can secure Troy, that would be massive for the black and yellow.
No. 21 – Miami Dolphins: Brian Thomas Jr. (WR) LSU
This may come as a surprise, but I think the Dolphins need another wideout to help Cheetah and Waddle. If someone this talented fall in their lap, I would take a chance on him. He is a streamlined WR with elite length, efficient mass, and premier athleticism at his size. Thomas flashes exciting route running upside with his releases, bend, and vertical stem work, but he has a relatively underdeveloped route tree past verticals, crossers, and drags. If Tyreek or Jaylen go down, I do not like Tua’s chances of moving the ball very efficiently down the field.
No. 22 – Philadelphia Eagles: Quinyon Mitchell (CB) Toledo
Mitchell is a proven ball-hawk with six interceptions and 37 pass breakups over the past two years and Philadelphia has openly spoken about the want for a corner. They have even teased a trade up to acquire said cornerback. The Eagles allowed the second most touchdowns last season through the air (35) and I think that’s a major reason they performed poorly towards the end of the season. I’m pretty positive on the position Philadelphia is taking, just not sure which player it will be.
No. 23 – Minnesota Vikings: Jackson Powers-Johnson (IOL) Oregon
In this mock draft, the Vikings get McCarthy at 11 without trading any of their picks away. Now that they have their quarterback, they can protect him a bit more and open some lanes up for newly acquired Aaron Jones. One of the best interior offensive lineman in the country in 2023 is only 21-year old with a strong, dense, and well-leveraged frame with great mass. He helped Bo Nix have the best two seasons of his college career, and I personally think Johnson is a big reason the Nix is even being talked about in this year’s draft. Go look at his numbers at Auburn up until the last two seasons and tell me this guy did not have an impact on Nix.
No. 24 – Dallas Cowboys: Amarius Mims (OT) Georgia
Mims brings a potent combination of skills, vision, and physicality to the NFL draft table. With the Cowboys without a “star” running back in the backfield, the Cowboys should focus their attention on the pass game. By drafting Mims, the Cowboys can dominate in pass protection with his athleticism, anchor strength, and wingspan. When Dallas signs a better runner, Mims can be great there too since he is an absolute road-grader in the run game with his athleticism, power, and finisher mentality. Dallas needs to protect Dak, and this is the pick to do that.
No. 25 – Green Bay Packers: Taliese Fauga (OT) Oregon State
Fuaga excels in the run game mainly but is a mountainous tackle that can give Love some extra time to throw. I expect this to be an offensive lineman selection with Bakhtiari leaving, and with how Green Bay made a run in the playoffs. Fuaga has elite footwork, quickness, and pop when moving out of his natural stance. Green Bay can secure an elite talent at a great spot late in the first round possibly.
No. 26 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Chop Robinson (EDGE) Penn State
Tampa was in need of a game-changer off the edge last season, allowing the third most 1st downs and yards to quarterbacks. At pick 26, Tampa can reignite their defensive unit with someone like Robinson. Robinson’s explosive first step disrupts offensive linemen, forcing them to lose technique often, but he needs development in the run game area. He occasionally over-commits and runs himself out of plays on run defense, which will not be accepted in the NFL.
No. 27 – Arizona Cardinals: Nate Wiggins (CB) Clemson
Arizona needs a cornerback badly and they have a few options, but Wiggins is someone I think they are looking for. A taller, more physical corner to address the elite wide receivers in the NFC West. Wiggins’ blend of physical attributes, coverage skills, and football IQ positions him as a top prospect. With measured press-man upside, he’s worthy of consideration late in Round 1 for teams seeking a versatile cornerback.
No. 28 – Buffalo Bills: Adonai Mitchell (WR) Texas
The Bills are a popular bet to draft a wide receiver after the Stefon Diggs trade to Houston. While they are sitting at 28, this does not mean they won’t trade up if a guy they like falls. In this scenario, we mentioned we aren’t predicting trades, so we think the Bills take their favorite wideout at this selection. After the curious case of John Ross back a few years ago, I am against taking guys who make noise in the 40-yard dash. With that said, I like Buffalo selecting a more physical player with a larger frame and similar speed rather than taking a risk on Xavier Worthy.
No. 29 – Detroit Lions: Kool-Aid McKinstry (CB) Alabama
I simply like Detroit taking Kool-Aid because of how they act in the draft room the past three years. Why can I see it now, Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes jumping for joy as they select McKinstry. On the other hand, I could see Arizona taking Wiggins or McKinstry before Detroit. In this case, allowed the fourth most yards in the air. I will admit their secondary is young, but that is a bad number. McKinstry has a great frame and has been coached by one of the best college staffs in the country.
No. 30 – Baltimore Ravens: Xavier Worthy (WR) Texas
Now the Ravens are absolutely in a spot to take Xavier Worthy. They signed Derrick Henry to take some pressure off Jackson and now have a chance to add a stud out wide for Lamar. I will point out that Worthy can be a threat like Deebo, with sweeps and trick plays galore. With Zay Flowers emerging, I would have said a more physical receiver like Keon Coleman or crisp route runner like McConkey, but I think the Ravens enjoy having the advantage of speed on that roster.
No. 31 – San Francisco 49ers: Tyler Guyton (OT) Oklahoma
San Francisco have been fine on the offensive line for some time, with Williams and McGlinchey outside. Now with Williams aging and McGlinchey gone, the Niners need to start building the line back up. Adding Guyton is huge, because he can be a day 1 starter opposite of Williams. Funny enough he has a background as an edge rusher/lineman, so he might be exactly what the Niners are looking for with how dominant their defense is.
No. 32 – Kansas City Chiefs: Ladd McConkey (WR) Georgia
With the recent developments with Rashee Rice and his “accident”, the Chiefs need a wide receiver. They had a lot of doubts about their wide receiver room, and they ended up winning a SuperBowl with said group. Well, we are not sure how long Rice will be suspended and McConkey is an immense talent at pick 32. His route running is no joke, and he has some of the best footwork I have seen from a pro day or combine. Mahomes could have fun with this pick.
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