NFL Mock Draft 2024 version 2
Post Scouting Combine 2024 NFL Scouting Combine Mock Draft
With the Scouting Combine over, it is time for my second 2024 NFL Mock Draft, and first following the conclusion of the season. This is a predictive mock and not what I believe should happen.
I plan to post another mock draft after Free Agency cools down.
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1. Chicago Bears (from Car): Caleb Williams, QB, USC
Without having a Hall of Fame caliber Quarterback, it is difficult to win a Super Bowl. Over the last six seasons, only three different starting Quarterbacks have won: Patrick Mahomes, Tom Brady and Matthew Stafford. Without having an elite playmaker at the position, too many other things need to go right in order to win. Justin Fields has been a fun story, but the truth is he does not have the pocket passing ability to elevate the Bears to the next level. The common argument is he has never had enough talent around him to see what he is capable of doing. However after three seasons, the expectation is for him to elevate his offense, which he has never done. Caleb Williams has the potential to be a Pro Bowl caliber Quarterback, who can go toe-to-toe with Josh Allen, Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson.
2. Washington Commanders: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina
While Sam Howell has shown some flashes, it is clear his pocket awareness prevents him from being a consistent producer. Given that the Commanders have the ability to draft a potential franchise caliber Quarterback, it is hard to imagine that they pass on one. After Williams, Drake Maye is the best available Quarterback.
3. New England Patriots: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
Unlike the Commanders' easy decision to select Drake Maye, this selection will be much tougher. They have a choice between Jayden Daniels and Marvin Harrison Jr. While Harrison is one of the best Wide Receiver prospects to come along in a long time, the impact of Quarterback play is just far and above more significant than that of Wide Receiver play for the Patriots to pass on a Quarterback. Given that it is much harder to find a franchise Quarterback than a good Wide Receiver, I believe the Patriots will be unable to pass on a Quarterback. There is simply no guarantee they will have a chance in the near future to obtain a top Quarterback prospect. Jayden Daniels, with his dynamic playmaking ability, is the best available Quarterback.
4. Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
Given that the Cardinals have committed to Kyler Murray, they will go with the best available player, which in this scenario is Marvin Harrison Jr. As long as he is available, this pick is a no brainer. He gives them a dynamic weapon on the outside to pair with Michael Wilson going forward.
5. Minnesota Vikings (mock trade with LAC): J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
Given that it seems increasingly likely that Kirk Cousins is going to sign with Atlanta, the Vikings are going to need to find their next Quarterback, and I will take a big move. Trading up would likely cost their 1st round pick next year, but it is a necessary risk to have a chance at winning a Super Bowl. I am aware that this would be the first time four Quarterbacks go in the top 10, but I believe with this group of Quarterbacks and the amount of teams that need one, there is a real chance it happens this year. J.J. McCarthy gives the Vikings a high upside pocket passer, who projects well into the Shanahan style of offense.
6. New York Giants: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
While Daniel Jones has not lived up to expectations, the Giants are practically stuck with him. So they might as well give him better weapons, especially since they are likely going to lose Saquon Barkley. Malik Nabers' explosiveness gives the Giants a number one outside receiver.
7. Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame
The Titans have a glaring need at Wide Receiver and Left Tackle. I believe they will have the top three Wide Receivers atop their draft board, followed by Joe Alt. Since the Three Wide Receivers are gone in this scenario, the select Joe Alt.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama
Given that I am assuming they will land Kirk Cousins, it would be wise to improve their defense, as they already have enough premium playmakers for him. Dallas Turner would add some juice to a pass rush that has been missing a top guy for years.
9. Chicago Bears: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
With four Quarterbacks going in the top 10, the Bears dream scenario comes true with Rome Odunze falling to them. Him and DJ Moore could form one of the best Wide Receiver tandems, and would help make the transition to the NFL much easier for Caleb Williams.
10. New York Jets: Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State
Most mock drafts have the Jets selecting an Offensive Tackle with this pick and for good reason. Unless one of the top three Wide Receivers are available, I don't see them going anywhere else with this selection. Given that Aaron Rodgers likely only has one more season left, they need to select someone who can provide an immediate impact. While Olumuyiwa Fashanu's run blocking is a work in progress, his pass blocker is more than sufficient enough to start his rookie season in the NFL.
11. Los Angeles Chargers (mock trade with Minn): Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State
After trading back, the Chargers beef up their Offensive line as they transition to a power rushing offense. Taliese Fuaga is an absolute mauler, who will be an instant favorite of Jim Harbaugh.
12. Denver Broncos: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
If the Broncos miss out on one of the top four Quarterbacks, I expect them to look to trade down. However, they may not find a trading partner. In this case, they select the best available pass catcher and player. Given that the top three Wide Receivers are off the board, I expect Bowers to be the next pass catcher to go. He fills a massive need for them at the Tight End position.
13. Las Vegas Raiders: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
According to Vic Tafur, the Raiders are looking for a new number one Cornerback who can allow them to disguise their man and zone coverages. This makes sense given that their two outside Cornerbacks are Jack Jones and Amik Robertson. Terrion Arnold should quickly become their number one Cornerback.
14. New Orleans Saints: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia
As the core of the Saint's roster gets up there in age, they must look towards acquiring new talent at the premium positions. Trevor Penning has not lived up to his draft stock, and Ryan Ramczyk is dealing with injuries that will affect his longer outlook. With Amarius Mins, the Saints look to begin rebuilding their offensive line, with a player with Hall of Fame upside.
15. Indianapolis Colts: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU
While Wide Receiver is not a need, the Colts have an opportunity to make it a position of strength, which is certainly not a bad idea with a young Quarterback. Brian Thomas Jr. fits Chris Ballard's prototype to a tee.
16. Seattle Seahawks: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
Under John Schneider, the Seahawks have had a tendency to select more experienced prospects with high motors. Jared Verse is not only experienced and plays with a high motor, but he is highly refined in his technique. He would give the Seahawks a much needed boost to their pass rush.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas
According to Charlie Campbell, the Jaguars were looking to select a larger Wide Receiver last season. Given that they still don't have a true X Wide Receiver, and that they may be losing Calvin Ridley, they would be wise to select one from this deep class.
18. Cincinnati Bengals: Byron Murphy II, IDL, Texas
While most mocks have the Bengals selecting an Offensive Tackle, Defensive Tackle is actually a bigger need, given that Joe Burrow's pocket presence helps compensate for a weaker offensive line. Currently their best Defensive Tackle they have under contract for next season is B.J. Hill. Bryon Murphy is a perfect fit at 3-tech, and would help them boost their interior pass rush.
19. Los Angeles Rams: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo
The Rams did an excellent job rebuilding their roster last season, but there are still many holes to file, especially at Cornerback and Edge Rusher. With the way this mock draft is unfolding, their selection likely comes down to Quinyon Mitchell or Laiatu Latu. Given Latu's injury history, I believe Mitchell will be ranked higher on most teams boards. Mitchell gives the Rams a number one Cornerback to fill the void left by Jalen Ramsey.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jackson Powers-Johnson, OC, Oregon
The Steelers have been known to telegraph their first round selections, and they appear to be doing it again with the release of Mason Cole. Jackson Powers-Johnson was a Senior Bowl stand out, who has the blocking prowess to fit into the Steelers culture.
21. Miami Dolphins: Troy Fautanu, OT/OG, Washington
The Dolphins are likely to lose both Connor Williams and Robert Hunt in Free Agency, and it likely won't be long before Terron Armstead retires. Given this, it will be hard to pass up an opportunity to fortify their Offensive Line. Troy Fautanu is a mauling run blocker, who is more than capable of holding up in pass protection at Tackle. His position versatility gives the Dolphins options as to where exactly he will play.
22. Philadelphia Eagles: J.C. Latham, OT, Alabama
While the consensus has the Eagles drafting a Cornerback here, I believe them doing so is unlikely, as Howie Roseman has never selected a Cornerback in the first round. Instead look for them to select a Cornerback in the second round. He does however love to select Lineman. They don't have an immediate need at Offensive Tackle, but Lane Johnson is unlikely to play much longer. J.C. Latham is a traitsy Offensive Tackle that fits the mold of what the Eagles like at the position. He can serve as their swing tackle and possibly Right Guard this season, before taking over at Right Tackle in the near future.
23. Houston (from Cleveland): Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA
The Texans' aggressive move to trade up for Will Anderson paid off, but given that they are likely going to lose Jonathan Greenard, they have a need across from Anderson. Laiatu Latu is a risk with his medical history, but if he can stay healthy he will be an excellent complement to Will Anderson.
24. Dallas Cowboys: Graham Barton, OG, Duke
While the consensus has the Eagles drafting a Cornerback here, I believe that outcome is unlikely, as Howie Roseman has never selected a Cornerback in the first round. Instead look for them to select a Cornerback in the second round. He does however love to select Lineman. They don't have an immediate need at Offensive Tackle, but Lane Johnson is unlikely to play much longer. J.C. Latham is a traitsy Offensive Tackle that fits the mold of what the Eagles like at the position. He can serve as their swing tackle and possibly Right Guard this season, before taking over at Right Tackle in the near future.
25. Green Bay Packers: Cooper DeJean, S, Iowa
With Eric Stokes disappointing, the Packers have a major need at Cornerback across from Jaire Alexander. The Packers prefer to draft Cornerbacks with size (taller than 5'10" and heavier than 195) so that rules out Nate Wiggins and Ennis Rakestraw, but qualifies Cooper DeJean. DeJean's toughness and physicality will fit in well with the Packers.
26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State
With the release of Shaquil Barrett and with the lack of development from Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, Tampa Bay has a major need at Edge Rusher. While Chop Robinson is far from a finished product, he has traits to be an elite Pass Rusher.
27. Arizona Cardinals (from Hou): Jer'Zhan Newton, IDL, Illinois
Johnny Venerable has Tweeted that the Cardinals like Jer'Zhan Newton a lot. While I can't confirm this, selecting him does make a lot of sense, as their defensive line is atrocious and this is the correct range for him. Jonathan Gannon would use him similarly to how Javon Hargrave was used in Philly.
28. Buffalo Bills: Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas
With Gabe Davis leaving via Free Agency and Stefon Diggs slowing down, Wide Receiver is a massive need for the Bills. They especially need a deep threat. Xavier Worthy, with his 4.21 speed definitely checks that box.
29. Detroit Lions : Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia
It is no secret that the Lions need to upgrade their secondary. Good thing there are several options available for them. The two most likely candidates are Kamari Lassiter and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. Given that Lassiter is regarded as the slightly better prospect, I would think he would be higher on their board. Lassiter also possesses the physicality that Dan Campbell loves.
30. Baltimore Ravens: Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona
I can't imagine Ronnie Stanley is going to be a Raven for much longer, considering that they were rotating him in and out of the lineup. Jordan Morgan has the upside to be an NFL left tackle, especially with a Man blocking team like the Ravens. He would give them a potential successor to Stanley.
31. San Francisco 49ers: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson
I imagine that they will prioritize offensive and defensive line in the draft, however, there are none available that would make sense here. Instead, they go with the best available player in Nate Wiggins. Wiggins is a highly athletic, albeit undersized, Cornerback with excellent coverage abilities.
32. Kansas City Chiefs: Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU
While most mock drafts have the Chiefs selecting a Wide Receiver, I think Offensive Tackle is their top priority. Mahomes can compensate for a subpar Wide Receiver group more than he can a pair of poor offensive Tackles. Keep an eye out for them to trade up for one. However, in this scenario, I have them selecting the raw but traitsy Kingsley Suamataia. He may not make an impact in his rookie year, but he has the potential to develop into a solid starter.
Round 2
33. Carolina Panthers: Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia
34. New England Patriots: Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina
35. Arizona Cardinals: Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri
36. Washington Commanders: Zach Frazier, OC, West Virginia
37. Los Angeles Chargers: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama
38. Tennessee Titans: Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
39. New York Giants: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon
40. Washington Commanders (from Chi): Ja'Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas
41. Green Bay Packers (from NYJ): Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota
42. Minnesota Vikings: Chris Braswell, EDGE, Alabama
43. Atlanta Falcons: Kris Jenkins, IDL, Michigan
44. Las Vegas Raiders: T'Vondre Sweat, IDL, Texas
45. New Orleans Saints (from Den): Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State
46. Indianapolis Colts: Payton Wilson, LB, NC State
47. New York Giants (from Sea): Andru Phillips, CB, Kentucky
48. Jacksonville Jaguars: Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma
49. Cincinnati Bengals: Kamren Kinchens, S, Miami (FL)
50. Philadelphia Eagles (from NO): T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State
51. Pittsburgh Steelers: Roman Wilson, WR, Michigan
52. Los Angeles Rams: Patrick Paul, OT, Houston
53. Philadelphia Eagles: Cooper Beebe, OG, Kansas State
54. Cleveland Browns: Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida
55. Miami Dolphins: Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky
56. Dallas Cowboys: Braden Fiske, IDL, Florida State
57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jaden Hicks, S, Washington State
58. Green Bay Packers: Kiran Amegadjie, OT, Yale
59. Houston Texans: Kris Abrams-Draine, CB, Missouri
60. Buffalo Bills: Javon Bullard, S, Georgia
61. Detroit Lions : Darius Robinson, EDGE, Missouri
62. Baltimore Ravens: Trey Benson, RB, Florida State
63. San Francisco 49ers: Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan
64. Kansas City Chiefs: Devontez Walker, WR, North Carolina