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Another week, another mock draft.
In Mock Draft 1.0, I proposed a trade between the Bears and the Falcons that involved sending the number one overall pick to the Falcons in exchange for the number 8 pick. The Falcons would win the Caleb Williams sweepstakes, while the Bears would continue with Justin Fields but still select a quarterback with the 8th pick. In Mock Draft 1.0, we saw five quarterbacks drafted; however, this number has increased with the addition of one more QB in version 2.0. In this version, there are no trades; I am simply drafting based on team needs and the best available fit.
We evaluate every player using a proprietary grading process that involves film evaluation combined with advanced data. On the back end, our scouting process mirrors the same process deployed by current NFL front-office personnel so that we can deliver the most in-depth player scouting reports available. All of this is currently free (subject to change).
Each player scouting report includes:
In-depth player scouting report
Play Style and Scheme Fit Analysis
Player Strengths & Weaknesses
Player Comparisons
Here is a breakdown of my mock draft by position group.
Quarterback (QB): 6 (Although only five quarterbacks possess a first-round grade on our board, six are taken).
Wide Receiver (WR): 6 (The wide receiver class is deep. We might not see six in the actual NFL Draft due to the depth and available talent on days two and three).
Offensive Tackle (OT): 7 (There is always a high demand for the tackle position in the NFL, and this class is deep, so selecting seven might be a bit excessive).
Edge Rusher (EDGE): 4 (This class has some really good edge rushers. There is a noticeable drop-off after the top four, so I believe four will be chosen quickly, and as many as six could be selected in the first round).
Interior Defensive Lineman (IDL): 2 (The interior defensive lineman group is not deep, so the top players will likely be selected quickly).
Cornerback (CB): 5 (I am quite fond of this cornerback class, and there is a lot of high-ceiling talent that will be chosen quickly. There is also good depth that will extend into days two and three).
Tight End (TE): 1
Interior Offensive Lineman (IOL): 1
Additional Variables To Consider:
Smaller Group of Underclassmen: The NFL has announced a notably smaller group of underclassmen for the 2024 Draft, with only 54 prospects compared to the traditional number of over 100 in previous years.
Influence of NIL Benefits: The reduction in numbers is thought to be influenced by the growth of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) benefits at the college level, offering financial incentives to student-athletes that may encourage them to stay in college longer.
Top Talents in the Group: Despite the smaller size, the group includes top talents such as quarterbacks Caleb Williams (USC) and Drake Maye (North Carolina), as well as elite wide receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. (Ohio State) and Malik Nabers (LSU).
Quality of Talent: The presence of high-profile players highlights the quality of talent entering the draft, indicating that the standard of players remains high despite the overall decrease in numbers.
Changing College Football Landscape: This shift could signify a changing landscape in college football, where NIL benefits are altering traditional decisions and pathways of college athletes regarding their professional careers.
Mock Draft 2.0 (The draft order for picks 1-28 has been set).
(1). Chicago Bears (Needs: OG, C, Edge, DT, WR)
Pick: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
Rationale: Harrison Jr. is highly regarded for his remarkable size and route running ability, which could benefit the Bears' receiving corps greatly. Paired with D.J. Moore, the Bears' offense would be extremely dynamic if they chose this route and retained Justin Fields.
Notable Free Agents: EDGE Yannick Ngakoue, TE Robert Tonyan, CB Jaylon Johnson, WR Darnell Mooney
(2). Washington Commanders (Needs: OG, C, TE, LB, Edge, QB)
Pick: Caleb Williams, QB, USC
Rationale: Caleb Williams is considered a generational talent at the quarterback position, with a unique blend of arm strength, accuracy, and mobility.
Notable Free Agents: DB Kamren Curl, RB Antonio Gibson, WR Curtis Samuel, QB Jacoby Brissett, CB Kendall Fuller
(3). New England Patriots (Needs: OT, DT, TE, WR, LB)
Pick: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina
Rationale: Drake Maye's potential as a high-ceiling quarterback makes him a compelling choice for the Patriots. His ability to extend plays and make accurate throws on the move could rejuvenate the Patriots' offense, providing a dynamic element at the quarterback position that has been missing.
Notable Free Agents: TE Hunter Henry, OT Trent Brown, TE Mike Gesicki, EDGE Josh Uche, S Kyle Dugger, RB Ezekiel Elliott
(4). Arizona Cardinals (Needs: CB, DT, Edge, LB, OG, WR)
Pick: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
Rationale: Malik Nabers' explosive playmaking ability is exactly what the Cardinals need to enhance their wide receiver unit. His agility and speed make him a significant threat, especially in creating separation and yards after the catch. Nabers' potential to become a reliable and dynamic target for Kyler Murray could open up the Cardinals' passing game, providing much-needed versatility and depth to their offense.
Notable Free Agents: WR Hollywood Brown, DT Leki Fotu, CB Antonio Hamilton, EDGE L.J. Collier
(5). Los Angeles Chargers (Needs: CB, DT, TE, RB, LB)
Pick: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
Rationale: Brock Bowers is chosen for his versatility and unmatched ability as a pass-catching tight end. His athleticism and playmaking skills are reminiscent of some of the top tight ends in the league, potentially transforming the Chargers' offense into a more dynamic and versatile unit. His presence on the field could open up new dimensions in the Chargers' offensive schemes, particularly in the red zone and third-down situations.
Notable Free Agents: RB Austin Ekeler, LB Kenneth Murray, TE Gerald Everett, RB Josh Kelley, CB Michael Davis
(6). New York Giants (Needs: QB, OG, C, CB, DT, Edge, WR, RB)
Pick: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
Rationale: Daniels brings a significant improvement in terms of versatility and dual-threat capabilities, which could perfectly match Coach Brian Daboll's offensive vision.
Notable Free Agents: CB Adoree' Jackson, RB Saquon Barkley, WR Parris Campbell, LB Isaiah Simmons
(7). Tennessee Titans (Needs: OT, WR, DT, CB, Edge, RB)
Pick: Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State
Rationale: Fashanu's selection addresses a critical need at the offensive tackle position for the Titans. His exceptional athleticism and technical prowess make him a prime candidate to provide immediate improvement and stability to the offensive line, particularly in protecting the quarterback's blind side. His ability to excel in both run blocking and pass protection would be a significant asset for the Titans' offense.
Notable Free Agents: QB Ryan Tannehill, RB Derrick Henry, DT Denico Autry, OT Chris Hubbard
(8). Atlanta Falcons (Needs: QB, LB, WR, Edge, CB, S)
Pick: Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington
Rationale: Penix Jr. is selected for his impressive accuracy and decision-making abilities, making him an ideal candidate to lead the Falcons' offense. His leadership and ability to perform under pressure could be instrumental in revitalizing the Falcons' quarterback position.
Notable Free Agents: CB Jeff Okudah, EDGE Calais Campbell, EDGE Bud Dupree, RB Cordarrelle Patterson, C Matt Hennessy, WR Van Jefferson
(9). Chicago Bears (Second Pick) (Needs: OG, C, Edge, DT, WR)
Pick: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
Rationale: After taking Marvin Harrison Jr. with the number one overall pick, the Bears add a versatile pass rusher to solidify the edge of their defense.
Notable Free Agents: EDGE Yannick Ngakoue, TE Robert Tonyan, CB Jaylon Johnson, WR Darnell Mooney
(10). New York Jets (Needs: OT, OG, S, LB, Edge, WR)
Pick: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame
Rationale: Alt's selection is a strategic move to fortify the Jets' offensive line. His size and athleticism make him a valuable asset in both pass protection and run blocking. His ability to provide essential protection for the quarterback and improve the effectiveness of the run game could be pivotal in enhancing the overall performance of the Jets' offense.
Notable Free Agents: EDGE Carl Lawson, RB Dalvin Cook, OT Duane Brown, EDGE Bryce Huff, WR Mecole Hardman
(11). Minnesota Vikings (Needs: QB, Edge, CB, DT, RB)
Pick: Byron Murphy, IDL, Texas
Rationale: The Vikings need an elite interior rusher, and Murphy is starting to climb draft boards. He can provide an elite hole filler that the Vikings desperately need in the middle of their defense.
Notable Free Agents: QB Kirk Cousins, EDGE Danielle Hunter, EDGE Marcus Davenport, WR K.J. Osborn, QB Josh Dobbs
(12). Denver Broncos (Needs: DT, S, Edge, LB, CB, RB)
Pick: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon
Rationale: Denver will move on from Russell Wilson, and they need a quick stopgap with some long-term potential. Bo Nix offers experience and versatility at the QB position and could provide an immediate impact.
Notable Free Agents: LB Josey Jewell, S Kareem Jackson, C Lloyd Cushenberry, TE Adam Trautman
(13). Las Vegas Raiders (Needs: DT, OT, OG, CB, LB, QB, RB)
Pick: Jer'Zhan Newton, IDL, Illinois
Rationale: Newton's quickness and ability to disrupt plays from the interior line position are key reasons for his selection. His presence in the middle of the defense can help the Raiders in both run defense and interior pass rush, providing a much-needed boost to their defensive line.
Notable Free Agents: RB Josh Jacobs, C Andre James, TE Austin Hooper, OL Jermaine Eluemunor
(14). New Orleans Saints (Needs: OG, TE, Edge, DT, S)
Pick: Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama
Rationale: Turner's high upside as a young edge defender is a strategic addition to the Saints' defensive lineup. His ability to generate pressure and disrupt the backfield could significantly enhance the Saints' pass rush, preparing them for a strong defensive future post-Cam Jordan era.
Notable Free Agents: OG Andrus Peat, QB Jameis Winston, OT James Hurst, LB Zack Baun, TE Jimmy Graham
(15). Indianapolis Colts (Needs: CB, S, WR, DT, Edge, LB)
Pick: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
Rationale: Odunze might not make it out of the top ten, but if he is available, the Colts can add an elite contested catch threat at WR to pair with Michael Pittman (If they can sign him) to build around Anthony Richardson.
Notable Free Agents: DT Grover Stewart, CB Kenny Moore, QB Gardner Minshew, WR Michael Pittman Jr., RB Zack Moss
(16). Seattle Seahawks (Needs: OG, S, Edge, LB, DT)
Pick: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
Rationale: McCarthy's selection as a potential successor to Geno Smith signifies a long-term investment in the quarterback position. His NFL-ready skill set, elite-level arm talent, and mobility offer the Seahawks a chance to develop a dynamic and versatile quarterback who can adapt to the evolving needs of the offense.
Notable Free Agents: OG Damien Lewis, LB Devin Bush, LB Jordyn Brooks, QB Drew Lock, LB Bobby Wagner, DT Leonard Williams, EDGE Frank Clark
(17). Jacksonville Jaguars (Needs: OG, DT, Edge, WR, S, CB)
Pick: Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State
Rationale: Coleman's physical presence and exceptional ball skills make him a prime candidate to become a key feature in the Colts' offense. His ability to make big plays and his prowess in the red zone can add a new dynamic to the team's passing attack, potentially elevating the overall offensive output.
Notable Free Agents: EDGE Josh Allen, EDGE K'Lavon Chaisson, WR Calvin Ridley, OG Ezra Cleveland
(18). Cincinnati Bengals (Needs: OT, OG, C, DT, WR)
Pick: JC Latham, OT, Alabama
Rationale: Latham's addition aims to solidify the Bengals' offensive line, providing quarterback Joe Burrow with better protection and stability. His technical skills and strength are crucial in enhancing both the passing and running games, which are central to the Bengals' offensive strategy.
Notable Free Agents: DT D.J. Reader, WR Tyler Boyd, WR Tee Higgins, OT Jonah Williams, TE Irv Smith
(19). Los Angeles Rams (Needs: OT, RB, CB, S, Edge)
Pick: Laiatu Latu, Edge, UCLA
Rationale: The Rams add a kid from down the road to help them improve their pass rush. Latu provides versatility off the edge of the defense that the Rams aging defense needs.
Notable Free Agents: S Jordan Fuller, OG Kevin Dotson, S John Johnson, LB Troy Reeder
(20). Pittsburgh Steelers (Needs: OT, CB, LB, OG, QB)
Pick: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
Rationale: Arnold's completeness as a cornerback is vital for the Steelers, aiming to elevate their secondary's performance. His ability in coverage and playmaking skills can lead to an improved defensive backfield, essential for contending in a pass-heavy league.
Notable Free Agents: CB Levi Wallace, DT Montravius Adams, QB Mason Rudolph, EDGE Markus Golden
(21). Miami Dolphins (Needs: TE, OG, CB, DT, LB)
Pick: Graham Barton, OT, Duke
Rationale: Barton provides versatility to the Dolphins OL. He will be drafted as a tackle but can flip inside early in his career to provide an immediate impact.
Notable Free Agents: C Connor Williams, DT Christian Wilkins, OG Isaiah Wynn, OG Robert Hunt, DT Raekwon Davis, LB Jerome Baker
(22). Philadelphia Eagles (Needs: RB, Edge, CB, TE, DT)
Pick: Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa
Rationale: DeJean's explosive athleticism and outstanding instincts make him an ideal fit for the Eagles' secondary. His ability to play multiple positions in the backfield adds much-needed versatility and depth, enhancing the team's defensive strategy.
Notable Free Agents: C Jason Kelce, DT Fletcher Cox, EDGE Brandon Graham, RB D'Andre Swift, RB Rashaad Penny
(23). Houston Texans (via CLE) (Needs: OT, DT, CB, Edge, WR)
Pick: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama
Rationale: McKinstry's selection addresses the Texans' need for a versatile and athletic cornerback. His ability to pair effectively with Derek Stingley Jr. in the secondary is expected to strengthen the team's pass defense significantly.
Notable Free Agents: TE Dalton Schultz, DT Sheldon Rankins, CB Steven Nelson, EDGE Jonathan Greenard, CB Tavierre Thomas, EDGE Derek Barnett
(24). Dallas Cowboys (Needs: C, RB, CB, DT, OG)
Pick: Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State
Rationale: Robinson's explosive pass-rushing ability is a key addition to the Cowboys' defense. His outstanding first step and energy are expected to complement Micah Parsons, enhancing the team's overall pass rush and defensive pressure.
Notable Free Agents: OT Tyron Smith, RB Tony Pollard, CB Stephon Gilmore, C Tyler Biadasz, EDGE Dorance Armstrong
(25). Green Bay Packers (Needs: S, OG, C, Edge, RB, QB)
Pick: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State
Rationale: Fuaga's selection emphasizes the Packers' commitment to enhancing their offensive line, particularly in pass protection. His capabilities are seen as crucial in supporting quarterback Jordan Love and ensuring the team's offensive longevity.
Notable Free Agents: S Darnell Savage, RB A.J. Dillon, OT Yosh Nijman, OG Jon Runyan
(26). Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Needs: OG, C, LB, S, DT, QB)
Pick: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo
Rationale: Mitchell's high upside, quick footwork, and fluidity make him a valuable asset for the Buccaneers' secondary. His abilities are expected to align well with Head Coach Todd Bowles' defensive strategy and enhance the team's overall defensive capabilities.
Notable Free Agents: WR Mike Evans, LB Devin White, LB Lavonte David, QB Baker Mayfield, S Antoine Winfield Jr.
(27). Arizona Cardinals (via HOU) (Needs: CB, DT, Edge, LB, OG, WR)
Pick: Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona
Rationale: Morgan's versatility in playing across the offensive line is vital for the Cardinals. His ability to adapt and provide strength at various positions is expected to significantly support Kyler Murray's offensive play, offering flexibility and reliability upfront.
Notable Free Agents: WR Hollywood Brown, DT Leki Fotu, CB Antonio Hamilton, EDGE L.J. Collier, TE Geoff Swaim
(28). Buffalo Bills (Needs: CB, S, DT, Edge, WR, LB)
Pick: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU
Rationale: Thomas Jr.'s impressive height, weight, and speed combination offers the Bills another dynamic and explosive threat in their offense. His ability to stretch the field vertically and make big plays is expected to complement the team's already potent offensive attack.
Notable Free Agents: S Micah Hyde, EDGE Leonard Floyd, RB Damien Harris, WR Gabe Davis, EDGE Shaq Lawson, EDGE A.J. Epenesa
(29). Kansas City Chiefs (Needs: OT, WR, CB, DT, Edge)
Pick: Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
Rationale: Franklin's deep-threat ability and well-rounded game are projected to thrive with quarterback Patrick Mahomes. His speed and route-running skills are expected to add a new dimension to the Chiefs' already powerful offensive unit.
Notable Free Agents: DT Chris Jones, LB Drue Tranquill, S Mike Edwards, LB Willie Gay Jr., CB L'Jarius Sneed, OT Donovan Smith
(30). Detroit Lions (Needs: CB, OG, DT, Edge, WR)
Pick: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson
Rationale: Selected for his height-weight-speed profile, bringing range and playmaking ability to a defense needing a lockdown defender.
Notable Free Agents: EDGE Romeo Okwara, S Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, OG Halapoulivaati Vaitai, OG Jonah Jackson, CB Emmanuel Moseley, WR Donovan Peoples-Jones
(31). San Francisco 49ers (Needs: OT, OG, C, CB, TE, S)
Pick: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia
Rationale: Mims' selection reflects the 49ers' focus on bolstering their offensive line. His raw talent and potential are seen as key to providing long-term stability, particularly in protecting the blind side of the quarterback.
Notable Free Agents: DT Javon Kinlaw, QB Sam Darnold, EDGE Clelin Ferrell, S Tashaun Gipson, EDGE Chase Young
(32). Baltimore Ravens (Needs: OG, OT, CB, DT, RB, Edge)
Pick: Powers-Johnson, IOL, Oregon
Rationale: Powers-Johnson's selection as the best interior lineman in the class signals the Ravens' commitment to strengthening their offensive line.
Notable Free Agents: WR Odell Beckham Jr., OG Kevin Zeitler, DT Michael Pierce, LB Patrick Queen, EDGE Jadeveon Clowney, RB J.K. Dobbins
Teams without a First-Round Pick
Cleveland Browns (Needs: OT, Edge, DT, S, RB, OG)
Notable Free Agents: EDGE Za'Darius Smith, DT Shelby Harris, S Grant Delpit, DT Maurice Hurst, DT Jordan Elliott
Carolina Panthers (Needs: WR, RB, OG, OT, CB, DT, Edge)
Notable Free Agents: EDGE Justin Houston, EDGE Brian Burns, LB Frankie Luvu, S Jeremy Chinn, WR DJ Chark