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In my latest Mock Draft 3.0, we have a complete post-Super Bowl NFL Draft order following the Kansas City Chiefs' victory over the San Francisco 49ers. With just a few weeks remaining before the start of the 2024 NFL Draft Combine in Indianapolis, I wanted to present one more mock draft before the combine and will follow up with Mock Draft 4.0 post-NFL Combine.
In this mock, a few trades will affect the top 10 of the 2024 NFL Draft as teams are positioning themselves to move up for a QB.
Check Out My Other Mock Drafts
Mock Draft 1.0 (Mock Draft 1.0: Chicago Bears Trade Back, Atlanta Falcons Draft Caleb Williams | 2024 NFL Draft)
Mock Draft 2.0 (Mock Draft 2.0: Washington, New England, Atlanta, Denver, New York and Seattle Draft A QB)
In this round one mock draft, we observe the following positional highlights:
5 quarterbacks (QBs) were selected in Round One. I anticipate that anywhere between 3-6 QBs could go, with several teams potentially trading up to secure a QB; this is due to the anticipated lack of high talent in the 2025 NFL Draft class, prompting teams to be more aggressive in the 2024 NFL Draft.
5 wide receivers (WRs) are off the board in what is one of my deepest WR classes yet. We could see between 4 and 7 WRs drafted in the first round.
6 offensive tackles (OTs) were chosen, showcasing the depth of this group of tackles. There might be between 4 to 7 OTs selected in round one.
7 cornerbacks (CBs) were taken in a deep and talented group. I expect anywhere from 4 to 8 CBs to be taken in the first round alone.
5 EDGE rushers snagged in round one in a class that lacks a clear elite set of players at the top but possesses solid talent with high-end potential.
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
Round One NFL Mock Draft 3.0
(1). Washington Commanders (via CHI, CAR)
The Pick: QB Caleb Williams, USC
Needs: QB, Edge, WR, IOL, LB
Key Free Agents: Kamren Curl, Jacoby Brissett, Curtis Samuel
Pick Rationale: The Commanders are in a prime position to draft a quarterback by staying at pick two while also possessing the option to trade back. The race for QB2 is quite competitive, featuring J.J. McCarthy, Jayden Daniels, and Drake Maye as key contenders ahead of the NFL Combine. Given these circumstances, they seem prepared to make a bold move. The decision to bring in Kliff Kingsbury was made with a clear purpose, suggesting that going all out to draft Caleb Williams is their best course of action following Kingsbury's hiring.
(2). Chicago Bears (via WAS)
The Pick: WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State
Needs: IOL, WR, TE, Edge, CB
Key Free Agents: Darnell Mooney, Yannick Ngakoue, D'Onta Foreman, Justin Jones, Montez Sweat
Pick Rationale: The Chicago Bears selected Ohio State WR Marvin Harrison Jr. through a trade with the Washington Commanders. The Commanders went all in to acquire Caleb Williams, offering the Bears multiple first-round picks and the opportunity to move back just one spot—a proposal the Bears couldn't turn down. This trade signals the Bears' commitment to Justin Fields as they accumulate draft capital to construct a roster around him.
(3). New England Patriots
The Pick: QB Drake Maye, UNC
Needs: QB, TE, OT, WR, RB
Key Free Agents: Trent Brown, Hunter Henry, Kyle Dugger, Josh Uche, Mike Onwenu
Pick Rationale: The New England Patriots address their critical need at quarterback by selecting UNC's Drake Maye as their pick. Faced with the potential departures of key free agents like Trent Brown and Hunter Henry and considering their need for improvement at wide receiver, tackle, and edge defender, the Patriots' choice of Maye underscores a strategic pivot toward rejuvenating their offense. Amid speculation around trading for Justin Fields or trading back due to interest from quarterback-needy teams, they chose to secure a potential franchise quarterback in Drake Maye.
(4). Arizona Cardinals
The Pick: WR Malik Nabers, LSU
Needs: WR, DT, IOL, Edge, CB
Key Free Agents: Marquise Brown, L.J. Collier, Antonio Hamilton, Greg Dortch
Pick Rationale: The Arizona Cardinals, selecting fourth in the draft, chose LSU WR Malik Nabers, targeting him as the next-best wide receiver option after missing out on Marvin Harrison Jr. With pressing needs in wide receiver, offensive line, defensive line, linebacker, and cornerback positions, and facing the potential free agency departures of key players like Marquise Brown and L.J. Collier, the Cardinals should be focused on strengthening their pass rush and coverage capabilities.
(5). Los Angeles Chargers
The Pick: TE Brock Bowers, Georgia
Needs: CB, RB, DT, TE, C
Key Free Agents: Austin Ekeler, Gerald Everett, Kenneth Murray, Austin Johnson, Michael Davis
Pick Rationale: Jim Harbaugh's arrival signals a fresh chapter for the Chargers, bringing a focus on strengthening the team's core, especially in the face of key free agents' potential exits. His decision to bring along defensive coordinator Jesse Minter underscores a commitment to defense. With critical needs across the board and the looming free agency of Austin Ekeler and Gerald Everett, prioritizing the tight end position with a player like Brock Bowers could provide both immediate impact and long-term benefits.
(6). New York Giants
The Pick: OT Joe Alt, Notre Dame
Needs: DT, RB, IOL, Edge, CB
Key Free Agents: Adoree' Jackson, Saquon Barkley, Parris Campbell, A'Shawn Robinson
Pick Rationale: The New York Giants, holding the sixth pick, have selected Notre Dame OT Joe Alt to address their significant need on the offensive line. With critical needs across defensive tackle, running back, interior offensive line, edge rusher, and cornerback positions, and facing the potential loss of key free agents such as Adoree' Jackson, Saquon Barkley, and A'Shawn Robinson, the Giants could have considered trading back but chose to secure the top offensive tackle on their draft board.
(7). Denver Broncos (via TEN)
The Pick: QB J.J. McCarthy, Michigan
Needs: QB, DT, TE, CB, Edge
Key Free Agents:
Pick Rationale: In a strategic move via a trade with Tennessee, the Denver Broncos select Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy, positioning him as their future franchise QB. This decision comes amid considerations for upgrades at quarterback, wide receiver, center, edge defender, and cornerback.
(8). Atlanta Falcons
The Pick: QB Jayden Daniels, LSU
Needs: QB, WR, Edge, CB, DT
Key Free Agents: Matt Hennessy, Jeff Okudah, Calais Campbell, Cordarrelle Patterson, Bud Dupree
Pick Rationale: The Falcons looked poised to snag J.J. McCarthy in this spot possibly, but the Broncos jumped ahead of them at pick 7 to grab the former Michigan QB. So, they go with the next available QB in the class, a player in the current mix to be the QB2. Jayden Daniels would bring a dynamic element to the QB position in Atlanta in an offense already loaded with dynamic talent.
(9). Chicago Bears
The Pick: Edge Dallas Turner, Alabama
Needs: IOL, WR, TE, Edge, CB
Key Free Agents: Darnell Mooney, Yannick Ngakoue, D'Onta Foreman, Justin Jones, Montez Sweat
Pick Rationale: At the ninth pick, the Chicago Bears select Edge Dallas Turner from Alabama, aiming to bolster their defensive front seven.
(10). New York Jets
The Pick: OT Olu Fashanu, Penn State
Needs: OT, WR, S, DT, QB
Key Free Agents: Carl Lawson, Duane Brown, Dalvin Cook, Jordan Whitehead
Pick Rationale: The New York Jets, with the tenth pick, choose OT Olu Fashanu from Penn State, addressing a critical need on their offensive line. With many other needs and key free agents that could be on the move, they go with the best available tackle option.
(11). Minnesota Vikings
The Pick: CB Cooper DeJean, Iowa
Needs: QB, RB, G, C, DL, LB, DB
Key Free Agents: Kirk Cousins, Danielle Hunter, Marcus Davenport, Jordan Hicks, Joshua Dobbs
Pick Rationale: At pick eleven, the Minnesota Vikings secure a pivotal addition to their secondary with Iowa's Cooper DeJean, strategically addressing their need for defensive playmakers.
(12). Tennessee Titans (via DEN)
The Pick: OT Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State
Needs: OT, CB, WR, Edge, RB
Key Free Agents: Ryan Tannehill, Derrick Henry, Teair Tart, Denico Autry, Sean Murphy-Bunting
Pick Rationale: The Tennessee Titans should focus on protecting Will Levis by revamping the OL in this draft. In addition, they need to address needs in the secondary and their need to add a more consistent pass rush.
(13). Las Vegas Raiders
The Pick: QB Michael Penix Jr., Washington
Needs: QB, RB, OL, DL, LB, DB
Key Free Agents: Josh Jacobs, Austin Hooper, Marcus Peters, Andre James, Jermaine Eluemunor
Pick Rationale: The Raiders are contemplating their quarterback situation and need significant improvements on the offensive line. The potential departure of Josh Jacobs also puts the running back position in focus. They also have OL needs and could draft a top DB or edge player in this spot.
(14). New Orleans Saints
The Pick: WR Rome Odunze, Washington
Needs: QB, OT, DL
Key Free Agents: Andrus Peat, Cesar Ruiz, Jameis Winston, James Hurst
Pick Rationale: New Orleans must rejuvenate its edge rush and receiving corps, particularly if Michael Thomas departs. Offensive line and cornerback depth are also areas of concern.
(15). Indianapolis Colts
The Pick: IDL Jer'Zhan Newton, Illinois
Needs: WR, OL, DL, DB
Key Free Agents: Jonathan Taylor, Michael Pittman Jr., Grover Stewart, Kenny Moore, Gardner Minshew
Pick Rationale: With key defensive and offensive playmakers potentially leaving, the Colts face crucial decisions at DT and WR. Enhancing the pass rush and secondary will be vital for their AFC South aspirations.
(16). Seattle Seahawks
The Pick: Edge Jared Verse, Florida State
Needs: IOL, Edge, QB
Key Free Agents: Damien Lewis, Bobby Wagner, Mario Edwards, Darrell Taylor, Devin Bush, Leonard Williams
Pick Rationale: Seattle may explore QB options and must solidify the interior offensive line. The potential departure of Bobby Wagner highlights the need for linebacker reinforcements.
(17). Jacksonville Jaguars
The Pick: Edge Laiatu Latu, UCLA
Needs: IOL, DB, ED
Key Free Agents: Josh Allen, Calvin Ridley, Ben Bartch, Brandon McManus, K'Lavon Chaisson, Ezra Cleveland
Pick Rationale: Jacksonville is focused on shoring up its pass rush and offensive line, with key decisions looming on free agents like Josh Allen and Calvin Ridley. Cornerback depth is also a priority.
(18). Cincinnati Bengals
The Pick: CB Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo
Needs: CB, DT, WR, OT
Key Free Agents: D.J. Reader, Tee Higgins, Tyler Boyd, Jonah Williams, Chidobe Awuzie
Pick Rationale: Cincinnati seeks to address its defensive vulnerabilities, particularly in the secondary, and to replenish its receiving corps and offensive line in anticipation of possible departures of key free agents.
(19). Los Angeles Rams
The Pick: CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama
Needs: CB, Edge, S, K, QB
Key Free Agents: Demarcus Robinson, Jordan Fuller, Cam Akers, John Johnson
Pick Rationale: The Rams are focused on reinforcing their secondary and edge rush capabilities, alongside considering future prospects at quarterback, to maintain a competitive edge in the NFC West.
(20). Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pick: CB, Terrion Arnold, Alabama
Needs: QB, OT, IOL, CB, LB
Key Free Agents: Levi Wallace, Markus Golden, Mason Rudolph, Desmond King, Miles Boykin
Pick Rationale: Pittsburgh is poised to address its most pressing needs, notably at quarterback. Reinforcing the offensive line, particularly at tackle, remains a priority to protect their QB and enhance the run game. They have needs in the secondary and at LB.
(21). Miami Dolphins
The Pick: OT JC Latham, Alabama
Needs: IOL, S, WR, DT, TE
Key Free Agents: Christian Wilkins, Raekwon Davis, Connor Williams, Robert Hunt, Jerome Baker, Chase Claypool
Pick Rationale: Miami should look to solidify its interior offensive line and add a dynamic playmaker at the safety position.
(22). Philadelphia Eagles
The Pick: C Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon
Needs: RB, WR, CB, LB, Edge
Key Free Agents: Jason Kelce, Brandon Graham, Fletcher Cox, Derek Barnett, D'Andre Swift
Pick Rationale: Philadelphia has needs on the offensive line, specifically at the center position after the retirement of Jason Kelce. They need to add an edge rusher and could use some upgrades in the secondary.
(23). Houston Texans (via Cleveland Browns)
The Pick: IDL Byron Murphy, Texas
Needs: OT, DT, CB, Edge, WR
Key Free Agents: Josh Jones, Sheldon Rankins, Dalton Schultz, Devin Singletary, Shaquill Griffin
Pick Rationale: Houston's draft strategy focuses on fortifying the offensive tackle position and bolstering the defensive line to improve their pass rush and coverage.
(24). Dallas Cowboys
The Pick: OT Amarius Mims, Georgia
Needs: OT, RB, IOL, CB, WR
Key Free Agents: Tyron Smith, Tony Pollard, Stephon Gilmore, Dorance Armstrong, Jayron Kearse
Pick Rationale: The Cowboys will look to strengthen its offensive line and secure dynamic playmakers at running back and wide receiver, addressing crucial areas to aid in Dak Prescott's success.
(25). Green Bay Packers
The Pick: CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson
Needs: S, OT, CB, IOL, Edge
Key Free Agents: Rashan Gary, A.J. Dillon, Yosh Nijman, Jon Runyan, Darnell Savage
Pick Rationale: The Packers want to reinforce their secondary and offensive tackle positions. The priority will likely be protecting Aaron Rodgers, but they might be better served using free agency.
(26). Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Pick: Edge Chris Braswell, Alabama
Needs: QB, WR, IOL, S, Edge
Key Free Agents: Mike Evans, Devin White, Lavonte David, Antoine Winfield Jr., Baker Mayfield
Pick Rationale: Tampa Bay's selection centers on addressing immediate needs at quarterback and wide receiver, alongside building up the interior offensive line and safety positions. If Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans can be retained, the Bucs will be in a good place to draft defensive help.
(27). Arizona Cardinals (via HOU)
The Pick: Edge Bralen Trice, Washington
Needs: WR, DT, IOL, Edge, CB
Key Free Agents: Marquise Brown, L.J. Collier, Antonio Hamilton, Greg Dortch
Pick Rationale: With the potential departure of key free agents like Marquise Brown, bolstering the wide receiver corps becomes a priority. Additionally, reinforcing the defensive line and secondary is crucial for improving the team's overall defensive stature. Upgrading the interior offensive line and adding edge rushers would solidify the foundation for a competitive roster in the upcoming season.
(28). Buffalo Bills
The Pick: WR Brian Thoma Jr., LSU
Needs: S, DT, Edge, WR, CB
Key Free Agents: Micah Hyde, Leonard Floyd, A.J. Epenesa, Gabriel Davis, Poona Ford
Pick Rationale: The Bills should focus on enhancing the defense, particularly at safety and on the defensive line, while also seeking to complement Stefon Diggs with additional receiving talent.
(29). Detroit Lions
The Pick: CB Ennis Rakeshaw Jr., Missouri
Needs: CB, OG, Edge, WR, DT
Key Free Agents: Jonah Jackson, Chauncey Gardner-Johnson, Emmanuel Moseley, Teddy Bridgewater, Romeo Okwara, Donovan Peoples-Jones
Pick Rationale: The Lions need to address the cornerback position.
(30). Baltimore Ravens
The Pick: WR Keon Coleman, Florida State
Needs: DT, OG, WR, CB, RB
Key Free Agents: Justin Madubuike, J.K. Dobbins, Odell Beckham Jr., Kevin Zeitler, Michael Pierce
Pick Rationale: The Ravens can go many ways with this pick; with needs at WR, and RB, they also have needs in the secondary and the interior of their OL. The best available at any of these positions might be the right move.
(31). San Francisco 49ers
The Pick: CB Kamari Lassiter, Georgia
Needs: CB, Edge, OT, IOL, DT
Key Free Agents: QB Sam Darnold, DT Javon Kinlaw, S Tashaun Gipson, LB Oren Burks, EDGE Clelin Ferrell, EDGE Chase Young
Pick Rationale: The 49ers lost the Super Bowl and will follow that with the potential loss of many key free agents. They have needs in key areas of their defense, starting in the secondary, and if they do not retain Chase Young, they will need to address the edge rusher position.
(32). Kansas City Chiefs
The Pick: OT Jordan Morgan, Arizona
Needs: DT, WR, OT, CB, RB
Key Free Agents: Chris Jones, Donovan Smith, Mike Edwards, Willie Gay Jr., L'Jarius Sneed, Mecole Hardman
Pick Rationale: They need an elite WR, they can use some youth on the OL, and they will have plenty of options to do either in this spot of the draft.