Leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft scheduled for April 25 in Detroit, experts will regularly unveil mock drafts, offering insights into potential picks, trends in player rankings, and the likelihood of trades. This comprehensive overview encapsulates the most recent forecasts, highlighting top prospects, fluctuations in player evaluations, and possible draft scenarios.
This week’s featured analysts include Chad Reuter from NFL.com, Bryan DeArdo from CBS Sports, and Max Chadwick from Pro Football Focus.
For the first overall pick, all three experts, Reuter, DeArdo, and Chadwick, agree on USC quarterback Caleb Williams for the Chicago Bears. With the departure of Justin Fields to the Steelers, Williams emerges as the natural replacement, boasting impressive stats including 8,170 passing yards, 72 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions over the past two seasons.
The debate intensifies for the second pick, belonging to the Washington Commanders. Reuter opts for LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels, while DeArdo and Chadwick lean towards UNC’s Drake Maye. Maye’s raw talent and consistent performance, with 7,929 passing yards and 62 touchdowns in two seasons, support his selection.
The New England Patriots, at pick No. 3, according to Reuter, opt for Maye, whereas DeArdo and Chadwick favor Daniels. This divergence reflects the uncertainty surrounding the draft, with teams weighing various factors in their decisions.
For the fourth pick, Reuter predicts Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy, projected to be traded to the Denver Broncos. Conversely, DeArdo and Chadwick anticipate the Arizona Cardinals selecting Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., recognizing his potential to significantly bolster their offense.
At pick No. 5, Reuter and DeArdo foresee Harrison Jr. as the choice for the Los Angeles Chargers, aiming to provide support for quarterback Justin Herbert. Chadwick, however, suggests LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers as an alternative option, particularly if Harrison Jr. is unavailable.
The discussion extends to players on the rise and those experiencing a decline in draft stock. Georgia tight end Brock Bowers garners attention from Reuter and Chadwick, expected to be picked by the New York Jets or the Denver Broncos. Additionally, Texas wide receiver Xavier Worthy’s remarkable performance in the Big 12 elevates his draft prospects, potentially landing him with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Conversely, Reuter identifies Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. as a player facing a drop in draft projections due to medical concerns stemming from previous injuries. He nevertheless remains an intriguing prospect with a noteworthy collegiate record.
In terms of unexpected selections, Reuter suggests Alabama offensive tackle JC Latham and DeArdo proposes Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell as potential surprises for the Las Vegas Raiders. However, overlooking quarterback prospects could prove risky for the Raiders, potentially impacting their quarterback situation for the upcoming season.
