2024 NFL Mock Draft: Experts Discuss Standout Performers and Projected Impact Professionals
The 2024 NFL Draft is quickly approaching, and football enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the combine in Indianapolis. As the anticipation builds, The Athletic’s college football staff has taken the opportunity to discuss some of the standout performers from the 2023 college football season and project their impact as professionals in 2024 and beyond. In this NFL mock draft, ten members of The Athletic’s college football staff offer their insight and predictions for the upcoming draft.
No Trades Allowed: Sticking to the Mock Draft Rules
Despite the rampant speculation surrounding potential trades, it’s important to note that no trades were allowed in this mock draft. This restriction adds an interesting twist to the predictions, as teams are forced to make their selections based solely on the players available at their respective picks.
Chicago Bears: Resetting the Quarterback Clock
The Chicago Bears, who have invested heavily in Justin Fields, find themselves in an interesting position. While it would make perfect sense for them to select a playmaker to support Fields, they have the chance to reset their quarterback clock with a more consistent passer. Scott Dochterman suggests that they should go with their head rather than their heart and select Williams, the Heisman Trophy winner from 2022. With Williams’ exceptional throwing abilities, he could be the answer to Chicago’s long-standing quarterback woes.
San Antonio Commanders: Building Around Maye
The San Antonio Commanders, despite their displeasure with the no-trade rule, are not upset about the opportunity to work with Maye, a highly talented quarterback from North Carolina. Max Olson believes that Maye has all the tools necessary to become a top-10 quarterback in the league. With his impressive arm talent and rushing abilities, Maye is a safe bet for the Commanders as they look to build their franchise around him.
New England Patriots: Rolling the Dice on Daniels
The New England Patriots, led by their new head coach Jerod Mayo, have a chance to select the unique talent of Jayden Daniels, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner. Christopher Kamrani suggests that the Patriots should take a gamble on Daniels’ dual-threat upside and see if he can continue to blossom. With the team’s quarterback play underwhelming since Tom Brady’s departure, Daniels could be the answer to their offensive struggles.
Arizona Cardinals: Adding a True WR1
The Arizona Cardinals, who have been lacking a true WR1 since DeAndre Hopkins left, have an easy selection to make in Harrison, the best player in the draft class. Chris Vannini believes that Harrison’s exceptional receiving abilities make him the perfect fit for the Cardinals. With consecutive seasons of impressive stats, including 1,200-plus receiving yards and 14 touchdowns, Harrison has proven himself as a top receiver.
Los Angeles Chargers: Adding Juice to the Passing Game
With Jim Harbaugh now in charge, the Los Angeles Chargers have a decision to make. While offensive lineman is a tempting choice, Antonio Morales suggests that they should focus on adding more juice to their passing game. Bowers, a dynamic tight end, could be the perfect addition to give quarterback Justin Herbert more weapons and elevate the Chargers’ offense.
New York Giants: Fixing the Ailing Offense
The New York Giants are in desperate need of a true No. 1 receiver who can electrify the fan base. Nicole Auerbach believes that Nabers, who had an impressive season at LSU with 89 catches for 1,569 yards, fits the bill perfectly. Nabers’ ability to make big plays and lead the nation in receptions of 30 or more yards makes him an ideal choice for the Giants as they look to fix their struggling offense.
Tennessee Titans: Addressing the Offensive Line Woes
The Tennessee Titans, who gave up a staggering 64 sacks last season, need to prioritize protecting their quarterback, Will Levis. David Ubben suggests that Fashanu, a plug-and-play option at tackle, could be the solution to their offensive line issues. With his high ceiling and prototypical NFL tackle skills, Fashanu has the potential to make an immediate impact for the Titans.
Atlanta Falcons: Adding Depth to the Receiving Corps
The Atlanta Falcons find themselves in an interesting position, as the top three receivers plus Brock Bowers are off the board. Seth Emerson suggests that they should select Odunze, a talented receiver from Washington. With his size, speed, and ball skills, Odunze could be the missing piece in the Falcons’ receiving corps.
Chicago Bears: Going with the Best Player Available
In this mock draft, the Chicago Bears find themselves in need of another weapon for Williams. While it would make sense for them to select a receiver, Scott Dochterman believes that Fuaga, an offensive lineman from Oregon State, might be the best player available. With his impressive stats and physical abilities, Fuaga has