2024 NFL Mock Draft: Seven Wide Receivers Projected in First Round, Only Three Quarterbacks
The anticipation for the upcoming NFL Draft is building, and football fans everywhere are eager to see which players their favorite teams will select. With the scouting combine about to begin, it’s the perfect time to make some predictions for the first round of the draft. In this year’s mock draft, seven wide receivers are projected to go in the first round, while only three quarterbacks make the cut.
The Chicago Bears, who acquired the top overall pick from the 2-15 Panthers, are expected to select quarterback Caleb Williams from USC. The Bears have been uncertain about the future of their current quarterback, Justin Fields, and if they decide to trade him, Williams would be the logical choice. He is considered the best quarterback in this year’s class and could be a game-changer for the Bears.
The Washington Commanders hold the second pick, and they are projected to select quarterback Jayden Daniels from LSU. Daniels has been gaining buzz and could potentially surpass North Carolina’s Drake Maye as the second quarterback off the board. The combine will play a crucial role in determining the order of these quarterbacks.
The New England Patriots, who hold the third pick, are expected to address their rebuild by selecting quarterback Drake Maye from North Carolina. The Patriots have been in need of a franchise quarterback, and Maye possesses all the traits and tools to fill that role. This pick would be a smart move for the Patriots as they look to solidify their future.
The Arizona Cardinals, with the fourth pick, are projected to select wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. from Ohio State. This pick remains unchanged from previous predictions. Harrison would provide a significant boost to Kyler Murray and the Cardinals’ offense with his size, speed, and array of talents. If Harrison is not available, other top wide receivers like Rome Odunze from Washington or Malik Nabers from LSU could be potential picks.
The Los Angeles Chargers, with the fifth pick, are expected to select tight end Brock Bowers from Georgia. Bowers has the potential to become the franchise’s next version of Antonio Gates and would be a perfect complement to quarterback Justin Herbert. With a steady diet of pass targets from Herbert, Bowers could become a perennial Pro Bowl selection.
The New York Giants, with the sixth pick, are projected to select wide receiver Malik Nabers from LSU. This pick represents a change from previous predictions, as the Giants look to revitalize their passing game by adding an electrifying playmaker like Nabers. He possesses great hands and underrated toughness, making him an ideal weapon for the Giants’ offense.
The Tennessee Titans, with the seventh pick, are expected to select offensive tackle Joe Alt from Notre Dame. This pick also represents a change from previous predictions, as Alt’s availability prompts the Titans to jump on him immediately. Alt is a talented player who will be a cornerstone of the Titans’ offensive line for years to come.
The Atlanta Falcons, with the eighth pick, are projected to select cornerback Terrion Arnold from Alabama. The Falcons have been in search of an elite edge rusher for years, but this draft might not have a can’t-miss sack master. Instead, they opt for Arnold, who is fast becoming the top-rated cornerback in this year’s class.
The Chicago Bears, with the ninth pick, are expected to select wide receiver Rome Odunze from Washington. This pick remains unchanged from previous predictions. The Bears would not only secure their next franchise quarterback in Caleb Williams but also add one of the top wideouts in the draft. This would give Williams an exciting 1-2 pass-catching punch with DJ Moore.
The New York Jets, with the tenth pick, are projected to select offensive tackle Olumuyiwa Fashanu from Penn State. The Jets are in need of an offensive makeover, and Fashanu would be a valuable addition to their offensive line. Despite whispers that he might slide in the first round, Fashanu is still considered a top prospect.
These are just a few of the projected picks in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. As the scouting combine gets underway, more information will become available, and these predictions may change. Football fans will have to wait until April 25 to see how things ultimately play out, but until then, the excitement and speculation will continue to build.