2024 NFL Draft: Second Projection of First Round Picks
As the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine kicks off in Indianapolis, football fans and analysts alike are eagerly anticipating the upcoming NFL Draft. With the event set to take place in Detroit on April 25, it’s time to take a closer look at the second projection of the first round picks. While the combine will undoubtedly have an impact on the prospect pecking order, this forecast provides an early glimpse into how the draft may unfold.
1. Detroit Lions: QB Bryce Young, Alabama
With the first overall pick, the Lions are expected to select quarterback Bryce Young out of Alabama. Young’s impressive performance in college has made him a standout playmaker, and the Lions are eager to secure a franchise quarterback to lead their team.
2. Houston Texans: QB Kedon Slovis, USC
The Texans, under new general manager Adam Peters, are looking to rebuild their franchise. They may opt for an experienced quarterback prospect like Kedon Slovis, who has shown steady growth throughout his five-year college career. Slovis’ reliability and experience make him a safer choice for the Texans.
3. New England Patriots: QB CJ Stroud, Ohio State
After a disappointing season with Mac Jones as their starting quarterback, the Patriots are ready for a fresh start. They are expected to bring in CJ Stroud from Ohio State to kick off the Jerod Mayo era. Stroud’s talent and potential make him an exciting addition to the team.
4. Arizona Cardinals: WR Garrett Wilson, Ohio State
The Cardinals are looking to bolster their passing game by adding a legitimate WR1 for Kyler Murray. Garrett Wilson’s silky smooth skills as a pass catcher make him an ideal target for Murray and a valuable asset to the Cardinals’ offense.
5. Los Angeles Chargers: OT Evan Neal, Alabama
Head coach Jim Harbaugh’s commitment to the running game has led the Chargers to consider selecting standout blocker Evan Neal. Neal’s toughness and physicality would add strength to the Chargers’ front line, creating opportunities for their running backs.
6. Atlanta Falcons: EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux, Oregon
The Falcons are in need of a pass rusher to improve their defensive front. Kayvon Thibodeaux’s sensational speed and athleticism make him a perfect fit for the Falcons’ attack-style defense.
7. Green Bay Packers: OT Zion Fuaga, BYU
Protecting quarterback Aaron Rodgers is a top priority for the Packers. They are expected to select Zion Fuaga, a dominant offensive tackle known for his strength and ability to control the point of attack.
8. Miami Dolphins: EDGE Aiden Hutchinson, Michigan
The Dolphins are looking to add an explosive pass rusher to their defense. Aiden Hutchinson’s playmaking abilities and versatility would wreak havoc on opponents in Brian Flores’ scheme.
9. New Orleans Saints: QB J.J. McCarthy, Michigan
With quarterback Drew Brees retiring, the Saints are in search of their QB1 of the future. J.J. McCarthy, a standout from Michigan, has caught the attention of head coach Sean Payton and may be their top choice.
10. New York Giants: LB Brandon Smith, Penn State
The Giants are looking to strengthen their defense by investing in standout linebacker Brandon Smith from Penn State. Smith’s commitment to owning the line of scrimmage makes him an intriguing pick for the Giants.
11. Carolina Panthers: OT Charles Cross, Mississippi State
The Panthers are in need of an upgrade to their offensive line. Charles Cross, a talented offensive tackle known for his size and physicality, would provide the Panthers with much-needed support at the point of attack.
12. Las Vegas Raiders: CB Derek Stingley Jr., LSU
The Raiders are looking to bolster their secondary with a savvy cover corner like Derek Stingley Jr. Stingley’s skills perfectly align with Gus Bradley’s hybrid zone scheme, making him an ideal fit for the team.
13. Seattle Seahawks: TE Jalen Bowers, Oklahoma
The Seahawks are in search of a playmaker in their aerial attack. Jalen Bowers’ presence would create more big-play opportunities for their perimeter pass catchers, giving their offense a much-needed boost.
14. Jacksonville Jaguars: CB Jaheim Wiggins, LSU
Under new defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, the Jaguars are shifting their focus to defense. Jaheim Wiggins possesses the athleticism and skills to thrive in a system that heavily relies on bump-and-run coverage, making him a top priority for the team.
15. Cincinnati Bengals: DL Haskell Garrett, Ohio State
The Bengals are looking to add more disruption to their defense in the upcoming season. Haskell Garrett’s work ethic and versatility on the front line make him an ideal choice for the team.
16. Los Angeles Rams: EDGE George Karlaftis, Purdue
The Rams are in need of depth along their defensive front. George Karlaftis, a freak athlete with pass-r