Latest:

Sports and Lifestyle's and News | College.cbs.com.ng

College Football

Quarterback Frenzy: Mock Drafts Predict QBs Dominating Top 4 Picks in 2024 NFL Draft

Let the trading begin.

It’s been another offseason of movement in the NFL, and the next big shift is just around the corner. The top of 2024 NFL Draft order remains unchanged for now (aside from Chicago holding Carolina’s pick at No. 1), but it won’t be for long. With the first round now less than three weeks away, the biggest remaining pre-draft mystery centers on which teams have what it takes to move up for their next quarterback — and how high they’ll be willing to go.

Two months ago, I published a three-round mock draft without trades. Today, we’re back with another three-rounder, and we are trading. Let’s get into it.

(Note: For the sake of this mock, an asterisk denotes a trade.)Once again, this offseason has seen a great deal of movement in the NFL, and the next big shift is drawing near. With the exception of Chicago having Carolina’s first-round pick, the order at the top of the 2024 NFL Draft is still unmodified for the time being, although it will not last long. The biggest pre-draft mystery still surrounds around which clubs have what it takes to move up for their next quarterback and how high they will be willing to go, with the first round less than three weeks away.

With the selection of the best playmaker in the draft, Chicago is about to enter yet another new era. Williams has a peculiar personality and a few eccentricities, but on the field, he is even more distinctive. Bears game day is significant today.

As a passer, Maye is still developing, especially in terms of his consistency when processing out of the pocket. However, when comparing him to Jayden Daniels, Maye has comparable shortcomings and superior assets. The Washington front office and Adam Peters will make the preferred choice in this case. I rate Maye as a QB2.

I am attempting to get out of this pick if I am New England. But it does not appear like Robert Kraft would be ready to wait around for a quarterback—one he can market. Over the past two years, Daniels has developed more than any other player in this class, and his ability to be a dual threat is uncommon.

Predicted trade: Minnesota gives Arizona No. 4 in exchange for Nos. 11 and 23 as well as a 2025 first-round pick.

The first transaction in our mock draft has been eagerly anticipated by many, but it is clear that Minnesota did not make all these moves to be rated No. 11. The Vikings need a quarterback. How far they will go to obtain one is the sole thing to take into account. Daniels is not in my top 10, and McCarthy is not among my top 15 prospects for this draft. But the market is the market.

Predicted trade: Atlanta gives the Los Angeles Chargers No. 5 in exchange for No. 8, No. 43, and a 2025 mid-round pick.

The Falcons took a big risk and committed a lot of money to get Kirk Cousins, an elderly, experienced quarterback, to join a young, talented club. As the best non-quarterback available in the draft, why not take a chance and choose Cousins?

6. Chicago Bears (from NYG)*: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Estimated trade: Chicago gives the New York Giants No. 6 in exchange for Nos. 9 and 75 as well as a 2025 mid-round pick.

Chicago may be able to acquire one of these receivers for Williams by holding out until No. 9. However, it is also feasible that the Bears will think they need to advance. Rome Odunze, Harrison, or Nabers might be too good to pass up in this circumstance.

Here, tackle might be the wise choice. But since the Titans lack both speed and explosiveness, new general manager Ran Carthon made sense by focusing on those aspects this winter. Here, Odunze is too brilliant to ignore.

A Jim Harbaugh offense is doomed to failure if it has a strong offensive line. Of course, the Chargers need receivers, but Alt and other outstanding players up front are also needed by Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Greg Roman. Also, keep in mind how extensive this WR course is.

It is acceptable if the Giants decide to be bold and add a young quarterback this season. But the new guy would have the same issue that Daniel Jones does: insufficient assistance. Bowers would be a terrific place to start for New York as they expand their squad.

Bowers might be an enticing combination alongside Aaron Rodgers and Garrett Wilson if he makes it this far. In this instance, though, the Jets still require front-line long-term stability despite their recent free-agent additions.

Eleven choices in, and my favorite corner in this class happens to be the first defender off the board. In terms of his adaptability and desire to do everything it takes, Arnold is a complete defender. He is able to hit, press, recover, and diagnose.

Los Angeles Rams are expected to deal Nos. 19 and 52 to Denver in exchange for No. 12

Possible benefits of this anticipated trade: The Rams desperately need more assistance off the edge, and Denver needs more draft picks. Turner is the best player in the class, but Los Angeles may be able to wait at 19 and still have a competitive advantage.

It’s hard for me to imagine the Raiders having enough to make a move up into the top five for a quarterback, and they really feel like a probable trade-down candidate. However, Fuaga would be a wonderful way to kick off the now-official Antonio Pierce era.

Trade prediction: Philadelphia gives New Orleans Nos. 50 and 22 in exchange for Nos. 14

With C.J. Gardner-Johnson back in Philadelphia, the Eagles still require assistance at cornerback. Philadelphia possesses the resources to guarantee that it can secure a starter in the first round if either Mitchell or Arnold falters. Mitchell qualifies as a remarkable athlete with a strong moral code.

The Colts have a greater need at cornerback, but the second-best edge would be a nice consolation gift if the top two are gone. Kwity Paye’s fifth-year option is still up for debate, but Chris Ballard will be interested in Verse’s qualities. Here, another option is a wide receiver.

Remaining local, the Seahawks sign a standout college tackle who has the potential to be a great NFL guard. However, Fautanu is tall and athletic enough to play tackle in the National Football League. I adore this outfit.

Jacksonville is in a strong position right now and has a few options, including cornerback or wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. However, the Jags could certainly use some explosion up the middle, especially with the addition of Arik Armstead. Murphy most certainly makes that offer.

Murphy is another option in this situation to assist Cincinnati in D.J. Reader’s replacement. But the Bengals might be able to select one of the draft’s fastest players in Wiggins. Wiggins, who is only 20 years old, has a ton of promise as an outside CB.

19. Denver Broncos (from LV)*: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

A quarterback is sorely needed by the Broncos. Without one, Sean Payton’s approach will fail miserably. And even if Nix might find this too much, I am sending him to Payton nonetheless. It is difficult to top Denver’s trade down, QB acquisition, and more money acquisition.

Pittsburgh would get a great deal out of this, however the range on Latham will be intriguing. The 21-year-old, 342-pound prospect is a guard or tackle who can block runs and has enormous potential. He still needs to work on some pass-pro consistency issues, though.

One of my favorite players in the class is Barton. As a true freshman, he played center before switching to left tackle, where he excels. He can also play guard. Miami could use Barton’s versatility to fill a number of interior O-line positions.

One of the freakiest athletes in this draft, Mims is a house on wheels and could blossom into a dominant presence on either side of the line. He only started eight games in college, though, and missed time last year with an injury.

23. Arizona Cardinals (from MIN via HOU/CLE)*: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

Thomas is a player who could also have a respectable range on draft night. However, he might have to wait until this point. Thomas could easily hear his name called in the teens. The 6-foot-3, 209-pound running partner of Nabers is large and explosive, with a 4.33 speed rating. This choice would go to Kyler Murray.

Guyton lags Mims somewhat in terms of being a “athletic freak.” Although Guyton has some of the same consistency issues as the other tight end, he is a big, strong tight end rather than a sluggish one.

Can DeJean play corner outside? Perhaps, given the circumstances and plan. Is he capable of playing it safe? Yes, without a doubt. DeJean would suit Green Bay’s needs as a versatile nickel with elite return abilities.

Latu’s mix of output and pass-rush finesse might make a team fall in love, and they could come in for him in his early 20s (or even the teens). It is also feasible that he slides a little bit given his length, fears about injuries, and doubts about speed; Tampa Bay might profit from this.

27. Arizona Cardinals (from HOU): Jer’Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois

The Cardinals could part with one of these selections; keep in mind that they now own three first-round picks following the early trade with Minnesota. They could possibly go back up. With or without our anticipated deal, Arizona has the highest draft capital of anyone, and it is not even close. This spring, the Cardinals have a great opportunity to improve.

Even before the Bills dealt Stefon Diggs, it seemed like receiving may be the best option in this situation. Although Mitchell has a raw style of play, he is a superb athlete with outstanding burst, second-level speed, and all-around playmaking skills.

29. Detroit Lions: Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

Frank Ragnow, a center for the Lions Pro Bowl who turns 28 in May, has had a rough few years. In addition, Detroit is now looking for a guard. In addition to covering a gap on the depth chart, Powers-Johnson may end up being the team’s center of the future.

Here, Baltimore has a few options, including tackle or receiver. However, the secondary has to be filled by the Ravens, and McKinstry is a long, rangy prospect who is prepared to make his NFL debut.

This versatile tackle/guard can help the 49ers improve their offensive line by providing instant assistance as a run blocker as he develops his pass blocking skills.

This does not seem equitable. Of course the Chiefs need a tackle, but it may also be a lot of fun to give Patrick Mahomes the most QB-friendly receiver in this draft.

Round 2

33. Carolina Panthers: Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas

Bryce Young requires assistance now and in the future. The fastest player in this draft is Worthy. His playmaking skill in open space (and as a returner) is evident despite the doubts over his stature.

34. New England Patriots: Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU
35. Arizona Cardinals: Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&M
36. Washington Commanders: Chop Robinson, Edge, Penn State
37. Los Angeles Chargers: Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia
38. Tennessee Titans: Patrick Paul, OT, Houston
39. Carolina Panthers (from NYG): Darius Robinson, Edge, Missouri
40. Washington Commanders (from CHI): Kiran Amegadjie, OT, Yale
41. Green Bay Packers (from NYJ): Cooper Beebe, OL, Kansas State

42. Houston Texans (from MIN): Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State

The Texans, who recently got Diggs, have done an incredible job acquiring young players over the past two years. Houston appears to have a bright future ahead of them, and they may be able to add a really agile and hard-charging interior rusher in this draft.

43. Los Angeles Chargers (from ATL)*: Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

By trading down, the Chargers would still be able to get a wide receiver for Justin Herbert in addition to being able to solve their various offensive-line issues (that 37-year-old Frazier pick would be very valuable if Corey Linsley decides to retire). Here, it is a huge, athletic receiver with the ability to leap over buildings.

44. Las Vegas Raiders: Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

Here, Penix is QB6, which may be too low on the board. It might necessitate moving up for the Raiders (or some other QB-needy team) to get him. However, there are still legitimate concerns about Penix’s game, including his age, accuracy, and history of injuries.

45. New Orleans Saints (from DEN): Kris Jenkins Jr., DT, Michigan
46. Indianapolis Colts: Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas
47. New York Giants (from SEA): Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota
48. Jacksonville Jaguars: Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri
49. Cincinnati Bengals: T’Vondre Sweat, DT, Texas
50. New Orleans Saints (from PHI): Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia
51. Pittsburgh Steelers: Roman Wilson, WR, Michigan
52. Denver Broncos (from LAR)*: T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State
53. Philadelphia Eagles: Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina

54. Cleveland Browns: Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky

The Browns will return to the first round of the playoffs next year, finally. Cleveland should be able to select the next best offensive tackle or capitalize on this receiving class at 54 in the interim. Corley’s significance goes beyond just collecting passes; because of his ability to gain yards after a grab, he may also be a force in runs.

55. Miami Dolphins: Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan
56. Dallas Cowboys: Ruke Orhorhoro, DT, Clemson
57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Junior Colson, LB, Michigan
58. Green Bay Packers: Max Melton, CB, Rutgers
59. Houston Texas: Blake Fisher, OT, Notre Dame
60. Buffalo Bills: Jaden Hicks, S, Washington State
61. Detroit Lions: Bralen Trice, Edge, Washington
62. Baltimore Ravens: Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida
63. San Francisco 49ers: Brandon Dorlus, DL, Oregon
64. Kansas City Chiefs: Mike Hall Jr., DT, Ohio State

Round 3

65. Carolina Panthers: Theo Johnson, TE, Penn State
66. Arizona Cardinals: Christian Haynes, G, Connecticut
67. Washington Commanders: Tommy Eichenberg, LB, Ohio State
68. New England Patriots: Ja’Lynn Polk, WR, Washington
69. Los Angeles Chargers: Payton Wilson, LB, North Carolina State
70. New York Giants: Dez Walker, WR, North Carolina
71. Arizona Cardinals (from TEN): Marshawn Kneeland, Edge, Western Michigan
72. New York Jets: Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon

73. Detroit Lions (from MIN): Andru Phillips, CB, Kentucky

Similar to their edge depth, the Lions may still use additional help at cornerback after adding some in free agency. Phillip is a physical corner with a lot of burst and athleticism who also has a high motor and strong attitude.

74. Atlanta Falcons: Chris Braswell, Edge, Alabama
75. New York Giants (from CHI)*: Christian Mahogany, G, Boston College
76. Denver Broncos: Cade Stover, TE, Ohio State
77. Las Vegas Raiders: Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame
78. Washington Commanders (from SEA): Jalen McMillan, WR, Washington
79. Atlanta Falcons (from JAX): Kris Abrams-Draine, CB, Missouri
80. Cincinnati Bengals: Brenden Rice, WR, USC
81. Seattle Seahawks (from DEN/NO): Jonah Elliss, Edge, Utah
82. Indianapolis Colts: Calen Bullock, S, USC
83. Los Angeles Rams: Khyree Jackson, CB, Oregon
84. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jarrian Jones, CB, Florida State
85. Cleveland Browns: Dominick Puni, OL, Kansas

• Miami Dolphins (selection forfeited)

86. Houston Texans (from PHI): Mason McCormick, OL, South Dakota State
87. Dallas Cowboys: Jonathon Brooks, RB, Texas
88. Green Bay Packers: Jeremiah Trotter Jr., LB, Clemson
89. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Javon Baker, WR, UCF
90. Arizona Cardinals (from HOU): Jarvis Brownlee Jr., CB, Louisville
91. Green Bay Packers (from BUF): Jaylen Wright, RB, Texas
92. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from DET): Austin Booker, Edge, Kansas
93. Baltimore Ravens: Garrett Greenfield, OL, South Dakota State
94. San Francisco 49ers: Johnny Wilson, WR, Florida State
95. Kansas City Chiefs: Tylan Grable, OT, UCF
96. Jacksonville Jaguars: Jermaine Burton, WR, Alabama
97. Cincinnati Bengals: Roger Rosengarten, OT, Washington
98. Pittsburgh Steelers (from PHI): Sedrick Van Pran, C, Georgia

99. Los Angeles Rams: Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina

With three years remaining on his contract, Matthew Stafford, 36, will have an out following the 2025 campaign. For most of last season, he appeared to be his usual self, but Stafford’s tutelage may be very beneficial for a gifted developing option.

100. Washington Commanders: Kamren Kinchens, S, Miami

 

(Illustration: Sean Reilly / The Athletic; Photos of Terrion Arnold, Drake Maye and Brian Thomas Jr.: Grant Halverson, Michael Chang / Getty Images; Cliff Welch / Icon Sportwire via Getty Images)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *