Introduction
As a dedicated draft analyst, it is my duty to provide a comprehensive seven-round mock draft for the 2024 NFL Draft. In this blog post, I will predict all 257 picks, giving you a glimpse into how the draft will unfold from April 25-27. With this detailed mock draft, you won’t even need to watch the actual draft anymore, as I have already been handed the script. But before we dive into the picks, let me introduce you to our year-round NFL draft podcast, “With the First Pick,” where you can find in-depth analysis from NFL draft analyst Ryan Wilson and former Vikings general manager Rick Spielman. You can listen to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and more.
Our podcast, “With the First Pick,” is a treasure trove of insider information and expert analysis. Ryan Wilson, a highly respected NFL draft analyst, brings his wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. With a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of team needs, Ryan provides invaluable insights into the draft prospects and their potential impact on the league. His ability to dissect game film and evaluate player skills sets him apart from other analysts in the field.
Joining Ryan on the podcast is none other than Rick Spielman, the former general manager of the Minnesota Vikings. With over two decades of experience in the NFL, Rick brings a unique perspective to the show. His vast network of contacts within the league and his insider knowledge of team strategies and decision-making processes make him an invaluable asset to our podcast. Rick’s ability to break down complex trade scenarios and analyze team needs adds depth and nuance to our discussions.
“On ‘With the First Pick,’ we strive to provide our listeners with the most accurate and up-to-date information about the NFL draft,” says Ryan Wilson. “Our goal is to help fans understand the draft process and give them a glimpse into the minds of NFL decision-makers. We want to empower fans with the knowledge they need to engage in informed discussions about their favorite teams and the future of the league.”
The podcast covers a wide range of topics, including player evaluations, team needs, draft strategies, and trade scenarios. Ryan and Rick take a deep dive into each position group, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of the prospects and projecting their potential impact at the next level. They also discuss the latest rumors and news surrounding the draft, providing listeners with insider information that can’t be found anywhere else.
In addition to their in-depth analysis, Ryan and Rick also invite special guests to join them on the show. These guests include current and former NFL players, coaches, and executives, who provide unique perspectives and share their personal experiences in the draft process. Their insights offer listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the league and shed light on the challenges and opportunities that arise during the draft.
Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just getting into the sport, “With the First Pick” is a must-listen podcast for anyone interested in the NFL draft. With Ryan Wilson’s expertise and Rick Spielman’s insider knowledge, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the draft process and the factors that shape the future of the league. So tune in to our podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform, and join us as we explore the exciting world of the NFL draft.
Round 1
1. Jacksonville Jaguars – Trevor Lawrence, QB, Clemson
2. New York Jets – Sam Howell, QB, North Carolina
3. Detroit Lions – Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon
4. Houston Texans – Derek Stingley Jr., CB, LSU
5. Philadelphia Eagles – Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
6. Carolina Panthers – Kyle Hamilton, S, Notre Dame
7. Cincinnati Bengals – George Karlaftis, EDGE, Purdue
8. New York Giants – Drake Jackson, EDGE, USC
9. Atlanta Falcons – Spencer Rattler, QB, Oklahoma
10. Denver Broncos – Malik Willis, QB, Liberty
11. Miami Dolphins – Zion Nelson, OT, Miami (FL)
12. Washington Football Team – Garrett Wilson, WR, Ohio State
13. Las Vegas Raiders – Ahmad Gardner, CB, Cincinnati
14. Pittsburgh Steelers – Tyler Linderbaum, OC, Iowa
15. New England Patriots – Jalen Wydermyer, TE, Texas A&M
16. Chicago Bears – Treylon Burks, WR, Arkansas
17. Minnesota Vikings – Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida
18. Philadelphia Eagles (via mock trade with Colts) – Kenyon Green, OG, Texas A&M
19. New Orleans Saints – Desmond Ridder, QB, Cincinnati
20. Cleveland Browns – DeMarvin Leal, DT, Texas A&M
21. Baltimore Ravens – Nik Bonitto, EDGE, Oklahoma
22. Green Bay Packers – David Bell, WR, Purdue
23. Seattle Seahawks – Charles Cross, OT, Mississippi State
24. Tennessee Titans – Sevyn Banks, CB, Ohio State
25. Los Angeles Chargers – Perrion Winfrey, DT, Oklahoma
26. Arizona Cardinals – Kaiir Elam, CB, Florida
27. Dallas Cowboys – Josh Jobe, CB, Alabama
28. Buffalo Bills – John Metchie III, WR, Alabama
29. San Francisco 49ers – Myjai Sanders, EDGE, Cincinnati
30. Kansas City Chiefs – Adam Anderson, EDGE, Georgia
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Ventrell Miller, LB, Florida
32. Indianapolis Colts (via mock trade with Bills) – Carson Strong, QB, Nevada
As the first round of the NFL draft progresses, teams are carefully selecting players who they believe will make a significant impact on their rosters. The Jacksonville Jaguars kick off the draft by choosing Trevor Lawrence, a highly touted quarterback from Clemson. With their second pick, the New York Jets opt for Sam Howell, another promising quarterback from North Carolina.
The Detroit Lions focus on strengthening their defense by selecting Kayvon Thibodeaux, an EDGE player from Oregon. The Houston Texans follow suit by picking Derek Stingley Jr., a talented cornerback from LSU. The Philadelphia Eagles address their offensive line needs by choosing Evan Neal, an impressive tackle from Alabama.
The Carolina Panthers prioritize their secondary and select Kyle Hamilton, a standout safety from Notre Dame. The Cincinnati Bengals bolster their defense by adding George Karlaftis, an EDGE player from Purdue. The New York Giants opt for Drake Jackson, an EDGE player from USC, to enhance their pass rush.
The Atlanta Falcons invest in their future by selecting Spencer Rattler, a highly regarded quarterback from Oklahoma. The Denver Broncos follow suit by choosing Malik Willis, a dynamic quarterback from Liberty University. The Miami Dolphins focus on protecting their quarterback by picking Zion Nelson, an offensive tackle from the University of Miami.
The Washington Football Team adds firepower to their offense by selecting Garrett Wilson, a talented wide receiver from Ohio State. The Las Vegas Raiders address their cornerback needs by choosing Ahmad Gardner from Cincinnati. The Pittsburgh Steelers strengthen their offensive line by picking Tyler Linderbaum, a reliable center from Iowa.
The New England Patriots add a versatile weapon to their offense with Jalen Wydermyer, a talented tight end from Texas A&M. The Chicago Bears aim to improve their receiving corps by selecting Treylon Burks, a playmaking wide receiver from Arkansas. The Minnesota Vikings bolster their secondary by picking Kaiir Elam, a skilled cornerback from Florida.
In a mock trade with the Indianapolis Colts, the Philadelphia Eagles acquire the 18th pick and select Kenyon Green, a talented guard from Texas A&M. The New Orleans Saints invest in their future quarterback by choosing Desmond Ridder from Cincinnati. The Cleveland Browns address their defensive line by selecting DeMarvin Leal, a disruptive defensive tackle from Texas A&M.
The Baltimore Ravens focus on their pass rush and select Nik Bonitto, an EDGE player from Oklahoma. The Green Bay Packers add another weapon to their offense by picking David Bell, a reliable wide receiver from Purdue. The Seattle Seahawks prioritize protecting their quarterback by selecting Charles Cross, an offensive tackle from Mississippi State.
The Tennessee Titans address their cornerback needs by choosing Sevyn Banks from Ohio State. The Los Angeles Chargers aim to strengthen their defensive line by selecting Perrion Winfrey, a talented defensive tackle from Oklahoma. The Arizona Cardinals bolster their secondary by picking Kaiir Elam, adding depth to their cornerback position.
The Dallas Cowboys continue to address their secondary by selecting Josh Jobe, a cornerback from Alabama. The Buffalo Bills add another weapon to their passing game by picking John Metchie III, a dynamic wide receiver from Alabama. The San Francisco 49ers focus on improving their pass rush by selecting Myjai Sanders, an EDGE player from Cincinnati.
The Kansas City Chiefs aim to enhance their pass rush by selecting Adam Anderson, an EDGE player from Georgia. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers add depth to their linebacker corps by picking Ventrell Miller from Florida. In a mock trade with the Buffalo Bills, the Indianapolis Colts acquire the 32nd pick and select Carson Strong, a promising quarterback from Nevada.
As the first round comes to a close, teams have made strategic choices to address their needs and build a strong foundation for the future. The draft continues with the subsequent rounds, offering more opportunities for teams to add talent to their rosters.
Round 2
33. Buffalo Bills (via mock trade with Panthers) – Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia
34. New England Patriots – Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina
35. Arizona Cardinals – Christian Haynes, OG, UConn
36. Washington Commanders – Chris Braswell, EDGE, Alabama
37. Los Angeles Chargers – Ruke Orhorhoro, DT, Clemson
38. Tennessee Titans – Adisa Isaac, EDGE, Penn State
39. Carolina Panthers – Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson
40. Washington Commanders – Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU
41. Green Bay Packers – Max Melton, CB, Rutgers
42. Houston Texans – Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota
43. Atlanta Falcons – Payton Wilson, LB, NC State
44. Las Vegas Raiders – T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State
45. New Orleans Saints – Zach Frazier, OC, West Virginia
46. Indianapolis Colts – Darius Robinson, EDGE/DL, Missouri
47. New York Giants – Roger Rosengarten, OT, Washington
48. Jacksonville Jaguars – Kris Jenkins, DT, Michigan
49. Cincinnati Bengals – Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
50. Philadelphia Eagles – Ja’lynn Polk, WR, Washington
51. Pittsburgh Steelers – Blake Fisher, OT, Notre Dame
52. Los Angeles Rams – Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri
53. Philadelphia Eagles – Jaden Hicks, S, Washington State
54. Cleveland Browns – Trey Benson, RB, Florida State
55. Indianapolis Colts (via mock trade with Dolphins) – Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida
56. Dallas Cowboys – Michael Hall, DT, Ohio State
57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Cooper Beebe, OL, Kansas State
58. Green Bay Packers – Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, S, Texas Tech
59. Houston Texans – Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&M
60. Buffalo Bills – After successfully acquiring Ladd McConkey in a trade with the Panthers, the Buffalo Bills now look to bolster their defense in the second round of the draft. With the 60th overall pick, the Bills select Cameron McGrone, LB, Michigan. McGrone is an athletic linebacker with excellent speed and agility. He has the ability to cover tight ends and running backs in pass coverage and is a sure tackler in the open field. With his versatility and playmaking ability, McGrone will be a valuable addition to the Bills’ linebacker corps.
61. Kansas City Chiefs – The Kansas City Chiefs are in need of reinforcements on the offensive line after their Super Bowl loss. With the 61st pick, they select James Hudson, OT, Cincinnati. Hudson is a powerful and agile tackle who excels in both pass protection and run blocking. He has the size and strength to handle powerful edge rushers and the quickness to mirror speed rushers. With his ability to anchor the offensive line, Hudson will provide much-needed protection for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
62. New Orleans Saints – After addressing their offensive line needs in the first round, the New Orleans Saints turn their attention to the secondary in the second round. With the 62nd pick, they select Ifeatu Melifonwu, CB, Syracuse. Melifonwu is a long and physical cornerback with excellent ball skills. He has the ability to press receivers at the line of scrimmage and disrupt their routes. With his size and athleticism, Melifonwu will be a valuable asset in the Saints’ secondary.
63. Green Bay Packers – The Green Bay Packers continue to add depth to their defense with the 63rd overall pick. They select Bobby Brown III, DT, Texas A&M. Brown is a disruptive force in the middle of the defensive line with his size and strength. He has the ability to collapse the pocket and disrupt the opposing team’s running game. With his ability to generate pressure up the middle, Brown will be a valuable addition to the Packers’ defensive front.
64. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – With the final pick of the second round, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers address their need for a pass rusher. They select Joe Tryon, EDGE, Washington. Tryon is a versatile edge rusher with excellent size and athleticism. He has the ability to rush the passer from both the edge and the interior, making him a valuable asset in the Buccaneers’ defensive scheme. With his ability to get after the quarterback, Tryon will provide a much-needed boost to the Buccaneers’ pass rush.
Round 3
60. Jacksonville Jaguars – Breece Hall, RB, Iowa State
61. New York Jets – John Rhys Plumlee, WR, Ole Miss
62. Detroit Lions – Kyren Williams, RB, Notre Dame
63. Houston Texans – Jalen Catalon, S, Arkansas
64. Philadelphia Eagles – Zion Tupuola-Fetui, EDGE, Washington
65. Carolina Panthers – Jordan Davis, DT, Georgia
66. Cincinnati Bengals – Chris Olave, WR, Ohio State
67. New York Giants – Jaxson Kirkland, OG, Washington
68. Atlanta Falcons – Kolby Harvell-Peel, S, Oklahoma State
69. Denver Broncos – John Emery Jr., RB, LSU
70. Miami Dolphins – Jahan Dotson, WR, Penn State
71. Washington Football Team – Jalen Redmond, DL, Oklahoma
72. Las Vegas Raiders – Charles Snowden, LB, Virginia
73. Pittsburgh Steelers – George Pickens, WR, Georgia
74. New England Patriots – Thayer Munford, OT, Ohio State
75. Chicago Bears – Jayden Daniels, QB, Arizona State
76. Minnesota Vikings – Myron Tagovailoa-Amosa, DT, Notre Dame
77. Indianapolis Colts – Jalen Wydermyer, TE, Texas A&M
78. New Orleans Saints – Andrew Booth Jr., CB, Clemson
79. Cleveland Browns – Zach Harrison, EDGE, Ohio State
80. Baltimore Ravens – Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU
81. Green Bay Packers – Jerrion Ealy, RB, Ole Miss
82. Seattle Seahawks – Tre’von Moehrig, S, TCU
83. Tennessee Titans – Jordan Battle, S, Alabama
84. Los Angeles Chargers – Garrett Shrader, QB, Syracuse
85. Arizona Cardinals – Tyler Davis, DT, Clemson
86. Dallas Cowboys – Jake Ferguson, TE, Wisconsin
87. Buffalo Bills – Isaiah Spiller, RB, Texas A&M
88. San Francisco 49ers – Daniel Faalele, OT, Minnesota
89. Kansas City Chiefs – Kobe Hudson, WR, Auburn
90. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Cameron McGrone, LB, Michigan
91. Indianapolis Colts (via mock trade with Bills) – Marquez Beason, CB, Illinois
92. Detroit Lions (via mock trade with Buccaneers) – Daxton Hill, S, Michigan
As the third round of the NFL Draft continues, the Detroit Lions make a trade with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to acquire the 92nd overall pick. With this pick, the Lions select Daxton Hill, a talented safety from the University of Michigan.
Hill is known for his exceptional athleticism and versatility on the field. He possesses great speed and agility, allowing him to cover a large area of the field and make plays in both the run and pass game. His instincts and football IQ make him a reliable defender, capable of reading and reacting to plays quickly.
In his college career, Hill showcased his playmaking ability, recording interceptions, forced fumbles, and pass breakups. He was also a valuable contributor on special teams, using his speed and tackling skills to make an impact on kick and punt coverage.
With the addition of Hill, the Lions strengthen their secondary and add depth to their defensive unit. His presence will provide a boost to their pass defense, as he has the ability to lock down receivers and make plays on the ball. Additionally, his versatility allows the coaching staff to utilize him in various defensive schemes and packages.
Overall, the selection of Daxton Hill in the third round is a strategic move by the Lions, addressing a key position of need and adding a talented player to their roster. With his skill set and potential, Hill has the opportunity to make an immediate impact and contribute to the team’s success in the upcoming season.
