The NFL Draft in 2024 will take place in less than a week on April 25–27 in Detroit. Over the course of my 20 years of covering this event, one thing I’ve learned is that viewers may expect a few surprises—moves that very few, if any, mocks have predicted in advance.
I’ve outlined one of countless possible outcomes for the seven-round competition below, attempting to project a few unexpected but likely choices. I’ve restricted deals to only Rounds 1 and 2 (six total) below, but next Friday and Saturday you’ll most likely see at least a dozen more.
In order to help you understand where your team could find value in a position of need, this exercise is designed to give you a broad notion of when a player might be selected over the course of the weekend. In the end, though, it really comes down to considering possibilities rather than simply what people assume.
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Ever since Williams was given special eligibility for the 2024 NFL Draft, this choice has appeared to be a lock. He can create plays both inside and outside the pocket, which is a unique skill, and as he develops, I think he will rank among the league’s top five quarterbacks, which will be a first for this organization since the AFL-NFL merger.
Daniels should end up in Washington because of his growth as a quarterback over the past year. His 2023 performance with the Tigers helped him stand out from the crowd and project as a potential starter, which greatly improved his draft status. Although he attracted attention last season with his electrifying running style, it was his development working within the pocket, particularly in the second half of the season, that truly stood out. Daniels will be a pleasure to work with for offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury.
Since Tom Brady left the Patriots in 2020, Josh Allen and the Bills have surpassed the team in the AFC East. Therefore, it’s understandable that New England would be drawn to Maye as a muscular, strong-armed quarterback who might replicate Buffalo’s Pro Bowl thrower. One of the main criticisms of Maye, similar to Allen after leaving Wyoming, is his inconsistent performance. I believe that offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt would seize the chance to assist the young guy in realizing his full potential.
In New York, the Daniel Jones Era may be coming to an end. Recall that the Giants signed Drew Lock in March to the kind of contract a team typically offers a veteran before choosing a first-round quarterback; he was not this administration’s selection. Because of Michigan’s strong ground game, McCarthy didn’t need to throw the ball forty times in a game, but he did demonstrate his ability to thread throws into small windows, move well in the pocket, and dash for large gains when given the opportunity. By moving up two spots and outbidding other teams vying for the Cardinals’ place, the Giants acquire a second-round pick this year and next, perhaps in exchange for a 2024 Day 3 selection.
