Now that the College Football season has ended and the transfer portal has closed for most teams, we have a better look at the top prospects of the 2024 NFL Draft class and which players have decided to declare.
This raises questions about which teams might be looking to trade up on draft day and which teams might want to move back or out of the first round to gain assets. Follow along as I analyze the draft day scenarios and predict the trade value for teams looking to move up or down the board with my NFL Mock Draft 2.0.
2024 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: First-Round Picks & Predictions
1. Chicago Bears (via Panthers): Caleb Williams (QB, USC)
After just one mock draft, I have changed my mind about whether the Bears should continue with Justin Fields as their starter. However, I’m not the only one who has changed their opinion. It’s possible that Ryan Poles, the general manager who is responsible for drafting players for the Bears, has changed his mind multiple times since I released my first mock draft.
The downside for Fields is that he may have to look for a starting job elsewhere. However, if Chicago trades him at that point, they can use the trade value to provide abundant talent to support Caleb Williams.
This blog does not aim to criticize Fields’ abilities or suggest that the team needs a better quarterback to lead them. Instead, it focuses on how the team can build for the future and remain competitive while also not paying Fields in the upcoming seasons. By trading Fields for draft capital and bringing in a quarterback with similar or greater talent, the franchise can rebuild in the best possible way.
2. Washington Commanders: Drake Maye (QB, North Carolina)
The Commanders will likely choose a quarterback during the Draft. Sam Howell has shown some promise, and it would be wise for Washington to trade back and focus on building a strong offensive line around him. However, Drake Maye is an exceptional prospect that Washington may not be able to pass up, regardless of Howell’s potential.
Fans and members of Washington’s front office, including Magic Johnson, are looking for a new face of the franchise to help turn things around, and in most cases, this means finding a franchise-changing quarterback.
There is a possibility that the Commanders may trade up to the 1.01 spot to draft Caleb Williams, especially with Kliff Kingsbury‘s recent hiring. However, given the numerous gaps in Washington’s roster, it is unlikely that they would be willing to sacrifice multiple draft picks to move up just one spot.
3. New England Patriots: Jayden Daniels (QB, LSU)
I always find the New England Patriots’ draft day moves surprising. Sometimes, they pick players nobody had on their radar or trade back when a top prospect is available. However, I am trying to be optimistic now that Bill Belichick is not in the draft room.
If Robert Kraft is ready to look towards the future, then I should do the same. I believe that the Patriots should consider drafting Jayden Daniels, the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner, who could bring a new style of offense to New England.
4. Chicago Bears (via Cardinals): Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR, Ohio State)
Some may disagree, but I believe the Chicago Bears could select both Caleb Williams and Marvin Harrison Jr. in the upcoming draft. While there’s hope that Harrison Jr. will be reunited with Justin Fields if Chicago moves back from the 1.01, I think it makes more sense for the Bears to pay a cheaper quarterback contract and establish the QB/WR connection for long-term success. As both players are considered generational talents, they could exceed expectations and thrive off each other, becoming the best players at their positions in this class.
Chicago could stay at 1.09 and hope to draft Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze. Alternatively, they could look to the 1.04, where Arizona might be willing to move out and gain more draft capital. The Cardinals still have other positions to fill and could get some talented wide receivers later in the Draft due to the stacked class this year.
Trade Package:
Chicago Bears:
- 2024 First-Round Pick (1.04) via Arizona Cardinals
Arizona Cardinals:
- 2024 First-Round Pick (1.09) via Chicago Bears
- 2024 Third-Round Pick (3.09) via Chicago Bears
- 2025 First-Round Pick via Chicago Bears
5. Los Angeles Chargers: Joe Alt (OT, Notre Dame)
Now that Jim Harbaugh has taken over as the head coach of the Los Angeles team, it’s time to put his plan into action and make Justin Herbert a top-level player. Those familiar with Harbaugh’s coaching style know that he values team atmosphere above all else.
A strong offensive line is essential to the success of any team. While the quarterback may be the team’s leader, the offensive line is the most important part of the team. You can have talented wide receivers or tight ends, but without a strong offensive line, there won’t be enough time to make plays. Therefore, if Harbaugh wants to showcase Herbert’s abilities, he must begin by building a solid offensive line.
6. New York Giants: Malik Nabers (WR, LSU)
As Jay Z said at the Grammys, “When I’m nervous, I tell the truth.” So, I must admit that the truth for the Giants is that no free-agent receiver will be interested in playing for them. The team is uncertain about who will be their quarterback in the future. The turf quality at MetLife Stadium is also not up to the mark. Plus, the New York media scrutinizes everything. In short, nobody wants to be there.
So, what can the Giants do to tackle this situation? They can draft a top-tier wide receiver to provide more weapons to whoever becomes the quarterback in the future. It’s an easy solution, and if it doesn’t work, they can always reach out to Kenny Golladay.
7. Tennessee Titans: Olumuyiwa Fashanu (OT, Penn State)
To understand which player the Titans might select with their first-round pick, we need to consider not only their fit within the team’s strategy but also whether the pick is appropriate for a first-time head coach. Brian Callahan’s appointment as head coach for the Titans surprised many NFL fans, myself included.
However, we should not underestimate Callahan’s potential value to the team. He was a key factor in the Cincinnati Bengals’ recent success, and he has big shoes to fill in Tennessee.
Although the Titans are looking to fill the left tackle position vacated by Taylor Lewan, it is important to note that Callahan had a role in the Bengals’ decision to draft wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase instead of offensive tackle Penei Sewell. If Nabers is still available after being passed up by the Giants, I believe that the Titans will select Nabers over Olumuyiwa Fashanu. If not, they settle for a potential generational tackle.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Jared Verse (EDGE, Florida State)
At this stage of the mock draft, you might be wondering about the whereabouts of quarterbacks like Michael Penix Jr., Bo Nix and J.J. McCarthy. We will eventually get to them, but I think the Falcons would prefer to give up a second-round pick to acquire Fields instead of drafting one of those three quarterbacks and missing out on a top-notch edge rusher.
If you’re curious why I have Jared Verse as the first EDGE off the board, I am following the books. Vegas bettors have better connections to front offices and know the players that certain teams are interested in. There is a reason why Verse is 5-1 to be the first Non-QB drafted off the board, which is even above Joe Alt and Fashanu.
9. Arizona Cardinals (via Bears): Laiatu Latu (EDGE, UCLA)
We have now reached the second half of the first trade of the NFL Draft. The Cardinals decide to prioritize bringing in a top EDGE rusher over choosing a wide receiver.
The Cardinals are difficult to predict, as they have many different options for their selection. However, they still have another first-round pick from Houston that they can use to select a wide receiver.
If they believe that making these moves will give them enough assets to compete in their division and that the WRs three and five are closer than what is commonly believed, they should make that move.
10. Jacksonville Jaguars (via Jets): Rome Odunze (WR, Washington)
We now move on to the second trade of the NFL Draft, in which the Jaguars decide to move up and find a replacement for Calvin Ridley. This move benefits them, as they don’t have to send additional draft picks to Atlanta for the 2022 trade since Ridley isn’t returning to Jacksonville in this scenario.
The Jets would be sitting at the 1.10 spot, with both top offensive tackles, Alt and Fashanu, off the board. The Cardinals surprisingly passed on Rome Odunze. New York could take advantage of the Jaguars’ need for a top rookie receiver to replace Ridley. They can move back to stockpile picks if they’re interested in some of the second-tier offensive tackles in this class.
Trade Package:
Jacksonville Jaguars:
- 2024 First-Round Pick (1.10) via New York Jets
- Guard Laken Tomlinson via New York Jets
New York Jets:
- 2024 First-Round Pick (1.17) via Jacksonville Jaguars
- 2024 Third-Round Pick (3.17) via Jacksonville Jaguars
- 2025 Second-Round Pick via Jacksonville Jaguars
11. Minnesota Vikings: Jer’Zhan Newton (DI, Illinois)
Although it may not be the most thrilling choice for fans hoping for a future quarterback, selecting the best defensive tackle in the Draft is still a great option. Bottomline: The Vikings need to improve their defensive line to successfully stop the talented running backs in the NFC North.
12. Denver Broncos: J.J. McCarthy (QB, Michigan)
While there has been some speculation about the relationship between Sean Payton and Russell Wilson, I don’t think choosing a QB in the first round will surprise many.
However, a common belief is that McCarthy is the fourth or fifth-best quarterback in this year’s Draft. I disagree with this narrative entirely, as I think the Michigan signal-caller has the potential to be a top NFL quarterback. In fact, I believe he has the potential to end up being one of the top two most successful QBs in this class… and it might not be No. 2.
Payton understands that Wilson may not be the same player he once was. He needs to find a new franchise quarterback if he wants to succeed in Denver. He doesn’t necessarily need to find another Drew Brees, but he could find a quarterback in McCarthy, who can be a solid contributor to the team.
13. Las Vegas Raiders: Kool-Aid McKinstry (CB, Alabama)
This year’s class of cornerbacks doesn’t seem to have an outstanding player like in previous ones. However, I believe Kool-Aid McKinstry could be the best fit for the Raiders’ scheme and has the potential to become the top cornerback of this class.
Although Jack Jones has been doing a good job since joining the team, the Raiders still need more secondary help to prevent the offensive playmakers in the AFC West from scoring.
14. New Orleans Saints: Taliese Fuaga (OT, Oregon State)
Moving into the second tier of offensive tackles, Taliese Fuaga is an absolute brute of a human being. The New Orleans Saints have invested a lot of money and draft capital in developing their offensive line, especially the offensive tackles.
However, everything they have done so far seems like a temporary fix. Regardless of the development of Trevor Penning or the knee issues with Ryan Ramczyk, having Fuaga on their offensive line for four to five years would be a welcomed addition by New Orleans.
15. Indianapolis Colts: Brock Bowers (TE, Georgia)
On a previous episode of “The In-Between Fantasy Football Podcast,” it was discussed that Brock Bowers would be a perfect fit for the Indianapolis team. Bowers is already regarded as a top dynasty fantasy football asset at tight end due to his expected contributions.
Having Bowers as an additional playmaker in the Colts’ offense could significantly impact the development of Anthony Richardson while also assisting a rebuilding offensive line on the blocking side of things. In the NFL, many successful quarterbacks have a go-to tight end, such as Patrick Mahomes with Travis Kelce, Lamar Jackson with Mark Andrews and so on.
Therefore, it is recommended that if you own any dynasty shares of Richardson, you should consider joining the Richardson/Bowers trend before it becomes too late.
16. Seattle Seahawks: Dallas Turner (EDGE, Alabama)
It’s surprising that the name of Dallas Turner has fallen so far in the draft, as he is arguably the class’s best EDGE rusher. His fit in a particular team’s scheme may be the reason for his slight drop out of the top 15. However, there’s no need for him to be disappointed, as he’s now joining a newly-appointed, defensive-minded head coach.
Mike Macdonald, looking to build a top-tier defense in Seattle, could see Turner as the first piece to rebuilding the “Legion of Boom.” It’s similar to how Demeco Ryans found his defensive first piece in Will Anderson Jr. last season.
17. New York Jets (via Jaguars): JC Latham (OT, Alabama)
The decision to trade out of the top 10 has worked out for New York, as they can now acquire an offensive tackle to protect Aaron Rodgers while also securing future draft picks. At one point, JC Latham may have been worth drafting 10th overall.
However, Fuaga has improved his draft stock, allowing the Jets to benefit from Jacksonville’s need for a wide receiver and still land their top target. If the Packers and David Bakhtiari can agree to a buyout, I could also see the Jets continuing to pursue offensive tackles this offseason.
18. Cincinnati Bengals: Amarius Mims (OT, Georgia)
Some analysts have the Cincinnati Bengals selecting a new wide receiver in the upcoming draft to replace Tee Higgins. However, it appears that the Bengals are determined to keep Higgins on the team for the long term. While it’s tempting to imagine finding a top rookie wide receiver to pair with Joe Burrow, there is plenty of talent available later in the Draft this year.
Although drafting skill players can be exciting, protecting the quarterback is crucial in football. Jonah Williams, the Bengals’ starting offensive tackle, is set to become a free agent soon. Given Burrow’s injury history, the Bengals should prioritize protecting him by finding a suitable replacement for Williams.
19. Los Angeles Rams: Tyler Guyton (OT, Oklahoma)
Three offensive tackles have been selected in a row. Let’s give a shoutout to the big boys.
Before the start of the 2023 season, we all had doubts about the Rams and their potential. However, no one could have predicted how well Kyren Williams and Puka Nacua would perform. Now, as the Rams aim to become a consistent playoff team, they must focus on strengthening their offensive line for the future. Since Andrew Whitworth‘s retirement, the Rams’ offensive line has not performed at its best.
Additionally, Rob Havenstein, a starting tackle, is nearing the end of his contract and is in his early 30s. This opens the door for the Rams to acquire tackle Tyler Guton of Oklahoma.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Cooper DeJean (CB, Iowa)
As noted, this year’s cornerback class lacks a top standout player who would be worth selecting with a top-10 pick. The top few cornerback prospects are considered to have equal value, so where they end up being drafted will depend on their fit with a team’s scheme.
If Cooper DeJean were to join the Pittsburgh Steelers, it would provide an instant boost to their struggling secondary. The Steelers have to play against the top wide receivers in the AFC North regularly, which often exposes their back end. It’s likely that the Pittsburgh front office is aware of this and may consider investing their first-round pick in another cornerback to pair with Joey Porter Jr. for the future.
21. Miami Dolphins: Byron Murphy II (DI, Texas)
Byron Murphy II has been rising up most Draft boards, which is well-deserved. Many teams are keen to strengthen their defensive lines, especially the defensive interior, to prevent inside runs. A top defensive tackle would be a great pick for the Draft.
Jer’Zhan Newton is currently the top defensive tackle of this class, but Murphy II could also shine as a star in the making, especially with a team like Miami that has many playmakers.
22. Philadelphia Eagles: Nate Wiggins (CB, Clemson)
The Eagles’ defense needs a major overhaul this offseason, and one crucial aspect of this is to involve more young and talented players. Although the Eagles do have some young players scattered throughout their defense, the areas that require the most attention are the linebackers and cornerbacks.
Now that Philadelphia has announced that Haason Reddick is available for trade, it is evident that they are prioritizing youth in this position. While Darius Slay is an excellent player, the team will eventually need to introduce younger players at this position or provide more support for Slay in the secondary.
23. Arizona Cardinals (via Texans): Brian Thomas Jr. (WR, LSU)
The Cardinals made some interesting choices during this mock draft. They decided not to select Harrison Jr. or Odunze and instead went with Laiatu Latu after trading down. This raises a question about why they would then trade up for Brian Thomas Jr.
It might be better to select Harrison Jr. and potentially Bralen Trice instead of Latu, Thomas Jr and multiple picks. However, the Cardinals believe Latu is much better than Trice and Demeioun “Chop” Robinson and that Thomas Jr. is closer in talent to Odunze.
Trade Package:
Arizona Cardinals:
- 2024 First-Round Pick (1.23) via Houston Texans
Houston Texans:
- 2024 First-Round Pick (1.27) via Arizona Cardinals
- 2024 Third-Round Pick (3.04) via Arizona Cardinals
24. Dallas Cowboys: Troy Franklin (WR, Oregon)
Dallas Cowboys fans might feel a little let down because they won’t get to see CeeDee Lamb and Thomas Jr. together on the same team. However, Troy Franklin seems like a better fit for the Cowboys than Thomas Jr. Though he is not likely to become a No. 1 receiver in the NFL, Franklin would complement Lamb very nicely.
25. Green Bay Packers: Jordan Morgan (OT, Arizona)
While it may not be the most exciting pick, it is necessary for the Packers’ plans. The current left tackle, Bakhtiari, is highly skilled but has been facing injury issues, making it difficult for him to remain on the field. Therefore, the team must have a backup plan. Acquiring another tackle and letting go of Bakhtiari’s contract is a wise move by Brian Gutekunst. It will enable the team to get younger and continue to develop together.
26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Terrion Arnold (CB, Alabama)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have proven that they still have a lot of talented players on their team, even after their Super Bowl win with Tom Brady. Allowing Baker Mayfield to play to his strengths and with confidence has shown that the Buccaneers can continue to be the best team in the NFC South.
However, Tampa Bay’s cornerback room and the secondary in general need improvement before they can surpass teams like the Lions and 49ers. Terrion Arnold may be overshadowed by his Alabama teammate McKinstry, but he is still a valuable first-round pick.
27. Houston Texans (via Cardinals): Bralen Trice (DE, Washington)
Ryans has demonstrated his potential to be an exceptional head coach in the league. He has a talent for bringing out the best in his players, including those left over from the old regime.
Ryans has already taken the first step towards building his top-tier defense by acquiring Anderson Jr. third overall last year. Having multiple playmakers on your defensive line is crucial in today’s NFL. Houston could benefit from acquiring another EDGE rusher like Trice to pair with Anderson Jr., creating havoc in the AFC South.
28. Buffalo Bills: Keon Coleman (WR, Florida State)
The Khalil Shakir hype is growing, but we should be cautious. While there is uncertainty around Stefon Diggs, if Shakir were going to be a significant part of the offense, we would likely have seen it already. This situation resembles how we were optimistic about K.J. Osborn before the Vikings drafted Jordan Addison.
It’s probable that Gabriel Davis has caught his last pass from Josh Allen and will be seeking a new team this offseason. Drafting a player who was once considered the third-best receiver in this class to pair with Josh Allen would be an excellent choice for the Bills.
29. Detroit Lions: Adonai Mitchell (WR, Texas)
At one point, I thought the Lions would acquire Tee Higgins this offseason. However, it seems like Cincinnati is determined to keep him. Therefore, the Lions will likely select another wide receiver during the draft.
The Lions have talented players but lack a reliable WR3, similar to Philadelphia. Jameson Williams has struggled with injuries and disappearing from games, so the Lions need another playmaker to complement Amon-Ra St. Brown.
Although Detroit’s playmakers from last year may not have been strong enough to beat San Francisco, adding Adonai Mitchell would make this a fantasy football lineup come to life.
30. Baltimore Ravens: Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (CB, Missouri)
The Ravens face a significant challenge this offseason. Although their defense performed exceptionally well this season, some of their cornerbacks are hitting free agency, which presents an opportunity to save some cap space and refresh the team.
This is where the Ravens could opt to go younger, with Kyle Hamilton becoming the franchise’s cornerstone safety and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. being groomed as the future star in the cornerback position. I believe this would be an excellent move for the team.
31. San Francisco 49ers: Demeioun “Chop” Robinson (EDGE, Penn State)
As a 49ers fan, the last thing I want to do right now is think about the team’s future after the disappointing Super Bowl loss. However, I am uncertain if they can keep Chase Young on the team. When Young came over from Washington, he experienced what it’s like to be a part of a winning culture. With his outstanding performance in the Super Bowl, I fully expect another team to offer Young a better deal than what the 49ers can offer.
The best-case scenario would be if Young starts accepting deals similar to Jadeveon Clowney and returns to the 49ers after experiencing a winning culture. However, the most realistic scenario is that the 49ers let Young go and bring in a top EDGE rusher from Penn State, such as Robinson.
32. Minnesota Vikings (via Chiefs): Michael Penix Jr. (QB, Washington)
The Chiefs take advantage of the Vikings’ need for a quarterback and Minnesota’s desire to secure Penix Jr. before he drops out of the first round.
Although the Vikings had the chance to select the 2023 Heisman Trophy runner-up earlier, his injury history and Washington’s abundance of playmakers made it wiser to choose the best defensive tackle prospect instead of the third or fourth-best quarterback prospect.
However, now that an opportunity has presented itself to acquire Penix Jr. and pair him with talented receivers Justin Jefferson and Addison, it would be a great decision for Minnesota to pursue him, regardless of the situation with Kirk Cousins.
Trade Package:
Minnesota Vikings:
- 2024 First-Round Pick (1.31) via Kansas City Chiefs
Kansas City Chiefs:
- 2024 Second-Round Pick (2.10) via Minnesota Vikings
- 2025 Second-Round Pick via Minnesota Vikings
Check out all of our 2024 NFL Draft content:
- 2024 NFL Combine Winners & Losers | Fantasy Football
- How To Make the Most out of Betting on the 2024 NFL Draft
- Which NFL Teams Need To Pursue a Higher Draft Pick (2024)
- 2024 NFL Draft Betting Guide: Top-Five Picks Overview & Predictions
- Hoov’s 2024 NFL Mock Draft 3.0: First-Round Picks & Predictions
- Hoov’s 2024 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: First-Round Picks & Predictions
- Hoov’s 2024 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: First-Round Picks & Predictions
Thanks for reading my 2024 NFL Mock Draft 2.0. For more content, find me on Twitter, @hoovtube.
*Featured Photo Credit: Nell Redmond – USA TODAY Sports*
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