2024 NFL MOCK DRAFT ROUND 1 - FINAL PREDICTIONS FROM ALL 32 TEAMS

TRADE ALERT. Vikings receive: 3. Patriots receive: 11, 23, 108, 2025 first.

There's a buzz around New England snagging a QB with their pick, but let's not pencil that in just yet. The Patriots' war room is turning every quarterback prospect this side of the Mississippi over for a closer look, and draft night might still bring some curveballs. What if their top QB choice isn't on the board when they're on the clock? Could we see a trade-down? While I'm not saying a trade is a foregone conclusion, it's definitely in the cards. Whoever does make the call from this spot, bet your bottom dollar it's likely for a quarterback and Minnesota's been itching to come up. New England gets close to the 2021 Trey Lance draft day haul here.

4. Arizona Cardinals - Marvin Harrison Jr. - WR, Ohio State

The Cardinals are sitting pretty at the number four spot. Sure, there's chatter about GM Monti Ossenfort possibly trading down, but with a talent like Harrison Jr. on the board and a whopping eleven picks in their pocket, why roll the dice? Arizona's got seven picks in the top 104 alone they're like the high rollers of this draft game. Betting against them passing up a legacy talent like Harrison Jr., whose dad's a Hall of Famer? It looks like the Cards might just play their hand exactly where they are.

5. Los Angeles Chargers - Malik Nabers - WR, LSU

There's been quite the buzz about top-drafting teams trading back this year, but with the talent roster looking as dazzling as a Hollywood premiere, it's not the year to move down. Those teams in the top 10 are gripping their picks tight unless someone swoops in with a blockbuster offer they just can't turn down. Over in Chargers' camp, there's fresh leadership at the helm, yet they brought back quarterbacks coach Shane Day, clearly on star QB Justin Herbert's say-so. Now, with Herbert's main targets, Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, out the door, rumors swirl there's no succession plan. I'm not swallowing that pill. Something's cooking in the Chargers' strategy kitchen, and I'd bet it's set to sizzle.

6. New York Giants - Rome Odunze - WR, Washington

The Giants find themselves in a tight spot, no doubt about it. After opening up the wallet for Daniel Jones last year, their 2023 season turned out to be a bust. With Darren Waller eyeing the twilight of his career and Saquon Barkley now suiting up for the Eagles, the offensive cupboard's looking a bit bare. Their current wide receiver corps Wan'Dale Robinson, Jalin Hyatt, Isaiah Hodgins, and Darius Slayton are hardly the sort that keeps defensive coordinators up at night. Snagging a top-drawer WR1 like Odunze could be just the jolt the Giants' offense needs, offering Daniel Jones a shot at recapturing that fleeting 2022 sparkle.

7. Tennessee Titans - Joe Alt - OT, Notre Dame

The Titans are at a critical junction with QB Will Levis, navigating through a roster that's had more holes than Swiss cheese, courtesy of an O-line that's as shaky as a fiddler on a rickety roof. But here comes Joe Alt, son of the legend who once guarded Joe Montana's back. This young titan of a tackle is built more like a Greek god than a lineman, standing a towering 6-foot-8 and tipping the scales at 321 pounds. Remember the glory days when the Titans were trench royalty? If they're serious about giving Levis a fighting chance, it's high time they fortify those front lines. Joe Alt could just be the cornerstone they need to start building a formidable fortress upfront alongside offensive guard Peter Skoronski.

8. Atlanta Falcons - Byron Murphy II - DT, Texas

Atlanta's dreams of snagging an extra 2024 second-rounder fizzled out when the Jaguars decided to re-up with WR Calvin Ridley, leaving the Falcons clutching a 2024 third instead. But it's not all doom and gloom; their offensive lineup looks locked and loaded with the recent snag of QB Kirk Cousins. So, the Falcons swoop in and pick the cream of the crop in the edge-rushing department. The ATL defense has been stout but lacking a pure difference-maker up front for a while now.

9. Chicago Bears - Dallas Turner - Edge/OLB, Alabama

The Bears are sitting on a slim stack of draft picks this year, holding only four: 1, 9, 75, and 122. The smart play? They might look to trade back to beef up their draft capital, but let's talk needs specifically, their glaring hole at edge rusher. Enter Dallas Turner, who might not have the bulk you'd expect at 6-foot-2 and 247 lbs, but don't let his size fool you. The guy tore up the NFL Combine, posting a blazing 4.49 forty and a 1.54 10-yard split. Turner isn't just fast; he's a hurricane on the field, racking up 55 pressures and bagging 11 sacks last season, per PFF's tally. With those numbers, he might just be too tempting for the Bears to pass up, even if it means staying put,

10. New York Jets - Brock Bowers - TE, Georgia

The Jets, riding high on the Aaron Rodgers hype wave, hit turbulent waters when Rodgers' season sunk due to a devastating Achilles injury in the very first game. Now, with their finances tightly tied to Rodgers through 2025, the Jets are fully invested. The strategy? Load up on weapons and bank on Rodgers conjuring some of that old MVP magic. Bowers has been the king of college tight ends for the last three seasons, hands down. This guy does it all just look at his 14.5 yards per catch and a whopping 2.64 yards per routes run. Bringing him on board is a no-brainer.

 

NFL Draft Picks #11-21 - Will There Be Some Defense?

11. New England Patriots - QB - J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

The Patriots are sitting at a crossroads with a laundry list of needs and if the draft board doesn't differentiate much between Maye and McCarthy, it only makes sense for them to trade back and use the extra assets to bolster their offensive lineup. They've pulled Jacoby Brissett back into the fold, setting him up as the perfect bridge and mentor until McCarthy is primed to take the reins. At just 21, he stands tall with a cannon for an arm and the kind of agility that would leave a cat envious, dripping with that indefinable star quality. Sure, there's chatter about his lack of raw production, but McCarthy embodies the intangibles and potential that could make front-office dreams a reality.

12. Philadelphia Eagles (from Denver) - CB - Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo

TRADE ALERT. Eagles receive: 12, 207. Broncos receive 22, 53, and 171.

The Broncos are feeling the pinch without a second-round pick, thanks to their split with QB Russell Wilson. With the draft's top quarterbacks already snatched up, it seems a wise play for Denver to trade down and amass some additional picks. There's been some buzz about the Broncos peering up the draft board into the top three, though the cost would be steep. This move up the board is not typically in the playbook for someone like Eagles GM Howie Roseman. Yet, with Darius Slay at 33 and James Bradberry pushing 30, Philadelphia's secondary is desperate for a youth infusion.

13. Las Vegas Raiders - Troy Fautanu - OT, Washington

The Raiders are practically popping champagne at the chance to land a much-needed offensive lineman in this glittering draft class. With the quarterback elite already off the board and no dire needs shouting for attention, they've coolly snagged the top talent lingering on their draft board. Enter Fautanu, a behemoth from Washington whose college stint was a highlight reel of trench dominance, earning him the crown as the top offensive lineman in the Pac-12 from those who battle alongside him. This guy isn't just a blocker; he's got the versatility to kick inside and crush it at guard, bringing a whole new level of dynamism to the Raiders' front line.

14. New Orleans Saints - Olu Fashanu - OT, Penn State

Head Coach Dennis Allen dropped the bomb that RT Ryan Ramczyk might be sidelined for the entire 2024 season, adding another twist to the Saints' already tightrope-taut financial balancing act. GM Mickey Loomis continues to perform financial escapology with the cap space, wriggling through loopholes like a cap wizard. Despite the number-crunching acrobatics, the Saints are going all-in, recommitting to QB Derek Carr and giving Coach Allen another go at the helm. Left tackle Trevor Penning hasn't quite lived up to his first-round billing and might slide into the guard spot, clearing the stage for Fashanu. Here comes Fashanu, a colossus in cleats who boasts a pristine record of no sacks allowed in college, according to PFF.

15. Indianapolis Colts - Brian Thomas Jr. - WR, LSU

Chris Ballard, the GM of the Colts, has a radar tuned to the stars of the Combine, and Thomas was practically setting off fireworks there. With WR Michael Pittman Jr. wrapped up in a shiny new deal and CB Kenny Moore locked down too, the Colts are laser-focused on building a fortress of talent around QB Anthony Richardson. Picking up Thomas? That's just smart football. He's a field-stretcher who can zoom downfield, giving Richardson the perfect target to flaunt his rocket arm. For the Colts, it's about giving their young QB every possible weapon, ensuring the playbook's as explosive as their ambitions.

16. Seattle Seahawks - Laiatu Latu - Edge, UCLA

With no screaming needs and the cream of the QB crop already picked, Seattle plays it cool, scooping up the best player on their board. Originally hailing from Washington before transferring to UCLA, Latu dominated college football the last two seasons with 64 total pressures and a hefty 11 sacks in 2023. Outside of any medical concerns, there isn't much reason for Latu to fall much further than this. He's got so many moves in his bag and is incredibly strong with his hands. Wouldn't shock me at all if he's the first edge rusher off the board.

17. Jacksonville Jaguars - Terrion Arnold - CB, Alabama

In a division where you're locked in a showdown with C.J. Stroud for potentially the next decade, fortifying your secondary isn't just wise it's critical. Arnold enters the scene, stirring up chatter as possibly the top cornerback in the draft. His 2023 season was a clinic in defensive prowess, with five interceptions and a dozen passes defended, proving he's more than just a shadow in coverage; he's a solid enforcer against the run too. His 4.50 forty-yard dash time at the NFL Combine may not have shattered any records, but Arnold compensates with a razor-sharp football intellect. He's not a project player; Arnold is a plug-and-play maestro, ready to transform the Jags' secondary from day one with his instinctual play.

18. Cincinnati Bengals - Taliese Fuaga - OT, Oregon State

Protecting Joe Burrow is a top priority for the Bengals, as their franchise QB has been taking too many hits and missing crucial playtime recently. The team's big draft board probably has OT, WR, and DT highlighted as their three biggest needs. Scouts are buzzing that Fuaga is primed to shine either at guard or right tackle. With Trent Brown recently secured on a one-year ticket for the right side, could Cincinnati be plotting a strategic maneuver to slot Fuaga at guard initially? In the NFL's trenches, where versatility is as valuable as a quarterback's quick release, it looks like the Bengals are aiming to capitalize on Fuaga's flexibility to fortify their line.

19. Los Angeles Rams - Jared Verse - Edge/DE, Florida State

The Rams are grappling with the colossal void left by DT Aaron Donald hanging up his cleats a titan in the trenches if there ever was one. His retirement has left some massive shoes to fill, and sure enough, the Rams have been throwing money at the O-line in free agency, a clear signal they might be shifting their first-round draft focus to shoring up their defense. Enter Verse, a dynamo with a motor that just won't quit. His blend of raw power and ceaseless energy is just the kind of spice the Rams need to rekindle their Super Bowl dreams while Matthew Stafford is still slinging magic under center.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers - J.C. Latham - OT, Alabama

The Steelers are unapologetically old school at the draft table, grabbing the best player available without batting an eye at the supposed modern draft analytics. After shoring up guard Broderick Jones in the first round of last year's draft, the Steelers doubled down with Latham, who might very well be the strongest player in the draft. Latham played right tackle the last few years after Alabama's left tackle couldn't switch to the right side and might likely slide back to his normal spot protecting the QB's blindside.

 

NFL Draft Picks #21-32 - Who Else Goes off the Board?

21. Miami Dolphins - Graham Barton - OT/OG/OC, Duke

The Dolphins are diving deep into the tackle talent pool, snagging Barton as they make their move in the draft. While he shined as a left tackle in college, the scouts see his future inside, and he even took snaps at center during the Senior Bowl, showcasing his versatility. Not many linemen have the chops to cover all five spots on the line, but Barton's that guy, giving Miami some much-needed flexibility up front. After navigating some rough seas in free agency, with OG Robert Hunt heading to Carolina and LT Terron Armstead aging, Miami's playoff dreams are ticking down. Barton steps in, bringing his athletic prowess to McDaniel's vibrant offense, ready to light up the line like a South Beach sunrise.

22. Washington Commanders (from Denver through PHI) - Amarius Mims - OT, Georgia

TRADE ALERT. Commanders receive 22, 121. Broncos receive 36, 67, 100.

Washington's jumping on the tackle train before it runs out, snagging Mims as they sail through the draft. He's a young gun, not overflowing with experience but bursting with athletic prowess that could turn heads. Despite battling injuries in 2023, whispers from the 2022 Peach Bowl, where he faced off against Ohio State's ruthless edge rushers, keep echoing 'elite potential.' With a treasure chest of picks, the Commanders snagging Mims to shield Jayden Daniels' blindside? That's not just smart; it's a no-brainer for securing their QB's future. Times have changed in the nation's capital.

23. New England Patriots (from MIN through CLE/HOU) - Adonai Mitchell - WR, Texas

Reports on Mitchell are all over the place. While he didn't have elite production in college, injuries held him back. Mitchell shined at the combine and put on an absolute clinic. This dude can fly through the air and feels like one of the first total boom-or-bust picks of the draft. With New England having secured a treasure trove of future draft picks, giving their offense some playmakers only makes too much sense here.

24. Dallas Cowboys - Tyler Guyton - OT, Oklahoma

The Cowboys' playoff dreams took a harsh hit with that Wild Card shocker against the Packers. Big D has always had a thing for stacking the O-line, kind of how Texas can't get enough of its oil both are indispensable. But time's marching on, and those once-youthful linemen are heading towards their career sunsets, especially with Tyron Smith packing his bags this offseason. With big paydays on the horizon for stars like QB Dak Prescott and WR CeeDee Lamb, Dallas is on the prowl for some new blood in the trenches. Cue Guyton, the Oklahoma standout who's been tearing up the draft charts. Still green but brimming with top-shelf potential, he's set to inject some much-needed vigor into that Cowboy line.

25. Green Bay Packers - Cooper DeJean - CB, Iowa

Green Bay might still be riding high from their 2023 playbook, having smoothly transitioned the QB torch to Jordan Love and not skipping a beat on the field. They hit the jackpot with trades involving Davante Adams and Aaron Rodgers, and now they're practically drafting from a position of luxury. GM Brian Gutekunst is known for his conservative draft strategy, often bolstering the trenches with his early picks. But enter DeJean, a defensive Swiss Army knife too tantalizing to overlook. Cornerback, slot master, safety does it even matter? The dude's a jack-of-all-trades, turning any zone he patrols into his highlight reel. Green Bay has a knack for spotting elite talent, and DeJean fits their mold perfectly a genuine game-changer.

26. Las Vegas Raiders (from Tampa Bay) Michael Penix - QB, Washington

TRADE ALERT. Raiders receive: 26, 220. Buccaneers receive 44, 77, 148.

It's no secret that Raiders owner Mark Davis has been chomping at the bit for the team to find its new franchise quarterback. In a division with Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert, it only makes too much sense. Penix had an incredible senior season at Washington and led them to the national title game, leading some to believe he should have won the Heisman. Can't help but think this trade would have John Madden and Ken Stabler smiling down from above.

27. Arizona Cardinals (from Houston) - Nate Wiggins - CB, Clemson

28. Buffalo Bills - Jer'Zhan (Johnny) Newton - DT, Illinois

Buffalo's draft room might be teeming with chatter about snagging a wideout with their first pick, but let's just say GM Brandon Beane usually plays a different tune. This offseason, the Bills went on a youth movement, letting go of some seasoned pros to save on cap space and inject some fresh legs into the lineup. It's looking more like they might beef up either the offensive or defensive front early in the draft. Sure, they've locked down DT Ed Oliver again, but in the trenches, there's no such thing as too much depth. Enter Newton, who might not have turned heads at the Combine due to a small injury, but his 2023 stats scream elite with 43 total pressures and 8 sacks, as noted by PFF.

29. Detroit Lions - Darius Robinson - DE/DT, Missouri

Robinson was invited to the green room for the NFL Draft. A Detroit native who grew up rooting for the Lions, this pick only makes too much sense. There's been some talk about what Robinson's true position is: base end or interior defensive tackle. But in today's NFL, having such versatility should be seen as a strength, not as a weakness. The Lions have never been shy about drafting "their guys" regardless of where they might be on other team's boards. Robinson's motor never stops and being that the draft is in Detroit, this is a rather sweet homecoming of sorts.

30. Baltimore Ravens - Jordan Morgan - OT, Arizona

Year after year, this is the Ravens' M.O.: They cool their heels, watch as the draft board unfolds, and scoop up a gem who slides down to them only for him to blossom into a bona fide Pro Bowler. Enter Morgan, more than your typical tackle this dude can glide inside and dominate at guard, too. With their draft pick in hand, the Ravens could throw a curveball and pick anyone. But beefing up their O-line? That's classic Ravens, sticking faithfully to a proven formula. It's all about bolstering those trenches and maintaining the stout, physical brand of football that Coach Harbaugh champions.

31. San Francisco 49ers - Jackson Powers-Johnson - OG/OC, Oregon

As the 49ers bid farewell to Mike McGlinchey, who rode off into the free agency sunset before last season, and with Trent Williams nudging towards the seasoned age of 35, Shanahan's schematics remain a heartfelt ode to the run game, always scouting for agile giants to fortify the front lines. Enter JPJ more than your garden-variety offensive lineman, this dude has the versatility to slide inside and dominate as a guard. With their draft selection, the 49ers are in a prime spot to pull a surprise, but shoring up the O-line? That's playing to their strengths, sticking to a tried-and-true strategy. It's all about maintaining those powerful trenches, ensuring Shanahan's run-centric playbook continues to orchestrate its rugged symphony.

32. Kansas City Chiefs - Kool-Aid McKinstry - CB, Alabama

The Chiefs are at a crossroads with their draft strategy, but they're probably sleeping a bit easier now that Marquise Brown has juiced up their receiver room. Kool-Aid McKinstry, who was all the rage as the top cornerback in the summer of 2023, might have seen his stock cool off a tad during the season. Still, the guy's got a physical edge that seems tailor-made for the Chiefs' defensive maestro, Steve Spagnuolo, who's notorious for loving a good blitz. With the recent trade sending L'Jarius Sneed packing, Kansas City could use their first pick to bolster the secondary, making sure their defensive backfield is as robust as their offensive firepower.

Conclusion

Just two sleeps left, folks until the NFL Draft lights up the night! This isn't your garden-variety draft no, sir it's a feast of offensive talents where fantasy leagues are won and new legends are inked into NFL lore. Can you sense that charge in the air? That's the crackle of unbridled potential, the aroma of fresh talent about to sizzle on the professional gridiron.

As the countdown drops to this spectacle of the sport, why sit on our hands? Let's dive deep into the hype, spar over the prospects, and perhaps gear up to greet the future titans of the turf. The 2024 NFL Draft isn't merely an event; it's the curtain-raiser to the next saga in football's epic tale. Are you strapped in for what could be the wildest draft ride yet? Because the first few picks are about to strike a match that'll set the whole NFL universe ablaze!

If any picks in this mock draft grind your gears, let's duke it out on Twitter/X and hash it out. And remember, RotoBaller is your non-stop sanctuary for all things NFL. Here's to squeezing every last drop of football excitement and launching into a spectacular new season! Rounds 2-3 of the final mock draft of the 2024 season can be found here! As always, thanks for reading.

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