NFL Draft Mock 2024: Surprising Picks and Trades

Nfl Draft Mock

NFL Draft Mock 2024: Analysts Predict Surprise Picks as Teams Jockey for Top Talent

April 24, 2024

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, analysts and fans alike are buzzing over the latest mock drafts, with several surprise projections shaking up expectations. With just days remaining before the first round kicks off in Detroit, speculation is running high about which teams will make bold moves to secure franchise-changing players.

Quarterbacks Dominate Early Picks

Most mock drafts predict a historic run on quarterbacks in the top five, with USC’s Caleb Williams widely expected to go first overall to the Chicago Bears. However, intrigue begins at No. 2, where the Washington Commanders could choose between North Carolina’s Drake Maye and LSU’s Jayden Daniels. ESPN’s latest mock suggests the Commanders may opt for Daniels’ dual-threat ability, while NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah has Maye as the pick.

The New England Patriots, holding the No. 3 selection, are also in the QB market, but some analysts believe they could trade down if a team like the Minnesota Vikings or Denver Broncos makes an aggressive offer to move up.

Surprise Names Rising Up the Board

While the top of the draft is quarterback-heavy, several unexpected names have surged in recent projections. Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy, once considered a mid-first-rounder, is now being mocked as high as No. 4 to the Arizona Cardinals in some scenarios. Meanwhile, Georgia tight end Brock Bowers has been linked to the Los Angeles Chargers at No. 5, despite many assuming they would target an offensive tackle.

Defensive prospects are also making waves, with Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner and UCLA pass rusher Laiatu Latu being touted as potential top-10 picks. The New York Giants (No. 6) and Atlanta Falcons (No. 8) could shake up the draft by prioritizing defense over offensive needs.

Potential Blockbuster Trades

Trade speculation is heating up, particularly around teams looking to secure a top wide receiver. Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. is the consensus WR1, but LSU’s Malik Nabers and Washington’s Rome Odunze could also prompt teams like the Jets (No. 10) or Saints (No. 14) to move up.

The Vikings, armed with two first-round picks (Nos. 11 and 23), are seen as prime candidates to trade into the top five for a quarterback. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills (No. 28) and Kansas City Chiefs (No. 32) could make late-first-round moves to bolster their rosters for another Super Bowl push.

Final Predictions Before Draft Night

With so much uncertainty, this year’s draft promises drama from the first pick. Will the Bears stick with Williams, or could a last-minute trade alter the landscape? Could a team like the Raiders or Rams make a surprise jump into the top 10?

As analysts release their final mock drafts, one thing is certain: expect the unexpected when commissioner Roger Goodell steps to the podium on April 25.

Stay tuned for live coverage of the 2024 NFL Draft on ESPN, NFL Network, and ABC.

— By [Your Name], Sports Correspondent

NFL Draft Mock 2024: Surprising Picks and Trades

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