Trade Talks, Top Quarterbacks, and Saban's Favorite Player: Latest Updates on the 2024 NFL Draft
ICARO Media Group
As the 2024 NFL Draft looms just two days away, trade talks, quarterback plans, and potential draft choices have dominated the headlines. Here's what we know so far about teams looking to move up and down the draft board, where highly sought-after signal-callers could end up, and a surprise favorite player of Nick Saban.
The Arizona Cardinals, currently holding the fourth overall pick, have informed interested teams that they don't intend to execute any trades until they are officially on the clock during Thursday night's prime time coverage. Despite several teams expressing interest in moving up, sources believe that it may come at a high price due to Arizona's strong conviction in a specific player, possibly Marvin Harrison Jr.
On the other hand, the New England Patriots, owners of the third pick, have indicated that they are open to trade discussions until they are officially on the clock. However, many experts predict that New England is unlikely to part ways with the valuable selection and instead will choose a quarterback to bolster their roster.
The uncertainty surrounding the Washington Commanders and their intentions with the second overall pick has complicated trade talks. However, reputable sources suggest that the Heisman Trophy winner, Jayden Daniels, is highly favored to land in Washington.
If Daniels is indeed chosen by Washington, it may impact the Las Vegas Raiders' options for a potential trade-up. The Raiders have been connected to multiple quarterbacks, with Washington's Michael Penix Jr. catching their attention. It seems Las Vegas is not content with their current quarterback options, Gardner Minshew and Aidan O'Connell, and is actively exploring a move to secure a promising player.
The Denver Broncos acquiring Zach Wilson has added another dimension to their quarterback situation. With no second-round pick and pressing needs in other positions, Denver has explored both trade-up and trade-down scenarios. Oregon's Bo Nix has been persistently linked to the Broncos, potentially becoming a second-round target.
The Atlanta Falcons and Los Angeles Rams could surprise observers with their quarterback choices. Atlanta has shown interest in both Penix Jr. and J.J. McCarthy, with Kirk Cousins providing the flexibility to groom a rookie quarterback. As for the Rams, they have been connected to Nix, thanks to his father's relationship with Rams GM Les Snead. With Matthew Stafford approaching 36, the Rams could be looking to secure a young quarterback for the future.
In other draft-related news, Notre Dame LT Joe Alt has drawn comparisons to the legendary Joe Thomas. Alt's athleticism, despite occasionally underwhelming tape, has impressed evaluators. Tennessee Titans and Los Angeles Chargers are speculated as possible landing spots for Alt.
Furthermore, it is predicted that at least seven, and potentially eight, tackles will be selected in the first round, which could impact the availability of second-tier wide receivers. Teams searching for both positions might have a better chance of finding a quality receiver on Day 2 rather than a quality tackle.
Lastly, Nick Saban, the renowned college football coach, has revealed his favorite player in this year's draft. Terrion Arnold, a skilled cornerback, has captured Saban's admiration for his hard work and development throughout his college career.
While trade talks, quarterback plans, and draft predictions continue to evolve, fans eagerly await the 2024 NFL Draft on Thursday night to witness the future stars of the league take their first steps onto the professional stage.