2024 NFL Mock Draft: First Round Projections After Free Agency Frenzy
ICARO Media Group
As the first wave of free agency has begun to reshape the NFL landscape, teams are turning their attention towards the upcoming draft. With key signings and departures, the needs and priorities of franchises have shifted, leading to changes in their draft strategies. Here's a look at the latest 2024 NFL mock draft for the first round following the initial free agency frenzy.
The Chicago Bears, holding the first pick in the draft, are projected to select quarterback Caleb Williams from USC. After trading Justin Fields to the Steelers, the Bears are in need of a new signal-caller to lead their offense.
The Washington Commanders, with the second overall pick, are expected to select LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels. His skills and fit with head coach Kliff Kingsbury's system make him an attractive option for Washington.
The New England Patriots, looking for a fresh start under head coach Jerod Mayo, are projected to pick quarterback Drake Maye from UNC. Despite potential competition, Maye is seen as the best choice to lead the Patriots' offense.
The Arizona Cardinals, who lost key wide receivers Rondale Moore and Marquise Brown in free agency, are expected to address their receiving corps by selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. from Ohio State.
The Tennessee Titans, who recently signed Calvin Ridley to a big contract, turn their attention to the offensive line and are projected to pick Notre Dame's Joe Alt.
The Minnesota Vikings, after losing quarterback Kirk Cousins to the Falcons, make a move to acquire Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy. They trade a future first-round pick and the 23rd overall pick to Atlanta to secure McCarthy's services.
Continuing with their needs on defense, the Bears address their pass rushing needs by selecting Dallas Turner from Alabama with their second top-10 pick.
The New York Jets, who missed out on top wide receivers, solidify their offensive line by picking Taliese Fuaga to protect quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
The Los Angeles Chargers, having lost their starting wide receivers, select LSU's Malik Nabers to help bolster their receiving corps.
The New York Giants, in need of a true number one option, select Rome Odunze from Washington to provide their quarterback, Daniel Jones, with a reliable target.
The draft projections continue with teams like the Denver Broncos selecting quarterback Bo Nix from Oregon and the Las Vegas Raiders addressing their secondary needs with Alabama cornerback Terrion Arnold.
As the mock draft continues, the Philadelphia Eagles select LSU wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., the Atlanta Falcons add UCLA defensive lineman Laiatu Latu, and the Dallas Cowboys pick Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell.
Other notable selections include the Green Bay Packers picking Illinois defensive lineman Johnny Newton, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers selecting Oregon offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson, and the Buffalo Bills addressing their safety position with Minnesota's Tyler Nubin.
With each pick, teams aim to strengthen their rosters and address their specific needs. This mock draft reflects the impact of free agency on draft strategies and provides a glimpse into how teams might shape their future.
As the NFL offseason progresses, teams will continue to refine their draft strategies, scouting prospects, and making calculated decisions to build competitive rosters. The countdown to the 2024 NFL Draft is well underway, and expectations are high for the next generation of talented players ready to make their mark in the league.