2024 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: McClintock’s picks; Top 5 Trade, Penix Goes To Seattle.

The 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit Michigan is now only 51 days away. As the dust settles on the 2024 NFL scouting combine, football fans and analysts alike eagerly anticipate the upcoming draft in April. With each passing day, the picture becomes clearer as teams assess their needs, evaluate prospects, and strategize for the future. The combine serves as a pivotal moment in this process, providing valuable insights into the physical and mental abilities of potential draftees.

One notable aspect of this year’s combine was the absence of many top quarterbacks and wide receivers from the on-field drills. Despite this, the event offered a platform for prospects to showcase their talents, engage with team executives and media, and solidify their draft stock. Now, as attention turns to free agency and pro days, the draft landscape continues to evolve.

One of the most intriguing storylines emerging from the combine is the quarterback position. With several teams in need of a franchise signal-caller, the draft presents an opportunity to address this crucial role. Prospects like Caleb Williams from USC and Jayden Daniels from LSU have garnered attention for their potential to make an impact at the next level while also not working out in Indianapolis. Teams like the Chicago Bears and Washington Commanders could be eyeing these quarterbacks as potential future leaders of their offenses.

Meanwhile, the wide receiver position appears to be loaded with talent in this year’s draft class. Players like Marvin Harrison Jr. from Ohio State and Rome Odunze from Washington have impressed with their athleticism and playmaking ability. These receivers could provide an immediate boost to teams in need of firepower on offense, such as the Arizona Cardinals and Los Angeles Chargers.

Of course, the draft is about more than just quarterbacks and wide receivers. Teams must also address needs across the offensive and defensive lines, at linebacker, and in the secondary. Players like Joe Alt from Notre Dame and Taliese Fuaga from Oregon State offer intriguing options for teams looking to bolster their offensive lines, while prospects like Dallas Turner from Alabama and Johnny Newton from Illinois could make an impact on defense.

As the draft approaches, teams will continue to evaluate prospects, conduct interviews, and finalize their draft boards. The post-combine mock draft serves as a snapshot of the current landscape, but much can change in the weeks leading up to draft day. With free agency set to begin and pro days underway, the draft picture will become clearer as teams make their final preparations for one of the most important events on the NFL calendar.

With that in mind, I have come up with a 1st Round Mock Draft full of Risers, Fallers, and a top 5 trade? Sure why not. With that in mind… Chicago, you’re on the clock:

1. Chicago Bears (acquired from the Carolina Panthers): Quarterback Caleb Williams, USC: During the combine, Williams was mostly engaged in conversations with team officials and media, supporting his fellow prospects during their workouts. However, reports from the Bears’ camp suggest a departure from the current quarterback, Justin Fields. With Williams’ impressive attributes including his arm strength, field vision, and capability for off-platform throws, he emerges as a compelling choice for Chicago. Additionally, his track record as a red-zone threat, with 21 rushing touchdowns over two seasons, adds to his allure. While he needs refinement in ball security and decision-making, Williams holds the potential to become a cornerstone of the Bears’ resurgence, potentially resetting the team’s quarterback position for the foreseeable future.

   

2. Washington Commanders: Quarterback Jayden Daniels, LSU: According to ESPN reports, the new team owner, Josh Harris, actively participated in interviews with six quarterback prospects, signaling a keen interest in bolstering the team’s quarterback position. Daniels, the recipient of the 2023 Heisman Trophy, expressed admiration for the team’s staff during his interactions with them at the combine. His impressive statistics, including 40 touchdown passes and only 4 interceptions last season, underscore his prowess in decision-making, accuracy, and touch. Furthermore, Daniels’ remarkable ability to run, accumulating 2,019 yards and 22 touchdowns over the past two seasons, adds another dimension to his skill set. However, there are concerns about his susceptibility to big hits, reminiscent of past experiences in the nation’s capital. Despite this, Daniels holds immense potential, particularly in OC Kliff Kingsbury’s offensive scheme, making him an enticing prospect for the Washington Commanders.

   

3. New England Patriots: Offensive Tackle Joe Alt, Notre Dame: Standing at an imposing 6 feet 9 inches and weighing 321 pounds, Alt boasts an impressive resume as a unanimous 2023 All-American. Notably, he is the son of legendary Chiefs lineman John Alt, further adding to his football pedigree. Widely hailed as one of the premier blockers in this year’s draft class, Alt’s talents have caught the attention of many scouts and analysts. While some projections suggest he may not be selected as high as this pick, there’s speculation that the Patriots could opt for a different strategy. With Eliot Wolf, the new director of scouting, tasked with addressing multiple roster needs, including the impending free agency departures of Trent Brown and Mike Onwenu, the Patriots may consider trading back to acquire additional picks. This approach aligns with Wolf’s potential inclination towards an inside-out roster-building strategy, influenced by his background in the Packers organization. By fortifying the offensive line with a player like Alt, the Patriots could lay the groundwork for supporting a young quarterback in the future, providing stability and protection for years to come.

   
4. Arizona Cardinals: Wide Receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State: Despite his absence from the field at Lucas Oil Stadium and lack of interaction with reporters during the combine, Marvin Harrison Jr. remains a standout prospect in the eyes of many. As the recipient of the 2023 Biletnikoff Award and a two-time All-American, Harrison boasts an impressive resume and comes from a lineage of football greatness with his Hall of Fame bloodlines. His consistent performance, averaging over 1,200 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns over the past two seasons, solidifies his status as one of the draft’s top talents. With a reputation for producing top-tier receivers, Ohio State has once again delivered in Harrison. Even if the Cardinals retain speedster Marquise Brown, Harrison could quickly emerge as the primary target for quarterback Kyler Murray. His potential to fill the void left by the departure of DeAndre Hopkins makes him a tantalizing prospect for Arizona’s offense, poised to make a significant impact at the professional level.

   

5. Chicago Bears (via mock trade with LAC): Malik Nabers, Wide Receiver, LSU: In a bold move aimed at enhancing their offensive arsenal, the Chicago Bears orchestrate a trade to secure wide receiver Malik Nabers from LSU. General manager Ryan Poles is making a concerted effort to bolster the supporting cast around their newly acquired quarterback. Nabers, who amassed an impressive 1,569 receiving yards last season, brings a dynamic skill set to the table, reminiscent of DJ Moore whom the Bears acquired last spring. Known for his explosiveness on the field, Nabers is expected to complement Moore seamlessly. The potential trio of Moore, Nabers, and tight end Cole Kmet forms a formidable offensive trio that could provide immediate support for quarterback Caleb Williams as he embarks on his NFL journey. This strategic move underscores the Bears’ commitment to providing their young quarterback with the tools needed to thrive at the professional level.

   

6. New York Giants: Quarterback J.J. McCarthy, Michigan: Despite his limited opportunities in the passing game during his tenure at Ann Arbor, J.J. McCarthy’s draft stock continues to soar. This upward trajectory can be attributed to several factors including his demeanor, accuracy, leadership qualities, athleticism, and high potential. Notably, McCarthy boasts an impressive record of 27 wins against only 1 loss during his time with the Wolverines, highlighting his ability to lead his team to victory. Additionally, his skill set makes him an appealing prospect for the Giants, who may see him as a valuable asset to groom behind incumbent quarterback Daniel Jones, who has been on the rocks with the coaching staff. With the potential to learn and develop under Jones’ guidance, McCarthy could be positioned for future success in the NFL. This scenario also offers the Giants flexibility, as they could explore options regarding Jones’ future depending on his performance in the upcoming season.

   
7. Tennessee Titans: Offensive Lineman Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State: The Tennessee Titans, in dire need of fortifying their offensive line, select Taliese Fuaga from Oregon State. Their league-leading 64 sacks allowed in the AFC last season highlight the urgency to provide better protection for their young quarterback, Will Levis. Fuaga, who primarily played right tackle for the Beavers, excels in both pass protection and run blocking, offering a well-rounded skill set to bolster the Titans’ offensive front. Additionally, under the guidance of new head coach Brian Callahan, who has the expertise of his father, legendary O-line coach Bill Callahan, the Titans aim to solidify their offensive line with another promising prospect. With the success of their previous first-round pick, LG Peter Skoronski, from the previous year, the Titans are optimistic that adding Fuaga to their lineup will accelerate their rebuilding efforts and set them on a path to success sooner than expected.

   

8. Atlanta Falcons: Quarterback Drake Maye, North Carolina: The Atlanta Falcons are poised to make significant changes at the quarterback position, whether through trading for established talent like Fields, signing a free agent such as Kirk Cousins, or drafting a promising prospect like Drake Maye. Maye, the ACC Player of the Year in 2022, has garnered attention for his impressive arm strength and athleticism, drawing loose comparisons to quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Justin Herbert. Despite a slight regression in performance during the 2023 season, Maye remains a tantalizing prospect who could potentially fill the Falcons’ quarterback void and propel them into serious contention within the NFC South. Adding to the intrigue, former Tar Heels quarterback T.J. Yates serves as the positional coach in Atlanta, offering valuable insight and guidance to Maye as he transitions to the NFL.

   

9. Los Angeles Chargers (via mock trade with CHI): Rome Odunze, Wide Receiver, Washington: In the hypothetical trade scenario with the Chicago Bears, the Los Angeles Chargers find themselves in a pivotal position in the top five of the draft, opting to trade down to acquire more assets. While they boast stability at the quarterback position, the Chargers are confronted with significant salary cap constraints that necessitate strategic roster management under new head coach Jim Harbaugh and first-year general manager Joe Hortiz. Opting for the “best player available” approach, the Chargers select Rome Odunze, a standout wide receiver from Washington. With the potential departure of either Keenan Allen or Mike Williams due to salary cap considerations, Odunze emerges as a compelling choice to bolster the team’s receiving corps. Notably, Odunze showcased his dedication and athleticism during the combine, posting an impressive 4.45-second 40-yard dash time and excelling in various drills. Standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 212 pounds, Odunze possesses the physical attributes, impeccable off-field reputation, and impressive collegiate production to seamlessly integrate into the Chargers’ offensive scheme. His remarkable skill set and potential to become an All-Pro caliber player make him an enticing addition to the Chargers’ roster, potentially filling the void left by departing receivers and contributing significantly to the team’s success in the seasons to come.

   
10. New York Jets: Tight End Brock Bowers, Georgia: Looking ahead to the 2024 season, quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ need for enhanced protection and additional downfield targets is evident. While bolstering the offensive line with veteran blockers like Tyron Smith or David Bakhtiari remains a viable option, there’s merit in considering a dynamic playmaker like Brock Bowers to complement Rodgers’ arsenal. Despite grappling with an ankle injury for a significant portion of the 2023 season, Bowers boasts an impressive collegiate resume, having been honored with the Mackey Award twice and accumulating 26 touchdown catches over his three-year career at Georgia. Renowned for his ability to dominate games offensively, Bowers possesses the rare skill set to impact the outcome as a receiver and even as a ball carrier. His versatility and knack for making big plays align perfectly with the Jets’ aspirations to provide Rodgers with a potent offensive weapon. Furthermore, Bowers’ expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of playing alongside Rodgers underscores the potential chemistry between the two on the field. By adding a dynamic talent like Bowers to their roster, the Jets aim to not only bolster their offensive capabilities but also provide Rodgers with the necessary support to excel in the upcoming season.

    

11. Minnesota Vikings: Outside Linebacker Dallas Turner, Alabama: While quarterback remains a priority on the Vikings’ wish list, particularly if Kirk Cousins doesn’t re-sign, the team also confronts the impending departure of key outside linebackers Danielle Hunter and D.J. Wonnum. With the possibility of losing players who collectively contributed more than three sacks in the 2023 season, the Vikings are in dire need of replenishing their defensive roster. Enter Dallas Turner, a standout linebacker from Alabama who emerged as the Co-Defensive Player of the Year in the SEC last season. Turner’s impressive performance, highlighted by 10 sacks, solidifies his status as one of the premier defensive prospects in the draft. With his disruptive presence on the field and ability to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, Turner presents an immediate solution to the Vikings’ pass rush woes. By selecting Turner with the 11th overall pick, the Vikings aim to fortify their defense and ensure continuity in their ability to disrupt opposing offenses. Turner’s arrival offers a promising solution to the impending void left by departing linebackers, providing the Vikings with a formidable defensive cornerstone for the future.

    

12. Denver Broncos: Quarterback Bo Nix, Oregon: In a departure from the norms of previous drafts, the Denver Broncos find themselves in a unique position as they navigate the quarterback landscape. With the announcement of their impending separation from Russell Wilson, the Broncos are poised to address their quarterback situation once again. Enter Bo Nix, the highly touted quarterback prospect from Oregon. With a track record of success and a plethora of starting experience, Nix offers the Broncos a promising solution to their quarterback dilemma. Unlike journeyman Jarrett Stidham, Nix possesses a skill set that aligns with the values prized by coach Sean Payton, including impressive accuracy nearing 75% over two seasons with the Ducks. Furthermore, Nix’s ability to contribute in the rushing game adds another dimension to his game, evident in his impressive 38 rushing touchdowns over five college seasons. With a remarkable FBS-record 61 starts under his belt, Nix brings a level of experience and readiness that few rookie passers can match. By selecting Nix with the 12th overall pick, the Broncos aim to secure a quarterback with significant upside and the potential to seamlessly integrate into their offensive system. Nix’s arrival signifies a new chapter in Denver’s quarterback saga, offering hope for stability and success in the seasons to come.

    
13. Las Vegas Raiders: Defensive Tackle Byron Murphy II, Texas: Amidst the myriad areas requiring improvement, including the quarterback position, the Las Vegas Raiders are prioritizing bolstering their defense under the leadership of new coach Antonio Pierce. Recognizing the need for a more formidable defensive unit, Pierce seeks to instill toughness and dominance on that side of the ball. Enter Byron Murphy II, a standout defensive tackle from Texas who embodies the qualities sought after by the Raiders. Murphy’s presence on the defensive line promises to alleviate pressure on key players like defensive end Maxx Crosby and potentially unlock the potential of underperforming talents such as 2023 first-round pick Tyree Wilson. By addressing the defense with the selection of Murphy, the Raiders signal their commitment to building a more resilient and impactful unit. While quarterback concerns remain, prioritizing defensive reinforcements aligns with the team’s immediate goals of fortifying their foundation in the trenches

    

14. New Orleans Saints: Offensive Tackle Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State: Amid concerns about the performance of 2022 first-round left tackle Trevor Penning, the New Orleans Saints are eyeing a potential replacement in Olumuyiwa Fashanu from Penn State. With Penning’s trajectory raising doubts about his long-term viability, the Saints recognize the need to secure a reliable presence to protect quarterback Derek Carr. Fashanu, a 2023 All-American from Penn State, presents an enticing option to bolster the Saints’ offensive line. His proven skills and accolades suggest he could provide immediate relief for Carr, who faced considerable pressure during his first season with the team. By selecting Fashanu with their pick, the Saints aim to shore up their offensive front and provide Carr with the protection he needs to succeed. The addition of Fashanu signals the team’s commitment to addressing key areas of concern and positioning themselves for success in the upcoming season.

    

15. Indianapolis Colts: Cornerback Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo: The Indianapolis Colts prioritize bolstering their cornerback position with the selection of Quinyon Mitchell from Toledo. Mitchell brings an impressive blend of size, speed, and ball skills to the Colts’ secondary, standing at 6 feet tall, weighing 195 pounds, and showcasing blazing speed with a 4.33 40-yard dash time. Mitchell’s knack for creating turnovers is evident in his six interceptions over the past two seasons, two of which were returned for touchdowns. His ability to make game-changing plays aligns with the Colts’ defensive philosophy and addresses a key need in their secondary. With the potential departure of Pro Bowl nickel cornerback Kenny Moore II looming, Mitchell’s arrival provides much-needed depth and talent to the Colts’ cornerback group.

    
16. Seattle Seahawks: Quarterback Michael Penix, Washington: In a bold move, the Seattle Seahawks select quarterback Michael Penix from Washington, despite concerns about his injury history, which includes knee and shoulder problems. Penix’s recent performances at Washington have been outstanding, with 67 touchdown passes and 19 interceptions over the past two seasons. Although there are reservations about his durability, Penix’s talent is undeniable, demonstrated by his stellar showing against Texas in the College Football Playoff, where he threw for 430 yards and 2 touchdowns. His left-handed throwing style and accuracy have impressed scouts, making him an intriguing prospect for the Seahawks. The recent hiring of OC Ryan Grubb, who previously coached Penix at UW, adds another layer of familiarity and potential development for the young quarterback. With general manager John Schneider showing willingness to explore options beyond incumbent Geno Smith, the Seahawks are poised to invest in Penix as a potential long-term solution at quarterback. While the 16th spot in the draft might seem high for Penix, the Seahawks have the flexibility to trade down and acquire additional draft assets while still securing their desired prospect. Despite the risks associated with his injury history, Penix’s upside and potential make him an enticing option for a team looking to solidify its quarterback position for the future.

    

17. Jacksonville Jaguars: Offensive Tackle JC Latham, Alabama: The Jacksonville Jaguars bolster their offensive line by selecting JC Latham from Alabama. Latham, an All-SEC performer, brings versatility and experience to the table, having played both tackle and guard positions during his collegiate career. With his solid performance in the SEC, Latham is well-equipped to contribute immediately, possibly starting at guard initially. However, his long-term potential lies in anchoring the tackle position, where he could eventually replace the inconsistent Cam Robinson. Paired with Anton Harrison, the Jaguars’ first-round pick from 2023, Latham has the potential to form a formidable duo as bookend tackles, providing stability and protection for Trevor Lawrence for years to come.

    

18. Cincinnati Bengals: Wide Receiver Brian Thomas Jr., LSU: The Cincinnati Bengals address their receiving corps by selecting Brian Thomas Jr. from LSU. Standing at 6-3 and weighing 209 pounds, Thomas brings a combination of size and speed that makes him a formidable threat on the field. Thomas showcased his speed with an impressive 4.33-second 40-yard dash, underscoring his ability to stretch the field and create separation from defenders. In his most recent season, he amassed 1,177 yards on 68 receptions, with an impressive quarter of those catches resulting in touchdowns. With Tyler Boyd set to enter free agency and Tee Higgins on the franchise tag, the Bengals see Thomas as the perfect complement to Ja’Marr Chase, their star receiver. Adding Thomas to their receiving corps would provide quarterback Joe Burrow with another dynamic weapon and help diversify an already potent Bengals’ offensive attack. Plus, LSU Tigers have to go to Cincinnati now, that’s the rule.

    
19. Los Angeles Rams: Defensive End Laiatu Latu, UCLA: The Los Angeles Rams make their first Round 1 selection since returning to LA eight years ago by picking local talent Laiatu Latu from UCLA. Latu’s impressive collegiate career includes 35 tackles for loss, 23½ sacks, five forced fumbles, and two interceptions over two seasons with the Bruins. In 2023, Latu was named the Pac-12’s Defensive Player of the Year, earning additional recognition with the Lombardi Award and Ted Hendricks Award for his outstanding performance as the nation’s top collegiate defensive end. His disruptive presence on the field, highlighted by a remarkable average of 1.8 tackles for loss per game, makes him a coveted prospect for the Rams. With the need for a consistent edge rusher to complement Aaron Donald’s interior dominance, Latu’s ability to apply pressure off the edge aligns perfectly with the Rams’ defensive strategy. Adding Latu to their roster strengthens their defensive front seven, and further enhances their ability to disrupt opposing offenses.

    

20. Pittsburgh Steelers: Amarius Mims, Offensive Tackle, Georgia: Following the success of rookie Broderick Jones in the 2023 season, the Steelers might opt to tap into the talent pool of Georgia offensive tackles once again with Amarius Mims. Mims presents considerable upside, standing at an imposing 6 feet 8 inches and weighing 340 pounds as measured at the combine. While Mims demonstrates impressive abilities, questions surrounding his durability could potentially impact his draft position, having only accumulated eight career starts and 774 snaps over three seasons. Nonetheless, Mims showcases promising lower-body movement traits that enable him to effectively match and mirror edge rushers. Selecting Mims would afford Pittsburgh the opportunity to relocate Jones to his natural position at left tackle, consequently bolstering protection for quarterback Kenny Pickett or any other signal-caller under center.

    

21. Miami Dolphins: Cornerback Nate Wiggins, Clemson: Standing tall at 6 feet 1 inch and showcasing impressive explosiveness with a 40-yard dash time of 4.28 seconds, Nate Wiggins presents an enticing option for the Miami Dolphins. His skill set is well-suited to fill the void left by the departure of Xavien Howard. Additionally, Wiggins could benefit from the mentorship of veteran Jalen Ramsey, particularly in high-pressure situations against top-tier receivers, allowing him to develop and contribute effectively to the Dolphins’ defense

    
22. Philadelphia Eagles: Tyler Guyton, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma: The Philadelphia Eagles have a history of prioritizing trench players in the early rounds, and it’s conceivable that General Manager Howie Roseman sees an opportunity to establish a succession plan for veteran right tackle Lane Johnson, who is under contract through 2026. Tyler Guyton emerges as a compelling prospect in this scenario, showcasing impressive physical attributes, albeit with ongoing refinement needed in his technique and strength. A stint in Philadelphia would afford him the opportunity to undergo developmental growth, possibly starting elsewhere on the Eagles’ offensive line initially, before transitioning into the role of starting right tackle down the line.

    

23. Houston Texans (acquired from the Cleveland Browns): Defensive End Jared Verse, Florida State: Despite the potential retention of the underrated defensive end Jonathan Greenard, the Houston Texans find themselves in need of depth beyond him and the Defensive Rookie of the Year, Will Anderson Jr., on the edges of their defense. Jared Verse, with a consistent track record of at least nine sacks in each of the past three seasons, could provide the necessary boost to the Texans’ pass rush.

    

24. Dallas Cowboys: Offensive Lineman Troy Fautanu, Washington: The Dallas Cowboys, facing the potential departure of left tackle Tyron Smith, could look to solidify their offensive line with Troy Fautanu. Paired with left guard Tyler Smith, a first-round pick from two years ago who also has experience at left tackle, Fautanu could provide stability on the left side of the line for years to come, regardless of their eventual positions.

    
25. Green Bay Packers: Cooper DeJean, Defensive Back, Iowa: Green Bay faces significant gaps at both nickel corner and safety positions, but they have the opportunity to address both needs with a single prospect. Cooper DeJean, touted as the top-ranked safety in this draft class, boasts a versatile skill set that allows him to excel across the defensive backfield. Known for his exceptional instincts and fluid movements, DeJean has showcased a knack for generating turnovers, amassing seven interceptions over the past two seasons, including three returned for touchdowns. This ball-hawking ability is particularly valuable for the Packers, who struggled with interceptions in the previous season, ranking 31st in the NFL with only seven. Even if Green Bay opts to retain Keisean Nixon, DeJean’s versatility makes him a viable option for both nickel corner and safety roles, with the added potential to contribute on special teams. Despite recovering from a broken leg, DeJean has expressed confidence in his ability to participate in team workouts leading up to the draft.

    

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Defensive End Chop Robinson, Penn State: Originally, I was considering putting a speedy WR here, but the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ needs have shifted with pending free agent wide receiver Mike Evans agreeing to a two-year deal. In light of this, Robinson, known for his agility as a pass rusher with speed under 4.5, could be a valuable addition to a unit that recently lost Shaq Barrett and hasn’t seen sufficient production from 2021 first-rounder Joe Tryon-Shoyinka.

    

27. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston Texans): Kool-Aid McKinstry, Cornerback, Alabama: Despite a recent injury discovery during combine medical evaluations, Kool-Aid McKinstry remains a promising prospect from Alabama. Known for his technical prowess and impressive physical attributes, including a 32-inch length and quickness in coverage, McKinstry excels at shutting down opposing receivers. With uncertainty surrounding the Cardinals’ long-term options at outside cornerback, especially if Antonio Hamilton Sr. is not retained, McKinstry presents an enticing late Day 1 option to bolster Arizona’s secondary.

    
28. Buffalo Bills: Adonai Mitchell, Wide Receiver, Texas: With Gabe Davis heading towards free agency, the Bills aim to bolster their receiving corps by selecting Adonai Mitchell from Texas. Standing at 6-2 and weighing 205 pounds, Mitchell brings a unique blend of size, speed, and athleticism to the position. His impressive 40-yard dash time of 4.34 seconds and a vertical jump of 39.5 inches highlight his explosiveness and ability to stretch the field vertically. Mitchell’s strong hands and versatility make him a valuable asset for quarterback Josh Allen, providing a reliable target alongside Stefon Diggs. Adding Mitchell to the roster would alleviate pressure on Diggs and provide the Bills with another dynamic weapon in their passing game.

    

29. Detroit Lions: Jer’Zhan Newton, Defensive Tackle, Illinois: Despite a recent foot surgery, Jer’Zhan Newton’s draft stock may take a slight hit. However, the Detroit Lions could view this as a fortunate turn of events. Newton, known for his versatility along the defensive line, is considered one of the top interior defenders in this draft class when fully healthy. With Alim McNeill typically occupying the 1-technique position, Newton’s potential presence at the 3-technique spot could significantly bolster the Lions’ defensive front. His impressive collegiate statistics, including 7.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss last season at Illinois, highlight his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. While cornerback remains a glaring need for the Lions, the value Newton offers at this stage of the draft may prompt them to prioritize the “best player available” approach, and that’s exactly what Campbell and Co. do here.

    

30. Baltimore Ravens: Keon Coleman, Wide Receiver, Florida State: The Ravens already boast a first-round caliber receiver in Zay Flowers, but the need for additional playmakers in the receiving corps remains evident. Adding another wideout on Day 1 of the 2024 draft could be a strategic move for Baltimore, and securing Coleman as their pick of the first round would provide them with a sizable pass-catching threat on the outside. Despite Coleman’s somewhat underwhelming 4.61-second 40-yard dash time, his on-field speed is far more impressive, and he demonstrated his ability to find the end zone with 11 touchdowns last season.

    
31. San Francisco 49ers: Darius Robinson, Defensive Lineman, Missouri: While bolstering the offensive line should certainly be a consideration, the NFC champions are in dire need of replenishing their defensive front. With the imminent departure of starting defensive end Chase Young and all primary backups such as Randy Gregory, Javon Kinlaw, and Clelin Ferrell, the 49ers must prioritize adding depth to their defensive line. Robinson, a 6-foot-5, 285-pound All-SEC selection, possesses the size and athleticism to excel both inside and outside, showcasing his prowess against both the run and pass. His development alongside established players like Nick Bosa, Javon Hargrave, and Arik Armstead could prove invaluable for the 49ers.

    

32. Kansas City Chiefs: Xavier Worthy, Wide Receiver, Texas: Xavier Worthy’s exceptional performance at the combine has made him the talk of the town, and his potential fit with the Chiefs seems like a match made in heaven. Setting a new combine record with a lightning-fast 40-yard dash time of 4.21 seconds, Worthy’s speed and agility could make him a standout performer in Andy Reid’s dynamic offense. With Patrick Mahomes at the helm, Worthy’s ability to stretch the field and make big plays could add a new dimension to the Chiefs’ aerial attack, addressing a need for a vertical threat that was evident last season. Despite his slight frame at 5-foot-11 and 165 pounds, Worthy’s speed and physicality suggest that he could seamlessly step into a role similar to that of Marquez Valdes-Scantling and make an immediate impact for the Chiefs.

I know there’s a beyond slim chance that I get all 32 picks correct, but if you think I’m an absolute idiot on some of my 2024 NFL Mock Draft picks, Tweet at me here.