2024 NFL Mock Draft 8.0: NFL Draft Month Edition Picks 1-32

Zack Cook
Host · Writer
32. Kansas City Chiefs - Troy Franklin (WR)
There are some real question marks about the Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver core next year, and Troy Franklin helps to put some of those to rest. Patrick Mahomes is thrilled to add another high-end target.
1. Chicago Bears via Carolina Panthers - Caleb Williams (QB)
The Chicago Bears are extremely likely to kick off the 2024 NFL Draft by selecting Caleb Williams. The strategy of developing a high-end defense while having a quarterback on a rookie contract is widely regarded as a key to success in today's NFL, and it's a path the Bears appear ready to adopt here.
2. Washington Commanders - Jayden Daniels (QB)
Until recently, Drake Maye was expected to be the Washington Commanders' choice with the second overall pick. However, recent changes in forecasting now suggest Jayden Daniels (-150) as the frontrunner for the Commanders' selection. While Maye remains a contender (+150), it's evident that Daniels' comprehensive skill set has caught the Commanders' interest.
3. New England Patriots - Drake Maye (QB)
Should Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels be chosen as the first two selections in the 2024 NFL Draft, it seems unlikely that the New England Patriots would miss the chance to select Drake Maye. With the Patriots seeking a new franchise quarterback following a disappointing tenure with Mac Jones, the speculation around Maye's falling draft stock hasn't dampened the enthusiasm for him being New England's pick at number three overall.
4. Arizona Cardinals - Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR)
Given their substantial commitment to Kyler Murray, it makes sense for the Arizona Cardinals to think about drafting an elite wide receiver like Marvin Harrison Jr. Upgrading their offensive weapons seems to be a particularly appropriate option among the various strategies at their disposal. The question remains: will they contemplate trading down to accumulate more picks from a team in pursuit of a quarterback?
5. Los Angeles Chargers - Malik Nabers (WR)
The Los Angeles Chargers' offseason has been intriguing. With significant salary cap hurdles leading to the departure of key figures like wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, there's talk of the Chargers considering trading down to amass additional draft picks, potentially with a team like Minnesota. If the Chargers do trade down, they can still acquire a premiere wideout. For now, they select Malik Nabers.
6. New York Giants - J.J. McCarthy (QB)
Amid the ongoing buzz surrounding Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft, it appears unlikely that he will fall beyond the top ten. Despite having various other roster needs, there's speculation that the New York Giants might select a quarterback at this spot. If they really like McCarthy, this is a real possibility if a team doesn't trade up and jump them for him.
7. Tennessee Titans - Joe Alt (OL)
Given the developments in the first round, the Tennessee Titans would be wise to concentrate on safeguarding their young quarterback, especially following the acquisition of Calvin Ridley through free agency. Should Joe Alt remain available when it's the Titans' turn to draft, it's hard to see them passing on him.
8. Atlanta Falcons - Dallas Turner (EDGE)
With new head coach Raheem Morris at the helm and a roster rich in offensive talent, the Atlanta Falcons are shifting focus to enhance their defense. Opting for Dallas Turner from Alabama with their top ten draft choice would significantly bolster their pass rush, representing a calculated strategic decision for the Falcons.
9. Chicago Bears - Olu Fashanu (OL)
With two selections in the top 10, the Chicago Bears should prioritize reinforcing their offensive line, particularly given the high probability of selecting Caleb Williams as their first pick. Olu Fashanu stands out as an outstanding choice for meeting this need. Furthermore, the Bears' acquisition of wide receiver Keenan Allen signals this probable approach to strengthening their offensive line.
10. New York Jets - Rome Odunze (WR)
The New York Jets have made impressive moves this offseason, effectively meeting critical needs to improve their chances to win the Super Bowl in 2024. The Jets fill another gap by acquiring premier wide receiver Rome Odunze.
11. Minnesota Vikings - Terrion Arnold (DB)
Assessing if J.J. McCarthy will still be available beyond the first ten selections is difficult. Given the growing hype, it's anticipated that he'll be taken by this point. While the Vikings possess the draft assets to move up, whether they will choose to do so is yet to be determined. For now, Terrion Arnold presents a great selection.
12. Denver Broncos - Bo Nix (QB)
Predicting Bo Nix's draft position remains uncertain. While certain evaluators view him as a first-round prospect, others believe he fits more into Day 2. The Denver Broncos, with a clear quarterback need, might find Nix's attributes especially appealing, provided they align with Sean Payton's preferences at the position.
13. Las Vegas Raiders - Michael Penix Jr. (QB)
We've continued to mock a tackle to the Las Vegas Raiders throughout draft season. In saying that, there's been some buzz surrounding a potential match between the Raiders and quarterback Michael Penix Jr. of late.
14. New Orleans Saints - Brian Thomas Jr. (WR)
After Michael Thomas's exit from the New Orleans Saints, the team is on the hunt for a new impactful wide receiver to complement Chris Olave. Brian Thomas Jr. is brought in to bridge this void, serving as an extra threat to their passing game.
15. Indianapolis Colts - Quinyon Mitchell (CB)
Throughout last season, it became evident that the Indianapolis Colts needed to bolster their secondary. Quinyon Mitchell helps them do this and addresses a key area of need heading into 2024.
16. Seattle Seahawks - Jackson Powers-Johnson (C)
Initially, rumors suggested the Seattle Seahawks had eyes on J.J. McCarthy in the draft, should he be available. Yet, with McCarthy no longer an option, the Seahawks' leadership pivots to reinforcing their offensive line, opting for Jackson Powers-Johnson from Oregon, who is considered the premier center in this draft class.
17. Jacksonville Jaguars - Tyler Guyton (OL)
The Jacksonville Jaguars have some real needs to fill on their roster after a late-season collapse last year. Keeping Trevor Lawrence upright in the pocket has to be a priority, and Tyler Guyton helps them do this.
18. Cincinnati Bengals - Brock Bowers (TE)
The Cincinnati Bengals continue to utilize stop gap options at tight end. With Brock Bowers falling slightly, the Bengals give Joe Burrow another premiere target and strong blocker.
19. Los Angeles Rams - Taliese Fuaga (OL)
Acknowledging that Matthew Stafford's time as a top-tier NFL quarterback may have few prime years remaining is crucial. To make the most of these years, the Los Angeles Rams need to prioritize shielding him with a strong offensive line and Taliese Fuaga does exactly that.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers - JC Latham (OL)
The Pittsburgh Steelers' leadership made a significant appearance at Alabama's Pro Day, highlighting their determination to fortify their offensive line. JC Latham stands out as a fitting choice to fulfill this necessity.
21. Miami Dolphins - Troy Fautanu (OL)
Protecting Tua Tagovailoa remains paramount for the Miami Dolphins. Troy Fautanu emerges as an appealing first-round option for the Dolphins, directly addressing this essential requirement.
22. Philadelphia Eagles - Jordan Morgan (OL)
Following Jason Kelce's retirement, the Philadelphia Eagles aim to rejuvenate their offensive line with fresh talent, even after extending key components on offense. Jordan Morgan is selected to address this new requirement in Philadelphia, assuming a critical role as a building block to protect Jalen Hurts.
23. Minnesota Vikings (via Houston Texans via Cleveland Browns) - Laiatu Latu (EDGE)
The Minnesota Vikings' offense and defense have evident weaknesses. Discussions are underway about using their recently acquired first-round pick to move up in the draft order and select a quarterback. Yet, in the absence of anything concrete, opting for Laiatu Latu to bolster their defense seems like a prudent move for now.
24. Dallas Cowboys - Graham Barton (OT)
Following Tyron Smith's departure, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves in search of additional reinforcements for their offensive line. Graham Barton emerges as the perfect fit to bridge this vital void for the team.
25. Green Bay Packers - Cooper DeJean (CB)
It's hardly a secret that the Green Bay Packers are trying to find new pieces to build around in their secondary. Cooper DeJean gives them a perfect building block moving forward.
26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Chop Robinson (DE)
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers need some help off the edge, and Chop Robinson gives them that. Robinson tested well at the NFL Scouting Combine and will help elevate the Buccaneer's ability to pressure.
27. Arizona Cardinals (via Houston Texans) - Edgerrin Cooper (LB)
Having chosen an offensive playmaker with their initial Round 1 pick, the Cardinals shift focus to their defense, drafting Edgerrin Cooper with their subsequent selection in the round. Considering the team's extensive needs on both offense and defense, a swift turnaround appears unlikely.
28. Buffalo Bills - Ladd McConkey (WR)
After trading Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans, it looks as though the Buffalo Bills will target a wide receiver in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Ladd McConkey fits the bill as a perfect weapon for this offense.
29. Detroit Lions - Kool-Aid McKinstry (CB)
Despite being sidelined from combine testing due to an injury, Kool-Aid McKinstry's immense talent remains evident. As the Detroit Lions seek to strengthen their secondary, McKinstry stands out as an ideal choice for their late first-round selection.
30. Baltimore Ravens - Adonai Mitchell (WR)
Boosting Lamar Jackson's offensive weapons could greatly improve the Baltimore Ravens. Incorporating a dynamic player such as Adonai Mitchell adds a crucial advantage as they aim for a Super Bowl. After impressing at the NFL Scouting Combine, Mitchell's value has seen a considerable rise.
31. San Francisco 49ers - Nate Wiggins (CB)
Nate Wiggins is a player that the San Francisco 49ers should covet if he's on the board at this juncture of the first round. Wiggins would immediately enter and help stabilize the 49ers secondary.
32. Kansas City Chiefs - Troy Franklin (WR)
There are some real question marks about the Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver core next year, and Troy Franklin helps to put some of those to rest. Patrick Mahomes is thrilled to add another high-end target.
1. Chicago Bears via Carolina Panthers - Caleb Williams (QB)
The Chicago Bears are extremely likely to kick off the 2024 NFL Draft by selecting Caleb Williams. The strategy of developing a high-end defense while having a quarterback on a rookie contract is widely regarded as a key to success in today's NFL, and it's a path the Bears appear ready to adopt here.

MORE ARTICLES

NFL · 6 hours ago
Gabriel Santiago

NFL · 8 hours ago
Paul Connor

NFL · 9 hours ago
Gabriel Santiago

NFL · 9 hours ago
Paul Connor

NFL · 10 hours ago
Sportsgrid Staff

NFL · 10 hours ago
Sportsgrid Staff

NFL · 10 hours ago
Sportsgrid Staff

NFL · 10 hours ago
Grant White

NFL · 11 hours ago
Paul Connor

NFL · 1 day ago
Grant White