The excitement around the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft is palpable as teams prepare to make pivotal selections that could define their franchises for years to come. Below is a detailed look at the first round of projected picks, highlighting key prospects and their potential impact on their new teams.
Projected Team: Tennessee Titans
Prospect Rank: 3rd
Position Rank: 1st
Passing Yards: 4313
Rushing Yards: 204
Interceptions: 7
Touchdowns: 43
The Tennessee Titans are set to select Cam Ward, a senior quarterback from Miami (FL). With his impressive stats and a proven track record, Ward is viewed as the cornerstone player the Titans need to rejuvenate their franchise and lead them into a new era.
Projected Team: Cleveland Browns
Prospect Rank: 28th
Position Rank: 2nd
Passing Yards: 4134
Rushing Yards: -50
Interceptions: 10
Touchdowns: 41
In a surprising twist, the Cleveland Browns will likely choose Shedeur Sanders. Despite having more secure options available, bringing in Sanders provides the Browns with a dynamic quarterback capable of thriving in Kevin Stefanski's offensive scheme, especially considering the uncertainty around their current roster.
Projected Team: New York Giants
Prospect Rank: 1st
Position Rank: 1st
With Shedeur Sanders off the board, the New York Giants will capitalize on the opportunity to draft Travis Hunter, a versatile athlete and Heisman Trophy winner. Hunter's dual-threat capability makes him an exciting addition to the Giants’ offense and significantly boosts their secondary.
Projected Team: New England Patriots
Prospect Rank: 2nd
Position Rank: 1st
Despite pressing needs on the offensive line, the New England Patriots are expected to select Abdul Carter. This dynamic edge rusher could become a top-five pass rusher in the league, providing the Patriots with a critical defensive asset.
Projected Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
Prospect Rank: 4th
Position Rank: 1st
The Jacksonville Jaguars are poised to draft Mason Graham, a defensive tackle from Michigan. This selection addresses a significant need along the defensive line, enhancing the Jags' ability to stop the run and apply pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Projected Team: Las Vegas Raiders
Prospect Rank: 10th
Position Rank: 1st
Rushing Yards: 2601
Yards/Attempt: 7
Receiving Yards: 138
Touchdowns: 30
The Las Vegas Raiders, who struggled with their rushing game last season, will likely turn to Ashton Jeanty. With a 33-year-old Raheem Mostert leading their depth chart, Jeanty is expected to make an immediate impact in the Raiders’ offensive scheme.
Projected Team: New York Jets
Prospect Rank: 8th
Position Rank: 2nd
With a focus on building a robust offensive line, the New York Jets are set to draft Armand Membou. His addition solidifies the Jets' tackle positions, ensuring long-term stability and protection for their quarterback.
Projected Team: Carolina Panthers
Prospect Rank: 7th
Position Rank: 2nd
The Carolina Panthers will likely select Jalon Walker, addressing their need for an outside linebacker. Walker's local ties as a South Carolina native and his impressive skill set make him an appealing choice for the Panthers.
Projected Team: New Orleans Saints
Prospect Rank: 5th
Position Rank: 1st
Receptions: 84
Receiving Yards: 1319
Yards/Reception: 15.7
Touchdowns: 8
The New Orleans Saints will look to enhance their receiving corps by drafting Tetairoa McMillan. His ability to stretch the field makes him a valuable asset for the team’s future offensive plans.
Projected Team: Chicago Bears
Prospect Rank: 6th
Position Rank: 1st
The Chicago Bears would be thrilled if Will Campbell falls to them at this pick. Despite concerns over his arm length, his dominant performance at LSU solidifies his position as a critical protector for quarterback Caleb Williams.
Projected Team: San Francisco 49ers
Prospect Rank: 9th
Position Rank: 3rd
The San Francisco 49ers could secure a valuable asset in Kelvin Banks, who is regarded as one of the top tackle prospects. His selection would provide depth and potentially replace veteran Trent Williams in the future.
Projected Team: Dallas Cowboys
Prospect Rank: 22nd
Position Rank: 3rd
Receptions: 58
Receiving Yards: 987
Yards/Reception: 17
Touchdowns: 9
The Dallas Cowboys will look to fill a long-standing gap in their receiving corps by selecting Matthew Golden. His ability to complement CeeDee Lamb could significantly upgrade their offensive strategy.
Projected Team: Miami Dolphins
Prospect Rank: 17th
Position Rank: 1st
With a pressing need in their secondary, the Miami Dolphins will draft Will Johnson, a cornerback from Michigan. His skill set could mitigate the loss of Jalen Ramsey, who is expected to seek a trade.
Projected Team: Indianapolis Colts
Prospect Rank: 30th
Position Rank: 2nd
Receptions: 104
Receiving Yards: 1233
Yards/Reception: 11.9
Touchdowns: 12
The Indianapolis Colts are anticipated to select Tyler Warren, a tight end from Penn State. This pick is popular among analysts and would provide the Colts with a reliable target in their passing game.
Projected Team: Atlanta Falcons
Prospect Rank: 32nd
Position Rank: 6th
After a strong performance at the NFL Scouting Combine, Shemar Stewart is a prime candidate for the Atlanta Falcons. His potential as a dominant pass rusher will address the team's need for improved defensive pressure.
Projected Team: Arizona Cardinals
Prospect Rank: 23rd
Position Rank: 1st
The Arizona Cardinals could select Tyler Booker, an interior lineman from Alabama. His experience and skill set would enhance protection for quarterback Kyler Murray in the upcoming season.
Projected Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Prospect Rank: 11th
Position Rank: 3rd
The Cincinnati Bengals are likely to draft Mike Green, an edge rusher from Marshall. This pick is essential for bolstering their defense, which struggled last season and is crucial for their playoff aspirations.
Projected Team: Seattle Seahawks
Prospect Rank: 27th
Position Rank: 2nd
The Seattle Seahawks are expected to target Grey Zabel, an interior offensive lineman, to provide much-needed protection for their quarterbacks. With recent roster changes, Zabel's versatility will be invaluable.
Projected Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Prospect Rank: 13th
Position Rank: 1st
As Lavonte David approaches the twilight of his career, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will draft Jihaad Campbell as a potential successor. This move ensures the team maintains a strong linebacker presence.
Projected Team: Denver Broncos
Prospect Rank: 12th
Position Rank: 1st
Receptions: 56
Receiving Yards: 582
Yards/Reception: 10.4
Touchdowns: 5
The Denver Broncos will likely select Colston Loveland to reinforce their tight end position. This choice provides stability and a reliable target for their quarterback, Bo Nix.
Projected Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Prospect Rank: 50th
Position Rank: 3rd
Passing Yards: 4279
Rushing Yards: 495
Interceptions: 6
Touchdowns: 32
With uncertainty surrounding Aaron Rodgers, the Pittsburgh Steelers are set to draft Jaxson Dart. This strategic move secures their quarterback position for years to come.
Projected Team: L.A. Chargers
Prospect Rank: 25th
Position Rank: 3rd
The L.A. Chargers will focus on their defensive line by selecting Derrick Harmon. His exceptional performance at Oregon will help fortify their defense, making them a more formidable team.
Projected Team: Green Bay Packers
Prospect Rank: 21st
Position Rank: 2nd
To enhance their secondary, the Green Bay Packers will likely choose Jahdae Barron. His accolades as a top defensive back make him a valuable addition to the Packers’ roster.
Projected Team: Minnesota Vikings
Prospect Rank: 18th
Position Rank: 1st
The Minnesota Vikings are expected to draft Malaki Starks, a safety from Georgia, to revitalize their secondary. His intelligence and skill set align perfectly with the Vikings' defensive strategies.
Projected Team: Houston Texans
Prospect Rank: 16th
Position Rank: 4th
After a significant overhaul of their offensive line, the Houston Texans are projected to select Josh Simmons as part of their rebuilding effort. His potential to grow into a solid tackle makes him a wise investment.
Projected Team: L.A. Rams
Prospect Rank: 94th
Position Rank: 4th
Passing Yards: 2844
Rushing Yards: 726
Interceptions: 11
Touchdowns: 36
The L.A. Rams may target Jalen Milroe, a quarterback from Alabama. As a project player, Milroe provides the Rams with a potential dual-threat option as they prepare for the future with Matthew Stafford.
Projected Team: Baltimore Ravens
Prospect Rank: 24th
Position Rank: 5th
With a history of developing elite defensive talent, the Baltimore Ravens are expected to draft Mykel Williams. His size and skills make him an excellent fit for the Ravens' defensive scheme.
Projected Team: Detroit Lions
Prospect Rank: 40th
Position Rank: 8th
The Detroit Lions will likely select Donovan Ezeiruaku, an edge rusher, to enhance their pass rush alongside Aidan Hutchinson. His collegiate performance showcases his potential to impact the game immediately.
Projected Team: Washington Commanders
Prospect Rank: 19th
Position Rank: 2nd
Following a successful season, the Washington Commanders might opt for Nick Emmanwori to bolster their defense. His versatility as a safety will add depth to their secondary.
Projected Team: Buffalo Bills
Prospect Rank: 15th
Position Rank: 2nd
The Buffalo Bills are expected to draft Walter Nolen to improve their defensive line. His ability to apply pressure will be crucial in their quest to contend for championships.
Projected Team: Kansas City Chiefs
Prospect Rank: 31st
Position Rank: 5th
Finally, the Kansas City Chiefs will likely select J.T. Tuimoloau, an edge rusher from Ohio State. His skills will help shore up the Chiefs’ offensive line, protecting their franchise quarterback, Patrick Mahomes.
As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, teams are increasingly focused on making selections that will help them build a successful future. The listed prospects showcase a mix of talent and potential that could significantly impact the league.
