The highly anticipated 2024 NFL Draft is just around the corner, with teams making strategic decisions to bolster their rosters. Here's a breakdown of the top projected picks for Round 1, highlighting key prospects and their potential impact on their respective teams.
Projected Team: Tennessee Titans
At 6'2" and 219 lbs, Cam Ward is viewed as the top quarterback prospect, ranking 3rd overall. With impressive stats including 4,313 passing yards, 204 rushing yards, 7 interceptions, and an outstanding 43 touchdowns, Ward is the Titans' top choice for the No. 1 overall pick. The team recently canceled a private workout with Shedeur Sanders, indicating their commitment to Ward. Head coach Brian Callahan is looking for stability at quarterback, moving away from the uncertainty surrounding Will Levis.
Projected Team: Cleveland Browns
Standing at 6'0" and weighing 188 lbs, Travis Hunter is the first-ranked prospect and a top choice for the Browns. With a need for depth at wide receiver, especially after losing Amari Cooper, Hunter is expected to transition into a full-time receiver role. His versatility and potential for increased productivity make him an attractive pick for Cleveland, who sees him as a foundational player.
Projected Team: New York Giants
At 6'3" and 250 lbs, Abdul Carter is the second-ranked prospect and the top edge rusher in this draft class. The Giants opted not to select Shedeur Sanders despite the quarterback's considerable talent, instead focusing on strengthening their defense with Carter. His remarkable skills and connection to Giants legend Lawrence Taylor make him an exciting selection for New York.
Projected Team: New England Patriots
The New England Patriots, projected to pick 4th, will likely select Will Campbell, a standout left tackle from LSU. At 6'6" and 319 lbs, Campbell is the top-rated lineman in the draft. With recent improvements to the Patriots' offensive line through free agency, Campbell's addition will provide much-needed protection for quarterback Drake Maye.
Projected Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
Mason Graham, a 6'3", 296 lbs defensive lineman from Michigan, is expected to be the Jaguars' pick. After struggling defensively last season, Jacksonville is in dire need of a game-changer in the middle of their line. Graham's unanimous All-America status makes him a prime candidate to elevate the Jaguars' defense.
Projected Team: Las Vegas Raiders
At 5'9" and 211 lbs, Ashton Jeanty is a dynamic running back prospect from Boise State. With a college career that showcases 2,601 rushing yards and 30 touchdowns, Jeanty is expected to fulfill the Raiders' need for a powerful running game. New head coach Pete Carroll is aiming to replicate his successful Seahawks model in Las Vegas, making Jeanty an ideal fit.
Projected Team: New York Jets
The Jets are projected to select Armand Membou, an athletic offensive tackle from Missouri, to fill their right tackle vacancy. At 6'4" and 332 lbs, Membou's exceptional agility and strength will complement their previously drafted left tackle, Olumuyiwa Fashanu, providing essential support for new quarterback Justin Fields.
Projected Team: Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers, who struggled defensively last season, are looking to bolster their edge rush with Jalon Walker. This 6'1", 243 lbs linebacker won the Butkus Award as the best linebacker in college football, making him a valuable addition to the Panthers' roster.
Projected Team: New Orleans Saints
New head coach Kellen Moore is set to select Shedeur Sanders, a promising quarterback from Colorado. At 6'2" and 212 lbs, Sanders has impressive stats with over 4,000 passing yards and 41 touchdowns. This pick could signal a shift for the Saints as they look for a long-term solution at quarterback, especially with Derek Carr's uncertain future.
Projected Team: Chicago Bears
With a pressing need to protect quarterback Caleb Williams, the Bears are expected to draft Kelvin Banks, a 6'5", 315 lbs offensive tackle from Texas. Banks' skills as a pass protector make him a vital addition to Chicago's offensive line.
As the draft progresses, teams will focus on filling crucial positions. From cornerbacks like Will Johnson of Michigan to dynamic wide receivers like Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona, the depth of talent in this draft class is undeniable. Teams will be eager to secure players who can make an immediate impact and contribute to their long-term success.
Stay tuned as we analyze further picks and how they shape the future of each NFL franchise in the 2024 season.
