The 2024 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting event, with many teams looking to bolster their rosters with top-tier talent. In this article, we will provide a detailed analysis of the first round picks, highlighting key players and their projected teams. Each prospect is ranked based on their performance and potential impact in the league. Let's dive into the predictions for Round 1 of the 2024 NFL Draft.
Projected Team: Tennessee Titans
Standing at 6'2" and weighing 219 lbs, Cam Ward has established himself as a standout quarterback with impressive stats: 4,313 passing yards, 204 rushing yards, 7 interceptions, and 43 touchdowns. The Titans have been in dire need of a quarterback, and it seems that this selection has been a done deal for weeks. Cam Ward is undoubtedly the QB1 in this draft.
Projected Team: Cleveland Browns
At 6'0" and 188 lbs, Travis Hunter is an elite two-way player, excelling both offensively and defensively. The Browns are not just a quarterback away from contention, making Hunter's versatility a perfect fit. His ability to perform on both sides of the ball gives Cleveland a significant advantage.
Projected Team: New York Giants
Abdul Carter, a 6'3", 250 lbs edge rusher, is ranked as the second-best prospect in the draft. Although the Giants may not have an urgent need for an edge rusher, Carter's exceptional talent cannot be overlooked. This pick allows the Giants to strengthen their defense while considering quarterback options for future seasons.
Projected Team: New England Patriots
Will Campbell, measuring 6'6" and 319 lbs, has proven himself against top-tier edge rushers in the SEC. The Patriots desperately need to address their tackle position, and Campbell is ready to make an immediate impact. Considered my OT1, he is sure to be a valuable asset for New England.
Projected Team: Jacksonville Jaguars
Tetairoa McMillan stands at 6'4" and weighs 219 lbs, boasting impressive stats of 84 receptions for 1,319 yards and 8 touchdowns. With a deep class of defensive linemen, the Jaguars should focus on giving Trevor Lawrence more weapons, making McMillan an excellent choice to pair with Brian Thomas Jr.
Projected Team: Las Vegas Raiders
At 5'9" and 211 lbs, Ashton Jeanty has racked up 2,601 rushing yards with an impressive average of 7 yards per carry. While the Raiders need defensive upgrades, Jeanty is too talented to pass up. His skill set is comparable to top running backs like Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs, making him an essential addition to the Raiders' run game.
Projected Team: New York Jets
Armand Membou, a 6'4", 332 lbs offensive tackle, is only 20 years old and shows great potential for improvement. The Jets have a chance to build a formidable offensive line with Membou and Fashanu as bookend tackles, ensuring better protection for their quarterback.
Projected Team: Carolina Panthers
Jalon Walker, measuring 6'1" and 243 lbs, is a versatile edge rusher capable of lining up in multiple positions. He offers a more explosive option than Frankie Luvu, which could elevate the Panthers' defense significantly.
Projected Team: New Orleans Saints
With the retirement of Ryan Ramczyk and struggles from Trevor Penning, the Saints must focus on rebuilding their offensive line. Kelvin Banks Jr., my OT1, is a solid choice to fortify their front line.
Projected Team: Chicago Bears
Mike Green, a 6'3", 251 lbs edge rusher, is one of the most dynamic players in this class. Although Chicago would have preferred an offensive tackle, Green's explosive playmaking ability makes him a valuable pick for their defense.
Projected Team: San Francisco 49ers
Mason Graham, at 6'3" and 296 lbs, has shown promise but doesn’t quite match the pedigree of Quinnen Williams. However, he could significantly bolster the 49ers' defensive line, which is in need of talent.
Projected Team: Dallas Cowboys
Tyler Booker, standing 6'5" and weighing 321 lbs, is a remarkable talent despite less-than-stellar combine workouts. The Cowboys have critical needs along the interior offensive line, making Booker a must-have prospect.
Projected Team: Miami Dolphins
Jahdae Barron, a 5'11" and 194 lbs cornerback, is an excellent addition to a secondary looking to replace Jalen Ramsey. His skills mirror those of Brian Branch, making him a valuable asset for the Dolphins.
Projected Team: Indianapolis Colts
At 6'6" and 256 lbs, Tyler Warren has been a perfect match for the Colts. He provides quarterback Anthony Richardson with a reliable security blanket, improving the team’s offensive options.
Projected Team: Atlanta Falcons
Walter Nolen, a 6'4" and 296 lbs defensive lineman, brings disruption to the interior. While edge rushers have been popular picks, Nolen's talent makes him a top choice for the Falcons’ defensive line needs.
Projected Team: Arizona Cardinals
Matthew Golden, 5'11" and 191 lbs, has proved himself with a 4.29 40-yard dash. His speed and skill set make him an ideal complement to Marvin Harrison Jr. in Arizona.
Projected Team: Cincinnati Bengals
Mykel Williams, standing at 6'5" and weighing 260 lbs, is just beginning to find his footing in the game. His potential for growth makes him an intriguing pick for the Bengals.
Projected Team: Seattle Seahawks
Nick Emmanwori, a 6'3" and 220 lbs safety, combines freakish athleticism with playmaking ability. This pick might seem unexpected, but Emmanwori's addition alongside Witherspoon can enhance Seattle's secondary.
Projected Team: Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jihaad Campbell, measuring 6'3" and 235 lbs, is a perfect fit for the Buccaneers. As he matures, his strength and speed will only improve, making him a valuable asset for Tampa Bay's defense.
Projected Team: Denver Broncos
Colston Loveland, at 6'6" and 248 lbs, offers great potential for the Broncos, who have already signed Evan Engram. His addition alongside Engram creates a formidable tight end duo.
Projected Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Shedeur Sanders, 6'2" and 212 lbs, finally makes his appearance on the draft board. Although not in a Shanahan-style offense, his fit in Pittsburgh's run-heavy scheme could prove beneficial.
Projected Team: Los Angeles Chargers
Kenneth Grant, a 6'4" and 331 lbs defensive lineman, is essential for a Chargers team that needs to strengthen its interior defense. His familiarity with Jim Harbaugh will aid his transition to the NFL.
Projected Team: Green Bay Packers
Will Johnson, at 6'2" and 194 lbs, has battled injuries but was a standout player in 2023. If healthy, he could be a top-notch cornerback for the Packers.
Projected Team: Minnesota Vikings
Maxwell Hairston, measuring 5'11" and 183 lbs, is a solid cornerback prospect. While the Vikings may need safety help, Hairston's style aligns well with what they need at cornerback.
Projected Team: Houston Texans
Josh Simmons, a 6'5" and 317 lbs offensive tackle, is recovering from a knee injury but could elevate the Texans' offensive line if medically cleared. He can help protect quarterback CJ Stroud.
Projected Team: Los Angeles Rams
Trey Amos, standing 6'1" and weighing 195 lbs, has been recognized for his physicality and ball skills. His addition strengthens the Rams' secondary significantly.
Projected Team: Baltimore Ravens
Pearce, a top-10 talent with some off-field concerns, could thrive in Baltimore’s defensive system. His ability to rush the passer is a critical need for the Ravens.
Projected Team: Detroit Lions
Shemar Stewart, measuring 6'5" and 267 lbs, has the potential to be an extraordinary player once he develops further. The Lions could capitalize on his disruptive capabilities.
Projected Team: Washington Commanders
Grey Zabel, a 6'6" and 312 lbs interior lineman, could step in as a starter if Sam Cosmi isn't ready for Week 1. His versatility makes him a valuable addition to Washington's offensive line.
Projected Team: Buffalo Bills
Malaki Starks, at 6'1" and 197 lbs, is one of the most intelligent players in the draft. His elite athleticism makes him a Day 1 starter and a leader for the Bills' secondary.
Projected Team: Kansas City Chiefs
Darius Alexander, a 6'4" and 310 lbs defensive lineman, is an underrated talent who will benefit from playing alongside Chris Jones in Kansas City. His age should not detract from his immense skill set.
As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, these predictions highlight the potential impact of key players. With teams looking to fill critical gaps in their rosters, each pick could reshape the league's landscape for years to come.
