Follow the analysis of the first 32 picks in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft on this page.
1. Chicago Bears – Caleb Williams (QB, USC)
After trading Justin Fields to the Steelers, the Chicago Bears sent a message to the league. The first choice is therefore not exchangeable. The Illinois franchise therefore chooses a new quarterback to give new impetus to the franchise.
Author of 2 very good seasons at USC, Caleb Williams will be scrutinized every Sunday next season. The NFL is looking forward to it, and so are the fans. Especially those from Chicago, who have been waiting for stability in this position for a very long time.
2. Washington Commanders – Jayden Daniels (QB, LSU)
Sam Howell traded, Washington needs a new quarterback. Just signing Marcus Mariota this offseason won't do the trick. New blood is therefore needed for the most important position in this sport in the federal capital.
Jayden Daniels had an incredible 2023 season at LSU. Heisman Trophy, the player can still progress. The dual-threat quarterback will work with Kliff Kingsbury, an offensive coordinator who likes this type of profile.
3. New England Patriots – Drake Maye (QB, North Carolina)
New coach, new management, new quarterback. The Patriots had to take a new pitcher to succeed Mac Jones, who left for the Jaguars in the offseason.
Drake Maye is therefore the lucky one. The North Carolina player has a precise and powerful arm. If his 2023 season did not meet expectations, he will nevertheless have to respond quickly if he wants to take over from Tom Brady in the long term. He succeeds Mitch Trubisky as North Carolina's quarterback selected in the top 3.
4. Arizona Cardinals – Marvin Harrison Jr. (WR, Ohio State)
The Cardinals have their quarterback. So they needed a player to help him. This is what the Arizona franchise is doing with this 4th choice.
Unsurprisingly, it is Marvin Harrison Jr. who will become the new playmaker for Kyler Murray. Excellent in college for 2 seasons, best receiver last season in the NCAA, he has all the arguments to become THE new star in one of the most important positions in the NFL.
5. Los Angeles Chargers – Joe Alt (OT, Notre Dame)
The Chargers saw a lot of players leave in the offseason for important positions. But, conversely, an experienced coach arrived. Not surprisingly, Jim Harbaugh is rebuilding this team through the offensive line.
It is therefore no surprise that the best tackle in the promotion is selected. Joe Alt is complete and impressive. In addition to protecting Justin Herbert, he could be even more important in the ground game.
6. New York Giants – Malik Nabers (WR, LSU)
The Giants could take a quarterback because JJ McCarthy was still available. But the New York franchise also needs players in important positions. This is the direction she is heading with the selection of the 2nd receiver on this board.
Finalist for the best receiver trophy, Malik Nabers is a profile that the Giants do not possess. Brian Daboll may finally have his playmaker, with an impressive player in yards after reception. Coming from LSU, he could succeed Odell Beckham Jr., the last receiver with more than 1,000 yards in the regular season for the Big Apple franchise.
7. Tennessee Titans – JC Latham (OT, Alabama)
The Titans need reinforcement on the offensive line. Andre Dillard was not satisfactory last year. Despite its cut, it remains light. So we need to give protection to Will Levis, and a player who can also help in running games for Tyjae Spears.
Playing right tackle at Alabama, JC Latham has the ability to play left. He has the fundamentals to be a solid starter. Impressive, he will be an added value compared to Jaelyn Duncan and Nicholas Petit-Frere. He is therefore the first selection of new coach Brian Callahan.
