The Big Thing: All Offense

A lot happened in the NFL draft. If there’s one thing you need to know, it’s this.

As the dust settles on the 2024 NFL draft, I’m left thinking about something I knew long before a single pick was made: This was an offense-heavy draft class. Everyone was excited for the quarterbacks, the wide receivers, the offensive linemen. Linebacker, safety, and edge rusher were known to be a little weak.

So when 55 total offensive linemen were drafted over three days, it wasn’t too much of a surprise. When six quarterbacks went in the top 12 … well, that was an enormous surprise, but we’d been warned that it was possible. On day one, 14 consecutive offensive players were drafted before the first defensive player came off the board, smashing the previous record of seven. Twenty-three total offensive players came off the board in the first round, breaking the previous record of 19.

The run on offense was so dramatic, it raises the question: Is this a shift in strategy for the league, a prioritization of one side of the ball at the expense of the other, or just a product of a draft class that happened to be loaded on offense? I lean more toward the latter explanation. Take offensive tackle. Teams would love to draft 17 offensive tackles in the first three rounds of every draft, as they did in this draft—there’s a huge deficit of offensive tackle talent in the league, and it’s an expensive position to fill on the free agent market. But they usually can’t, because there just isn’t enough talent. This year, eight offensive tackles went off the board in Round 1, which ties the record.

Seven wide receivers left the board in Round 1, which ties that record, too. While wide receivers are more readily available in the league and in the draft than tackles are, the league still drafted this class aggressively. But there is more opportunity in the league for wide receivers than there perhaps is for players at any other position—three are on the field on any given play, which is more than any position save for defensive back, and wide receivers rotate more than DBs do.

So many different body types work at wide receiver as well: 165-pound Xavier Worthy went four picks before 223-pound Xavier Legette. Even if you already have a good receiver (or two), you often still need to draft the position to fill roles left unfilled by your current depth chart and prepare for imminent departures. Just ask the 49ers, Bengals, Bears, and Buccaneers, who have some of the best wide receiver rooms in the league. All of those teams drafted a receiver in the first three rounds.

But just like tackle, the wide receiver enthusiasm is largely a product of the 2024 class—draft analysts were talking about the record-setting potential of this wide receiver class months ago. From a leaguewide level, there is a little bit of a trend here, yes—but we shouldn’t expect records for offensive players drafted to be broken every year from here on out.

From a team level, the focus on offense is a little more interesting. A few specific classes this year were dedicated to offensive improvement, no matter the cost. The Patriots spent seven of their eight selections on offense (more on them below in the Zag). The Steelers spent four of their first five picks on offense. The Jets spent all of their first five picks on offense.

What really interests me is that all of those teams are at different stages of contention. The Patriots are at the young QB stage—they’re building an incubator for Drake Maye. The Bears did much of the same for Caleb Williams, albeit with less draft capital: They took WR Rome Odunze with the ninth pick and tackle Kiran Amegadjie with their next selection (75th overall). The Panthers got Bryce Young a wide receiver, running back, and tight end with three of their first four picks. This is a familiar and reasonable approach.

But the Steelers are not at the young QB stage; they’re at the no-QB stage. With Russell Wilson and Justin Fields vying for the chance to resurrect their careers on one-year deals, the Steelers poured resources into the offensive line. Three of their first five selections are offensive linemen, and WR Roman Wilson slides into the shoes left by Diontae Johnson.

The plan here is QB-agnostic. Both Fields and Russ are notorious for standing back in the pocket and inviting pressure. No matter who starts for the Steelers this year, Pittsburgh needs to protect them well and run the football well. And hey, guess what you need to do with a rookie quarterback, too? Establish a strong running game.

And finally, the Jets, whose plan isn’t so QB-development or QB-agnostic but rather QB-centric. The only way the 2024 Jets work is if Aaron Rodgers is healthy and productive. Heck, it feels like GM Joe Douglas’s and head coach Robert Saleh’s jobs rest on the success of the 2024 Jets, which means they rest on the health and productivity of Rodgers. Saleh and Douglas have done an excellent job acquiring and developing defensive talent over their shared tenure, but no defensive picks would save them this year if the offense flounders again.

So they added a tackle in Round 1 (Olu Fashanu) and a wide receiver with their next pick (Malachi Corley) after spending their free agency money on those same positions (Tyron Smith, Morgan Moses, Mike Williams). Later picks were spent on depth at running back and quarterback. Building up the offense is the only way forward for New York.

Every year, a couple of teams go offense heavy, and a couple of teams go defense heavy (the Titans spent five of their seven picks on defense). But it is interesting to see teams at all different stages of quarterbacking spend an entire draft on bolstering their offense. We often think of team-building in stages or lifespans, but there’s also a universal truth: You could always use another tackle (or two). You could always use another pass catcher (or two). You could always use a developmental QB3. It’s an offense-driven league, and if your depth chart is a little thin on that side of the ball, it becomes the priority every time.

CHICAGO

If one player in the draft is a guaranteed star, Jordan Reid of ESPN.com says it is #9 overall pick, WR ROME ODUNZE:

Reid: Rome Odunze, WR, Bears. The Bears have done a tremendous job establishing an offensive foundation for new quarterback Caleb Williams to have success. Odunze (No. 9) will be a big part of that. Keenan Allen is on a one-year deal, and Odunze could be his eventual successor — and be able to build chemistry over time with Williams. Odunze’s body control and poise at the catch point are traits that immediately translate to the next level.

DETROIT

Jordan Reid of ESPN.com says the Lions made the best “value” pick of the first round:

What was the best value pick in Round 1?

Reid: Terrion Arnold, CB, to the Lions (No. 24). Getting the top-ranked corner on my board at No. 24 was a huge steal for Detroit. For the second consecutive year, an Alabama defensive back somehow fell to the Lions. Last year, GM Brad Holmes was aggressive in adding safety Brian Branch, who fell further than expected. The secondary of Aaron Glenn’s defense was a clear weak point on the roster, but the Lions have attacked that shortcoming this offseason. Arnold — who had five interceptions last season — will be an immediate starter opposite Carlton Davis III.

MINNESOTA

Matt Miller of ESPN.com also says the best “value” pick of the first round came from the NFC Central:

What was the best value pick in Round 1?

Miller: Dallas Turner, EDGE, to the Vikings (No. 17). The Vikings traded up to get Turner, but they still stole the draft’s best edge player. I had him at No. 7 overall on my board. Outside of quarterback, defensive end was the team’s biggest need after losing Danielle Hunter in free agency. Now, Turner (10 sacks in 2023) can team up with free agent acquisition Jonathan Greenard to give the Vikings a legitimate one-two punch off the edge.

PHILADELPHIA

The Eagles made the favorite pick of the draft for Matt Miller of ESPN.com:

Miller: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, to the Eagles (No. 22). He’s a playmaker with speed, length and great poise in coverage. He also fills what was an enormous need for the Eagles after seeing their 2023 starters struggle to stay on the field. Both Darius Slay and James Bradberry are north of 30 years old. Mitchell’s value at No. 22 is fantastic, but it’s really the strategy that I like best. Philadelphia general manager Howie Roseman had never drafted a cornerback in the first round then somehow stole Mitchell with teams expecting the team to go with an offensive line selection.

While Miller’s compatriot, Jordan Reid,  says the Eagles had the best “value pick” off the second round:

Reid: Cooper DeJean, CB/S, to the Eagles (No. 40). I wasn’t expecting a team to be able to get DeJean — the No. 22 player on my board — at No. 40. He was a late-Round 1 selection for me. DeJean is an all-around defensive back who can play multiple spots. He’ll likely be a safety for the Eagles, but that versatility will allow Philly to play him in the slot as a nickel or as a third-level safety. The secondary was a major weak spot in Philadelphia last season, but adding Quinyon Mitchell and DeJean completely reshapes its outlook.

Of the 28 trades during the draft, the Eagles made seven of them.  Tim McManus of ESPN.com:

The Eagles tied an NFL record for most trades in a seven-round draft with eight, joining the 2023 Houston Texans and 2018 New England Patriots for most draft-day trades since 1990.

The wheeling and dealing by general manager Howie Roseman kicked into overdrive Saturday, as Philadelphia executed five trades on Day 3.

The goal was twofold, per Roseman: “To get as many of the guys that we targeted on Day 3 as we possibly can and at the same time see if we can accumulate picks for the future.”

To that end, the Eagles acquired 2025 third-, fourth- and fifth-round picks via three separate trades, believing they were a little light on selections for next year.

And they were still able to land some of the prospects they had zeroed in on, including a pair of Clemson players in running back Will Shipley and linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr.

The Eagles entered the day with seven draft picks and exited with six players and three future picks.

“We know what we’re trying to do here. We know what sounds good and when a trade sounds good,” Roseman said, when asked how they keep track of all the movement. “We know what we’re trying to execute.”

The rest of the NFL had a quiet year on the trade front. There were only 28 over the past three days, tied for the fewest in the past eight drafts, according to ESPN Stats & Information. Last year’s draft set a record with 43 trades.

ATLANTA

Raheem Morris claims that QB KIRK COUSINS has nothing to worry about from the player the Falcons picked with the 8^th selection in the draft.

— Kirk Cousins’ position as the Atlanta Falcons’ starting quarterback of the foreseeable future has not changed after the team’s stunning first-round NFL draft decision, according to new coach Raheem Morris.

The Falcons selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. of Washington with the No. 8 pick Thursday night. The choice sent shockwaves across the NFL since Atlanta had just signed Cousins as a free agent last month to a four-year contract worth up to $180 million, with $100 million of that guaranteed.

“We came up with a decision, this is what we plan to do,” said Morris, who was hired in January after the firing of former coach Arthur Smith. “And Kirk does not have to look over his shoulder every time he throws a bad pass. Like, that is not the case.

“So I know I’m going to have to tell you guys once or twice that that is not the case. Like, we are here to go win, and we are here to go win it all. We are here to win as much as we can win.”

Cousins called Penix on Thursday night and the two had a “very good conversation,” Penix said Saturday. He wouldn’t go into any details but said, “I’m super excited to work with him, and he said he’s the same with me.”

Cousins was not informed that the Falcons would take a quarterback until they called the veteran signal-caller while the team was on the clock Thursday night. Mike McCartney, Cousins’ agent, told ESPN’s Pete Thamel that there was frustration and confusion coming from Cousins’ camp because Atlanta didn’t use its first-round pick to improve the team for next season.

Instead, the Falcons used the selection on Cousins’ apparent successor before he had played a down for the team. McCartney said Cousins, formerly of the Minnesota Vikings, understands the business of football and is ready to move on but added that there was surprise about the Falcons’ decision.

In 2023, Penix, a 23-year-old left-handed thrower, completed 65.4% of his passes for an FBS-high 4,903 yards and 36 touchdowns with just 11 interceptions. He took Washington to the national championship game, where the Huskies fell to Michigan.

Morris said Saturday that he spoke with Cousins on Thursday night with the idea of being “empathetic of how he felt at the time.” Morris said he preaches that communication has to be open, honest and continuous and that will continue with regard to this situation.

Morris and Falcons general manager Terry Fontenot said they knew when they took Penix that the decision would generate much buzz and criticism. Penix was not projected to go as highly as he did by most experts, and certainly not to a team that had just signed a big-money quarterback. But the Falcons said they trusted their process and that Penix — with his big arm, poise in the pocket and winning pedigree — was the guy that fit their “succession” plan after Cousins.

“I hate for it to be like the story of the draft,” Morris said. “I know it will be. That’s just how our world is based and is driven, but I can’t say it’s annoying. No. Because it’s what people want to see; it’s piqued more interest. What’s [Travis] Kelce’s girlfriend’s name? I feel like her right now. I’m Taylor Swift and Terry is Kelce, I guess.”

But if they were “here to win”, presumably now, they would have taken a player that can help them win in 2024.

SAN FRANCISCO

Fourth-round RB ISAAC GUERENDO is a name to know.  Mike Florio of ProFootballTalk.com:

In Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers have arguably the best running back in the NFL. That didn’t stop them from beefing up the position.

On Saturday, they traded up in round four to take former Wisconsin and Louisville running back Isaas Guerendo with the 129th overall pick.

“Well we love his speed,” coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters on Saturday. “We think he’s got a lot of speed. All our backs can run, but it’s nice to add one who possibly can run a little bit faster just for the change of pace and things like that. We like his running style. His running style I think is similar to Elijah [Mitchell] and the style that he runs with, he’s built that way and like the 40 that he has.”

Guerendo ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash at the Scouting Combine. But that doesn’t mean the 49ers were targeting speed for speed’s sake.

“We didn’t make a blanket statement like that,” Shanahan said, “but we wanted to add some speed to the running back room if we could. But you don’t just add that just to add it. It’s got to be the right type of runner with the speed. And there were a couple guys in the back end in the draft who had that. And this is the one we really liked in that way.”

Running backs coach Robert Turner Jr. was fully on board with the decision.

“Bobby loved him from the beginning,” Shanahan said. “He called him back at all the right times. He answered his texts. I’m just telling you, if you don’t do that, it’s hard to come back from that with Bobby. But, the same things I said, I mean we all really liked the speed part about him. But lots of guys can run. You have to be as good of a running back and the physicality he ran with how he was without the ball in his hand we felt he was a guy who played to our style and the skillset set could help us.”

Guerendo didn’t get much wear and tear in college. The 23-year-old had 132 carries in 14 games with Louisville in 2023, gaining 810 yards and averaging 6.1 yard per carry while stuck behind Braelon Allen. The year before, at Wisconsin, Guerendo had only 64 carries in 12 games — but still averaged 6.0 yard per carry. In 2021, he averaged 7.0 yards per carry — but on only 23 carries in four games.

He added 234 receiving yards in 2023, putting him at 1,044 yards from scrimmage.

Guerendo finished his college career with a flourish, gaining 161 yards against USC in the Holiday Bowl.

For every player who goes from college to the NFL, there’s a projection to be made. Guerendo’s speed helped make the difference for the 49ers.

He’ll start off behind McCaffrey and Mitchell, who is in the final year of his rookie deal. Where it goes from here depends on what Guerendo does with the opportunities he gets.

Guerendo is from Avon, Indiana, near Indianapolis.  He was a receiver in high school.  His 2023 season at Louisville was his sixth of college football – and he had another year of eligibility.

KANSAS CITY

Having failed in a joint plan, the Chiefs and Royals will go their separate ways in trying to get new stadiums.  And the football team’s way may be to head across the border.  Adam Teicher of ESPN.com:

– Kansas City Chiefs chairman Clark Hunt said the team would look at options beyond renovating Arrowhead Stadium as it searches for a home beyond the expiration of its lease following the 2030 season.

“We will approach it from a broader perspective going forward because time is short for us at this point and so we need to see what other options are out there for us,” Hunt said. “When we started on this process three years ago, it felt like we had a very long time, a long runway with about 9½ [years] left on our lease. We’re now down to 6½ and so I do feel very much of a sense of urgency.

“Arrowhead is a special place for our family and our fan base. That was one of the reasons that we focused on it with the last effort, but going forward it may make more sense for us to be in a new stadium.”

Voters in Jackson County, Missouri, rejected a sales tax measure earlier this month that would have helped fund major renovations to Arrowhead as well as build a new ballpark for MLB’s Royals in downtown Kansas City.

Options for a stadium for the Chiefs elsewhere in the Kansas City area include building on the Kansas side of the state line.

The Chiefs had committed to contribute $300 million to the Arrowhead renovations, which had an overall cost of $800 million. The plan to renovate Arrowhead and build a new stadium for the Royals was rejected by almost 60% of voters. It would have replaced a three-eighth-cent sales tax with a similar tax for the next 40 years.

Hunt indicated the Chiefs and Royals would work on separate plans for funding their new stadiums.

“At this point it makes sense for both of us to work independently,” Hunt said. “There’s certainly nothing to preclude us coming back and doing something together, but [Royals owner John Sherman] also feels that sense of urgency and I know he’s eager to try to find a long-term solution, which we are as well.

“Stadium development projects just take a long time and I don’t want to put a specific number on it, but with only 6½ years left on the lease, we’re going to have to work very hard over the next year, year and a half to see if we can find an option.”

BUFFALO

The Bills are rolling the dice on WR QUINTEZ CEPHUS.  Michael David Smith of ProFootballTalk.com:

After getting cut and suspended a year ago, wide receiver Quintez Cephus is back in the NFL.

Cephus has signed with the Bills, his agents announced.

The 26-year-old Cephus was a 2020 fifth-round pick of the Lions who played in Detroit for three seasons, catching 37 passes for 568 yards and four touchdowns. Last year he was suspended indefinitely for violating the NFL gambling policy, and the Lions subsequently cut him.

But last week Cephus was reinstated, and now he has his next team. He’ll compete for a roster spot on a team that needs some help at wide receiver, and he would appear to have decent odds to make the team.

MIAMI

Jordan Reid on the Dolphins’ big value pick in the sixth round:

Reid: Malik Washington, WR, to the Dolphins (No. 184). I’m shocked that Washington fell this far. Yes, he’s only 5-foot-9, but he plays much bigger than his frame, which is part of the reason I had him at No. 104. And as a sure-handed receiver who is explosive after the catch, he fits perfectly in a fast-paced Miami offense that wants to take advantage of the middle of the field.

He certainly was productive at UVa in 2023:

Washington had a breakout season with the Cavaliers in 2023, garnering All-America honors from 13 different publications. He was a first team All-ACC selection and one of 10 semifinalists for the Biletnikoff Award. Washington amassed an ACC record 110 receptions and a UVA record 1,426 receiving yards. He surpassed UVA’s single-season receptions and receiving yards records in 11 games.

His 110 receptions and school-record 10 100-yard receiving games led all FBS pass catchers.

THIS AND THAT

QBS – UP OR DOWN

If a QB has a pulse, they are now going in the first round.  Matt Miller of ESPN.com:

Miller: The NFL has a crisis when it comes to quarterback valuation, and because of it, we’re seeing more and more passers elevated to Round 1 status each year while the middle class at the position is nonexistent. The 2024 group saw consensus second-rounders Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix elevated into the top 12 picks — then we didn’t see a single quarterback drafted after Nix until pick No. 150 when Spencer Rattler came off the board to the Saints. An NFL scout told me in the pre-draft process that “Day 2 quarterbacks are dead,” and it sure seems like it’s becoming a trend to watch.

DRAFT GRADES

Chad Reuter of  NFL.com got these out in a hurry:

Immediate draft grades provide a foundation for future evaluations. Waiting three years to assess draft classes without accounting for how the decision was viewed at the time usually leads to revisionist history.

These 2024 NFL Draft quick-snap grades reflect the value I think each pick (or set of picks) has, given the slot and the prospect’s college film/athleticism scores. Trades, and the capital exchanged (both picks and players), are factored into these grades as well, as they also play a significant part in determining the future of a franchise.

NOTE: Selections and trades in the early rounds carry a heavier weight in the overall grade than those in the later rounds.

Arizona Cardinals                      A-

Ohio State WR Marvin Harrison Jr. (No. 4 overall)

Missouri DT Darius Robinson (No. 27)

Rutgers DB Max Melton (No. 43)

Florida State RB Trey Benson (No. 66)

Illinois OG Isaiah Adams (No. 71)

Illinois TE Tip Reiman (No. 82)

Boston College DB Elijah Jones (No. 90)

Texas Tech DB Dadrion Taylor-Demerson (No. 104)

Clemson LB Xavier Thomas (No. 138)

Texas OT Christian Jones (No. 162)

UAB WR Tejhaun Palmer (No. 191)

Miami DB Jaden Davis (No. 226)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: B

Day 3 grade: A

Analysis: The Cardinals did a nice job over the first two days of the draft. They acquired picks via trade, found home-run hitters on offense in Harrison and Benson and added an inside/outside pass-rush threat in Robinson. They landed athletic corners in Melton and Elijah Jones, as well. Adams and Reiman also met needs, though they were picked a bit earlier than I expected.

Taylor-Demerson was my pick for the Cardinals in the fourth round of my seven-round mock draft because of his quickness as a slot defender and tackling ability. Thomas is athletic enough to stand up on the edge for the Cardinals, while Christian Jones and Palmer have the talent to take back-end roster spots and compete for playing time down the road.

Atlanta Falcons   C+

Washington QB Michael Penix Jr. (No. 8 overall)

Clemson DE Ruke Orhorhoro (No. 35)

Washington OLB Bralen Trice (No. 74)

Oregon DE Brandon Dorlus (No. 109)

Notre Dame LB JD Bertrand (No. 143)

Alabama RB Jase McClellan (No. 186)

Illinois WR Casey Washington (No. 187)

Georgia DE Zion Logue (No. 197)

Day 1 grade: C

Day 2 grade: C

Day 3 grade: B

Analysis: It was a strange draft for the Falcons, primarily because of the Penix selection, which was perplexing given their investment in Kirk Cousins this offseason. Penix’s strong arm and accuracy from the pocket could make him a star if the injury woes that plagued him at Indiana don’t return. Trading up to grab the athletic Orhorhoro was a reach, in my opinion, especially given the team’s need at corner. Trice met a crucial need on the edge.

Dorlus fits the mold of Atlanta’s defensive linemen. He should be able to play 5-technique or 3-technique depending on where he is needed. Bertrand should contribute on special teams before moving to defense in time. McClellan and Washington — who broke out as a senior at Illinois — offer depth at the skill positions. They’ll need to find cornerbacks in the undrafted free agent pool after failing to address the position in the draft.

Baltimore Ravens              A-

Clemson DB Nate Wiggins (No. 30 overall)

Washington OT Roger Rosengarten (No. 62)

Penn State LB Adisa Isaac (No. 93)

North Carolina WR Devontez Walker (No. 113)

Iowa State DB T.J. Tampa (No. 130)

Marshall RB Rasheen Ali (No. 165)

Kentucky QB Devin Leary (No. 218)

Michigan State C Nick Samac (No. 228)

Purdue DB Sanoussi Kane (No. 250)

Day 1 grade: B

Day 2 grade: A

Day 3 grade: A

Analysis: The Ravens had yet another solid draft. Wiggins’ elite recovery speed earned him a first-round slot, but he must answer questions about how his lean frame and inconsistent tackling translates to the next level. Rosengarten and Isaac were great value picks at two need spots.

I liked the selection of Walker, an outside playmaker, early in Round 4, even after the team re-upped Rashod Bateman. Tampa’s size and strength at the catch point made him worthy of a Day 2 pick, but Baltimore landed him on Day 3. Ali is coming off a biceps injury suffered at the Senior Bowl. Leary’s arm and experience gained him a draft spot. Samac’s a powerful interior lineman.

Buffalo Bills           B+

Florida State WR Keon Coleman (No. 33 overall)

Utah DB Cole Bishop (No. 60)

Duke DT DeWayne Carter (No. 95)

Kentucky RB Ray Davis (No. 128)

Georgia C Sedrick Van Pran-Granger (No. 141)

Washington LB Edefuan Ulofoshio (No. 160)

Troy DE Javon Solomon (No. 168)

UCF OT Tylan Grable (No. 204)

Penn State DB Daequan Hardy (No. 219)

OT Travis Clayton (No. 221)

Day 1 grade: B

Day 2 grade: A-

Day 3 grade: A

Analysis: Buffalo found the potential big-play receiver it needed in Coleman after trading down twice in Round 1 (for relatively small gain). It will be interesting to see if dealing with the Chiefs so Kansas City could pick speedy pass-catcher Xavier Worthy comes back to bite the Bills. Bishop should be a good starter. Carter adds determination and leadership to the defensive line, although he was picked a bit earlier than I expected.

Davis’ tenacity as a runner is the perfect complement to James Cook. I projected Van Pran-Granger to the Bills a bit later in the fifth round in my final mock draft, but he was still a good value for a stout pivot. Securing a 2025 fourth-round pick for a fifth-rounder this year in a trade with the Bears will pay dividends down the road. Solomon is shorter than most Bills edge rushers, but he gets to the quarterback. Hardy could be a nickel candidate and is a strong return man.

Carolina Panthers    B

South Carolina WR Xavier Legette (No. 32 overall)

Texas RB Jonathon Brooks (No. 46)

Kentucky LB Trevin Wallace (No. 72)

Texas TE Ja’Tavion Sanders (No. 101)

Washington State DB Chau Smith-Wade (No. 157)

Mississippi State DE Jaden Crumedy (No. 200)

Michigan LB Michael Barrett (No. 240)

Day 1 grade: C

Day 2 grade: A

Day 3 grade: B+

Analysis: Carolina gave up what eventually turned into the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s draft as part of last year’s trade to select quarterback Bryce Young. The Panthers moved up a spot to pick Legette at the end of Round 1. He will need to show he was a better pick than several other receivers selected in the second round. Brooks should be an excellent back once recovered from his knee injury. Wallace was an excellent value in Round 3 and can take over for Frankie Luvu, who exited in free agency.

Sanders is a smooth pass-catching tight end who will be looking to outperform past Carolina draft picks Ian Thomas and Tommy Tremble. Smith-Wade is quicker than fast, making life difficult for receivers by sticking like glue.

Chicago Bears               A-

USC QB Caleb Williams (No. 1 overall)

Washington WR Rome Odunze (No. 9)

Yale OT Kiran Amegadjie (No. 75)

Iowa P Tory Taylor (No. 122)

Kansas DE Austin Booker (No. 144)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: A-

Day 3 grade: B-

Analysis: Williams and Odunze, combined with DJ Moore and Keenan Allen, could give the Bears their best passing attack since the merger. The second-round pick that was dealt to Washington for Montez Sweat should pay off now that his contract has been extended. Amegadjie should contribute as a backup in 2024 and has potential to start down the road.

Taylor has a good leg and had plenty of reps at Iowa, but I believe picking him in the fourth round was a reach. Booker has potential as an edge rusher, but the Bears had to give up a 2025 fourth-round selection to get him because they had unloaded their other Day 3 picks in previous trades. They improved their interior offensive line by sending a fifth-round pick to Buffalo for Ryan Bates earlier this offseason.

Cincinnati Bengals            B-

Georgia OT Amarius Mims (No. 18 overall)

Michigan DT Kris Jenkins (No. 49)

Alabama WR Jermaine Burton (No. 80)

Texas A&M NT McKinnley Jackson (No. 97)

Iowa TE Erick All (No. 115)

TCU DB Josh Newton (No. 149)

Arizona TE Tanner McLachlan (No. 194)

Mississippi DE Cedric Johnson (No. 214)

Mississippi DB Daijahn Anthony (No. 224)

Miami C Matt Lee (No. 237)

Day 1 grade: C

Day 2 grade: B+

Day 3 grade: B

Analysis: Mims is a boom-or-bust pick at tackle. He certainly has the size to win at the next level, but his limited experience (eight starts at Georgia) is a concern. The team doubled up on defensive tackles on Day 2 as it looks to replace D.J. Reader. Burton presented excellent value. He could become a key contributor on offense, especially if the Bengals and Tee Higgins don’t work out a long-term agreement.

Cincinnati was part of the tight end run in the fourth round, picking All despite injury concerns. Newton had a tough go at times during his senior year, but he could prove to be a nice find in the fifth round. Same goes for sixth-rounders McLachlan and Johnson. The Bengals picked Anthony with the seventh-round pick acquired from Houston for running back Joe Mixon.

Cleveland Browns            C+

Ohio State DT Michael Hall Jr. (No. 54 overall)

Michigan OG Zak Zinter (No. 85)

Louisville WR Jamari Thrash (No. 156)

Mississippi State LB Nathaniel Watson (No. 206)

South Dakota DB Myles Harden (No. 227)

Cincinnati DT Jowon Briggs (No. 243)

Day 1 grade: D

Day 2 grade: A-

Day 3 grade: A-

Analysis: The Browns’ 2022 trade for Deshaun Watson is still very much a work in progress; the QB’s performance thus far has not provided the team with much of a return on the raft of picks shipped to Houston, including first- and fourth-round picks this year. Hall and Zinter stay in Big Ten Country, with the former Buckeye looking to wreak havoc on the defensive line and Zinter likely to bounce back from injury to be a long-term starter.

Cleveland did not have many Day 3 picks because of past trades, including one this offseason for receiver Jerry Jeudy. Thrash could work himself into the role of a fourth or fifth receiver because of his speed. Nathaniel Watson’s ferocious nature meets a need in the middle of the team’s defense late in the draft, and Harden was one of the steals of the seventh round because of his fierceness and athleticism. 

Dallas Cowboys                   A-

Oklahoma OT Tyler Guyton (No. 29 overall)

Western Michigan DE Marshawn Kneeland (No. 56)

Kansas State OG Cooper Beebe (No. 73)

Notre Dame LB Marist Liufau (No. 87)

Wake Forest DB Caelen Carson (No. 174)

Southeast Missouri WR Ryan Flournoy (No. 216)

Louisiana OT Nathan Thomas (No. 233)

Auburn DT Justin Rogers (No. 244)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: A-

Day 3 grade: B

Analysis: Gaining a third-round pick in a move down the board and still landing a starting tackle made for a successful Thursday night for Dallas. Kneeland and Beebe should prove to be excellent values, while Liufau will be a solid addition to the middle of the Cowboys’ defense. The Notre Dame ‘backer was picked a bit early for my taste, though.

In Round 5, Dallas added Carson, a versatile corner/safety who was considered a Day 2 prospect near the start of last season. Flournoy has the tools to make the squad his rookie year. The Cowboys did not take a running back with any of their eight picks, leaving a sizable hole on their roster they’ll still need to fill this offseason. Dallas had four picks within the top 90 selections, but were without a fourth-rounder, having sent theirs to San Francisco last August for Trey Lance. That investment could work out quite well if the former No. 3 overall pick is able to find his game at the pro level.

Denver Broncos       B-

Oregon QB Bo Nix (No. 12 overall)

Utah LB Jonah Elliss (No. 76)

Oregon WR Troy Franklin (No. 102)

Missouri DB Kris Abrams-Draine (No. 145)

Notre Dame RB Audric Estimé (No. 147)

Utah WR Devaughn Vele (No. 235)

South Carolina OG Nick Gargiulo (No. 256)

Day 1 grade: C

Day 2 grade: B

Day 3 grade: A

Analysis: Time will tell whether Nix will be a top-notch starting NFL quarterback or viewed as a reach by a team in desperate need of talent under center. Time will also tell whether the 2023 first- and 2024 second-rounders the Broncos sent the Saints to acquire coach Sean Payton (along with a 2024 third-round pick) will lead to a championship in Denver.

Elliss isn’t a fantastic athlete but was productive at a need position for Utah, where he played for his father, former NFL lineman Luther Elliss. Denver traded up early in Round 4 to unite Franklin with Nix; the former is not the toughest receiver, but he can make defenders miss after the catch. The Broncos then found value at corner in wiry competitor Abrams-Draine before grabbing a power back in Estimé.

Detroit Lions           B

Alabama DB Terrion Arnold (No. 24 overall)

Missouri DB Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (No. 61)

British Columbia OT Giovanni Manu (No. 126)

Utah RB Sione Vaki (No. 132)

LSU DT Mekhi Wingo (No. 189)

Boston College OG Christian Mahogany (No. 210)

Day 1 grade: B+

Day 2 grade: B

Day 3 grade: B

Analysis: The Lions doubled up at corner in the first and second rounds, flexing their aggressiveness by trading a third-rounder to move up for Arnold instead of staying put and possibly selecting his ‘Bama teammate, Kool-Aid McKinstry. Detroit got fair value on Rakestraw at the end of Round 2, though the team also could have used another edge rusher or receiver.

With Taylor Decker and Penei Sewell already in place at the two bookends, the Lions were one of the few teams able to take a chance on a massive, super-athletic tackle like Manu, a developmental prospect out of Canada. Vaki could turn out to be a hammer of a running back and special teamer, but the 32-spot jump to get him cost Detroit its fourth-rounder next year.

Green Bay Packers          B

Arizona OT Jordan Morgan (No. 25 overall)

Texas A&M LB Edgerrin Cooper (No. 45)

Georgia DB Javon Bullard (No. 58)

USC RB MarShawn Lloyd (No. 88)

Missouri LB Ty’Ron Hopper (No. 91)

Oregon DB Evan Williams (No. 111)

Duke C Jacob Monk (No. 163)

Oregon State DB Kitan Oladapo (No. 169)

Georgia State OT Travis Glover (No. 202)

Tulane QB Michael Pratt (No. 245)

Penn State DB Kalen King (No. 255)

Day 1 grade: B

Day 2 grade: B

Day 3 grade: B-

Analysis: Morgan’s pass-protection skills give him a chance to replace three-time Pro Bowler David Bakhtiari at left tackle, or he could prove himself a nice positional blocker at guard, allowing the Packers to get their five best linemen on the field together. Cooper and Bullard were excellent picks in Round 2, with both filling needs, but I was a bit ambivalent on the team using third-round selections on a running back (albeit a good one in Lloyd) and a second linebacker.

Monk and Glover should provide depth on the offensive line, while Williams’ reliable tackling should make him a good special teams player. Trading a pick to move up for a second safety didn’t seem like the best value, though — especially when you consider Green Bay took another safety just one round later. Oladapo is also a quality defender, but using three choices on the same position means the team must now rely on free-agent edge rushers and 3-techniques to round out the defense. Pratt was an excellent value pick late in the draft, as was King, who has more upside than his pre-draft evaluation might suggest.

Houston Texans          A-

Georgia DB Kamari Lassiter (No. 42 overall)

Notre Dame OT Blake Fisher (No. 59)

USC DB Calen Bullock (No. 78)

Ohio State TE Cade Stover (No. 123)

Oregon LB Jamal Hill (No. 188)

Louisville RB Jawhar Jordan (No. 205)

USC DE Solomon Byrd (No. 238)

Auburn DT Marcus Harris (No. 247)

Michigan OG LaDarius Henderson (No. 249)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: B

Day 3 grade: A

Analysis: Houston built on the momentum from last season’s playoff run with a strong 2024 draft plan. The pre-draft trade with Minnesota to move out of the No. 23 overall slot — and out of Round 1 entirely — netted the Texans a 2025 second-rounder and didn’t prevent them from addressing a roster sore spot with Lassiter. The Vikings used their original second-round pick on Fisher, who still needs more polish to his game. Time will tell whether Bullock was the right pick over the numerous other safeties still on the board.

Stover was an excellent choice in Round 4. He’ll be reunited with C.J. Stroud, who frequently leaned on the tight end on third downs when the two were teammates at Ohio State. Hill should be a special teams demon. Acquiring veteran running back Joe Mixon for a seventh-round pick earlier this offseason also factors into the grade above.

Indianapolis Colts       B+

UCLA DE Laiatu Latu (No. 15 overall)

Texas WR Adonai Mitchell (No. 52)

Pitt OT Matt Goncalves (No. 79)

Wisconsin C Tanor Bortolini (No. 117)

Oregon State WR Anthony Gould (No. 142)

Missouri LB Jaylon Carlies (No. 151)

Auburn DB Jaylin Simpson (No. 164)

Marshall DB Micah Abraham (No. 201)

Oklahoma DT Jonah Laulu (No. 234)

Day 1 grade: B+

Day 2 grade: B

Day 3 grade: A-

Analysis: Latu was the most consistent pass rusher in the draft class and will be productive if the neck injury he suffered while at Washington is not an issue moving forward. The team found a potential steal in Mitchell, provided his game matures, while trading down for two Day 3 picks. Trading up for Gonclaves seemed unnecessary, though he should be at least a solid swing tackle; he’s been recovering from a foot injury but said after the draft that he feels 100%.

Bortolini looks like Ryan Kelly’s heir apparent; he also has the experience, strength and athleticism to play guard until needed in the middle. Gould brings real value as a returner, especially with the new kickoff rules. Carlies moves from safety to linebacker for the Colts. Simpson could man corner or safety; the athletic defender played both spots in college. Abraham is the son of former NFL player Donnie Abraham and a tough-minded corner in his own right, but the team is still looking for depth at edge.

Jacksonville Jaguars            A-

LSU WR Brian Thomas Jr. (No. 23 overall)

LSU DT Maason Smith (No. 48)

Florida State DB Jarrian Jones (No. 96)

Missouri OT Javon Foster (No. 114)

LSU NT Jordan Jefferson (No. 116)

Mississippi DB Deantre Prince (No. 153)

Texas RB Keilan Robinson (No. 167)

Arkansas K Cam Little (No. 212)

Texas Tech DE Myles Cole (No. 236)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: B

Day 3 grade: A

Analysis: Trading down for three picks (including two mid-rounders in 2025) and still landing a downfield target like Thomas was a win for the Jaguars. Smith and Jones filled needs with good value in the second and third rounds, respectively. Calvin Ridley restarted his career in Jacksonville, but essentially renting the receiver in exchange for two picks (including a third-rounder this year) did not really pay off for the Jags.

Foster provides depth at offensive tackle and could start in 2025 if Cam Robinson and Walker Little do not return. Defensive tackle Jefferson joined Smith in fortifying the defensive line. Prince is a great athlete at cornerback. Robinson will be a change-of-pace back and explosive returner. The team got backup quarterback Mac Jones for a sixth-round pick this offseason. Starting guard Ezra Cleveland was also acquired for a sixth-rounder last October; he re-signed in March.

Kansas City Chiefs            A

Texas WR Xavier Worthy (No. 28 overall)

BYU OT Kingsley Suamataia (No. 63)

TCU TE Jared Wiley (No. 131)

Washington State DB Jaden Hicks (No. 133)

Penn State OL Hunter Nourzad (No. 159)

Tennessee DB Kamal Hadden (No. 211)

Holy Cross OL C.J. Hanson (No. 248)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: A-

Day 3 grade: A

Analysis: If you’re wondering how the Chiefs stay on top, just look at this draft haul. Worthy is the sort of speedy difference-maker the Chiefs have searched for since trading Tyreek Hill away in 2022, and they did not give up much value to AFC rival Buffalo in the trade up to select him. They also did not have to reach for Suamataia, who should work himself into the lineup at tackle or guard if he’s able to improve on his footwork.

Wiley’s potential as a mismatch against smaller defenders made him one of the top picks of the fourth round. Hicks joins past Chiefs picks L’Jarius Sneed and Chamarri Conner as yet another potential bargain defensive back in the fourth round. Nourzad could start at center or guard in the NFL. They’ll be looking for corners, running backs and linebackers after the draft.

Las Vegas Raiders            B-

Georgia TE Brock Bowers (No. 13 overall)

Oregon OG Jackson Powers-Johnson (No. 44)

Maryland OT DJ Glaze (No. 77)

Mississippi State DB Decamerion Richardson (No. 112)

Ohio State LB Tommy Eichenberg (No. 148)

New Hampshire RB Dylan Laube (No. 208)

Air Force DB Trey Taylor (No. 223)

Pittsburgh DB MJ Devonshire (No. 229)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: B

Day 3 grade: C

Analysis: Bowers was too strong a value to ignore and will be a nice third-down and red-zone option for whomever is quarterbacking the squad over the next decade. Powers-Johnson was also a good find in the mid-second at a position of need. Glaze will need to show he was picked at the right time by eventually earning a starting spot.

Richardson is exactly the kind of NFL-sized, physical corner the Raiders required. Eichenberg will be a reliable inside player for many years. Laube was a nice pick in the sixth round who will get carries off the bench and be a special teams ace. No quarterback was selected to enter the competition between Aidan O’Connell and Gardner Minshew, so that position should be their top priority in rookie free agency.

Los Angeles Chargers        A-

Notre Dame OT Joe Alt (No. 5 overall)

Georgia WR Ladd McConkey (No. 34)

Michigan LB Junior Colson (No. 69)

Alabama DE Justin Eboigbe (No. 105)

Maryland DB Tarheeb Still (No. 137)

Notre Dame DB Cam Hart (No. 140)

Troy RB Kimani Vidal (No. 181)

USC WR Brenden Rice (No. 225)

Michigan WR Cornelius Johnson (No. 253)

Day 1 grade: B+

Day 2 grade: A-

Day 3 grade: A

Analysis: Alt will doubtlessly be a good offensive tackle for the next decade or more, but Chargers fans will keep one eye on receiver Malik Nabers, who went sixth overall to the Giants, to see if he would have been a better pick. McConkey could quiet any such concerns with his quickness and excellent routes if able to stay health. Head coach Jim Harbaugh found a leader on defense in Colson, who played that role for Harbaugh at Michigan.

Eboigbe fits as a rotational defensive lineman who gives full effort on each play. Hart and Still fulfill the team’s need at corner for good value, and Rice (son of Hall of Famer Jerry Rice) and Johnson were needed for a thin receiver room. Vidal is a low-center-of-gravity back who could take over for departed veteran Austin Ekeler if veteran JK Dobbins is not ready to go following last year’s torn Achilles.

Los Angeles Rams           A-

Florida State DE Jared Verse (No. 19 overall)

Florida State DT Braden Fiske (No. 39)

Michigan RB Blake Corum (No. 83)

Miami DB Kamren Kinchens (No. 99)

Washington State DE Brennan Jackson (No. 154)

Clemson DT Tyler Davis (No. 196)

Stanford K Joshua Karty (No. 209)

Texas WR Jordan Whittington (No. 213)

Arkansas C Beaux Limmer (No. 217)

Kansas State OT KT Leveston (No. 254)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: B+

Day 3 grade: B-

Analysis: The run on offensive players in Round 1 allowed the Rams to land a bargain edge rusher (which they really needed) in Verse, their first first-round pick since 2016. Fiske will help make up for the loss of Aaron Donald to retirement, but we’ll have to see if it made sense to trade a 2025 second-rounder to acquire him instead of getting Michael Hall at their original pick (No. 52; he went to the Browns 54th overall). Corum will play bigger and faster than his numbers indicate, and Kinchens is a downhill player at a soft spot for the Rams.

Jackson and Davis bolster the depth on the defensive line with former Florida State teammates Verse and Fiske. The Rams needed to find a kicker in his draft, and they chose Karty over Cam Little (who went to the Jags at No. 212). Limmer and Leveston should be long-time pros at center and guard, respectively. Rookie cornerbacks not drafted this weekend should be getting calls from the Rams.

Miami Dolphins         B-

Penn State LB Chop Robinson (No. 21 overall)

Houston OT Patrick Paul (No. 55)

Tennessee RB Jaylen Wright (No. 120)

Colorado State LB Mohamed Kamara (No. 158)

Virginia WR Malik Washington (No. 184)

Cal DB Patrick McMorris (No. 198)

USC WR Tahj Washington (No. 241)

Day 1 grade: B

Day 2 grade: C

Day 3 grade: B

Analysis: Miami needed another edge rusher, especially with Jaelan Phillips coming off an Achilles injury and Bradley Chubb coming off a torn ACL, but Robinson must show he can be a factor in the run game and convert pressures into sacks more regularly in the NFL. Left tackle Terron Armstead’s difficulty staying on the field made Paul a good pick in the second round. The teams’ forfeiture of its third-round pick dragged down its grade.

Trading a future third-round pick for a fourth in the current draft is usually not wise, and Miami has a few backs in the stable already, but finding a potential star in Wright waiting around made it easier to swallow. It would not surprise me if the relentless Kamara is as productive as Robinson early in his career. Both pass-catchers with the surname Washington (not related) will flourish as tough-minded slot receivers in Mike McDaniel’s offense.

Minnesota Vikings          B+

Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy (No. 10 overall)

Alabama LB Dallas Turner (No. 17)

Oregon DB Khyree Jackson (No. 108)

Oklahoma OT Walter Rouse (No. 177)

Alabama K Will Reichard (No. 203)

Wake Forest C Michael Jurgens (No. 230)

Texas A&M-Commerce DT Levi Drake Rodriguez (No. 232)

Day 1 grade: A-

Day 2 grade: B+

Day 3 grade: B-

Analysis: The Vikings gave up pick value in 2023, Day 3 picks this year and much of their 2025 draft in moves that landed them McCarthy, tight end T.J. Hockenson (in a 2022 deadline deal with Detroit) and edge rusher Turner. McCarthy and Turner possess the skill set to make that investment worthwhile, though McCarthy will need to continue his winning ways at the next level and Turner must be an impact defender.

Jackson is a Riq Woolen-type corner, long and quick-footed, who presents excellent value in the fourth round. Rouse is a strong, experienced lineman who takes over for departed veteran Oli Udoh as the swing tackle. Don’t overlook Jurgens’ chances of making the roster. Reichard is the FBS’ all-time leading scorer, and the Vikings need a reliable field goal kicker; I’m interested in how his career compares with that of Cam Little, who was picked by the Jags with pick No. 212.

New England Patriots                 B

North Carolina QB Drake Maye (No. 3 overall)

Washington WR Ja’Lynn Polk (No. 37)

Penn State OT Caedan Wallace (No. 68)

Texas A&M OG Layden Robinson (No. 103)

UCF WR Javon Baker (No. 110)

South Carolina DB Marcellas Dial (No. 180)

Tennessee QB Joe Milton III (No. 193)

Florida State TE Jaheim Bell (No. 231)

Day 1 grade: A-

Day 2 grade: C

Day 3 grade: B

Analysis: New England needed a new signal-caller in the worst way. Refining Maye’s skills could help the team compete in the AFC East over the next few seasons. The selections of Polk and Wallace addressed needs for the Patriots, but we’ll see if staying put in the second round to take Ladd McConkey — instead of trading down — and focusing on a different position early in Round 3 would have been better choices.

Robinson should have been a third-round pick, so I understood the selection, even after the team’s investment in interior lineman in last year’s draft. It would not surprise me if Baker turned out to be just as good as Polk in two years because of his ability to win downfield. The team picked the strong-armed but inconsistent Milton with the sixth-round selection it acquired from the Jaguars for Mac Jones.

New Orleans Saints                  A-

Oregon State OT Taliese Fuaga (No. 14 overall)

Alabama DB Kool-Aid McKinstry (No. 41)

South Carolina QB Spencer Rattler (No. 150)

Pittsburgh WR Bub Means (No. 170)

Texas LB Jaylan Ford (No. 175)

Northern Iowa DT Khristian Boyd (No. 199)

Eastern Kentucky OT Josiah Ezirim (No. 239)

Day 1 grade: A-

Day 2 grade: A-

Day 3 grade: B

Analysis: New Orleans took a step forward in the NFC South race this weekend. Fuaga and the Saints seemed like a perfect pairing, with the nasty lineman fitting the team’s mold and filling a big need. They traded up in Round 2 for McKinstry, a potential first-round value at a position where you can never have enough talent.

Rattler will learn how to lead a team and take advantage of his physical gifts from a consummate professional in Derek Carr. He should compete against Jake Haener for the backup spot. Means is a tough receiver with athleticism and could fight for a roster spot. Ford’s a pounder inside and I love Boyd’s value in the sixth round. He can stuff run plays and get in the face of quarterbacks more often than you’d think.

New York Giants                B+

LSU WR Malik Nabers (No. 6 overall)

Minnesota S Tyler Nubin (No. 47)

Kentucky CB Andru Phillips (No. 70)

Penn State TE Theo Johnson (No. 107)

Purdue RB Tyrone Tracy Jr. (No. 166)

UCLA LB Darius Muasau (No. 183)

Day 1 grade: B+

Day 2 grade: B+

Day 3 grade: B+

Analysis: The Giants ignored the historic quarterback run early on to grab Nabers, an explosive receiver with a game similar to the team’s 2014 first-rounder, Odell Beckham Jr. We’ll see if sticking with Daniel Jones and Drew Lock instead of taking another QB was the correct move. Nubin and Phillips were fair value in the secondary, where the team needed more talent.

Johnson will be an excellent fourth-round pick if he can fully translate his athleticism to the field. Tracy is an offensive weapon in the making, whether at running back or receiver. Muasau will be a starter in the league despite being picked in the sixth.

New York Jets         B+

Penn State OT Olumuyiwa Fashanu (No. 11 overall)

Western Kentucky WR Malachi Corley (No. 65)

Wisconsin RB Braelon Allen (No. 134)

Florida State QB Jordan Travis (No. 171)

South Dakota State RB Isaiah Davis (No. 173)

DB Qwan’tez Stiggers (No. 176)

Alabama DB Jaylen Key (No. 257)

Day 1 grade: B

Day 2 grade: A-

Day 3 grade: B

Analysis: Even after picking up veteran tackles Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses this offseason, the Jets selected Fashanu to help protect Aaron Rodgers. They spent their second-rounder on Rodgers last year and moved up for the tough-running Corley to improve the talent surrounding the future Hall of Famer.

The Jets did well picking up a 2025 third-rounder for one of their fourth-round selections. Adding in the big, nimble Allen to the backfield behind Breece Hall and Israel Abanikanda makes sense given how injuries have impacted depth at the position. I projected the Jets to bring in productive team leader Travis on Day 3, so trading up for him in the fifth wasn’t surprising. Stiggers is a fantastic story, coming through the CFL to the NFL, and a competitive athlete outside.

Philadelphia Eagles         A-

Toledo DB Quinyon Mitchell (No. 22 overall)

Iowa DB Cooper DeJean (No. 40)

Houston Christian LB Jalyx Hunt (No. 94)

Clemson RB Will Shipley (No. 127)

Texas A&M WR Ainias Smith (No. 152)

Clemson LB Jeremiah Trotter Jr. (No. 155)

Michigan OG Trevor Keegan (No. 172)

Florida State WR Johnny Wilson (No. 185)

N.C. State C Dylan McMahon (No. 190)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: B+

Day 3 grade: A

Analysis: Don’t forget about the Eagles when identifying 2024 NFC title contenders, especially after this draft. Getting Mitchell to help the cornerback room without having to trade up was a major win. They moved up for DeJean like Detroit did for Brian Branch last year; I suspect he’ll have a similar impact as a rookie. Hunt’s potential on the edge was worth the third-round pick. The grade reflects the trade of this year’s third-round pick for cornerback Kelee Ringo last year; the result is still uncertain.

General manager Howie Roseman traded several times Saturday, flipping the script on last year’s Ringo deal by getting 2025 third- and fifth-round selections. All-purpose back Shipley and receiver Smith will likely play on special teams and the offense as rookies. My favorite pick of the day was Roseman trading for Trotter, a fine player and legacy pick for the Eagles. McMahon could start at center this year if Cam Jurgens does not, and Keegan was a great pick late to add youth to the guard depth chart.

Pittsburgh Steelers               A

Washington OT Troy Fautanu (No. 20 overall)

West Virginia C Zach Frazier (No. 51)

Michigan WR Roman Wilson (No. 84)

N.C. State LB Payton Wilson (No. 98)

South Dakota State OG Mason McCormick (No. 119)

Iowa DE Logan Lee (No. 178)

Texas DB Ryan Watts (No. 195)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: A

Day 3 grade: B+

Analysis: It was just another value-filled draft for Pittsburgh. It was likely the Steelers would take offensive linemen on Day 1 or 2, and they found good value in Fautanu and Frazier. Both Wilsons selected on Day 2 were also fantastic finds and should make impacts in 2024 and beyond.

The Steelers went O-line again on Day 3, getting McCormick at least a round later than I placed his value because of his toughness and athleticism. Lee is a nice sixth-round pick who will excel at 5-technique due to his strength and motor. Watts will get a chance to use his physicality in the secondary, though the team could have used an earlier pick at cornerback instead of picking three offensive linemen.

San Francisco 49ers         B

Florida WR Ricky Pearsall (No. 31 overall)

Florida State DB Renardo Green (No. 64)

Kansas OG Dominick Puni (No. 86)

Wake Forest DB Malik Mustapha (No. 124)

Louisville RB Isaac Guerendo (No. 129)

Arizona WR Jacob Cowing (No. 135)

USC OT Jarrett Kingston (No. 215)

Florida State LB Tatum Bethune (No. 251)

Day 1 grade: B+

Day 2 grade: B-

Day 3 grade: B

Analysis: Pearsall’s quickness and hands warranted first-round consideration, and the team needed a receiver with the potential trading away of Deebo Samuel or Brandon Aiyuk down the road. The 49ers could have also picked a cornerback or tackle at that spot. Green and Puni will contribute in areas of need, but trading up for Puni was a bit of a stretch. They did not re-sign Chase Young after sending a third to Washington at the deadline.

Mustapha, picked with the selection gained from Dallas for quarterback Trey Lance, should see time on defense and special teams as a rookie. The 49ers hope to get more from Guerendo than recent running back picks Trey Sermon and Tyrion Davis-Price. Cowing is small but crafty, and Kingston’s guard/tackle versatility makes him a valuable backup.

Seattle Seahawks                  A

Texas DT Byron Murphy II (No. 16 overall)

Connecticut OG Christian Haynes (No. 81)

UTEP LB Tyrice Knight (No. 118)

Michigan TE AJ Barner (No. 121)

Auburn DB Nehemiah Pritchett (No. 136)

Utah OT Sataoa Laumea (No. 179)

Auburn DB DJ James (No. 192)

Findlay OT Michael Jerrell (No. 207)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: A

Day 3 grade: B+

Analysis: Murphy was always the pick for Seattle if available at No. 16 because of his ability to pressure quarterbacks and play the run. Haynes will start as a rookie for the Seahawks due to his athleticism and toughness. Re-upping defensive lineman Leonard Williams paid off the second-round investment in that trade with the Giants.

Knight is the strong tackler the Seahawks needed in the middle of their defense, though others like Jeremiah Trotter Jr. were available. Barner is a reliable receiver and blocker who can replace Will Dissly. Pritchett should have been picked much earlier. Laumea played well at tackle but projects as a power blocker at guard. No edge rushers were selected, so I suspect a couple top undrafted free agents will be signed.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers      B+

Duke C Graham Barton (No. 26 overall)

Alabama LB Chris Braswell (No. 57)

Georgia DB Tykee Smith (No. 89)

Washington WR Jalen McMillan (No. 92)

Oregon RB Bucky Irving (No. 125)

UTEP OG Elijah Klein (No. 220)

Washington TE Devin Culp (No. 246)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: B

Day 3 grade: C+

Analysis: Barton’s versatility, intelligence and toughness will make him one of the top linemen in this draft despite falling into the back part of the first round. Braswell met the team’s need for an edge rusher but will need to prove he was worth his draft standing. Smith should contribute immediately, and McMillan could be a playmaker as his game matures.

The Buccaneers could have picked Will Shipley over Irving, but the former Oregon Duck will compete for playing time with Chase Edmonds as a complementary back in 2024. Another interior lineman was picked in Klein, but no cornerbacks were brought on board.

Tennessee Titans        A-

Alabama OT JC Latham (No. 7 overall)

Texas DT T’Vondre Sweat (No. 38)

North Carolina LB Cedric Gray (No. 106)

Louisville DB Jarvis Brownlee Jr. (No. 146)

Tulane WR Jha’Quan Jackson (No. 182)

Miami LB James Williams (No. 242)

Michigan LB Jaylen Harrell (No. 252)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: B+

Day 3 grade: B+

Analysis: With Joe Alt off the board, the Titans picked the other top 10-caliber tackle. Latham’s a wall on the outside who will excel on either side of the line. The team needed a big body like Sweat on the defensive line and chose him even after Sweat’s recent DWI arrest; GM Ran Carthon said he discussed the incident with Sweat, and that Sweat “accepted his responsibility.” Tennessee will hope he can be dominant at the next level. The Titans’ third-round pick was part of the package to move up for quarterback Will Levis last April.

Gray’s recognition skills and quickness make him a fit in the middle of Tennessee’s defense. Brownlee has the talent to step into the fray as a rookie and earn a starting job down the line. Jackson’s quickness helps fill two needs: depth at receiver and as a returner. Harrell should have been picked much earlier as an edge rusher, a spot where the Titans needed depth.

Washington Commanders          A-

LSU QB Jayden Daniels (No. 2 overall)

Illinois DT Jer’Zhan Newton (No. 36)

Michigan DB Mike Sainristil (No. 50)

Kansas State TE Ben Sinnott (No. 53)

TCU OT Brandon Coleman (No. 67)

Rice WR Luke McCaffrey (No. 100)

Temple LB Jordan Magee (No. 139)

Washington DB Dominique Hampton (No. 161)

Notre Dame DE Javontae Jean-Baptiste (No. 222)

Day 1 grade: A

Day 2 grade: A

Day 3 grade: A-

Analysis: The Commanders entered a new era with an excellent draft. Daniels could be an elite dual-threat playmaker if he becomes more efficient from the pocket. Newton is a force in the front four. Sainristil is a pain for opposing receivers to handle. Sinnott is an underappreciated receiving/blocking weapon. Coleman is a powerful guard/tackle. And McCaffrey is a reliable WR2 or WR3 option.

Washington did not have a fourth-round pick after moving up to the third in the Sam Howell trade with Seattle. It found a future starting linebacker in Magee, whose explosiveness was underappreciated while he was playing at Temple. Hampton possesses a nice combination of size and quickness, and it won’t be surprising if he plays as a rookie.

2025 DRAFT

One door closes, another opens.  Or in the words of Bill Belichick – “on to 2025.”  Michael Daivd Smith at ProFootballTalk.com:

Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders is the betting favorite to be the first overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft.

Sanders, who is coached by his Hall of Fame father Deion Sanders, is a +100 favorite to be the first pick next year in the early odds offered by DraftKings.

The players with the next-shortest odds are Georgia quarterback Carson Beck and Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, both at+300.

Penn State quarterback Drew Allar is listed at +850, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe is at +950, Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart is at +1200 and Miami quarterback Cameron Ward is at +1500.

The non-quarterback with the shortest odds to go No. 1 overall in 2025 is Georgia defensive end Mykel Williams at +1500.