With the NFL Draft just a week away, teams are rapidly solidifying their strategies to bolster their rosters. The decisions made on draft night can reshape the trajectory of a franchise, either propelling them forward or setting them back for years to come.
#1 Bears: Quarterback Caleb Williams, USC
Following the trade of Justin Fields to the Steelers, the Bears’ choice is clear. Caleb Williams stands out as the premier quarterback prospect in this class, drawing comparisons to the Chiefs’ Patrick Mahomes. The Bears aim to secure their franchise QB with this selection.
#2 Commanders: Quarterback Drake Maye, UNC
Amid speculation surrounding various first-round quarterbacks, the Commanders are likely to opt for Drake Maye. His arm strength, mobility, and athleticism make him an enticing pick, especially when paired with star receiver Terry McLaurin.
#3 Patriots: Quarterback Jayden Daniels, LSU
Despite interest in other quarterbacks, the Patriots are poised to select Jayden Daniels as their next franchise quarterback. With his size, athleticism, and arm talent, Daniels presents an intriguing prospect. Reports indicate that the Patriots hold Daniels in high regard, making him a strong candidate for the third overall pick.
#4 (Trade) Giants: Quarterback JJ McCarthy, Michigan
In the first trade of the draft, the Giants move up from the 6th spot to secure their quarterback of the future, JJ McCarthy. Trading the 6th pick, the 47th pick, and a 2025 second-round selection, the Giants position themselves to land McCarthy, who has impressed scouts with his skills and championship pedigree. There are many other teams as well who have been vying for McCarthy’s services like the Minnesota Vikings, but the Giants end up getting him.
#5 Chargers: Wide Receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State
The Chargers essentially control the draft now, as they select one of if not the best player available in this draft. With the departures of Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, the Chargers have a massive hole at wide receiver. Harrison Jr. will fit with Justin Herbert just fine, and give the Chargers a new franchise wide receiver for new coach Jim Harbaugh to work with.
#6 (Trade) Cardinals: Wide Receiver Malik Nabers, LSU
Capitalizing on the Giants’ quarterback pursuit, the Cardinals trade down and acquire extra picks. Despite missing out on Harrison Jr., they secure LSU’s Malik Nabers, providing Kyler Murray with a dynamic weapon. Nabers was the number one target for Jayden Daniels in his Heisman season, and will bring in speed and athletic ability to the cardinals offense. While his route running could use some work, that can be developed with the Cardinals.
#7 Titans: Tackle Joe Alt, Notre Dame
There are a lot of different avenues the Titans could go with this pick: they could add a top wide receiver like Rome Odunze to add with Calvin Ridley and DeAndre Hopkins, they could bolster their defense with one of the top edge rushers.Addressing their offensive line needs, the Titans select Joe Alt to bolster protection for quarterback Will Levis. Alt emerges as the top lineman prospect in this class, offering immediate impact for the Titans.
#8 Falcons: Edge Dallas Turner, Alabama
The Atlanta Falcons take the first defensive player in this years draft, replacing aging lineman Calais Campbell with this pick. Turner was a stud at Alabama, finishing with 10 sacks on the season and taking home the SEC defensive player of the year honors. The Falcons desperately need help on the pass rush, and Turner will give them some reinforcements at this key position.
#9 Bears: Wide Receiver Rome Odunze, Washington
Odunze had an excellent year with the Washington Huskies, putting up 1,640 yards and 13 touchdowns in route to a national championship appearance. Putting Keenan Allen, DJ Moore and Odunze in the same wide receiver room would create one of the best in the NFL, and give Caleb Williams some weapons to work with.
#10 Jets: Tight End Brock Bowers, Georgia
In a draft rich with options, the Jets choose Brock Bowers, a highly touted tight end prospect from Georgia. Bowers’ potential to impact the passing game alongside Aaron Rodgers and the Jets’ offensive arsenal makes him a valuable addition. This gives Aaron Rodgers another great weapon to work with alongside Garrett Wilson, Breece Hall, Mike Williams, and Tyler Conklin. There will be no shortage of help in the passing game in the Meadowlands.
