Usually, I’ve done mock drafts for just the New York Giants this offseason. But, it’s time to do all 32 times at one time. Welcome to the first edition of my NFL Mock Draft, and how I think things will go. Some will be easy picks, others will be difficult or even questionable. But, they will all address a need for that particular team. Let’s get started with picks #1-5.
1. Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams, QB, USC
There’s no question here. With Justin Fields out of the picture, the Bears will not second-guess this pick at all. Do you really think they’re going into 2024 with Tyson Bagent as their starter at quarterback?
Williams has been an intriguing and promising prospect since he stepped foot on the college campus of Oklahoma. Spending his past two years at USC, he has won a Heisman and shown signs of becoming one of the most electric quarterbacks in the league.
2. Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
The most recent Heisman winner, Daniels brings his dual-threat ability to Washington, who just moved on from Sam Howell as they traded him away. A new regime led by head coach Dan Quinn, he gets his own guy to work with for 2024.
The highest-graded quarterback according to PFF in 2023, he has a high ceiling with an arm that is fundamental and talented to play in the NFL. His rushing ability makes him even more dangerous, and as long as he can work on avoiding sacks at the pro level, he is a solid pick to go number two.
3. New England Patriots: Drake Maye, QB, UNC
The Patriots bid adieu to quarterback Mac Jones this offseason, making it clear like the two teams above that they’re going quarterback in the draft. They take the third-best quarterback out of the bunch, hoping he can be the franchise guy for years to come.
Maye had a down year in 2023 compared to 2022 (24 touchdowns and nine interceptions after having 37/7 the season before). But, his arm talent should not be questioned and his velocity is outstanding. He is quite mobile, but needs to work on ball placement and decision-making here at the next level. But, those are teachable at the pro level, allowing the Patriots to not second-guess themselves in drafting the North Carolina prospect.
4. Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
With Kyler Murray still the franchise quarterback, why not give him one of, if not the, best wide receiver in the draft. The 6’4″ wideout will be a welcoming sight to see, as the Cardinals’ wide receiving room is very underwhelming.
His size and speed is rare, especially considering he is only 21 years old. Whether it is his footwork, change of direction, or releasing off the snap, he is such a complete wide receiver.
Basically a Davante Adams but taller, he will be Murray’s number one target from the moment he steps on the field. He has some flaws (YAC speed isn’t elite), but it’s such a small issue to the point where that shouldn’t even bother you.
5. Los Angeles Chargers: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
The Chargers have one of the worst wide receiving rooms at the moment, as Keenan Allen and Mike Williams are no longer there after being released. So, they take Nabers, who will also step in and automatically become the WR1 for quarterback Justin Herbert.
His ability to change direction and take off at max speed makes him a dangerous threat to have either on the outside or the slot. Nabers will strike fear into NFL defenses, who will have to account for him because of how much of a big playmaker he can be with his athleticism and explosiveness.
You could argue the Chargers could possibly draft tight end Brock Bowers, as they don’t have any dependable tight ends either. It’s up to them at the end, but I see them addressing the receiver position first and grabbing the young but talented Nabers.
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Featured Image: Rich Schultz/Getty Images
