Way Too Early 2024 NFL Mock Draft

Kyle Lindemann's way too early NFL mock draft for the 1st round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He predicts every first round draft pick and provides reasons as to why each player was selected at that particular spot.

What can I say? Some of us are simply draft junkies. While it's inevitable that this NFL mock draft will look very different 11-plus months from now, if you want a little sneak peek at some of the top players for 2024, you've come to the right place.

According to most scouts, the 2024 draft class is more star-studded than 2023. The first two quarterbacks, offensive tackle, and wide receiver would have been selected ahead of all of the quarterbacks, tackles, and wide receivers in the 2023 NFL Draft. I won't spoil the names of the players just yet, but one of them happens to be the son of a famous NFL wide receiver with the same name.

To avoid giving the impression that I'm against your favorite team, the 2024 NFL Draft order will be based on the order of the draft in PFF's 2024 NFL Mock Draft Simulator. Just as the Jacksonville Jaguars' fortunes were turned around in one year after landing quarterback Trevor Lawrence from Clemson, many believe that USC quarterback Caleb Williams will do the same for whichever team lands him, as he's currently considered that caliber of prospect. Now, let's dive into this mock draft, shall we?

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The Top 10 NFL Draft Picks

1. Arizona Cardinals

Caleb Williams - QB, USC

New GM Monti Ossenfort took a pragmatic approach in his first draft in 2023. The Cardinals made a smart move by trading back from No. 3 to No. 12, and then moved back up to No. 6, where they selected tackle Paris Johnson from Ohio State. In the process, they acquired additional draft picks for 2024, including an extra first-round and two third-round picks. This shows that the Cards have a realistic and honest view of their roster and are building for the future under the new regime.

The team has plenty of holes to fill and there is uncertainty surrounding quarterback Kyler Murray's availability for Week 1 of 2023. If the Cardinals end up with the worst record in the league next season, it feels inevitable that Murray could be traded to a quarterback-needy team for even more future draft picks in the spirit of a complete reset.

Scouts everywhere are beaming about Caleb Williams and his abilities. Some even compare him to Patrick Mahomes, although that may be a lofty comparison. Watching Williams on tape, it's evident that he has an uncanny ability to extend plays and make extraordinary throws. He would have been the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 Draft, and it's no surprise that so many people across the football landscape are excited about his future. The term "generational talent" gets thrown around a lot, but Williams looks the part.

2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Drake Maye - QB, North Carolina

While it's difficult to imagine the Bucs falling to such a level considering the talent on their roster, the departure of Tom Brady leaves a massive void at the quarterback position. In 2023, they'll feature Baker Mayfield or Kyle Trask under center. Given the situation, the best scenario for the Bucs would be to secure a quarterback on a rookie deal, providing some salary cap relief and enabling them to retain more of their core players.

Standing at 6-5 and weighing 220 lbs, Maye has generated significant buzz from scouts. In 2022, he showcased his impressive abilities by throwing for 38 TDs with only seven INTs, amassing 4,321 passing yards. He also displayed his mobility by rushing for 698 yards and seven TDs. Maye's athleticism is often underestimated and deserves more credit.

3. Arizona Cardinals *From Houston*

Marvin Harrison Jr. - WR, Ohio State

Rather than eviscerate Houston for this trade, we can commend them for finally choosing a destination after wandering around aimlessly in the NFL wilderness. Over the past two years, the franchise has lacked a clear identity and direction. Landing Quarterback C.J. Stroud and edge rusher Will Anderson Jr. in the 2023 NFL Draft was a significant moment for the franchise, as it potentially establishes cornerstone players on both offense and defense for the next decade. However, it came at a hefty price. Houston gave up the 33rd pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, along with their 2024 first and third-round picks, to move up from 12th to the 3rd overall pick. Could that come back to haunt them? Currently, the roster still appears to be at least one more year away from being able to compete for a playoff spot.

Marvin Harrison Jr. is the best wide receiver prospect we've seen since Ja'Marr Chase in 2021. At 6-4, Harrison has all the size that you want while displaying the agility and speed typically associated with smaller receivers. Ohio State has produced notable talents like Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba in recent years, yet Harrison Jr. might be the best of them all. Harrison Jr. and Williams would transform the fortunes of the Cardinals' franchise overnight.

4. Indianapolis Colts

Olu Fashanu - T, Penn State

At just 20 years old, Fashanu could have entered the 2023 NFL Draft and likely would have been the first tackle off the board. Fashanu was a star basketball player in high school and even received an offer to play for Gonzaga. Standing at an impressive 6-6 and weighing 308 lbs, he exhibits exceptional mobility for a player of his stature. Considering the Colts' recent struggles on the offensive line, particularly at left tackle, this pick makes too much sense for Indianapolis as they look to protect QB Anthony Richardson's blind side.

5. Washington Commanders

Quinn Ewers - QB, Texas

In only his second collegiate start against Alabama on September 10th, Ewers looked as good as advertised. He completed 9 of 12 passes for 134 yards before suffering a sprained AC joint on his non-throwing shoulder. Although he returned to action a month later, he wasn't as sharp. However, if Ewers can clean up his footwork and mechanics, there is no doubt that he has the potential for a monster 2023 season, vaulting him into the conversation as one of the top quarterbacks. Supported by an outstanding cast of recruits that head coach Steve Sarkisian has landed, Ewers will have a fantastic team around him this fall. We don't know if the Sam Howell / Jacoby Brissett experiment will work out and there may be an inevitable regime change in the front office with Josh Harris buying the team from Daniel Snyder. Might they want a new face of the franchise as well?

6. Green Bay Packers

Dallas Turner - Edge, Alabama

We know the Packers love their edge rushers, as evidenced by their selection of Lukas Van Ness in the 2023 Draft. This upcoming season will be interesting for Green Bay, as it marks the first time since 2008 that Aaron Rodgers won't be the starting quarterback. While Jordan Love could surprise, it's likely that the team will undergo a rebuilding year, allowing Love two full seasons to prove he can be the guy. Dallas Turner has all the desirable traits and athleticism of a top pick, but he will need to refine his skills and make a significant impact on the stat sheet in 2023. Over the past two seasons, Turner has recorded 62 total pressures and 14 sacks. A 5-star recruit in the 2021 class, he has all the pedigree of a top pick.

7. Las Vegas Raiders

Kool-Aid McKinstry - CB, Alabama

As of late, we've had some DBs with awesome names, and now the NFL introduces another one with Kool-Aid alongside the likes of Sauce Gardner. McKinstry, a 5-star recruit from the 2021 class, profiles as a true shutdown corner at 6-1 and 188 lbs. Ga'Quincy "Kool-Aid" McKinstry earned an impressive 82.5 defensive grade from PFF during the 2022 season. It's no secret that the Raiders' secondary needs a lot of help, particularly in a division that features Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, and Russell Wilson. Acquiring a talent like Kool Aid becomes paramount for addressing their defensive woes.

8. Tennessee Titans

J.T. Tuimoloau - Edge, Ohio State

We know that head coach Mike Vrabel loves his Ohio State guys, and Tuimoloau fits the mold of everything that the Titans' front office is trying to build down in Nashville. During the 2022 season, Tuimoloau was a force off the edge, accumulating 32 total pressures and seven sacks. He also flashed incredible athleticism and awareness, exemplified by his two interceptions, which is an impressive feat for a player weighing nearly 275 lbs. The Titans continue to reload in the trenches.

9. Los Angeles Rams

Joe Alt - T, Notre Dame

The Rams did a good job plugging holes and reloading in the trenches during the 2023 NFL Draft. However, they are a difficult team to gauge for the upcoming season. If QB Matthew Stafford can come back healthy, their offense, led by WR Cooper Kupp, can regain its previous form. On the defensive side, Aaron Donald, now in his 10th season, is one of the best defensive players of the past generation but the Rams lack any kind of support behind him. With that said the Rams would be jumping for joy at the chance to find a long-term replacement at left tackle since Andrew Whitworth retired.

10. Chicago Bears *from Carolina*

Jared Verse - Edge, Florida State

Verse's decision to return to Tallahassee for his senior season instead of entering the 2023 NFL Draft came as a surprise to many. He had a successful 2022 campaign with 36 total pressures and nine sacks to go along with an 81.2 grade from PFF. Having transferred from Albany, Verse made a significant impact in his first season at Florida State. With a class rich in talented edge rushers, it's understandable why the Bears' front office would want a player like him who can get after the opposing quarterback.

Picks No. 11-21: Where Do the Other Quarterbacks Fall?

11. Chicago Bears

Brock Bowers - TE, Georgia

One of the best tight-end prospects we've seen in quite some time, Bowers is a well-rounded player with plenty of athleticism. He may end up going higher than No. 11 overall when it's all said and done, but for now, the Bears will continue to build around quarterback Justin Fields. Tight end Cole Kmet is a free agent after the 2023 season and so is Robert Tonyan. Bowers would be a formidable weapon for the still-developing Fields. Bowers already has 24 total TDs in his short college career and put up an impressive 63 receptions for 942 yards and seven scores in 2022. There isn't a flaw in his game.

12. New England Patriots

Emeka Egbuka - WR, Ohio State

Another talented wideout to come out of OSU, Egbuka shouldn't have any problem putting up even better numbers in 2023 playing opposite Harrison Jr. Last season, Egbuka posted 74 receptions for 1,151 yards and 10 TDs. It's no secret that the Patriots offense has been in dire need of playmakers since Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski left town and Egbuka gives New England a much-needed needle mover on offense.

13. Atlanta Falcons

Jeremiah Trotter Jr. - LB, Clemson

After taking an offensive player in the Top eight of the NFL Draft for three consecutive years, it's time for the Falcons to focus on retooling their defense. While the front office did a great job in the 2023 off-season, they still need playmakers on that side of the ball. Trotter Jr., the son of former Eagles and Redskins linebacker, has shown some incredible versatility during his time at Clemson. In 2022, he had six sacks, two INTs, and 60 tackles, earning an impressive 86.9 defensive grade from PFF. Remember how good Deion Jones was for the Falcons before he got hurt? Trotter is in the mold of the modern, athletic linebacker who can play well in space.

14. New York Giants

Rome Odunze - WR, Washington

It sure would be nice to see Daniel Jones finally play with a WR1, wouldn't it? While the front office traded for tight end Darren Waller in the offseason, Jones still needs more help. At 6-3 and 201 lbs, Odunze gives the G-Men a bigger, X-type WR that they have needed for quite a while now. Odunze had 75 receptions for 1,145 yards and seven TDs in the 2022 season. Many feel that Odunze is just scratching the surface of his potential.

15. Denver Broncos

Maason Smith - DT, LSU

Smith had his 2022 season cut short after suffering a knee injury in the season opener. He was a 5-star recruit in the 2021 class and has all the size and athleticism to be a first-round pick. While we haven't seen enough proven production on tape from him, the flashes he showed during his freshman season in 2021 were impressive. He is a player who could solidify his draft stock with a stellar 2023 campaign.

16. Seattle Seahawks

Kris Jenkins - DT, Michigan

Many across the football landscape had assumed that the Seahawks would draft DT Jalen Carter from Georgia with the 5th overall pick, but they opted for CB Devin Witherspoon instead. With Quentin Jefferson and Al Woods both gone, there is still a glaring need on the Seattle defensive line. The Seahawks defense is shaping up nicely but they could use another piece on the interior.

17. Pittsburgh Steelers

Xavier Worthy - WR, Texas

The vibe in Pittsburgh has always been one of patience and it's likely the Steelers will give quarterback Kenny Pickett plenty of time to develop. In the meantime, Diontae Johnson is only signed through 2024 and the only other prominent receiver on their roster is George Pickens. The Steelers have never been shy about drafting wide receivers and have a pretty solid hit rate when doing so.

18. Minnesota Vikings

J.J. McCarthy - QB, Michigan

We know the Kirk Cousins Era is coming to a close in Minnesota and while he has been very good, the Vikings haven't been able to get over the hump. GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and HC Kevin O'Connell are slowly turning over the roster in Minnesota and after 13 wins in their first season together, they've likely given themselves enough time to see this remodel through. McCarthy has a ton of upside and it's not hard to envision him putting it all together this year to solidify his draft stock. Michigan's offense is loaded and J.J. feels like the kind of high-ceiling quarterback that O'Connell could mold. If Cousins doesn't get them to the Super Bowl in 2023, there's likely a big change on the horizon.

19. Houston Texans *from Cleveland*

Malik Nabers - WR, LSU

While John Metchie III has the chance to be a solid No. 2 WR in the NFL, the Texans still don't have a true chain mover on offense to help C.J. Stroud. Tank Dell has all of the potential to be a playmaker but some question if he has the size to be a true difference-maker in the NFL. Nico Collins and Robert Woods are okay at this stage of their careers but the Texans' offense needs a true No. 1. Nabers solves that problem.

20. New Orleans Saints

Chop Robinson - Edge, Penn State

It's not unrealistic to think that Penn State could compete for the Big Ten crown in 2023 with the talent that's been assembled in Happy Valley, PA. Demeioun "Chop" Robinson had 5.5 sacks in 2022 after transferring from Big Ten rival Maryland. The defense has been the Saints' calling card in recent years and they could badly use another edge rusher.

Picks No. 21-32: Will There Be Another QB Off the Board?

21. Miami Dolphins

Donovon Jackson - G, Ohio State

The Dolphins boast a high-powered offense, but they eventually need to start reloading up front. Jackson, who started 13 games at left guard in 2022, is poised to be the top interior lineman in the 2024 draft.

22. Baltimore Ravens

Kalen King - CB, Penn State

After adding plenty of offensive skill players in the 2023 off-season, the Ravens return to their roots and draft a potential shutdown corner. King is part of a very talented group of players at Penn State who appear everywhere in this mock draft and could do some big things this upcoming season.

23. Los Angeles Chargers

Cooper DeJean - CB, Iowa

A four-sport star out of Sioux Falls, South Dakota, DeJean is a versatile athlete. In 2022, he played both cornerback and a hybrid nickel role, combining linebacker and safety elements. He is a bigger athlete playing the cornerback position at 6-1. You can never have enough talented defensive backs playing in the same division as Patrick Mahomes.

24. Dallas Cowboys

J.C. Latham - T, Alabama

The Cowboys go back to the staple of what made their offense successful for so many years. Alabama has a history of churning out productive NFL tackles and Latham should help Dallas immediately.

25. Green Bay Packers *from New York Jets*

Christian Mahogany - G, Boston College

This pick will upgrade from a second to a first-round pick if Aaron Rodgers plays 65 percent of the offensive snaps in 2023. It's no secret that Packers GM Brian Gutekunst values his guys on the offensive and defensive lines. With David Bakhtiari's recent injury history it's uncertain if he can return to his previous Pro Bowl form, and there have been discussions about the possibility of Elgton Jenkings switching to left tackle. Mahogany, a talented guard, gives Green Bay more depth on the interior as they wait and see how Jordan Love develops.

26. Detroit Lions

Jer'Zhan Newton - DT, Illinois

The Lions passed on Jalen Carter in the 2023 NFL Draft and could use another body on the interior. The staple of what HC Dan Campbell and GM Brad Holmes have been building up in Detroit is physicality in the trenches and a locker room full of guys who eat, sleep, and breathe football.

27. Jacksonville Jaguars

J.T. Sanders, TE - Texas

Incumbent tight end Evan Engram, who signed a franchise tag, is back in 2023. The Jaguars' cap situation is going to get a lot more complicated soon with a looming Trevor Lawrence contract extension as well. Ja'Tavion (JT) Sanders is a big athletic tight end who put up an impressive 54 receptions for 613 yards and five TDs in 2022. He still has plenty of upside after just one season at tight end and gives the Jags a solid weapon for years to come.

28. Buffalo Bills

Michael Hall Jr., DT - Ohio State

It's widely expected that 2023 will be Ed Oliver's final season with the Bills, as they may not be willing to meet his potential market value. Meanwhile, Hall, who redshirted his freshman year in 2021, had 7.5 tackles for a loss and 4.5 sacks in 2022. Despite being hampered by injuries, Hall showcased his speed during a recent speed test conducted by Ohio State football's Zebra Report. Clocking in at 21.4 mph, he emerged as the fastest player on the defensive side of the ball, a remarkable feat considering his 285-pound frame and larger physique compared to just about everyone else on the chart.

29. San Francisco 49ers

D.J. James - CB, Auburn

James transferred from Oregon in 2022 and was named to the second-team All-SEC defensive team. The 49ers haven't invested in a cornerback this early in a long while so it's time for them to do so.

30. Cincinnati Bengals

Laitu Latu - Edge, UCLA

After transferring from Washington, Latu had a coming-out party in 2022 with 12.5 tackles for a loss and 10.5 sacks. While the Bengals did take Edge Myles Murphy in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, you can never have enough talent on the edge with the prolific quarterback play in the AFC.

31. Philadelphia Eagles

Graham Barton - OT/G - Duke

GM Howie Roseman and the Eagles always have their assembly line on the offensive line. RT Lane Johnson has been a borderline Hall of Famer but will turn 34 next year. Barton could play on the inside and give Philly some depth or eventually take over for Johnson on the right side.

32. Kansas City Chiefs

Jordan Morgan - T, Arizona

The Kansas City Chiefs have undergone a shift in their team-building philosophy. As long as the offensive line can keep Patrick Mahomes upright and give him some solid offensive weapons, they are pretty much unstoppable. A fifth-year senior, Morgan could step in and play for the Chiefs right away.

While the 2024 NFL Draft is still 11 months away, it's important to start familiarizing yourself with many of these names. It will be interesting to see how this original mock draft stacks up to the real thing next April. Feel free to follow me on Twitter for plenty of NFL content this summer, even during the offseason.

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