2024 NFL Mock Draft: Rounds 1, 2, 3 Predictions (Post Stefon Diggs Trade)

April 24, 2024

Chris predicts the first three rounds of the 2024 NFL Draft with analysis about each rookie. His 2024 NFL Draft predictions for Round 1, Round 2 and Round 3.

The better part of free agency is done. While we continue to watch the depth pieces trickle through on smaller deals, the lion’s share of noteworthy moves are behind us. That is usually a sign that another mock draft is needed.

In this mock, I will dive three rounds deep. I will factor in A LOT of trades, including a big move for Buffalo to fill its WR1 need. There have been fewer draft-day trades in recent years, but this class is one of the best to come out in some time. So, multiple teams could show interest in moving up after years of stagnation. This could be one of the more active drafts in terms of trade activity in recent memory.

One more thing worth noting before we begin. The biggest rumors and buzz swirling around the top of this year's draft involve a shakeup of long-established tiers. Namely, there is significant hype that J.J. McCarthy could be the second or third quarterback taken, while Malik Nabers could be the first receiver. I'm not buying that buzz. Remember, April rumors said the Texans would pass on a quarterback last year.

Round 1 NFL Mock Draft

1. Chicago Bears- Caleb Williams, QB, USC

No matter how many mocks we do, Caleb Williams will always be in this spot. He has been the top prospect on my 2024 board since he took over as OU's starter against Texas in his freshman season. He has shown the ability to thrive and win with average talent around him and make big plays out of nothing. The juice is worth the squeeze.

2. Washington Commanders- Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

This is another repeat for me. Daniels is my third-rated passer in this class and ninth prospect overall. However, he is an experienced and polished player with great placement on his deep ball and elite rushing skills. The biggest questions are his velocity on intermediate throws and his lack of size. Injuries will be a concern with how he plays. I would take Drake Maye here, but it sounds like Washington won’t.

3. *TRADE: Minnesota Vikings- Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

The buzz continues to be New England is open to moving off of this pick and passing on quarterback, which would be a very Bill Belichick move. It would be odd to fire Belichick yet continue running things like he was there, but that's how things seem to be going. It's a bold strategy, Cotton.

From the Vikings’ perspective, adding Maye is a no-brainer. He has ideal size, arm strength, velocity, and underrated mobility. Maye typically throws with more precision than he’s given credit for, too. The big issue is the moments Maye displays baffling and unexplainable inaccuracy. If Minny can get him to be more consistent and iron out his hiccups, this pick will be a home run.

Trade Details…

Patriots Receive: Picks No. 11 and No. 23, plus Minnesota’s 2025 first-round pick

Vikings Receive: Pick No. 3 and New England’s 2025 third-round pick

4. Arizona Cardinals– Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

The buzz surrounding Malik Nabers is understandable. He's explosive and the best playmaker in this class. Harrison remains the most-rounded receiver prospect in this group, though. The Ohio State product has great size, elite footwork, an exceptional understanding of how to vary route speeds, and above-average athleticism. He also has an innate feel for turning broken plays into opportunities.

5.*TRADE: Denver Broncos - J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

The Broncos desperately need a quarterback. Unfortunately, they don’t have the ammo to outbid the Vikings for Maye. That means they could have to deal with the division-rival Chargers, who will have little incentive to give the Broncos a bargain on Jim Harbaugh’s college quarterback. That’s why Denver has to pay a premium for this pick.

For my money, McCarthy isn’t worth this kind of investment. The NFL seems to disagree, though. In defense of McCarthy, there is a lot to like about his film. He throws with more intermediate velocity than Jayden Daniels, has fewer confounding misses than Drake Maye, and wins more than even Michael Penix Jr. Sean Payton could use those factors to convince himself that this is a good move.

Trade Details…

Chargers Receive: Pick No. 12 overall, plus Denver’s 2025 first- and second-round picks

Broncos Receive: Pick No. 5 overall

6. New York Giants- Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Nabers' stock is soaring after his pro day, which happens to some lucky players every year. Luckily for New York, Nabers isn’t just a workout hero. His film and production are both outstanding. No receiver in this class can match the Bayou Bengal’s big- play ability. His film shows shades of Antonio Brown.

7. Tennessee Titans- Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

This is getting boring, right? Nothing has happened to change this pick, either. The Titans still have a massive hole at left tackle and one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL. Alt is the safest prospect in this tackle class and one of the youngest. His upside isn’t the best and he isn’t the strongest, but there is a Jake Matthews level of safety here. Alt should be an above-average left tackle, at worst.

8.*TRADE: Buffalo Bills- Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

My colleagues' first response after Stefon Diggs was traded to Houston was to assume Buffalo would replace him with a vet. Given the free agent and trade market, I don't see how that happens. The more likely move would be to deal a bunch of Day 2 picks to get an elite option in Odunze. The Washington product is arguably a better-rounded player than Diggs and could immediately step into that lead role.

As for Atlanta deciding to move back, its decision is simple. It needs defensive help more than anything. This class isn’t particularly strong at the top of the defensive heap. It can move back and collect valuable draft assets, and the talent drop-off won’t be that bad.

Trade Details…

Bills Receive: Picks No. 8

Falcons Receive: Picks No. 28, No. 60, Buffalo’s 2025 second, and Minnesota’s 2025 second (via the Stefon Diggs trade)

9.*TRADE: New Orleans Saints – Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

Saints GM Mickey Loomis has a history of trading up to grab a luxury piece. Remember that he twice surrendered future first-round picks to secure small school prospects with red flags. If Trevor Penning and Marcus Davenport were worth future firsts, then a significantly more talented prospect like Bowers is worth a smaller package… right?

With the Jets likely to take Bowers at No. 10, do not be surprised if Loomis tries to jump ahead of them. He remembers what Jimmy Graham did for Drew Brees, and he has an incentive to make the awful Derek Carr contract work. Bowers would be another elite weapon for Carr to overthrow and yell at for not catching a pass that hit the Gatorade jug.

Trade Details…

Bears Receive: Picks No. 14 and No. 45 overall

Saints Receive: Picks No. 9 and No. 122 overall

10. New York Jets- Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington

Let's stick with Fautanu here. He is one of my favorite prospects in this class and has positional flexibility. The Jets' starting offensive tackles are aging and have noteworthy injury histories. The contract they gave John Simpson to start at right guard wasn't prohibitive, either. Fautanu can start at guard and eventually take over for Tyron Smith at left tackle.

11.*TRADE BACK: New England Patriots – Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

If the Patriots are going to pass on this quarterback class, they need to draft pieces to help the quarterback they inevitably draft at the top of next year’s class. Fashanu lacks ideal power and polish but has perfect length and athleticism. New England can let him develop with a disposable quarterback this season and hope he hits his stride next year.

12.*TRADE BACK: Los Angeles Chargers – Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

If Harbaugh and Greg Roman want an offense built around Gus Edwards instead of Justin Herbert, they can afford to move back and collect picks. No deal they make to move back should take them out of position to draft one of the two best road-grading right tackles in this class: Fuaga or JC Latham. Here, they go with Fuaga for his nasty edge and consistent anchor.

13. Las Vegas Raiders- Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington

Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce has openly stated he wants to improve at quarterback over Aidan O'Connell. Gardner Minshew is basically O'Connell after a healthy dose of Wheaties. Michael Penix Jr. has the arm strength, resume, and foot speed that the Raiders traditionally love. Vegas would ultimately love to trade back and still get Penix, but they get no quality offers in this scenario.

14. *TRADE BACK: Chicago Bears- Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama

The Bears should be thrilled if they can trade back and still add the top pass-rusher on most boards. Turner is a versatile edge who can play standing up or in the dirt. Chicago will value his speed, bend, and ability to drop into zone coverage. His profile has some risk, but his floor is former Chicago Bear Leonard Floyd.

15. Indianapolis Colts- Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

Mitchell continues to be a logical fit for the Colts. He is the most athletic corner in this class and experienced in off-man coverage. The Toledo product is a perfect fit for Indianapolis's scheme and fills its biggest need if you believe its offensive line improvements from last year are real.

16.*TRADE: Philadelphia Eagles- Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

After signing Bryce Huff in free agency, Philly's biggest need is cornerback. With Mitchell already gone and several other corner-needy teams drafting before the Eagles get on the clock, Philadelphia must consider trading up to nab the top man-coverage corner in this class. Seattle gladly moves back, as it always does.

Trade Details…

Seahawks Receive: Picks No. 22 and No. 53 overall

Eagles Receive: Picks No. 16 and No. 102 overall

17. Jacksonville Jaguars- BrIan Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

Brian Thomas Jr. was always my favorite fit for the Jaguars in this class. Paying a second-round pick plus cash to keep Calvin Ridley was never worth it, and Thomas is a more versatile weapon anyway. Jacksonville's interest in Brandon Aiyuk indicates it wants to add another quality receiver for Trevor Lawrence, and Thomas is the most logical option given its draft position.

18. Cincinnati Bengals- JC Latham, OT, Alabama

The Bengals have always needed to get stronger at offensive tackle, and their signing of Trent Brown is a temporary measure. While I am higher on Amarius Mims and Tyler Guyton than Latham, I seem to be in the minority. The Alabama product is quick out of his stance, moves well for his massive frame, and plays with power in his hands and lower body.

19. Los Angeles Rams- Jared Verse, DE, Florida State

Verse is the strongest edge in this class, with enough power and experience to play all over the line and push the pocket from anywhere. No one can replace Aaron Donald, but Verse is the best option the Rams have. At his peak, the Seminole can anchor against the run and secure double-digit sacks on top of it.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers- Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas

The Steelers are another team that has tipped their interest in receivers by inquiring about Aiyuk. While they traditionally wait until the second round to draft one, the team is in win-now mode. There is an air of desperation surrounding the front office’s moves, especially with reports circulating about an ownership mandate to win. So, they pay a premium for Worthy, whose stock is way up.

21. Miami Dolphins- Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

The Dolphins have done nothing to solve their long-term questions at offensive tackle, and Terron Armstead isn’t getting healthier or younger. Guyton has fewer injury concerns than Amarius Mims and is just as athletic. The big blocker from Oklahoma plays with a hot motor and his flaws on film are all fixable. He fits what the Dolphins need to a T.

22.* TRADE BACK: Seattle Seahawks- Graham Barton, OL, Duke

While Jackson Powers-Johnson is my top-rated interior blocker, Barton is an NFL favorite for his versatility. Seattle can plug him into a starting guard or center spot and use him as a swing tackle, too. Barton could help fill several glaring needs for Seattle with just one draft pick.

23. *TRADE BACK: New England Patriots- Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas

New England has stacked its secondary over the past few years, so Cooper DeJean and Nate Wiggins don’t fill a need. With the top-four quarterbacks and top-five receivers off the board, that leaves Murphy. The Longhorn manhandles interior blockers when he is fully engaged. He can play inside on passing downs and five-tech on base downs, teaming with Christian Barmore for a formidable interior push.

24. Dallas Cowboys- Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

Tyron Smith’s exit has left a hole at left tackle that Tyler Smith should fill. Dallas still needs to improve at right tackle and left guard, though. Mims is raw and has a concerning medical history. He is also massive, with nimble feet and good movement skills. The run on offensive tackles leaves the Cowboys at risk of not getting a starting-caliber prospect if they pass on Mims here.

25. Green Bay Packers- Jer’Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois

As we’ve stated before, Jeff Hafley will run a 4-3 scheme with Green Bay, creating a need for more interior rushers. With Devonte Wyatt yet to fulfill the lofty expectations Green Bay drafted him with, the Packers have just one interior pass-rusher they can rely on at this moment. That means Newton is the best combination of need and value on the board.

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA

We are sticking with Latu in this spot. The Buccaneers need more edge-rushers, and Latu is the most polished in this entire class. He also fits Tampa's 3-4 scheme as a long but light edge with great fundamentals.

27.*Arizona Cardinals- Cooper DeJean, CB, Iowa

There aren’t many players who would be a better fit for Arizona’s needs than DeJean. The Cardinals lack viable starters in their secondary, which is a big problem in the NFC West. DeJean can lock down the sidelines, and he's an elite kick returner. He improves two spots with one pick.

28.*TRADE BACK: Atlanta Falcons- Chop Robinson, DE, Penn State

The first round is too rich for a sack artist with no sack production, but we've seen athletic pass-rushers without stats go higher than this before. Robinson's get-off is elite, and some teams will fall in love with it. He also fills a big need for Atlanta, whose 3-4 hybrid scheme could be ideal for an undersized pass-rusher like Robinson.

29. Detroit Lions- Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

Wiggins is undersized and doesn't fit the prototypical Dan Campbell mold. However, he is blazing fast and incredibly feisty. There is zero quit in Wiggins, who ran down receivers to stop them at the goal line multiple times in college. Campbell likes players who won’t quit.

30. Baltimore Ravens- T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State

The Ravens’ history is built on their defense, and that defense didn't do enough to beat the Chiefs in the AFC Championship. Making matters worse, the top-rated cover corner on their roster last year was Ronald Darby, who is now in Jacksonville.

A long playmaker like Tampa could be Baltimore’s best option if things break like they did in this mock. The Cyclone has great size and instincts, even if he takes too many risks.

31. San Francisco 49ers- Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas

With this pick, the 49ers must strongly consider offensive tackle. Unfortunately, no blocker available comes close to Mitchell’s value. The Longhorn’s film has too many boom-or-bust moments, including an inconsistent motor. However, he has good length, a projectable frame, solid hands, and is a good route runner. Mitchell tested better than any receiver at the Combine, too.

For those wondering if San Francisco needs a receiver, consider that it has met with multiple high-end pass-catchers in this class. Injuries, cost, and age are growing concerns for Deebo Samuel and George Kittle, making them possible casualties of market-setting deals for Aiyuk and Brock Purdy. Mitchell would give San Francisco flexibility in moving on from those vets.

32. Kansas City Chiefs- Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

The trade of L'Jarius Sneed created a need at corner for Kansas City. While offensive tackle is arguably a bigger need, McKinstry is the better value in this mock. He is a savvy veteran with good recognition skills who tested better than expected on his pro day.

Round 2 NFL Mock Draft

33. Carolina Panthers- Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

Austin Corbett was a high-priced disappointment last year, allowing four sacks and 16 pressures in just four games. The Panthers have to hope he rebounds, but they also have to strongly consider drafting the top center in this class if he falls to them. Powers-Johnson has Pro Bowl-caliber potential, with a thick upper body that can consume interior pass-rushers.

34. New England Patriots- Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

Tom Brady succeeded in Boston’s winters because he dramatically improved his arm strength after college, but such a drastic improvement is rare. Nix feels less like Brady and more like a mobile version of Mac Jones. He should compete with Jacoby Brissett this year before losing the position to a highly drafted rookie in 2025, much like Jimmy Clausen did with Cam Newton in Carolina.

35. Arizona Cardinals- Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia

Arizona's starting center (Hjalte Froholdt) has an exceptional name but unexceptional film and metrics. Frazier is a balanced but powerful anchor with experience and good leverage. He would be an immediate and substantial upgrade for the Cardinals.

36. Washington Commanders- Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU

The Commanders’ current options at left tackle are Braeden Daniels and Cornelius Lucas. Daniels is a former fourth-round pick with no experience, and Lucas is a poor run blocker. Suamataia is an extremely long tackle with a ton of projectable traits. He needs to get stronger, and his hand placement is well below average, but those things are fixable. The cousin of Penei Sewell has immense upside.

37. Los Angeles Chargers- Roman Wilson, WR, Michigan

Wilson is a third-round pick on my board, but Jim Harbaugh likely disagrees. The Chargers just traded away their star slot receiver, and Wilson could be why they felt comfortable doing so. While Ladd McConkey is significantly higher on my board, Harbaugh’s familiarity with Wilson makes the difference.

38. Tennessee Titans – Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia

Ladd McConkey is my 23^rd-ranked prospect, but he falls in this mock because of circumstances. The Bulldog would immediately fill Tennessee’s slot position, using his elite route running to get open underneath while DeAndre Hopkins and Calvin Ridley command attention outside. This move would also let Tennessee use Treylon Burks primarily on kick returns and gadget plays, where he is best suited.

39.*Carolina Panthers- Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina

Legette has a massive frame, long arms, good body control, and premium straight-line speed, though his takeoff can sometimes be slow. While I have Keon Coleman higher on my board, Legette's stock is soaring in many circles. He would give Bryce Young a big playmaker who can correct quarterback mistakes and get deep.

40.*Washington Commanders- Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri

Emmanuel Forbes Jr. was always undersized and looked it in his first year as a pro. He also wasn't the choice of Washington's current regime. With cornerback still a need for the Commanders, they could do worse than adding one of the most aggressive corners in this class.

41.*Green Bay Packers- Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&M

The Packers just lost De’Vondre Campbell to free agency. They are also switching to a scheme that will require two of their starting linebackers (Rashan Gary and Preston Smith) to play defensive end, opening needs at two linebacker spots in their new 4-3 scheme. Cooper is an elite athlete who can play in all kinds of formations and do anything you ask. He and Quay Walker would form a dangerous duo.

42.*Houston Texans- Payton Wilson, LB, North Carolina State

DeMeco Ryans comes from a 49ers defense led by the best coverage linebacker in the NFL. While Houston added Azeez Al-Shaair as a familiar and capable disciple of that same system, Wilson is better physically suited to fill the Fred Warner role in this scheme.

43. Atlanta Falcons- Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia

The Falcons have one corner locked down with A.J. Terrell, but they still need help at the other post. SEC opponents avoided Lassiter despite his average athleticism, targeting him just three times per game despite the fact he often shadowed their best receiver.

44. Las Vegas Raiders- Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

Morgan has the size and athleticism to play right tackle for the Raiders, but he isn’t an elite athlete, nor does he have tremendous reaction skills in zone. He should be an NFL starter at some position, though. Whether that’s guard or tackle is yet to be seen. The Raiders need help at both positions.

45.*TRADE BACK: Chicago Bears- Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

The Bears have an elite slot option in Keenan Allen and a quick playmaker in D.J. Moore. Cole Kmet doesn't cut it as a contested-catch machine, though. Coleman's athletic numbers don't match what you see on film, which is a long receiver who can hurdle corners and secure off-target throws. Coleman has some of the strongest hands in this class, and his demise is overstated.

46. Indianapolis Colts- Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State

The Colts brought back Grover Stewart and have DeForest Buckner next to him, forming a dangerous interior duo. However, those vets are 30 years old, and Raekwon Davis is the only viable depth behind them. Fiske would be a valuable pick for the Colts, giving them a deep rotation of talented pass-rushers.

47.*New York Giants- Roger Rosengarten, OT, Washington

The Giants have two big holes on their offensive line, one of which is at right tackle. None of their current options at that spot have produced positive film or metrics over the past two years. Rosengarten is a quick and fluid pass blocker who needs to get tougher and develop better lower-body strength. The buzz surrounding him is positive.

48. Jacksonville Jaguars- Darius Robinson, DE, Missouri

GM Trent Baalke likes having plenty of depth on his defensive line. Robinson has experience playing inside and out. He is a power rusher who doesn't have premium bend or athleticism, but he was productive in the SEC and flashed more fluidity at the Senior Bowl than in college. Robinson’s ability to sub in at multiple spots on the line, like Arik Armstead, is valuable to someone like Baalke.

49. Cincinnati Bengals- Ruke Orhorhoro, DT, Clemson

The Bengals lost both of their starting defensive tackles in free agency. While some veteran depth was added, Orhorhoro has more upside and length than anyone on the roster. The Clemson product is good in run support, has the chest strength to keep linemen out of his pads, and can play 3-tech or 5-tech.

50. Philadelphia Eagles- Junior Colson, LB, Michigan

The Eagles don’t usually draft linebackers high, but they struggled mightily to keep anyone on the field last year. While Devin White helps fill one need at the position, Nakobe Dean entered the pros with injury/size concerns and has done nothing to dispel those worries. Colson is a leader, a winner, and a thumper who should bring back an edge to this once-elite unit.

51. Pittsburgh Steelers- Marshawn Kneeland, DE, Western Michigan

Pittsburgh doesn't have a screaming need for another edge-rusher, but Kneeland has a unique skill set that could fit a variety of roles in the Steel City. Kneeland is a thick and powerful edge who can outmuscle tackles, plus he has the frame to add mass. Kneeland could be a long-term replacement for Cameron Heyward, or he could offer depth behind T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith.

52. Los Angeles Rams- Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota

The Rams need a playmaking free safety to play next to Kamren Curl. If they want to contend in the NFC West, they must create turnovers that will swing close games. Nubin collected 12 interceptions over the past three seasons, showing the ability to break on the ball like a receiver.

53.*TRADE BACK: Seattle Seahawks- Chris Braswell, DE, Alabama

Seattle is moving to a 3-4 scheme to fit what new head coach Mike Macdonald ran in Baltimore. Macdonald also deployed many 4-5 fronts in Baltimore, which means they need more pass-rush depth. Braswell isn't overly fast or powerful, but he's persistent and can fill multiple roles in this scheme.

54. Cleveland Browns- Trey Benson, RB, Florida State

The Browns have historically been a run-first team, and there are significant doubts about whether Nick Chubb will ever return to form. Cleveland didn't trust any of the backs on its roster to fill Chubb's role last year, and Benson has the all-around profile to be an every-down back. He has good straight-line speed, contact balance, and soft hands.

55. Miami Dolphins- Jonah Elliss, EDGE, Utah

With Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips recovering from torn ACLs and Andrew Van Ginkel leaving in free agency, pass-rush depth is an underrated need for Miami. Elliss is a polished pressure artist whose light build is best suited for a 3-4 scheme like the Dolphins’. His physical profile and handwork make him a quality candidate for Van Ginkel's spot in Miami's pass-rush rotation.

56. Dallas Cowboys- Jonathon Brooks, RB, Texas

The Cowboys have done nothing to replace Tony Pollard this offseason, which is surprising considering Jerry Jones' affinity for elite every-down backs. Dallas's lack of effort in addressing the running back position in free agency indicates it will draft one, and the hometown guy is the best-rounded player in the class... when healthy. Expect Brooks to take over as the starter by mid-season.

57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Khyree Jackson, CB, Oregon

Jackson remains an ideal fit for a Bucs team that traded away their best cornerback (Carlton Davis III) this offseason. Jackson is a long and physical press corner, fitting the mold of who Tampa has started at its outside corner spots for the past five years.

58.*TRADE: Kansas City Chiefs- Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida

Kansas City has needed a dynamic deep threat since Tyreek Hill left town. The signing of Marquise Brown could fill that need, but Hollywood is on a one-year deal and has only flashed inconsistently so far in his career. Pearsall is a receiver who can do it all. He has plenty of deep speed, is a good route runner, can make people miss, and makes acrobatic catches.

As for trading up in this scenario, the Chiefs know that the Bills, Lions, and Ravens have all shown interest in this receiver class. Worse, the Bills need multiple pass-catchers, and Houston faces losing Stefon Diggs to free agency in just one year. So, almost every team between this spot and KC's pick at No. 64 is a threat to take Pearsall if the Chiefs don't move up.

Trade Details…

Chiefs Receive: Pick No. 58 overall

Packers Receive: Picks No. 64 and No. 131 overall

59. Houston Texans- Mike Sainristil, CB/S, Michigan

The best slot corner in this class, Sainristil, has tremendous closing ability and reaction times. He is an intelligent player with a good understanding of zone concepts like the ones Houston deploys. The Texans have aging veterans at slot corner and free safety, and Sainristil can play either position. He has a lot of Jimmie Ward in his film, which makes him the perfect heir to Ward.

60.*TRADE BACK: Atlanta Falcons- Adisa Isaac, DE, Penn State

The Falcons double dip on Penn State edges in this class, knowing they need multiple pass-rushers to fill out their front. Isaac isn't an ideal athlete, presenting neither elite speed nor power. However, he is an active hand fighter who transitions between multiple pass-rush moves with fluidity.

61. Detroit Lions- Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon

Detroit has done significant research on this year's wide receiver class, so it would be thrilled to find a talent like Franklin fall to them. While his skill set is a bit redundant with Jameson Williams, Franklin has better size and can fill an intermediate role in Detroit's offense.

62. Baltimore Ravens- Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky

Baltimore could use more pass-rush options with the departure of Jadeveon Clowney, but Lamar Jackson could also use more weapons. Perhaps there was no truth to Baltimore's rumored interest in Deebo Samuel, but someone with Corley's YAC skills would be hard to defend next to another playmaker like Zay Jones.

63. San Francisco 49ers- Kris Jenkins, DT, Michigan

The 49ers lost Arik Armstead and Javon Kinlaw to free agency while netting Maliek Collins and Jordan Elliott. Overall, they took a hit on interior talent. Jenkins is an extremely powerful player who is effective on stunts and in run support. He shoots across blockers and into opposing gaps well.

64.*TRADE BACK: Green Bay Packers- Jaden Hicks, S, Washington State

Packers DC Jeff Hafley has talked about wanting versatile safeties who can play three positions in his secondary: box, deep, and nickel corner. Xavier McKinney was signed to be one of those versatile players. Hicks can be another versatile option. He’s played in the slot, has great recognition when calling plays from the back end, and is a solid tackler at the line.

Round 3 NFL Mock Draft

65. Carolina Panthers- Javon Bullard, S, Georgia

The Panthers jettisoned Jeremy Chinn and Donte Jackson this offseason, leaving holes at nickel corner and safety. While the team chose not to rely on those veterans last year, their exits aggravated an existing problem. Bullard can be a starter at nickel or safety. He's a smart player and a consistent tackler.

66. Arizona Cardinals- Kiran Amegadjie, OT, Yale

The Cardinals signed Jonah Williams to play right tackle this offseason, but he's never been particularly good or healthy. Amegadjie is a project, but he has the length and lower-body flexibility you want from a pro pass blocker. He also plays with good leverage for his height and has experience in zone run concepts. The Yaley can sit behind Williams for a year and then take over.

67. Washington Commanders- Mohamed Kamara, DE, Colorado State

The Commanders have a massive need for edge pressure, and Kamara had 30.5 sacks in college. The CSU product takes poor angles and ends up on the ground too often, but he never gives up on a play. On multiple occasions, he got pressure from his knees. Kamara plays with violent hands and solid power, plus he impressed with a 4.57 40-yard dash.

68. New England Patriots- Ja'Lynn Polk, WR, Washington

The Patriots drafted their backup quarterback of the future (Bo Nix) earlier in this mock, so why not get him a weapon? Polk has a solid frame and long arms that help him secure contested catches. He's also very effective on short-area routes. The Husky could be a big slot option for New England or play on the perimeter.

69. Los Angeles Chargers- Ja'Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas

Jim Harbaugh’s 49er teams relied heavily on the athletic Vernon Davis at tight end. Greg Roman also benefited from quality tight end play with Mark Andrews in Baltimore. While Sanders isn’t the blocker that Davis was or the receiver Andrews is, the Texas alum is a fluid route runner and makes contested catches on film. He also has the frame and hands to become an adequate blocker.

70. New York Giants- Christian Haynes, G, Connecticut

As we covered earlier, the Giants have multiple needs along their offensive line. Haynes would offer a solution for the interior. He has a powerful grip and above-average movement skills on pulls and second-level blocks.

71. Arizona Cardinals- Jaylen Wright, RB, Tennessee

The Cardinals have James Conner and not much else at running back. Conner will be 29 this season and has a history of injuries. With a wealth of picks in this draft, the Cardinals can afford to spend one on the most explosive runner in this class. Wright is the top back on my board, despite concerns about his lack of workhorse experience.

72. New York Jets- Devontez Walker, WR, North Carolina

The Jets have Garrett Wilson and Mike Williams at receiver but not much else. Williams' injury history doesn't inspire confidence that he can play a full season, either. Walker was a disappointment in the predraft process, but he has tremendous size and tracked the deep ball well this past year. His film was that of a late second-round option, so this is solid value.

73. Detroit Lions- Bralen Trice, DE, Washington

Trice has a tall frame that looks more comfortable standing than in a three-point stance. However, he plays with power and tenacity, no matter his stance or formation. His production is inconsistent, and he gets much more pressure than sacks, but he has a good frame and an unforgiving mindset. He fits the Dan Campbell mold.

74. Atlanta Falcons- T’Vondre Sweat, NT, Texas

Sweat is a massive man who consistently blows up the run. He isn't likely to play a full load of snaps, so his best landing spot is likely on a team that can deploy him as a 3-4 nose on base downs before taking him off the field in nickel packages. The Falcons should fit that mold with new HC Raheem Morris and the scheme he ran in Los Angeles.

75. Chicago Bears- Brandon Dorlus, DT, Oregon

The Bears have solidified their edges with Montez Sweat and Dallas Turner, but they could use help on the interior defensive line. Dorlus utilizes a variety of pass-rush moves and flashes the power to bull rush, but his recognition and play strength are inconsistent. He has the potential to be an above-average starter.

76. Denver Broncos- Javon Baker, WR, UCF

If Denver wants McCarthy to succeed, it must give him more weapons than Courtland Sutton. While Marvin Mims Jr. remains an intriguing deep threat, Sean Payton hasn't shown much interest in featuring him. Baker has the physical build to be a No. 1 receiver and made plenty of big plays in college. His film against OU was particularly impressive.

77. Las Vegas Raiders- Jeremiah Trotter Jr., LB, Clemson

The Raiders linebacker corps produced solid statistics last year but was weak in coverage and as pass-rushers. While Trotter Jr. isn’t an elite athlete and lacks ideal size, he’s an incredibly instinctive player and a good tackler. He knows when to shoot the gap as a blitzer or stay in coverage.

78. Washington Commanders- Austin Booker, DE, Kansas

With multiple needs at the defensive end, the Commanders double up on flawed edge-rushers with upside. Booker has a wide wingspan, a long stride, and he plays fast. He bends the edge well on film, though his lack of strength and experience are concerns.

79. Atlanta Falcons- Maason Smith, DL, LSU

Smith is a former top recruit who struggled with injuries and didn't produce much in college. However, he is an interior pass- rusher with the levers to handle a 5-tech position in a 3-4 scheme. He also plays with good upper-body strength and a powerful club move. The Falcons have now invested four picks in their front seven, making HC Raheem Morris very happy.

80. Cincinnati Bengals- Jalen McMillan, WR, Washington

With Tyler Boyd on his way out, the Bengals could use someone to compete with Charlie Jones for the starting slot position. McMillan has a nuanced route-running ability that could fit very well with Cincinnati's scheme.

81. Seattle Seahawks- Mason McCormick, G, South Dakota State

Both of Seattle’s projected starting guards have poor metrics and uninspiring pedigrees. Even with Barton in the fold, the Seahawks need to get stronger on the inside of their offensive line. McCormick is a strong zone blocker, and the best guard left on the board.

82. Indianapolis Colts- Blake Corum, RB, Michigan

The Colts lost Zack Moss this offseason, leaving uninspiring options behind Jonathan Taylor. Given Taylor's injury history and punishing style, the team needs to add a quality backup to its roster. Corum is an older back, but he has quick feet and a lot of experience. He could step into a full-time role if Taylor goes down.

83. Los Angeles Rams- Spencer Rattler, QB, South Carolina

While Rattler had chemistry/character questions in high school and at Oklahoma, those issues have reportedly been solved to the satisfaction of most teams. He lacks ideal size and isn’t always comfortable in the pocket, but Rattler has enough arm strength and mobility to be a quality backup and maybe an average starter someday. The Rams like the idea of developing him behind their two veteran passers.

84. Pittsburgh Steelers- Patrick Paul, OT, Houston

Dan Moore Jr. hasn't been a good NFL tackle throughout his career. He just plays so many snaps that people assume he must be decent. Pittsburgh should move him inside and let Broderick Jones take his left tackle spot, where Jones is most natural. That would allow Paul to slip into the right tackle position.

85. Cleveland Browns- Michael Hall Jr., DT, Ohio State

Hall is a quality athlete and pass-rusher, but he's also an undersized "tweener" who could struggle to find an every-down position in the NFL. However, his film is too good for him to fall further than this. He would add quality depth and upside on the interior of a Browns line that is already good.

86. Houston Texans- Sedrick Van Pran, C, Georgia

Houston overdrafted Juice Scruggs last year in one of its few reaches of the 2023 class. He had a fourth-round grade but went in the second. His metrics as a rookie were poor and he dealt with injuries, yet he plays a very important role in Houston's offensive scheme. Adding a quality backup who can step in and call plays while anchoring the run is important. Van Pran can do those things.

87. Dallas Cowboys- Jamari Thrash, WR, Louisville

Thrash stood out at the Senior Bowl, making several tough and contested catches against impressive opposition in drills. He is an above-average athlete and a plus-route runner. His hands were inconsistent on film, but there is some Diontae Johnson in his game. Thrash is an underrated prospect in this class and would fill Dallas’s need for receiver depth.

88. Green Bay Packers- Dominick Puni, OL, Kansas

The Packers got great production from their starting offensive tackles last year, but edge depth and competition inside are both needs. Puni can start at right guard for the Packers while acting as a swing tackle if either of Green Bay's starters goes down. Puni is a strong player who can move people off the line in the run game.

89.*TRADE: Los Angeles Chargers- MarShawn Lloyd, RB, USC

The Chargers have their short-yardage back already after signing Edwards. However, they need to draft a rookie who can complement Edwards with big-play ability and the upside to be an every-down starter. Lloyd is the last back on the board with true lead-back potential in his film, so the Chargers jump up to get him.

Trade Details…

Chargers Receive: Pick No. 89 overall and Tampa's fifth-round pick in 2025

Buccaneers Receive: Picks No. 105 and No. 110 overall

90. Arizona Cardinals- Max Melton, CB, Rutgers

Melton could go much higher than this, but the Cardinals must add him if he doesn't. Arizona answered one cornerback need by drafting DeJean, but Melton is an immediate upgrade for its other starting spot. The Rutgers alum tested well at the Combine, plus his film shows good transition skills and the ability to play inside or out.

91. Green Bay Packers- Blake Fisher, OT, Notre Dame

While the Packers have two quality starting tackles and drafted Puni just a few picks ago, they decided to double up on offensive line depth with this pick. Fisher can knock people off point, is effective in double-teams, and is good with combo blocks. He can be an excellent swing tackle, allowing Puni to stay at guard if he wins a starting spot.

92. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Cooper Beebe, G, Kansas State

The Buccaneers are another team in need of interior blockers. Beebe has played every position on the offensive line for Kansas State, showing plus awareness transitioning from double-teams to blitz pickup. He is good size and knows what to do with his hands.

93. Baltimore Ravens- Gabriel Murphy, EDGE, UCLA

Murphy is best suited as a situational pass-rusher in a 3-4 scheme, which is exactly what the Ravens want him to do. He’s a solid depth replacement for Clowney, who will be missed.

94. San Francisco 49ers- Cole Bishop, S, Utah

Tashaun Gipson is gone, and there are reports that San Fran is concerned about the long-term health of Talanoa Hufanga. Bishop has the length, size, and attacking mentality to replace Hufanga if reports are accurate and the 49ers really are considering moving on from the former All-Pro.

95. Kansas City Chiefs- Sataoa Laumea, OT, Utah

Laumea had an underrated Senior Bowl and senior season overall. He shows good awareness in blitz pickup, hands off defenders to the inside when appropriate, and moves levels with fluidity. He has the potential to be a solid swing tackle for the Chiefs as a rookie, with the upside to start if Jawaan Taylor continues to be… let's say, underwhelming.

96. Jacksonville Jaguars- Kamren Kinchens, S, Miami (FL)

Remember that Trent Baalke likes versatile safeties who can play cornerback. It’s why he invested a first-round pick in Ward with the 49ers.

Kinchens is an interception machine with good recognition skills and great tackling ability. He played plenty of nickel and deep safety with Miami. He is one of my favorite players in the class and could play multiple roles with the Jags.

97. Cincinnati Bengals- Christian Mahogany, G, Boston College

With this pick, the Bengals add quality depth to the inside of their offensive line. Mahogany is a powerful player who could turn into a starter in time. For now, the Bengals will appreciate his ability to upgrade the quality of their bench.

98. Pittsburgh Steelers- Jarvis Brownlee Jr., CB, Louisville

Jamari Thrash and Brownlee had two of the more underrated Senior Bowl appearances, outperforming more hyped opponents in one-on-one drills. Brownlee is a feisty corner with the skills to play out wide, but he also has experience playing both slot and box safety.

99. Los Angeles Rams- Brenden Rice, WR, USC

Rice was Caleb Williams' top receiver this season, at times flashing on contested catches and back shoulder fades. He improved his stock at the Senior Bowl with a big and defined frame, an impressive build that didn’t show up on film. Rice would be a solid third receiver for the Rams and might help Sean McVay get Jerry Rice on his sideline for games against the 49ers.

100. Washington Commanders- Calen Bullock, S, USC

Bullock has tremendous ball skills but is undersized and a poor tackler. Some project him as a corner, while others see him as a deep safety. The Commanders could use depth at both.

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