QBs selected 1-2-3 in the 2024 NFL mock draft’s first round
. Chicago Bears (via Panthers): Caleb Williams, QB, USC
Williams is still projected as the top overall pick in the draft as a quarterback prospect of the next generation, despite significant setbacks in 2023. Williams’ overall output decreased from his 2022 Heisman season while having less throw attempts, but he still managed to score 11 running touchdowns and get 9.4 yards per pass attempt. The Bears may trade Justin Fields and select Williams to start over with the QB contract clock.
Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
Daniels won the Heisman Trophy with a stellar season, and his rise has him firmly in the debate for the top five. In the LSU offense, he has demonstrated perfect accuracy, completed over 72% of his throws, and gained over 1,100 yards of rushing experience. After coaching Kyler Murray in Arizona, Kliff Kingsbury, the new coordinator for Washington, has knowledge with explosive quarterbacks.
New England Patriots: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina
Mac Jones, a previous first-round selection, has been dismissed by New England, and Maye possesses even more raw promise. During the previous two seasons, Maye demonstrated his explosive abilities with 24 touchdown throws and nine touchdowns on the ground in 2023. He possesses the bulk and arm strength of a first-round selection.
Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
Harrison Jr. gained more than 18 yards per reception and more over 1,200 receiving yards in 2023, solidifying his status as a wide receiver prospect of a new age. He’s a fantastic fit in Arizona and might take Marquise Brown’s spot as a future free agent.
. Los Angeles Chargers: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
To develop around Justin Herbert, the Chargers should always be looking for additional receiving support, and Bowers is a tough replacement. Due to his stature and strong receiving abilities, he has drawn comparisons to Gronk, while current starter Gerald Everett is a free agency.
New York Giants: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
Before blowing the roof off the SEC in 2023 with over 1,500 yards and 14 touchdowns, Nabers was a marginal first-round talent. New York is still in dire need of receiving support, particularly in light of Darren Waller’s underwhelming year.
Joe Alt, overtime, Notre Dame, Tennessee Titans
Considering how poorly Tennessee’s attempt to address tackle with Andre Dillard ended last season, it wouldn’t be shocking if they selected a first-round lineman for the second straight year. Being the son of former first-round tackle John Alt, Alt has a strong family history and a large stature at 6-foot-7.
Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, DE, Alabama
Last season, the Falcons’ defensive line may have seen a youthful infusion due to Calais Campbell’s uncertain health. Turner just finished a fantastic season for Alabama, racking up 10 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss.
Chicago Bears: Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State
Darnell Wright was selected by Chicago in the 2017 draft for the position of right tackle, and Fashanu can play both left and right. Fashanu has proven himself at Penn State and has the makings of a brick wall.
New York Jets: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State
From Aaron Rodgers onward, protecting the quarterback was a big concern for the Jets in 2023. Mekhi Becton, a previous first-round selection, may be replaced by Fuaga on the left side.
Minnesota Vikings: Laiatu Latu, DE, UCLA
Although Minnesota’s defensive line has held up well, edge rushers are still needed owing to Danielle Hunter’s advanced age and impending free agency. Latu has amassed 23.5 sacks over the previous two seasons, solidifying his position as one of the class’s best edge rushers.
2. Denver Broncos: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
Denver’s aspirations at quarterback will likely have a significant influence on their 2024 first-round selection, but cornerback is a possibility. Arnold recorded 63 tackles and five interceptions in 2023, demonstrating his keen sense of the ball.
Las Vegas Raiders: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
Aidan O’Connell, a fourth-round rookie who impressed the Raiders, probably needs more upside given the tough AFC West. McCarthy had a powerful arm and was an accurate and effective passer at Michigan, completing over 72% of his throws in the previous campaign.
New Orleans Saints: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
Chris Olave is still a rising talent, but the Saints’ attack would be more potent with other weapons. Prior to the National Championship, Odunze’s 17.9 yards per reception demonstrated his exceptional speed and size, making him a formidable deep threat.
. Jacksonville Jaguars: Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU
Calvin Ridley’s impending free agency puts Jacksonville’s wide receiver position in play. With an amazing 17 receiving touchdowns in 2023, 6-foot-5 Thomas possesses exceptional physical attributes.