In a compelling NFL.com 2024 mock draft, the Baltimore Ravens discover an impressive QB from the Big…
A day following the Ravens’ 17-10 defeat to the Chiefs in the AFC title game, general manager Eric DeCosta traveled to Mobile, Alabama for the annual Senior Bowl, an opportunity to see some of the best draft prospects in the country. After the Ravens had such a successful season, DeCosta and his staff immediately focused on rebuilding the roster.
At the team’s end-of-season news conference on Friday, DeCosta stated, “I don’t have the luxury of really dwelling on a season.” “We’ve moved onward. I am aware of my progress. I believe the scouts have moved on, and we are now eager for what lies ahead.
The NFL draft, which starts in Detroit on April 25, will have a significant impact on that future. Though the Chiefs and 49ers still have a Super Bowl to play this Sunday, it’s never too early to start considering the rookie class of the following season.
Here are The Baltimore Sun’s predictions for the first two rounds, with the draft order just one game away from being formally determined:
1. Chicago Bears (through Carolina Panthers): USC quarterback Caleb Williams
Though the Bears still need to decide what to do with Justin Fields, trading him and acquiring a cost-controlled rookie makes the most sense. Williams, who stands 6 feet 1 inch and weighs 215 pounds, has the inventiveness and agility to succeed as a professional athlete. However, he must strike a balance between adhering to a schedule and searching for big plays.
2. Washington Commanders: LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels
Daniels’ style of play is very similar to Lamar Jackson’s, which should excite a franchise that hasn’t had a big star since Robert Griffin III’s formative years. The 6-4, 210-pound Daniels is a lean player who struggles to defend himself in open field, but he has lightning-fast feet and a smooth passing ability that could make him a top dual-threat player.
3. North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye of the New England Patriots
It would be a significant risk, but perhaps the Patriots are secure enough in their assessments to pass on a quarterback in this tradedown. The 6-4, 230-pound Maye may be the third player off the board in this instance, but he possesses the physical attributes and drive to finish top in this class.
4. Arizona Cardinals: Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.
With good reason, this may be the most widely used mock draft pairing. The 6-4, 205-pound Harrison is possibly the best wide receiver to enter the draft since Ja’Marr Chase, and the Cardinals have a clear need at wide receiver. Kyler Murray, the quarterback, ought to be content.
FILE-On Saturday, October 14, 2023, in Nashville, Tennessee, during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Georgia tight end Brock Bowers (19) runs the ball after a catch against Vanderbilt. On Tuesday night, January 2, 2024, junior tight end Brock Bowers, who led No. 6 Georgia in receiving despite missing four games, announced that he would be joining the NFL draft. (George Walker IV, File/AP Photo)
Brock Bowers, a tight end out of Georgia, may be the Chargers’ first draft choice under Jim Harbaugh. (George Walker IV/AP Photo)
5. Brock Bowers, TE, Los Angeles Chargers
Wide receiver should be at the top of the Chargers’ wish list, as Keenan Allen and Mike Williams approach the final years of their contracts and Quentin Johnston returns from a disappointing rookie campaign. However, tight ends were a major component of Michigan’s passing game under former coach Jim Harbaugh, who should develop a deep affection for the 6-4, 240-pound Bowers, who appeared prepared for the NFL in his rookie season.
6. Rome Odunze, wide receiver, Washington
It wouldn’t be shocking if the Giants looked to move on from Daniel Jones in 2025 and reached for a quarterback at this position. However, if they decide to give Jones another chance, the offense would have a better chance if they added a top receiver like the 6-3, 215-pound Odunze, a polished and versatile prospect who just finished a strong season.
7. Tennessee Titans: LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers
Coming from Cincinnati, which had an embarrassment of riches at wide receiver during his tenure there, is new coach Brian Callahan. In order to help quarterback Will Levis develop, the Titans need more talent at the position, and 6-foot-2, 200-pound Nabers is an explosive playmaker who would make opposing defensive coordinators immediately worry.
8. Atlanta Falcons: Alabama, EDGE, Dallas Turner
In their last six drafts, the Falcons have selected just one defensive player (cornerback AJ Terrell) in the first round. Raheem Morris, the new coach who took over after serving as the defensive coordinator for the Rams, changes that. The 6-4, 245-pound Turner ought to contribute to giving this team the pass-rushing force it has been lacking for many years.
Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama, Chicago Bears
With the best receivers off the field, choosing seems simple. Although there is a wealth of receiving talent in the NFC North, standout cornerback Jaylon Johnson may be moving on. Arnold, a 6-foot, 196-pound prospect, is quickly becoming known as this class’s best corner.
10. Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame, New York Jets
Did the Jets not benefit greatly from this? Even if David Bakhtiari, an old friend of Aaron Rodgers, decides to transfer to New York, the offensive line still needs an upgrade at left tackle. After recovering from an Achilles tendon tear, the 40-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers can be kept clean by the 6-8, 322-pound Alt, who was a dominant player in college.
11. Florida State, EDGE, Jared Verse, Minnesota Vikings
This offseason, the Vikings must revamp their defensive line, particularly if Danielle Hunter leaves in free agency. Brian Flores, the defensive coordinator, would be a fantastic fit for the 6-4, 248-pound Verse, who plays with an edge.
Following a touchdown run by running back Blake Corum in overtime during Monday, January 1, 2024, in Pasadena, California’s Rose Bowl CFP NCAA semifinal college football game against Alabama, Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) reacts. (Photo by Kyusung Gong/AP)
J.J. McCarthy, the quarterback for Michigan, might represent
