2024 NFL draft: Best picks, top steals in every round

The 2024 NFL draft is officially in the books. Six teams drafted a quarterback in Round 1, receivers flew off the board and there was an overarching focus on the trenches. We saw it all. And I was particularly impressed with what the Cardinals, Steelers and Commanders did to improve their rosters.

I’ve had a few days now to reflect on an incredible week in Detroit, and I wanted to take a closer look at the five picks that I liked the most in each of the seven rounds. These aren’t necessarily the best players taken in each round — hey, I loved the Bears taking Caleb Williams at No. 1 and the Cardinals landing Marvin Harrison Jr. at No. 4 just as much as everyone else! — but rather the best picks. I factored in value, fit and what the player will bring to the team, among other things. I’ll start with the other Bears selection in the first round.

Jump to round:
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | UDFA

Round 1

Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears (No. 9)

Coming out of the first round with the Williams-Odunze duo is a dream scenario for Chicago. Odunze was my sixth-ranked prospect, and I firmly believe that no matter how talented a young quarterback is — and Williams is plenty talented — a team should do everything in its power to surround him with the best possible supporting cast. The Bears furthered that effort with the addition of Odunze to a now-stacked receiver room. He’s an exceptional route runner, and Williams will love his contested catch ability.