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Jordan Reid, NFL draft analyst
It was a wild week at the NFL combine, and I wanted to sort through all of the event’s top risers, fallers and standouts for the 2024 NFL draft with a brand-new mock. And this time I’m going two full rounds with predictions for the opening 64 picks.
Which top prospects cemented their place in Round 1? Who made a statement and warrants a climb up the board? Which Day 2 sleepers impressed? We still have pro days and nearly two months of team visits to shift opinions, and looming free agency will shake up each team’s needs for the draft, but we’re getting more clarity on this class and the range in which each player could get picked.
So here’s my latest projections for the first and second rounds of April’s draft, including a few of the week’s 40-yard-dash stars and workout warriors. I even included a trade projection involving a pair of teams in the top 10.
Jump to:
Round 1 | Round 2
ROUND 1
Caleb Williams, QB, USC
Breaking his silence for the first time since January, Williams made it clear at the combine that he’d be “excited” about playing in Chicago. People I spoke with in Indianapolis last week were still under the impression that the Bears will ultimately trade quarterback Justin Fields, which would of course pave the way for Williams to end up in Chicago. And the talented signal-caller has all of the qualities that it takes to quickly become an NFL star. His arm talent, improvisational skills and accuracy would make him a strong fit for new offensive coordinator Shane Waldron’s offense.
Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina
It’s widely known that Washington will select a QB if it stays put at No. 2, but which one? I elected to go with Maye, as his prior experience in an Air Raid-style offense, his size (6-foot-4, 223 pounds) and ability to drive the ball downfield gives him the edge over LSU’s Jayden Daniels. The learning curve might not be as steep for him in Kliff Kingsbury’s offense, and there is a lot of upside here with him throwing to receivers Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson.
1:49
Drake Maye ready to show teams who he is
Drake Maye talks to Laura Rutledge about meeting with teams and the advice he got from Philip Rivers.
Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
I’m still not convinced that the Patriots will ultimately take a quarterback at this spot — even though they should. They lack playmakers all over the roster, and both starting offensive tackles are scheduled to become free agents (Mike Onwenu and Trent Brown). They need more than just a starting quarterback, but with around $100 million in cap space, New England can fill holes in free agency and draft Daniels — an exceptional vertical passer with good touch on his throws — to build around him. The Heisman Trophy winner also has mobility traits to help mask some of the team’s deficiencies.
Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
Harrison is a perfect match for Cards quarterback Kyler Murray, who isn’t shy about giving his receivers chances down the field. The top-ranked player on my board, Harrison is the prototype of a true WR1. He’s 6-3 and 209 pounds, but he has the traits of a smaller wideout, and his tape shows a wide catch radius and diverse route tree. He could help turn around this Arizona offense that could lose Marquise Brown to free agency next week.
Projected trade: Bears move up to land second top-five pick
The Bears already landed a franchise quarterback at No. 1, but I have them moving up to get Williams some help on offense. I think Chicago could probably move from No. 9 to No. 5 for a pair of third-rounders (one this year and one next year), and considering it might recoup a third- or fourth-round pick for Fields and already has two second-round picks in 2025, this makes sense. There was a lot of chatter at the combine about the Chargers’ interest in trading back, and while they could have their choice of the non-Harrison receivers and all of the offensive tackles, they could pick up extra picks and still land an impact offensive player at No. 9.
Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
It’s an aggressive move for the Bears, as general manager Ryan Poles is looking to improve the supporting cast on offense. The Bears acquired DJ Moore last spring, and Nabers — who had 1,569 receiving yards last season — has similar traits and would pair nicely. He’s super explosive. The trio of Moore, Nabers and tight end Cole Kmet could really help Williams succeed right out of the gate.
Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
The Giants’ receiver group has a bunch of complementary options but lacks a WR1; only Darius Slayton cleared 600 yards last season. Odunze could quickly change that, as he has shown signs of dominant play on the outside. He is sure-handed and can beat coverage in multiple ways. His aggressive “my ball” mentality helped him tie for the most contested catches (24) in the FBS last season, routinely hauling in passes in tight coverage.
Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame
Over the past two seasons, the Titans’ left tackle spot has been a revolving door, and the team took 64 sacks last season (tied for fourth most). The 6-9, 321-pound Alt could solve the problem. He’s equally as good as a run-blocker as he is in pass protection, with great power and above-average movement skills. Alt keeps getting better, too, as he only has three full seasons at the position after converting from tight end. Teaming him up with guard Peter Skoronski would give the Titans a formidable left side of the offensive line.
Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama
Atlanta has leaned heavily on offense in the first round over the past few years, but I think GM Terry Fontenot will go defense this time around. With the way this board fell, he can get the best prospect in the class on that side of the ball. At 6-3 and 247 pounds, Turner is a long and explosive pass-rusher who has continued to improve every season. Atlanta was last in pass rush win rate last season (30.9%), but Turner can help; he posted 10 sacks and got pressure 16.7% of the time in 2023 (both top 10 in the FBS).
Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
After trading back with the Bears in this scenario to gain more draft capital, the Chargers remain in the top 10 and have a chance to land a versatile offensive playmaker in Bowers. This roster needs a influx of young talent on offense, with receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams struggling to stay on the field and tight end Gerald Everett and running back Austin Ekeler both hitting free agency. Bowers would give Justin Herbert a top-tier receiving option. He’s a mismatch all over the field with great run-after-catch ability, and he could be a real focal point of the L.A. offense going forward.
Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State
The Jets would be jumping for joy if Fashanu fell into their lap. With arguably the most upside of any blocker in the class, Fashanu is a polished pass protector who has made strides as a run-blocker over 21 career starts. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers will be 41 years old next season and coming off a torn Achilles, so finding reliable protection for him is an offseason necessity. And Fashanu has the makings of a franchise left tackle.
J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
We obviously don’t know if free agent Kirk Cousins will return to Minnesota, but McCarthy fits coach Kevin O’Connell’s scheme so well. Yes, the passing sample size is limited — he only hit 25 or more passing attempts in 12 of 28 career starts — and his combine workout was inconsistent, but his efficiency at Michigan is noteworthy (72.3% completion rate). The infrastructure in Minnesota — with Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson catching passes — is set up well for a young signal-caller to grow, too.
2:06
Why J.J. McCarthy’s NFL combine performance created more questions
Louis Riddick explains why J.J. McCarthy’s inconsistency with accuracy raised more questions during his showcase at the NFL combine.
Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
The Broncos have holes throughout the roster, and if the top four quarterbacks are already off the board, the next-best option has to be adding an edge rusher. Verse brings something different than what’s currently on the Denver roster, too. At 6-4 and 254 pounds, he has a sturdy NFL-ready frame, and his heavy hands and pass-rush traits were evident down the stretch of last season, as he had 6.5 sacks over his final five games. Verse can consistently win with speed or power and even can intertwine both in his pass-rush moves.
Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas
Murphy would give new coach Antonio Pierce’s defense an explosive and disruptive force along the interior. With quick hands and a strong lower half, he’s a three-down defensive tackle who can be dependable against the run and uncontrollable as a pass-rusher. Murphy’s 12.7% defensive pressure rate while at defensive tackle last season was the highest in the FBS. And in a division that includes Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert, pairing that type of disruption with Maxx Crosby would build a formidable front.
Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State
Durability concerns have plagued Ryan Ramczyk, and the development of Trevor Penning hasn’t been as quick as the Saints had hoped, leaving a major question mark at right tackle. Considering they are essentially all-in on Derek Carr, the Saints must improve the protection around the soon-to-be 33-year-old quarterback. Fuaga is one of the most powerful blockers in this loaded OT class, and he’s a plug-and-play option on the right side. He has allowed one sack over his two seasons as a full-time starter.
Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
The already young Colts cornerback room has JuJu Brents and Jaylon Jones in the fold, but Arnold has way more upside. Nickel corner Kenny Moore II might be hitting free agency, and Arnold could fill the void in the slot in the short term before eventually transitioning outside — he has experience at all secondary positions. A smooth coverman and consistent tackler, Arnold has traits the Colts have sought in the past, and he comes into the NFL off a five-interception season.
Darius Robinson, DL, Missouri
This might seem like a surprise, but ever since the Senior Bowl, Robinson has been trending upward. New Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald brings in a scheme that requires explosive, powerful and versatile edge players, and those traits describe Robinson. At 6-5 and 285 pounds, he’s a physical run defender with mature, heavy hands and a consistent pass-rusher who finished with 8.5 sacks last season. Robinson reminds me of Keion White thanks to his disruptiveness and ability to align at any technique upfront.
Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo
Mitchell was the best player at the Senior Bowl, and then he came to Indy and dazzled at the combine. Last Friday, he ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash, showing his speed. He also finished last season third in the nation in pass breakups (15), evidence of his terrific ball skills. With Darious Williams released Tuesday, and Tyson Campbell entering a contract year, the Jaguars could be searching for long-term help at outside corner. Mitchell could play significant snaps early in his career.
JC Latham, OT, Alabama
Joe Burrow is set to return next season from a right wrist injury, but with tackle Jonah Williams hitting the free agent market, the Bengals could be left with a hole on the right side of an offensive line that has to keep the QB upright in 2024. They are known to value offensive tackles who can set the depth of the pocket — as evidenced by the signing of Orlando Brown Jr. — and Latham fits that criteria. At 6-6 and 342 pounds, he has good size and quickness, and he’s a really good run-blocker.
Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson
Weighing in at 173 pounds at the combine wasn’t ideal, but running a 4.29 in the 40 sure quieted those concerns quickly. A patient and sudden corner, Wiggins is routinely able to stick with targets in man coverage, and he has good instincts in zone. The Rams’ defense severely lacks building blocks in the secondary, but Wiggins can be an immediate starter.
0:29
Nate Wiggins injured after posting fastest 40-yard dash of the day
Former Clemson defensive back Nate Wiggins showcases his speed with an impressive 4.28 40-yard dash, but limps off with an injury.
Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia
The Steelers got rookie-season success from Broderick Jones in 2023, and I could see them going back to the Georgia OT well again. I love Mims’ upside, and he measured 6-8 and 340 pounds at the combine. Ability isn’t the question with Mims — it’s the durability component that might hurt his draft stock. Mims had only eight career starts and 774 snaps over three seasons. But with solid lower-body movement traits, Mims can match and mirror edge rushers. Drafting him would allow Pittsburgh to move Jones back to his natural spot at left tackle, and the protection for Kenny Pickett or whomever is playing QB should improve.
Jackson Powers-Johnson, C/G, Oregon
Robert Hunt, Connor Williams and Isaiah Wynn are all set to become free agents. That likely leaves a major void along the interior offensive line for Miami. Powers-Johnson played all 792 snaps of his 2023 season at center, but he also has experience at guard in 2021-22 and is capable of playing any position inside. His sturdy base and raw strength are two of his best traits, and I see day one starter potential.
Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma
The Eagles place a premium on players in the trenches in the early rounds, and perhaps GM Howie Roseman takes the opportunity to lay the groundwork for a future succession plan for right tackle Lane Johnson (signed through 2026) here. Guyton has standout physical tools, though his technique and strength are still developing. And going to Philly would provide him with time to learn — maybe playing elsewhere on the Eagles’ OL for a bit — before eventually becoming a starter at right tackle.
Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA
It’s a slight slide for Latu, who is arguably the most skilled pass-rusher in the class but might have some medical concerns after being forced to retire for two years (2020-21) while still at Washington with a neck issue. But this is a perfect landing spot in Houston, as Latu could replace free agent Jonathan Greenard. Look at coach DeMeco Ryans’ history in San Francisco: Having waves of talented pass-rushers is essential to his approach. Latu has special bend, hand usage and closing speed, and he has 23.5 sacks since coming to UCLA in 2022. Putting him opposite Will Anderson Jr. would give the Texans a potent young duo off the edge.
Troy Fautanu, OT/G, Washington
Tyron Smith is unlikely to be back in Dallas, and while opinions are mixed on which position Fautanu should play at the next level, he should get an opportunity at tackle first. Scouts were concerned about his length and projected him inside at guard, but he measured 34.5-inch arms at the combine, putting those worries to bed. Fautanu has allowed only two sacks over 1,249 career pass-block snaps, and he’s a sudden and aggressive blocker with lower-body quickness. He’s always able to stay balanced and in front of pass-rushers. He’d be a great add for the Dallas offense.
Cooper DeJean, CB/S, Iowa
Nickel corner and safety are glaring holes on this roster, but the Packers can plug both with one prospect. DeJean is my top-ranked safety but plays all over the defense. His instincts and fluidity lead him to takeaways (seven interceptions over the past two seasons, including three pick-sixes). That’s huge for the Packers, who only had seven INTs in 2023, 31st in the NFL. Even if they re-sign Keisean Nixon, DeJean is capable of filling in at nickel or safety — and returning some kicks. DeJean is recovering from a broken leg, but he said he will be able to work out for teams before the draft.
Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State
After recently releasing Shaquil Barrett, the Bucs are now in need of young pass-rushers. Rookie Yaya Diaby was the only Tampa Bay edge rusher with more than five sacks last season. Robinson ran a blazing 4.48 in the 40-yard dash at 6-3 and 254 pounds, and that type of get-off speed and explosiveness shows up frequently on his tape. But he has traditionally been a pressures-over-sacks prospect, as he finished with four sacks but an 18% pressure rate (fourth-best in the FBS) last season. Robinson will likely be a situational pass-rusher early in his career, but he has the potential to develop into a larger role.
0:17
Penn State DL Chop Robinson runs staggering 4.48 40-yard dash
Penn State defensive lineman Chop Robinson takes off for an eye-popping 4.48 40-yard dash at the NFL combine.
Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama
A Jones fracture in McKinstry’s right foot was discovered during combine medicals, but he plans to participate in Alabama’s pro day. He’s a true technician on the outside, using his 32-inch length and short-area quickness to take away receivers. And considering the long-term questions at outside corner for the Cardinals — even if Antonio Hamilton Sr. is brought back — McKinstry makes a lot of sense here late on Day 1.
Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas
Gabe Davis is set to become a free agent, and the Bills are in need of an upgrade at WR2 behind Stefon Diggs. At 6-2 and 205 pounds, Mitchell is a lanky, long-striding receiver with strong hands and plenty of vertical speed — he ran a 4.34 in the 40 and displayed explosiveness with a 39.5-inch vertical jump. Adding a wideout who can win in multiple ways would take a lot of pressure off Diggs and give QB Josh Allen a downfield threat. The arrow is pointing up on Mitchell, and he would be a steal here for Buffalo.
Jer’Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois
Newton had surgery for a foot injury in January, which results in a small slide. Detroit wouldn’t be complaining, though. When healthy, Newton is the best interior defender in this class, capable of making plays from multiple spots up front. Alim McNeill primarily plays at 1-technique, so putting Newton at the 3-technique spot should solidify the interior for the Lions. He had 7.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss last season at Illinois. Cornerback is a huge need in Detroit, too, but the value is strong for Newton here, and it would allow the Lions to go with “best player available.”
Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU
Even after drafting Zay Flowers in the first round last April, I believe the Ravens could select another receiver on Day 1 in 2024. Thomas is at his best on vertical routes, as he ran a 4.33-second 40-yard dash and saw 10 of his FBS-leading 17 touchdowns receptions come on go patterns last season. So at 6-3 and 209 pounds, Thomas could give Lamar Jackson a downfield target to stretch the defense. Baltimore still lacks a dependable second option at WR, but a group that includes Flowers, Thomas and tight end Mark Andrews could be potent.
Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri
Isaiah Oliver is entering free agency, and Charvarius Ward, Ambry Thomas and Deommodore Lenoir are all headed into the final years of their respective contracts, so the 49ers’ long-term outlook at cornerback is … thin. With experience at nickel and on the outside, Rakestraw could help right away. He’s a physical wrap-up tackler who fits well with the Niners’ scheme, and while his ball production is limited (one career pick), he was only targeted on 8.4% of his coverage snaps last season.
Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas
Here’s the guy everyone is talking about after the combine — and in a pairing that just makes too much sense. Worthy set a new combine record with a 4.21-second run in the 40-yard dash, and he could thrive in Andy Reid’s offense. I’m not sure Patrick Mahomes could ever overthrow Worthy; the 5-11 receiver can run under anything. In Andy Reid’s offense, he could thrive as he brings a vertical dimension that the team lacked last season. He’s physical, too, but weighed in at 165 pounds in Indy, so that’ll be something to watch. I could see Worthy immediately stepping into the Marquez Valdes-Scantling role and thriving.
0:46
Xavier Worthy sets NFL Combine record with 4.21 40-yard dash
Xavier Worthy runs the fastest 40-yard dash in NFL combine history in 4.21 seconds.
ROUND 2
Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State
The Panthers have to improve Bryce Young’s supporting cast, and landing Coleman to kick off Round 2 would give them a big-bodied pass-catcher outside. Coleman’s 4.61-second run in the 40-yard dash was underwhelming, but he plays much faster than that and caught 11 touchdowns last season.
Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona
I mentioned the offensive tackle situation in New England, and if you’re going to draft a franchise quarterback with a top-three pick (Daniels), you better protect him. Morgan could provide stability at tackle or guard.
Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU
Offensive tackle D.J. Humphries suffered an ACL tear in January, so why not add to the OL here early on Day 2. Paris Johnson Jr. could transition to the left side after playing on at right tackle as a rookie, but the 6-5, 326-pound Suamataia has experience on both sides and could give coach Jonathan Gannon options.
Graham Barton, C/G, Duke
The Commanders — who allowed 65 sacks in 2023, tied for the second-most in the NFL — could need as many as three new starters along the offensive line. Barton is a plug-and-play option along the interior and even has experience at tackle.
Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia
Lassiter displays good coverage skills, physicality and some of the best tackling among this class’ cornerbacks. With Michael Davis hitting free agency and one of the tighter cap situations leaguewide, the Chargers likely have to address the secondary at the draft.
Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia
GM Ran Carthon has to focus on finding more targets for Will Levis on the perimeter, and McConkey is an outstanding route runner who simply knows how to generate separation and get open.
Bo Nix, QB, Oregon
In this scenario, the Giants missed out on the QBs at the top of the draft, but why not take a chance on a Day 2 option to get some competition for Daniel Jones (who is coming off a torn ACL)? The accuracy and decisiveness of Nix pairs well with offensive coordinator Mike Kafka’s scheme. Nix threw 45 TD passes and three interceptions in 2023 while completing 77.4% of his passes.
Adisa Isaac, EDGE, Penn State
Losing both Montez Sweat and Chase Young at the trade deadline last October left the Commanders with mostly rotational and depth players off the edge. Isaac has the potential to be a dependable starter. He is explosive and has good bend around the corner.
Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&M
I love the idea of putting Cooper alongside Quay Walker in the middle of the Packers’ defense. Cooper brings value as an active second-level defender; he would boost the run defense, coverage and blitz after totaling 80 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 8 sacks and 3 pass breakups in 2023.
Kris Jenkins, DT, Michigan
Kwesi Adofo-Mensah has leaned on explosiveness in defensive prospects since taking over as Minnesota’s GM. Jenkins has those traits — he posted a 30-inch vertical at 299 pounds — and the Vikings’ defensive line could be headed for some turnover.
Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina
Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. could make a lot of sense here, but I still think the Falcons will take the veteran route to find a QB. Despite already having high-end playmakers all over the offense, Atlanta could land another explosive pass-catcher in Legette for whoever ends up under center. He had a great combine, and I see an NFL-ready frame (6-1, 221 pounds) and strong hands on tape.
Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington
Penix is one of the biggest wildcards in this draft. He’s a strong-armed passer who shows consistent accuracy when he’s stationary in the pocket. But when he gets forced off his spots, things become erratic. The Raiders have to fix the quarterback situation, and bringing in someone like Penix to pair with Aidan O’Connell and perhaps a veteran makes sense at this point in the draft.
Chris Braswell, EDGE, Alabama
Let’s get New Orleans some edge rush depth. Braswell would be the third guy behind Cameron Jordan and Carl Granderson, playing a significant amount of snaps early in his career. He’s a versatile and urgent defender who had eight sacks in 2023.
Roman Wilson, WR, Michigan
The Colts have invested Day 2 picks at wide receiver in three out of the past four drafts, but with Anthony Richardson coming back off a shoulder injury, I think they could make it four of the past five. Wilson caught 12 touchdowns and averaged 16.4 yards per catch in 2023, and he also provides value as a run-blocker.
Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State
The Giants got this pick from Seattle in exchange for Leonard Williams at the trade deadline, and they could use it to get their replacement for him. Fiske was a huge combine winner after leading all defensive tackles in the 40 (4.78), vertical (33.5 inches) and broad jump (9-foot-9). He is a high-energy and disruptive interior defender who could create havoc as a complement to Dexter Lawrence II. I would not be surprised if Fiske is ultimately drafted much higher than this spot.
Dominick Puni, G, Kansas
The Jaguars have a weakness along the interior offensive line, especially with Brandon Scherff entering the final year of his deal. With nearly equal experience at guard and tackle, Puni can help. He never allowed a sack over two seasons at Kansas.
Theo Johnson, TE, Penn State
I was waiting for Johnson to rise during the pre-draft process, and now after his combine performance, he could be taken in the top 50. Every tight end on the Bengals’ roster is a free agent, and Johnson — who caught seven TDs in 2023 — would give Burrow one more talented target as he returns from injury.
Junior Colson, LB, Michigan
The Eagles haven’t really invested in the linebacker position in the draft, and it has shown. An aggressive and instinctive prospect, Colson would help the middle of the defense in Philadelphia right away. He had 101 tackles last season.
Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia
Mason Cole was recently released, leaving the Steelers with a gaping hole at center. Thanks to his strength, hand power and finishing ability, Frazier would be a day one starter in Pittsburgh.
Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan
The Rams got great early returns from rookie defensive linemen Kobie Turner and Byron Young last season. Let’s keep it going. Kneeland can play off the edge or reduce down inside to play along the interior, and he is coming off a solid combine showing.
Tyler Nubin, S, Minnesota
Sydney Brown suffered a late-season ACL tear, and the Eagles were already thin on the back end. Nubin’s range, tackling and versatility make him an appealing target here for the Eagles. He had 12 interceptions over the past three seasons.
Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky
This Browns wide receiver room lacks depth outside of Amari Cooper and Elijah Moore, but Corley is a sure-handed, tackle-breaker who could thrive in Kevin Stefanski’s offense as a jack-of-all-trades pass-catcher.
Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas
Sure, Miami’s offense was among the best in the NFL last season, but it was missing a dynamic tight end. Because the Dolphins are so reliant on the middle of the field, Sanders is a perfect match. He is coming off his second straight 600-plus-yard season and has good hands.
Trey Benson, RB, Florida State
This year’s running back class feels a little like the 2014 group, when none were picked inside the top 50 but seven went inside the top 100. Tony Pollard is heading toward free agency, and Benson could be a great fit in Dallas. He not only ran for 904 yards and 14 scores last season but also caught 20 passes.
Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
The Buccaneers re-signed Mike Evans on Monday, but they still need youth in that position group. Franklin is explosive and serves as a true “best player available” approach here.
Jonathon Brooks, RB, Texas
If not for a torn ACL last season, Brooks likely would have been the lone rusher picked inside the top 50. But even still, the injury won’t make him slide far. Aaron Jones is the RB1 next season, but he’ll be playing on the final year of his deal, and AJ Dillon is a free agent. Brooks ran for 1,139 yards before his injury in his first season no longer behind Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson in Texas.
T.J. Tampa, CB, Iowa State
Steven Nelson, Desmond King II and Tavierre Thomas are all free agents, which means coach DeMeco Ryans and GM Nick Caserio should put emphasis on the position this offseason. The Houston defensive scheme mixes and matches coverages, which suits Tampa well. He has the technique and physicality that Houston likes on defense, and he caught two picks last season.
T’Vondre Sweat, DT, Texas
Ed Oliver is the only Bills interior defender who played significant snaps last season under contract for 2024. The 6-5, 366-pound Sweat is a gap-eater who can also be a pocket-pusher as a pass-rusher on early downs.
Cam Hart, CB, Notre Dame
Hart is another prospect that will probably hear his name called earlier than most anticipate. Lions GM Brad Holmes has completely retooled the roster, but the secondary still sticks out as needing a lot of help. Detroit gave up 7.8 yards per pass attempt last season, 31st in the NFL. Hart is a versatile corner who can play in a variety of coverages.
Cooper Beebe, G, Kansas State
Both starting guards — Kevin Zeitler and John Simpson — are set to become free agents. Beebe fits the profile of typical Ravens interior blockers as a wide-bodied blocker matched perfectly to a gap running scheme.
Patrick Paul, OT, Houston
San Francisco has to find some competition for Colton McKivitz at right tackle. Paul is nimble and has lower-half suddenness but needs technique development; his hand placement is still inconsistent. But he has the upside to evolve into a dependable starter.
Michael Hall Jr., DT, Ohio State
Regardless of what happens with free agent Chris Jones over the next few weeks, the Chiefs should think about the interior pass rush at the draft. Hall would immediately bring help to the table there. He can penetrate the first level consistently and should be a dependable situational player early in his career.