In the lead-up to the 2024 NFL Draft, there has been speculation about potential trades that could impact the order of the first few picks.
However, ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. doesn’t expect any surprises this Thursday night. In his final predictions for the first round, Kiper forecasts a straightforward selection process for the top three picks.
Kiper predicts Caleb Williams will be the first overall pick by the Chicago Bears, followed by Jayden Daniels to the Washington Commanders at No. 2, and Drake Maye to the New England Patriots at No. 3. “I know this might seem a little mundane, but I’m hearing that the top of the draft board will hold no surprises,” Kiper noted in an article published Thursday morning. “I expect Caleb Williams from USC to go to the Bears, Jayden Daniels from LSU to the Commanders, and Drake Maye from North Carolina to the Patriots, with quarterbacks filling the first three selections. This lineup is consistent with my most recent solo mock draft and reflects the ranking on my Big Board.”
While rumors have circulated suggesting Jayden Daniels may be reluctant to join the Commanders, the LSU standout dispelled those doubts on Wednesday.
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A lingering intrigue in the first round centers on whether the Patriots will secure Maye or perhaps pivot towards JJ McCarthy. There is talk of New England ideally trading down and then trading back up to select the former Michigan quarterback, though this scenario may prove difficult to execute.
If Williams, Daniels, and Maye are indeed the first three off the board, attention may then shift to the Arizona Cardinals at No. 4, who might trade their pick to a quarterback-hungry team. This potential move could be where the draft starts to offer more excitement.