2024 NFL mock draft: March Madness reigns in the latest projections

USA Today

This week’s first-round projections are concocted in the midst of March Madness, with the NCAA basketball tournament rolling through the first two rounds. This mock draft gets mad with no trades, even though several are bound to happen.

A handful of picks are unchanged, but there are also some pretty big shifts in the thinking with many of the projections. That includes the choice at No. 29 for Detroit.

As always, these projections represent choices the teams might make and not player rankings.

Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams, QB, USC

Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Not to be boring or repetitive, but this projection will not change between now and April 25th unless the Bears give us explicit reason to think otherwise.

Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

No change here either, as the Commanders still seemed poised to land the commander of the LSU offense and Heisman Trophy winner

New England Patriots: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy warms up before the national championship game at NRG Stadium in Houston on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.

Sure to be a polarizing choice, but McCarthy has only solidified himself as a top QB prospect. The Patriots kick off the post-Belichick era with a QB bang. I stripped out the trade from the last set of projections and came up with the same outcome.

Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

4. Arizona Cardinals — Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Not working out at Ohio State’s pro day, after also skipping the scouitng combine, creates some drama around Harrison that probably doesn’t need to be there. It doesn’t change his dominant, complete game tape that sets Harrison apart from any wideout prospect since Calvin Johnson.

Los Angeles Chargers: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Malik Nabers 2023

The first change comes in part because the Chargers have also changed. Nabers can help fill the hole left by the departures of Mike Williams and Keenan Allen as the primary playmaker for Justin Herbert.

New York Giants: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Nov 25, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye (10) throws a pass against the North Carolina State Wolfpack during the first half at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

Eschewing trades-and I do think Minnesota is trading up to land Maye-changes the Giants’ dynamic here. Adding Maye as Daniel Jones’ replacement would make for a fun time for those who cover the team.

Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

Sep 9, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish tackle Joe Alt (76) during the first half at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

The Titans traded for CB L’Jarius Sneed, and that shifts the need focus back to the offensive line. New OL coach Bill Callahan landing the high-end Alt is something Titans fans should relish.

Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama

Dec 2, 2023; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Dallas Turner (15) celebrates after a sack in the second quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Turner’s increased bulk at Alabama’s pro day likely solidified him as the first defensive player off the board. He’d make an excellent fit for the Falcons, who need to amp up the pass rush.

Chicago Bears: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

Georgia tight end Brock Bowers (19) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of a NCAA college football game against Ole Miss in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023. Georgia won 52-17.

Another pick that doesn’t change from last week’s edition, in part because the Bears added WR Keenan Allen since then. Bowers can function as a tight end, a slot, a big wideout, an h-back, you name it.

New York Jets: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Odunze could be too talented to pass up for the Jets, even after adding Mike Williams to the wideout mix.

Minnesota Vikings: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State

Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports

Verse adds some length and youthful energy to the Vikings’ rebuilding defensive front. If they don’t trade up for a quarterback, of course…

Denver Broncos: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

The talented Mitchell might be too good for the Broncos to bypass here, even if they might have bigger needs.

Las Vegas Raiders: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

Zachary BonDurant-USA TODAY Sports

Fuaga can start right away for a Raiders line that has to add multiple players to flesh out the depth chart. His pass protection might be the best in the draft on the right side.

New Orleans Saints: Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Coleman brings a widebodied presence to the receiving corps with some big-play potential. He got the nod over a couple of different offensive linemen here.

Indianapolis Colts: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

Oct 7, 2023; College Station, Texas, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Terrion Arnold (3) defends against a pass intended for Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Ainias Smith (0) during the fourth quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Unless the Colts can add a legit starting CB between now and the draft, they desperately need a corner upgrade. That’s Arnold, a high-end prospect with scheme versatility. No change from the last mock.

Seattle Seahawks: Troy Fautanu, OL, Washington

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 23: Troy Fautanu #55 of the Washington Huskies in action against the California Golden Bears at Husky Stadium on September 23, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

The versatile Fautanu has starting potential at multiple spots, helping build up one of the NFL’s most promising young offensive lines.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State

Penn State defensive end Chop Robinson (44) celebrates after sacking Massachusetts quarterback Taisun Phommachanh in the first half of a NCAA football game Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, in State College, Pa. The Nittany Lions won, 63-0.

Robinson was a pressure creation machine in college and has the athletic profile to do it in the NFL, too. He brings a different kind of pass rush dynamic to the Jaguars defense.

Cincinnati Bengals: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS – OCTOBER 01: J.C. Latham #65 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates on the sidelines in the second half during a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium on October 01, 2022 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Crimson Tide defeated the Razorbacks 49-26. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

The biggest question here isn’t whether the Bengals will go offensive line; it’s which one they choose. In this scenario, the behemoth Latham can erase pass rushers. This is another pick that doesn’t change.

Los Angeles Rams: Darius Robinson, EDGE, Missouri

Sep 23, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Darius Robinson (6) sacks Memphis Tigers quarterback Seth Henigan (2) in the first quarter at The Dome at America’s Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Puetz-USA TODAY Sports

Robinson is one of those players that the NFL seems higher on than the draft media. He’s a promising fit for a Rams pass rush that needs a new way after Aaron Donald retired.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Brian Thomas, WR, LSU

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA – NOVEMBER 06: Brian Thomas Jr. #11 of the LSU Tigers takes this reception in for a touchdown against Kool-Aid McKinstry #1 of the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 06, 2021 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

The new-look quarterback room needs more size and reliability at receiver, and Thomas can handle that quite well.

Miami Dolphins: Byron Murphy, DT, Texas

Jan 1, 2024; New Orleans, LA, USA; Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Byron Murphy II (90) celebrates after a play during the second quarter in the 2024 Sugar Bowl college football playoff semifinal game at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The Dolphins signed two Lions castoffs last week and both project to get heavy minutes. That’s a spot where Murphy can step right in atop the depth chart and make a positive impact.

Philadelphia Eagles: Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State

(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

With the Eagles, it’s safe to expect either a trade or a player who won’t be asked to do much as a rookie. Since there are no trades in this one, the nod goes to Fashanu. He’s a high-end athlete who could develop into a very good NFL starter for the Eagles down the line.

Minnesota Vikings: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

Oregon quarterback Bo Nix throws down field against Oregon State during the second quarter at Autzen Stadium Friday, Nov. 24, 2023 in Eugene.

After passing at QB with their first pick, the Vikings land on the experienced, accurate Nix as the successor to Kirk Cousins.

Green Bay Packers: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Newton brings an instant upgrade to the interior pass rush and overall team tenacity to a Packers team that doesn’t have any real starting opportunities open in ’24

Dallas Cowboys: Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

You’re welcome, Cowboys fans…

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Graham Barton, OL, Duke

Mar 2, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Duke offensive lineman Graham Barton (OL06) talks to the media during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Barton can play any spot on the line, including a left guard spot that could use instant upgrading. High-ceiling, high-floor talent can help stabilize the emerging Bucs offensive line.

Arizona Cardinals: Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA

Oct 21, 2023; Stanford, California, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Laiatu Latu (15) after defeating the Stanford Cardinal at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

The Cardinals are in the process of overhauling their entire defensive front, and adding a polished, NFL-ready rusher like Latu can provide some stability and long-term promise. Another pick that has not changed from the last projection.

Buffalo Bills: Cooper DeJean, DB, Iowa

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – FEBRUARY 29: Cooper Dejean #DB06 of the Iowa Hawkeyes speaks to the media during the 2024 NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 29, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

The Bills are in a good position to determine whether the talented DeJean is better at safety or cornerback, as they have needs at either spot.

Detroit Lions: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

With Alabama’s pro day and McKinstry’s impressive performance in front of Lions GM Brad Holmes fresh on the mind, the playmaking cornerback earns the pick this time. It’s always tough to not choose Cooper Beebe…

Baltimore Ravens: MIke Sainristil, CB, Michigan

Jan 1, 2024; Pasadena, CA, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive back Mike Sainristil (0) looks on during the first half against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2024 Rose Bowl college football playoff semifinal game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Ravens are always good at drafting football players who happen to be really good athletes. That’s Sainristil, who showed at Michigan’s pro day he might be one of the best slot receivers in this draft aside from being a ready-made starting slot corner.

San Francisco 49ers: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports

Wiggins adds speed and youthful energy to a Niners secondary that is in need of both.

Kansas City Chiefs: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Mims could be the best tackle in this draft class in three years. That tantalizing upside will be hard for the OT-challenged world champs to pass with the final pick of the first round.

Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams, QB, USC

Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Not to be boring or repetitive, but this projection will not change between now and April 25th unless the Bears give us explicit reason to think otherwise.

Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

No change here either, as the Commanders still seemed poised to land the commander of the LSU offense and Heisman Trophy winner

New England Patriots: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy warms up before the national championship game at NRG Stadium in Houston on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.

Sure to be a polarizing choice, but McCarthy has only solidified himself as a top QB prospect. The Patriots kick off the post-Belichick era with a QB bang. I stripped out the trade from the last set of projections and came up with the same outcome.

Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

4. Arizona Cardinals — Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Not working out at Ohio State’s pro day, after also skipping the scouitng combine, creates some drama around Harrison that probably doesn’t need to be there. It doesn’t change his dominant, complete game tape that sets Harrison apart from any wideout prospect since Calvin Johnson.

Los Angeles Chargers: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Malik Nabers 2023

The first change comes in part because the Chargers have also changed. Nabers can help fill the hole left by the departures of Mike Williams and Keenan Allen as the primary playmaker for Justin Herbert.

New York Giants: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Nov 25, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye (10) throws a pass against the North Carolina State Wolfpack during the first half at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

Eschewing trades-and I do think Minnesota is trading up to land Maye-changes the Giants’ dynamic here. Adding Maye as Daniel Jones’ replacement would make for a fun time for those who cover the team.

Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

Sep 9, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish tackle Joe Alt (76) during the first half at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

The Titans traded for CB L’Jarius Sneed, and that shifts the need focus back to the offensive line. New OL coach Bill Callahan landing the high-end Alt is something Titans fans should relish.

Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama

Dec 2, 2023; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Dallas Turner (15) celebrates after a sack in the second quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Turner’s increased bulk at Alabama’s pro day likely solidified him as the first defensive player off the board. He’d make an excellent fit for the Falcons, who need to amp up the pass rush.

Chicago Bears: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

Georgia tight end Brock Bowers (19) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of a NCAA college football game against Ole Miss in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023. Georgia won 52-17.

Another pick that doesn’t change from last week’s edition, in part because the Bears added WR Keenan Allen since then. Bowers can function as a tight end, a slot, a big wideout, an h-back, you name it.

New York Jets: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Odunze could be too talented to pass up for the Jets, even after adding Mike Williams to the wideout mix.

Minnesota Vikings: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State

Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports

Verse adds some length and youthful energy to the Vikings’ rebuilding defensive front. If they don’t trade up for a quarterback, of course…

Denver Broncos: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

The talented Mitchell might be too good for the Broncos to bypass here, even if they might have bigger needs.

Las Vegas Raiders: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

Zachary BonDurant-USA TODAY Sports

Fuaga can start right away for a Raiders line that has to add multiple players to flesh out the depth chart. His pass protection might be the best in the draft on the right side.

New Orleans Saints: Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Coleman brings a widebodied presence to the receiving corps with some big-play potential. He got the nod over a couple of different offensive linemen here.

Indianapolis Colts: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

Oct 7, 2023; College Station, Texas, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Terrion Arnold (3) defends against a pass intended for Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Ainias Smith (0) during the fourth quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Unless the Colts can add a legit starting CB between now and the draft, they desperately need a corner upgrade. That’s Arnold, a high-end prospect with scheme versatility. No change from the last mock.

Seattle Seahawks: Troy Fautanu, OL, Washington

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 23: Troy Fautanu #55 of the Washington Huskies in action against the California Golden Bears at Husky Stadium on September 23, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

The versatile Fautanu has starting potential at multiple spots, helping build up one of the NFL’s most promising young offensive lines.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State

Penn State defensive end Chop Robinson (44) celebrates after sacking Massachusetts quarterback Taisun Phommachanh in the first half of a NCAA football game Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, in State College, Pa. The Nittany Lions won, 63-0.

Robinson was a pressure creation machine in college and has the athletic profile to do it in the NFL, too. He brings a different kind of pass rush dynamic to the Jaguars defense.

Cincinnati Bengals: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS – OCTOBER 01: J.C. Latham #65 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates on the sidelines in the second half during a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium on October 01, 2022 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Crimson Tide defeated the Razorbacks 49-26. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

The biggest question here isn’t whether the Bengals will go offensive line; it’s which one they choose. In this scenario, the behemoth Latham can erase pass rushers. This is another pick that doesn’t change.

Los Angeles Rams: Darius Robinson, EDGE, Missouri

Sep 23, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Darius Robinson (6) sacks Memphis Tigers quarterback Seth Henigan (2) in the first quarter at The Dome at America’s Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Puetz-USA TODAY Sports

Robinson is one of those players that the NFL seems higher on than the draft media. He’s a promising fit for a Rams pass rush that needs a new way after Aaron Donald retired.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Brian Thomas, WR, LSU

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA – NOVEMBER 06: Brian Thomas Jr. #11 of the LSU Tigers takes this reception in for a touchdown against Kool-Aid McKinstry #1 of the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 06, 2021 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

The new-look quarterback room needs more size and reliability at receiver, and Thomas can handle that quite well.

Miami Dolphins: Byron Murphy, DT, Texas

Jan 1, 2024; New Orleans, LA, USA; Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Byron Murphy II (90) celebrates after a play during the second quarter in the 2024 Sugar Bowl college football playoff semifinal game at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The Dolphins signed two Lions castoffs last week and both project to get heavy minutes. That’s a spot where Murphy can step right in atop the depth chart and make a positive impact.

Philadelphia Eagles: Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State

(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

With the Eagles, it’s safe to expect either a trade or a player who won’t be asked to do much as a rookie. Since there are no trades in this one, the nod goes to Fashanu. He’s a high-end athlete who could develop into a very good NFL starter for the Eagles down the line.

Minnesota Vikings: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

Oregon quarterback Bo Nix throws down field against Oregon State during the second quarter at Autzen Stadium Friday, Nov. 24, 2023 in Eugene.

After passing at QB with their first pick, the Vikings land on the experienced, accurate Nix as the successor to Kirk Cousins.

Green Bay Packers: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

Ron Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Newton brings an instant upgrade to the interior pass rush and overall team tenacity to a Packers team that doesn’t have any real starting opportunities open in ’24

Dallas Cowboys: Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

You’re welcome, Cowboys fans…

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Graham Barton, OL, Duke

Mar 2, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Duke offensive lineman Graham Barton (OL06) talks to the media during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Barton can play any spot on the line, including a left guard spot that could use instant upgrading. High-ceiling, high-floor talent can help stabilize the emerging Bucs offensive line.

Arizona Cardinals: Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA

Oct 21, 2023; Stanford, California, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Laiatu Latu (15) after defeating the Stanford Cardinal at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

The Cardinals are in the process of overhauling their entire defensive front, and adding a polished, NFL-ready rusher like Latu can provide some stability and long-term promise. Another pick that has not changed from the last projection.

Buffalo Bills: Cooper DeJean, DB, Iowa

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – FEBRUARY 29: Cooper Dejean #DB06 of the Iowa Hawkeyes speaks to the media during the 2024 NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 29, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

The Bills are in a good position to determine whether the talented DeJean is better at safety or cornerback, as they have needs at either spot.

Detroit Lions: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

With Alabama’s pro day and McKinstry’s impressive performance in front of Lions GM Brad Holmes fresh on the mind, the playmaking cornerback earns the pick this time. It’s always tough to not choose Cooper Beebe…

Baltimore Ravens: MIke Sainristil, CB, Michigan

Jan 1, 2024; Pasadena, CA, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive back Mike Sainristil (0) looks on during the first half against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2024 Rose Bowl college football playoff semifinal game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Ravens are always good at drafting football players who happen to be really good athletes. That’s Sainristil, who showed at Michigan’s pro day he might be one of the best slot receivers in this draft aside from being a ready-made starting slot corner.

San Francisco 49ers: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports

Wiggins adds speed and youthful energy to a Niners secondary that is in need of both.

Kansas City Chiefs: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Mims could be the best tackle in this draft class in three years. That tantalizing upside will be hard for the OT-challenged world champs to pass with the final pick of the first round.

Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams, QB, USC

Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Not to be boring or repetitive, but this projection will not change between now and April 25th unless the Bears give us explicit reason to think otherwise.

Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

No change here either, as the Commanders still seemed poised to land the commander of the LSU offense and Heisman Trophy winner

New England Patriots: J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan

Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy warms up before the national championship game at NRG Stadium in Houston on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.

Sure to be a polarizing choice, but McCarthy has only solidified himself as a top QB prospect. The Patriots kick off the post-Belichick era with a QB bang. I stripped out the trade from the last set of projections and came up with the same outcome.

Arizona Cardinals: Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

4. Arizona Cardinals — Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Not working out at Ohio State’s pro day, after also skipping the scouitng combine, creates some drama around Harrison that probably doesn’t need to be there. It doesn’t change his dominant, complete game tape that sets Harrison apart from any wideout prospect since Calvin Johnson.

Los Angeles Chargers: Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Malik Nabers 2023

The first change comes in part because the Chargers have also changed. Nabers can help fill the hole left by the departures of Mike Williams and Keenan Allen as the primary playmaker for Justin Herbert.

New York Giants: Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

Nov 25, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye (10) throws a pass against the North Carolina State Wolfpack during the first half at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

Eschewing trades-and I do think Minnesota is trading up to land Maye-changes the Giants’ dynamic here. Adding Maye as Daniel Jones’ replacement would make for a fun time for those who cover the team.

Tennessee Titans: Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

Sep 9, 2023; Raleigh, North Carolina, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish tackle Joe Alt (76) during the first half at Carter-Finley Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Kinnan-USA TODAY Sports

The Titans traded for CB L’Jarius Sneed, and that shifts the need focus back to the offensive line. New OL coach Bill Callahan landing the high-end Alt is something Titans fans should relish.

Atlanta Falcons: Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama

Dec 2, 2023; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Dallas Turner (15) celebrates after a sack in the second quarter against the Georgia Bulldogs in the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

Turner’s increased bulk at Alabama’s pro day likely solidified him as the first defensive player off the board. He’d make an excellent fit for the Falcons, who need to amp up the pass rush.

Chicago Bears: Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

Georgia tight end Brock Bowers (19) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of a NCAA college football game against Ole Miss in Athens, Ga., on Saturday, Nov. 11, 2023. Georgia won 52-17.

Another pick that doesn’t change from last week’s edition, in part because the Bears added WR Keenan Allen since then. Bowers can function as a tight end, a slot, a big wideout, an h-back, you name it.

New York Jets: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Odunze could be too talented to pass up for the Jets, even after adding Mike Williams to the wideout mix.

Minnesota Vikings: Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State

Melina Myers-USA TODAY Sports

Verse adds some length and youthful energy to the Vikings’ rebuilding defensive front. If they don’t trade up for a quarterback, of course…

Denver Broncos: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

(Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images)

The talented Mitchell might be too good for the Broncos to bypass here, even if they might have bigger needs.

Las Vegas Raiders: Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

Zachary BonDurant-USA TODAY Sports

Fuaga can start right away for a Raiders line that has to add multiple players to flesh out the depth chart. His pass protection might be the best in the draft on the right side.

New Orleans Saints: Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Coleman brings a widebodied presence to the receiving corps with some big-play potential. He got the nod over a couple of different offensive linemen here.

Indianapolis Colts: Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

Oct 7, 2023; College Station, Texas, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Terrion Arnold (3) defends against a pass intended for Texas A&M Aggies wide receiver Ainias Smith (0) during the fourth quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Unless the Colts can add a legit starting CB between now and the draft, they desperately need a corner upgrade. That’s Arnold, a high-end prospect with scheme versatility. No change from the last mock.

Seattle Seahawks: Troy Fautanu, OL, Washington

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – SEPTEMBER 23: Troy Fautanu #55 of the Washington Huskies in action against the California Golden Bears at Husky Stadium on September 23, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

The versatile Fautanu has starting potential at multiple spots, helping build up one of the NFL’s most promising young offensive lines.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State

Penn State defensive end Chop Robinson (44) celebrates after sacking Massachusetts quarterback Taisun Phommachanh in the first half of a NCAA football game Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023, in State College, Pa. The Nittany Lions won, 63-0.

Robinson was a pressure creation machine in college and has the athletic profile to do it in the NFL, too. He brings a different kind of pass rush dynamic to the Jaguars defense.

Cincinnati Bengals: JC Latham, OT, Alabama

FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS – OCTOBER 01: J.C. Latham #65 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates on the sidelines in the second half during a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium on October 01, 2022 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Crimson Tide defeated the Razorbacks 49-26. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

The biggest question here isn’t whether the Bengals will go offensive line; it’s which one they choose. In this scenario, the behemoth Latham can erase pass rushers. This is another pick that doesn’t change.

Los Angeles Rams: Darius Robinson, EDGE, Missouri

Sep 23, 2023; St. Louis, Missouri, USA; Missouri Tigers defensive lineman Darius Robinson (6) sacks Memphis Tigers quarterback Seth Henigan (2) in the first quarter at The Dome at America’s Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Puetz-USA TODAY Sports

Robinson is one of those players that the NFL seems higher on than the draft media. He’s a promising fit for a Rams pass rush that needs a new way after Aaron Donald retired.

Pittsburgh Steelers: Brian Thomas, WR, LSU

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA – NOVEMBER 06: Brian Thomas Jr. #11 of the LSU Tigers takes this reception in for a touchdown against Kool-Aid McKinstry #1 of the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 06, 2021 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

The new-look quarterback room needs more size and reliability at receiver, and Thomas can handle that quite well.

Miami Dolphins: Byron Murphy, DT, Texas

Jan 1, 2024; New Orleans, LA, USA; Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Byron Murphy II (90) celebrates after a play during the second quarter in the 2024 Sugar Bowl college football playoff semifinal game at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

The Dolphins signed two Lions castoffs last week and both project to get heavy minutes. That’s a spot where Murphy can step right in atop the depth chart and make a positive impact.

Philadelphia Eagles: Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State

(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

With the Eagles, it’s safe to expect either a trade or a player who won’t be asked to do much as a rookie. Since there are no trades in this one, the nod goes to Fashanu. He’s a high-end athlete who could develop into a very good NFL starter for the Eagles down the line.

Minnesota Vikings: Bo Nix, QB, Oregon

Oregon quarterback Bo Nix throws down field against Oregon State during the second quarter at Autzen Stadium Friday, Nov. 24, 2023 in Eugene.

After passing at QB with their first pick, the Vikings land on the experienced, accurate Nix as the successor to Kirk Cousins.

Green Bay Packers: Johnny Newton, DT, Illinois

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Newton brings an instant upgrade to the interior pass rush and overall team tenacity to a Packers team that doesn’t have any real starting opportunities open in ’24

Dallas Cowboys: Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

You’re welcome, Cowboys fans…

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Graham Barton, OL, Duke

Mar 2, 2024; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Duke offensive lineman Graham Barton (OL06) talks to the media during the 2024 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Barton can play any spot on the line, including a left guard spot that could use instant upgrading. High-ceiling, high-floor talent can help stabilize the emerging Bucs offensive line.

Arizona Cardinals: Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA

Oct 21, 2023; Stanford, California, USA; UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Laiatu Latu (15) after defeating the Stanford Cardinal at Stanford Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports

The Cardinals are in the process of overhauling their entire defensive front, and adding a polished, NFL-ready rusher like Latu can provide some stability and long-term promise. Another pick that has not changed from the last projection.

Buffalo Bills: Cooper DeJean, DB, Iowa

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA – FEBRUARY 29: Cooper Dejean #DB06 of the Iowa Hawkeyes speaks to the media during the 2024 NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on February 29, 2024 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Justin Casterline/Getty Images)

The Bills are in a good position to determine whether the talented DeJean is better at safety or cornerback, as they have needs at either spot.

Detroit Lions: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

With Alabama’s pro day and McKinstry’s impressive performance in front of Lions GM Brad Holmes fresh on the mind, the playmaking cornerback earns the pick this time. It’s always tough to not choose Cooper Beebe…

Baltimore Ravens: MIke Sainristil, CB, Michigan

Jan 1, 2024; Pasadena, CA, USA; Michigan Wolverines defensive back Mike Sainristil (0) looks on during the first half against the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2024 Rose Bowl college football playoff semifinal game at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The Ravens are always good at drafting football players who happen to be really good athletes. That’s Sainristil, who showed at Michigan’s pro day he might be one of the best slot receivers in this draft aside from being a ready-made starting slot corner.

San Francisco 49ers: Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson

Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports

Wiggins adds speed and youthful energy to a Niners secondary that is in need of both.

Kansas City Chiefs: Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Mims could be the best tackle in this draft class in three years. That tantalizing upside will be hard for the OT-challenged world champs to pass with the final pick of the first round.

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