NFL Mock Draft: Marvin Harrison Jr. goes No. 1, Patriots finally find a Tom Brady successor
By Hunter Haas
Giants Trade Up, Choose Caleb Williams Over Drake Maye
No. 2: New York Giants (via ARI) — Caleb Williams, QB, USC
The Giants, after taking themselves out of the No. 2 spot, opt to trade back up to secure a franchise signal-caller. Drake Maye might be the pick, but as of today, I see Brian Daboll zeroing in on Caleb Williams. The USC star has all the arm talent in the world; he just needs a stable system in the NFL. Daboll can craft that.
No. 3: New England Patriots — Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina
My current QB1 in the 2024 NFL Draft lasts until No. 3 overall in this mock draft. Drake Maye has the size, arm strength, and improvisation skills to be a high-end signal-caller on Sundays. The Patriots take advantage, finally finding the Tom Brady successor they had hoped Mac Jones would be.
No. 4: Chicago Bears — Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA
The Bears traded for veteran pass rusher Montez Sweat before the deadline, but another top-tier edge defender is needed. Enter Laiatu Latu. The UCLA star is unblockable and puts consistent pressure on the pocket.
No. 5: Arizona Cardinals (via NYG) — Olu Fashanu, OL, Penn State
The Cardinals chose to trade down, recoup some assets, and still end up with the player they likely would have taken anyway. Olu Fashanu has franchise left tackle traits and would pair with Paris Johnson Jr. as one of the most promising offensive tackle duos.
No. 6: Tennessee Titans — Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
Quarterback is in play, but the draw toward Brock Bowers is enough to give Will Levis another shot in 2024. Bowers is a tad undersized, but that is where his list of red flags begins and ends. He’s impressive after the catch, a savvy route runner, and competitive as a blocker.
No. 7: Washington Commanders — Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama
Chase Young and Montez Sweat were sent packing, leaving a gap in the edge rushing group in Washington. Dallas Turner is an ideal replacement, giving the Commanders a high-upside pass rusher whose best football is still ahead of him.