NFL Mock's Top 25: 2024 NFL Draft prospect rankings plus position rankings & analysis

As we enter the final stages of the 2024 NFL Draft process it is time to look at where these prospects fall on my draft board. One of the surprises you will find on this list is Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy not carrying a first-round grade despite, him likely being a possible top-five pick. Another surprise is how high I have another Big Ten prospect, Chop Robinson.

In this article, I break down my top 25 players, give my position rankings, and identify an overrated and underrated prospect as well as highlighting a non-power five player at each position.

Top 25 NFL Draft prospects

1. Caleb Williams, QB, USC

Caleb Williams is the top quarterback to enter the NFL since 2021 when the Jacksonville Jaguars took Trevor Lawrence with the number one pick. Williams has all the traits needed to be an elite quarterback including impressive arm strength, the accuercey to make the big throw on the run, and the competitiveness to lead a team. He will be a great fit in Chicago especially after the team added D'Andre Swift and Keenan Allen this offseason.

2. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Another franchise player in the 2024 NFL Draft is Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. Harrison has been one of the most productive receivers in college football the past two seasons becoming the first player in Ohio State history to have back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. There is no reason this production should not continue at the next level either. He is a big physical wide receiver who does a great job of catching the ball in traffic. He also has surprising speed for a bigger wide receiver and does a good job of picking up yards after the catch.

3. Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia

One lesson we should take from this year’s Super Bowl is that running your offense through a tight end is not a bad idea. The Kansas City Chiefs did an outstanding job of doing this with Travis Kelce who led the team in receptions and yards. Their opponent the San Fransico 49ers had George Kittle who finished second on the team in receptions and yards. Georgia tight end Brock Bowers should be able to have a similar impact in the NFL.

4. Rome Odunze, WR, Washington

Yet another highly though of pass catcher in this year’s draft is Washington’s Rome Odunze. Odunze is a big wide receiver who excels at making plays downfield having led the nation in targets more than 20 yards down field and having caught 21 of 28 contested targets. In addition to threatening teams vertically he is a reliable target who does a terrific job of catching the ball with his hands. One more positive with him is that he uses his 4.45 speed to consistently pickup yards after the catch.

5. Malik Nabers, WR, LSU

Four of the top five players on my draft board are all pass catchers with the last one being LSU’s Malik Nabers. Nabers is a dynamic receiver who can work all three areas of the field, and this season he led the nation in plays of 10-plus yards (59), 20-plus yards (34) and 30-plus yards (17). He also is extremely dangerous after the catch having caused 27 missed tackles this season. In addition to these traits, he also does a great job of securing the catch despite letting the ball get into his body.

6. Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame

Going into the 2023 season I named Joe Alt as the offensive tackle I would stand on the table for, and he showed why I was so high on him this season. Alt was the only tackle in the country to post 85.0-plus grades as a pass blocker and a run blocker this season according to Pro Football Focus. As a pro prospect, he is a nasty run blocker who does a great job of finishing his blocks. He also holds up well in pass protection and moves extremely well for a 6-foot-9 321-pound offensive tackle.
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7. Laiatu Latu, OLB, UCLA

The top defensive player on my board is UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu. What stands out with Latu is how fundamentally sound he is and how advanced his pass-rushing moves are. Last season, he led the Pac-12 in sacks with 13 and led the nation in tackles per loss per game. He also is an improving run defender and should be able to set the edge in the NFL.

8. Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

The most versatile quarterback in the 2024 NFL Draft is LSU’s Jayden Daniels. This past season Daniels led the nation in total offense (412.2), passing touchdowns (40), touchdowns responsible for (50), passer rating (208.0), yards per pass attempt (11.7), rushing yards by a quarterback (1,134), and yards per play (10.71), so to say the least he can hurt opponents in multiple ways. Now that the Washington Commanders have signed Marcus Mariota who has a similar style of play as Daniels it looks like a strong possibility that Daniels will be the number two overall pick.

9. Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina

2023 was not the type of season Drake Maye was hoping for, but despite that, he will likely still be a top-five pick. The main reason for this is that he is your classic pocket passer. He has an impressive arm and can easily throw any pass in a team’s offense. He also displays the athletic ability to throw off of platform or escape from the pocket. One area he will need to improve on at the next level is his footwork and not drifting in the pocket.

"He has good arm strength, good vision and he's very, very intelligent. He is very consistent with his decision-making. He is aggressive when you give him some freedom in regards to checking a route or plays. He's a good, total-package kid."

UNC OC Phil Longo on Maye

10. Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State

One of the players with the highest upside in this year’s NFL Draft is Penn State’s Olumuyiwa Fashanu who could develop into an All-Pro left tackle. As a pass blocker, he shows good agility, a strong punch, and the length to keep defenders at bay. These skills helped Fashanu not give up a sack this season and to be named the Rimington-Pace Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year. He is also a strong run blocker who does a great job of getting to the second level. However, I would like to see him improve his balance when drive blocking.

11. Dallas Turner, OLB, Alabama

Another high-caliber pass rusher in the 2024 NFL Draft is Alabama’s, Dallas Turner. The trait that sticks out with Turner is his quickness which consistently allows him to beat offensive tackles off the ball. In addition to his quickness off the ball, Turner has good length coming in with 34 3/4 arms. My concern with him is that he is a one-dimensional player currently not having spent much time in pass coverage and lacking the desire to be a force vs. the run.

12. Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU

A player who had a breakout season this year is LSU’s Brian Thomas. Going into the season he never had more than 65 yards in a game, but this season he had six games with over 100 yards and finished the year with 68 receptions for 1,177 yards and a nation-leading 17 touchdowns. As a pro prospect, he has the ideal size (6-3 209), and speed (4.33) combination. He also has surprising agility which gives him a big catch radius.

13. Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon

Another player who had a breakout season this year is Oregon center Jackson Powers-Johnson. 2023 was Powers-Johnson's first year as a starter and in that one year, he established himself as the best center in college football winning the Rimington Trophy and earning the top grade from Pro Football Focus in run blocking, pass blocking, and overall. He has the tools to be a first-round draft pick as well, including impressive strength, good mobility for a 328-pound center, and excellent footwork.

14. Chop Robinson, DE, Penn State

Penn State’s Chop Robinson is one of the most explosive pass rushers in the 2024 NFL Draft. On his game film, he consistently blew by the man blocking him causing 27 pressures on the year. He also posted a blazing 4.48 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine. He holds up well against the run as well and should be able to be a three-down defensive end in the NFL. One concern is that he only recorded four sacks on the year despite consistently pressuring the quarterback.

15. Jared Verse, DE, Florida State

Jared Verse’s season got off to a slow start this year having recorded only half a sack in the first four games, and picking up 4.5 sacks of his nine sacks in the last two games of his Florida State career. Despite this spotty production this year he still led the ACC with a 21% Pass Rush Win Rate according to Pro Football Focus. As a pass rusher, he shows a good first step off the ball and has the strength to bullrush opponents. NFL scouts would like to see Verse use his hands better to disengage from blocks, and if he doesn’t it could limit his production at the next level.

16. Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma

One of the most polarizing players in the 2024 NFL Draft is Oklahoma offensive tackle Tyler Guyton. On one hand he has limited production on the field never being named to an All-Confernce team and only earning a 66.3 overall grade from Pro Football Focus this season. On the other hand, he is an impressive athlete who has the quick feet to develop into a starting left tackle in the NFL. If he can get proper coaching look for him to be a better pro than he was a college player.

17. Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

One of the most underrated players in the 2024 NFL Draft is Alabama cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry. While McKinstry might not have elite speed he is an incredibly polished player. He has outstanding footwork and the loose hip to stick on his man despite blazing speed. He also has good ball skills when thrown at breaking up an SEC high 15 passes in 2022. These traits have allowed him to be named an All-American each of the past two seasons, and to be targeted on just 8.5% of passing downs which was the lowest rate in the nation according to Pro Football Focus.

"Kool-Aid McKinstry is more reliable and consistent than Terrion Arnold, but I think Arnold has more pure cover talent."

NFC Scout to NFL.com on Alabama CBs

18. Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama

The other Alabama cornerback who carries a first-round grade is Terrion Arnold. Arnold is a complete cornerback and should be a day-one starter in the NFL. In coverage, he is a physical corner who shows elite ball skills having tied for the SEC lead with five interceptions. He also is outstanding against the run consistently coming up to make the big stop and rarely missing a tackle. Like McKinstry, Arnold’s lack of speed could be a concern having run the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds.

19. J.C. Latham, OT, Alabama

The third straight Alabama and fourth Alabama player on my board is offensive tackle J.C. Latham. Latham is the ideal right tackle having impressive size, strength, and demeanor to develop into a Pro Bowler. While he is a better run blocker than pass blocker he has the long arms and enough mobility to hold up in this area.

"He’s big, strong, physical. He’s the prototype right tackle that everybody would look for in terms of having a power guy who is effective in being able to pass block well enough"

Nick Saban on Latham

20. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo

The top Group of Five player on my board is Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell. What makes Mitchell such an impressive player is his quickness. He does a great job of driving on the ball and finished second in the nation with 18 pass breakups this season. In addition to his 4.33 speed he also is a good tackler who shows the desire to be a force vs. the run. One concern I have with him is he can be little slow to diagnose different passing concepts.

21. Jer'Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois

The top pass-rushing defensive tackle in the 2024 NFL Draft is Illinois’s Jer'Zhan Newton. This past season the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year recorded 7.5 sacks. Over the past two seasons, he has 102 quarterback pressures which is 24 more than any other defensive tackle according to Pro Football Focus. Against the run, he has a powerful punch and plays with great intensity. He could be a good replacement for Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Aaron Donald who retired last week.

22. Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia

Mims is similar to Oklahoma’s Tyler Guyton in that neither player has a ton of experience, but both have high upsides. The first thing that standouts with Mims is his enormous size coming in at 6-foot-8 and 340 pounds. He has the strength to go along with this size as well, which makes him a strong run blocker. The biggest concern with Mims will likely be his history of injuries which has limited him to just eight starts during his college career.

23. Troy Fautanu, OG/OT, Washington

A player who made my All-Underrated team going into the season, but now is viewed as a first-round pick is Washington’s Troy Fautanu. The main reason he has flown up the draft board is his impressive pass blocking which has seen him only give up two sacks in his 30 career starts. He also has good versatility having played both offensive guard and offensive tackle for the Huskies.

24. Byron Murphy, DT, Texas

Yet another player who significantly improved his stock this year is Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy. In his first year as a starter he was named a second team All-American after recording 29 tackles 8.5 tfl for loss and five sacks. As a pro prospect he is an explosive defensive tackle who could see time either as a 3-technique defensive tackle or as 3-4 defensive end. Another positive with Murphy is how well he uses his hands to disengage from blockers.

25. Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State

A player I am lower on than most is Oregon State offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga. The main reason for this is his limited flexibility and the fact he loses his balance too often for my liking. Despite these concerns, he is an elite run blocker who consistently knocks his opponent off the ball. He also held up well in pass protection this season having not allowed a sack and just 12 pressures.

2024 NFL Draft quarterback rankings

Underrated: Spencer Rattler, South Carolina

No quarterback in this draft is being underrated, however a possible day-three pick who could turn into something is South Carolina’s Spencer Rattler. Rattler has one of the stronger arms in the draft and when he sets his feet in the pocket he shows good accuercey. To develop into a starting-caliber quarterback though he will need to improve his decision-making and pocket presence.

Overrated: J.J. McCarthy, Michigan

The most overrated player in the 2024 NFL Draft is J.J. McCarthy who I have a second-round grade, despite being widely projected to be a top-ten pick. My biggest concern with him is that he gets out of rhyme as a passer which hurts his accuracy. He has also struggled with pressure during his time at Michigan and played in a very quarterback friendly system.

"They have explosive playmakers, but chunk plays? J.J. McCarthy ain’t that guy. I don’t know what Harbaugh is talking about. He’s out of his mind. If you’re freakin’ Kyle Shanahan you might like him, but in college football, I don’t know if he’s gonna get the job done An assistant coach on J.J. McCarthy via The Athletic"

A coach on McCarthy via The Athletic

Non-Power Five player to watch: Michael Pratt, Tulane

The only Group of Five prospect I have a draft-able grade on is Tulane’s Michael Pratt. Pratt was the 2023 American Athletic Conference Offensive Player of the Year and is a sound decision maker who has tossed 49 touchdown passes and just ten interceptions. He is also not afraid to throw the ball downfield with more than 22 percent of his passes this year going for at least 20 yards.

NFL team who needs this position: Chicago Bears

There are a lot of quarterback needy teams in the 2024 NFL Draft, but the team that will take the first quarterback in the draft is the Chicago Bears. The Bears will most likely take Caleb Williams with the number one pick and look for him to be the opening-day starter.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Caleb Williams, USC (first round)

2. Jayden Daniels, LSU (first round)

3. Drake Maye, North Carolina (first round)

4. J.J. McCarthy, Michigan (second round)

5. Bo Nix, Oregon (second round)

6. Spencer Rattler, South Carolina (third round)

7. Michael Penix Jr., Washington (fourth round)

8. Michael Pratt, Tulane (fifth round)

2024 NFL Draft running back Rankings

Underrated: MarShawn Lloyd, USC

My number two back in the 2024 NFL Draft is USC’s MarShawn Lloyd. The reason I am so high on him is his combination of speed and power. He does a great job of running behind his pads and at 220 pounds he is a load to bring down. He also has terrific speed for a bigger back running the 40-yard dash in 4.46 seconds.

Overrated: Jonathon Brooks, Texas

A player who goes into the NFL Draft with a medical red flag is Texas’s Jonathon Brooks, who is coming off a torn ACL. Even with healthy though I still didn’t see him as one of the top running backs in the class due to his upright running style, and only average explosiveness as a runner.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Blake Watson, Memphis

One of the biggest NFL Combine snubs this year was that of Blake Watson. Watson was coming off an impressive season having rushed for 1,152 yards and catching 53 passes. He was also named to the East-West Shrine Bowl All-West Practice Team and was named the MVP of the Hula Bowl. Look for some team to take Watson late in the 2024 NFL Draft.

NFL team who needs this position: Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys lost Tony Pollard in free agency, and have not replaced him with anyone so far in free agency. Even if the team signs a player in the next couple of weeks look for them to use with a day two or three pick on a running back.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Trey Benson, Florida State (second round)

2. MarShawn Lloyd, USC (second round)

3. Bucky Irving, Oregon (third round)

4. Will Shipley, Clemson (third round)

5. Ray Davis, Kentucky (fourth round)

6. Blake Corum, Michigan (fifth round)

7. Jaylen Wright, Tennessee (fifth round)

8. Jonathon Brooks, Texas (fifth round)

9. Braelon Allen, Wisconsin (fifth round)

10. Audric Estime, Notre Dame (fifth round)

11. Isaac Guerendo, Louisville (sixth round)

12. Cody Schrader, Missouri (sixth round)

13. Dillon Johnson, Washington (seventh round)

14. Jawhar Jordan, Louisville (seventh round)

15. Blake Watson, Memphis (seventh round)

16. Jase McClellan, Alabama (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft wide receiver rankings

Underrated: Drake Stoops, Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s Drake Stoops might not be the top tester at this position running a 4.67 40-yard dash and only getting eight reps on the bench press, but the kid knows how to play football. He shows a high football IQ which consistently allows him to get open and has some of best hands in this year’s draft. His playing style reminds me of former New York Jet Wayne Chrebet.

Overrated: Ladd McConkey, Georgia

A slot wide receiver who some people see as a first-round pick is Georgia’s Ladd McConkey. However, I see him more as a day-three pick due to his small catch radius and that he has had trouble catching the ball in traffic. It also doesn’t help that he battled injuries most of this season.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Luke McCaffrey, Rice

Rice’s Luke McCaffrey is still learning the wide receiver position after playing quarterback for his first couple of years in college. Despite his limited time at the position he has put up big numbers having caught 71 passes including 13 touchdown receptions this year. His best asset is his elusiveness which saw him pick up 38% of his yards after the catch in 2022.

NFL team who needs this position: Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers have moved on from its top two wide receivers this offseason having released Mike Williams and trading away Keenan Allen. This creates a big need for the Chargers and one the team could address with the fifth overall pick.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State (first round)

2. Rome Odunze, Washington (first round)

3. Malik Nabers, LSU (first round)

4. Brian Thomas Jr., LSU (first round)

5. Keon Coleman, Florida State (second round)

6. Adonai Mitchell, Texas (second round)

7. Xavier Worthy, Texas (second round)

8. Troy Franklin, Oregon (second round)

9. Ladd McConkey, Georgia (third round)

10. Ricky Pearsall, Florida (third round)

11. Devontez Walker, North Carolina (third round)

12. Roman Wilson, Michigan (third round)

13. Xavier Legette, South Carolina (third round)

14. Ja’Lynn Polk, Washington (third round)

15. Brenden Rice, USC (fourth round)

16. Jalen McMillan, Washington (fourth round)

17. Luke McCaffrey, Rice (fourth round)

18. Jacob Cowing, Arizona (fourth round)

19. Ainias Smith, Texas A&M (fourth round)

20. Johnny Wilson, Florida State (fifth round)

21. Tahj Washington, USC (fifth round)

22. Malachi Corley, Western Kentucky (sixth round)

23. Jermaine Burton, Alabama (sixth round)

24. Malik Washington, Virginia (sixth round)

25. Jalen Coker, Holy Cross (seventh round)

26. Jamari Thrash, Georgia State (seventh round)

27. Drake Stoops, Oklahoma (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft tight end rankings

Underrated: Jared Wiley, TCU

One of the more complete tight ends in the 2024 NFL Draft is TCU’s Jared Wiley. As a receiver he does a great job of catching the ball in traffic and at 6-foot-6 he is a big target in the red zone. When it comes to blocking he shows good technique and the desire to excel at this part of his game.

Overrated: Ben Sinnott, Kansas State

Ben Sinnott might have had the most impressive performance of any tight end at the NFL Combine. He led all tight ends with a 40-inch vertical jump, a 4.23 20-yard shuttle, and 10’6 broad jump. Despite these impressive testing numbers and having the most receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns in a single season by a Kansas State tight end I still have concerns about his NFL potential. These concerns include lacking great agility as a receiver and being a below-average blocker.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Dallin Holker, Colorado State

The only Group of Five tight end to make my draft board is Colorado State’s Dallin Holker. Holker is coming off the best season of his career where he led all tight ends in receiving yards during the regular season and was named to the Hero Sports All Group of Five team.

NFL team who needs this position: Indianapolis Colts

The Colts don't have anyone at this position that scares opponents, and they will likely invest one of their three top 100 picks in one. A player who would make sense in the second round is Ja'Tavion Sanders.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Brock Bowers, Georgia (first round)

2. Ja'Tavion Sanders, Texas (second round)

3. Jared Wiley, TCU (second round)

4. Theo Johnson, Penn State (fourth round)

5. Cade Stover, Ohio State (fourth round)

6. Ben Sinnott, Kansas State (fifth round)

7. Tip Reiman, Illinois (sixth round)

8. Jaheim Bell, Florida State (sixth round)

9. Brevyn Spann-Ford, Minnesota (seventh round)

10. Dallin Holker, Colorado State (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft offensive tackle rankings

Underrated: Garret Greenfield, South Dakota State

South Dakota State easily had the best offensive line in the FCS, and one of the reasons for that is Garret Greenfield. Greenfield is an explosive athlete who set the NFL Combine record for offensive linemen with a 38.5-inch vertical jump. He has also excelled on the field being named an All-American each of the past two seasons.

Overrated: Kingsley Suamataia, BYU

A player who needs to improve his flexibility is BYU’s Kingsley Suamataia. His inability to sink his hips when blocking hurts him when it comes to his pad level and also when finishing his blocks in the running game.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Kiran Amegadjie, Yale

The best position in this year’s NFL talent when it comes to FCS talent is offensive tackle. Yale’s Kiran Amegadjie will likely be another small school tackle to hear his name called on draft day. Amegadjie is a powerful offensive tackle who would be best served by playing in a gap-blocking scheme.

NFL team who has a need at this position: Las Vegas Raiders

One of the biggest needs for the Raiders this offseason is right tackle. The team lost last year's starter Jermaine Eluemunor to the New York Giants, and Thayer Munford Jr. has yet to prove he is starting caliber.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Joe Alt, Notre Dame (first round)

2. Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State (first round)

3. Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma (first round)

4. J.C. Latham, Alabama (first round)

5. Amarius Mims, Georgia (first round)

6. Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State (first round)

7. Graham Barton, Duke (second round)

8. Patrick Paul, Houston (third round)

9. Kingsley Suamataia, BYU (third round)

10. Christian Jones, Texas (fourth round)

11. Blake Fisher, Notre Dame (fourth round)

12. Roger Rosengarten, Washington (fifth round)

13. Matt Goncalves, Pittsburgh (fifth round)

14. Walter Rouse, Oklahoma (fifth round)

15. Garret Greenfield, South Dakota State (sixth round)

16. Kiran Amegadjie, Yale (sixth round)

17. Javon Foster, Missouri (sixth round)

18. LaDarius Henderson, Michigan (seventh round)

19. Julian Pearl, Illinois (seventh round)

20. Caedan Wallace, Penn State (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft offensive guard rankings

Underrated: Christian Haynes, UConn

A team looking for a tough, smart, strong offensive guard is going to like what they see in UConn offensive guard Christian Haynes. As a run blocker, Haynes uses his mass and impressive strength to consistently open up running lanes. When it comes to pass blocking he is almost impossible to bullrush which is one of the reasons he only allowed 12 pressures on the season. Another positive with him is he has plenty of experience having started 49 games for the Huskies.

Overrated: Dominick Puni, Kansas

When teams see you as a zone-blocking offensive guard and you run a 5.35 40-yard dash it is not a good thing. This lack of mobility when combined with him posing only average strength it raises questions about his NFL potential. On the positive side, he does give 100% every time he steps on the field and has played multiple positions on the offensive line.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Mason McCormick, South Dakota State

Another reason South Dakota State has the best offensive line in the FCS was the play of Mason McCormick who combined with Garret Greenfield gives the Jackrabbits two players who will hear their names called on day three of the draft. McCormick is a physical offensive lineman that is capable of playing either offensive guard or center at the next level.

NFL team who needs this position: Miami Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins only have two picks in the first four rounds of the draft, but one position they will likely consider with these picks is an offensive guard.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Troy Fautanu, Washington (first round)

2. Jordan Morgan, Arizona (second round)

3, Christian Haynes, UConn (second round)

4. Cooper Beebe, Kansas State (second round)

5. Layden Robinson, Texas A&M (third round)

6. Zak Zinter, Michigan (third round)

7. Isaiah Adams, Illinois (third round)

8. Christian Mahogany, Boston College (fourth round)

9. Mason McCormick, South Dakota State (fifth round)

10. Javion Cohen, Miami (fifth round)

11. Delmar Glaze, Maryland (fifth round)

12. Sataoa Laumea, Utah (sixth round)

13. Dominick Puni, Kansas (seventh round)

14. Trevor Keegan, Michigan (seventh round)

15. McKade Mettauer, Oklahoma (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft center rankings

Underrated: Tanor Bortolini, Wisconsin

One of the more athletic interior offensive linemen in the 2024 NFL Draft is Wisconsin’s Tanor Bortolini who posted an impressive 4.94 40-yard dash and 7.16 3-cone drill at the NFL Combine. In addition to his impressive athletic ability, he has good versatility having seen significant time at both center and guard for the Badgers. He has the intelligence to play in the NFL as well, having been recruited by Yale, Dartmouth, and Columbia coming out of high school.

Overrated: Andrew Raym, Oklahoma

No center in the 2024 class is being vastly overrated, but if I had to pick one I would say Oklahoma’s Andrew Raym who carries a sixth-round grade on my board.

Non-Power Five player to watch: none.

NFL team who needs this position: Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys lost several free agents this year, and one of those players was center Tyler Biadasz. Most likely the Cowboys will draft a center early to replace him, and one player they have already met with is West Virginia’s Zach Frazier.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon (first round)

2. Zach Frazier, West Virginia (second round)

3. Sedrick Van Pran, Georgia (third round)

4. Tanor Bortolini, Wisconsin (fourth round)

5. Beaux Limmer, Arkansas (fourth round)

6. Kingsley Eguakun, Florida (sixth round)

7. Andrew Raym, Oklahoma (sixth round)

8. Drake Nugent, Michigan (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft defensive end rankings

Underrated: Brennan Jackson, Washington State

A high-effort player who has produced at a high level is Washington State defensive end Brennan Jackson. Last season, Jackson accounted for 12.5 tackles for loss and 8.5 sacks and was named second-team All-Pac-12.

Overrated: Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan

No prospect on the defensive side of the ball is more overrated than Western Michigan’s Marshawn Kneeland. Kneeland has average production never posting more than 4.5 sacks in a season and just being a one year starter. He also lacks the great burst off the ball that makes you think he can translate to the next level. At the NFL Combine, he ran the 5th worst 40-yard dash and 10-yard split.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Mohamed Kamara, Colorado State

A player who impressed me at the East-West Shrine Bowl was Colorado State defensive end Mohamed Kamara. During this event, he displayed an unreal first step off the ball and the flexibility to get around the edge. These traits helped him account for 17 tackles for loss and 13 sacks this year.

NFL team who needs this position: Atlanta Falcons

The Atlanta Falcons spent big in free agency on the offensive side of the ball bringing in Kirk Cousins and Darnell Mooney. Now look for them to address the defensive side of the ball starting with drafting a pass rusher in the first round.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Chop Robinson, Penn State (first round)

2. Jared Verse, Florida State (first round)

3. Darius Robinson, Missouri (second round)

4. Bralen Trice, Washington (second round)

5. Brennan Jackson, Washington State (fourth round)

6. Adisa Isaac, Penn State (fourth round)

7. Gabriel Murphy, UCLA (fourth round)

8. Jonah Elliss, Utah (fourth round)

9. Braiden McGregor, Michigan (fourth round)

10. Mohamed Kamara, Colorado State (fifth round)

11. Austin Booker, Kansas (fifth round)

12. Nelson Ceaser, Houston (fifth round)

13. Xavier Thomas, Clemson (sixth round)

14. Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan (sixth round)

15. Zion Tupuola-Fetui, Washington (sixth round)

16. Javon Solomon, Troy (sixth round)

17. Cedric Johnson, Ole Miss (sixth round)

18. Jalen Green, James Madison (seventh round)

19, Myles Cole, Texas Tech (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft defensive tackle rankings

Underrated: Braden Fiske, Florida State

One of the most disruptive defensive tackles in the 2024 NFL Draft is Florida State’s Braden Fiske who in his one season at Florida State was named an All-American. His best trait is his quickness off the ball which helped him collect six sacks this season. While he is undersized he also has the strength to clog up running lanes. Look for him to be a great fit as a one-gap defensive tackle.

Overrated: Leonard Taylor, Miami

A player who has seen his NFL Draft stock nosedive this year is Miami defensive tackle Leonard Taylor. To start with his production dipped this year only collecting 3.5 tackles for loss after having 10.5 in 2022. He also posted average testing numbers including a 5.12 40-yard dash. He has the raw tools to be successful in the NFL, but to in at the next level he is going to need to become much more motivated.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Khristian Boyd, UNI

Another player who should have received an invite to the NFL Combine is UNI’s Khristian Boyd. Boyd is a strong run stuffer who consistently fought through double teams for the Panthers to account for 38 tackles this season. He also was one of the better defenders at this year’s East-West Shrine game.

NFL team who needs this position: Los Angeles Rams

The Los Angeles Rams lost one of the best defenders in NFL history when Aaron Darnold retired last week. Look for the team to try and find a player who can make up some of his production in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Jer'Zhan Newton, Illinois (first round)

2. Byron Murphy, Texas (first round)

3. Braden Fiske, Florida State (second round)

4. T’Vondre Sweat, Texas (second round)

5. Michael Hall Jr., Ohio State (third round)

6. Leonard Taylor, Miami (third round)

7. Brandon Dorlus, Oregon (third round)

8. Ruke Orhorhoro, Clemson (third round)

9. Kris Jenkins, Michigan (third round)

10. Maason Smith, LSU (fourth round)

11. McKinnley Jackson, Texas A&M (fourth round)

12. Justin Eboigbe, Alabama (fourth round)

13. Mekhi Wingo, LSU (fourth round)

14. DeWayne Carter, Duke (fourth round)

15. Tyler Davis, Clemson (fifth round)

16. Khristian Boyd, UNI (fifth round)

17. Gabe Hall, Baylor (fifth round)

18. Jordan Jefferson, LSU (sixth round)

19. Marcus Harris, Auburn (sixth round)

20. Keith Randolph Jr., Illinois (sixth round)

2024 NFL Draft outside linebacker rankings

Underrated: Kalen DeLoach, Florida State

The most impressive athlete in this year’s outside linebacker class is Kalen DeLoach. He has the speed to play sideline to sideline against the run and is one of the better cover linebackers in this year's class. The biggest downfall with him is his lack of bulk coming in at only 210 pounds, but even with this lack of size, he should be able to see time as a nickel linebacker and on special teams.

Overrated: Payton Wilson, North Carolina State

While North Carolina State’s Payton Wilson is widely projected as a high second-round pick there are some concerns with his game which will likely push him down to the third or fourth round. One of these concerns is his long history of injuries including missing time due to shoulder and knee injuries. Another concern is he has trouble getting off blocks at times, and will need to be in the right defensive scheme.

Non-Power Five player to watch: none

NFL team who needs this position: San Fransico 49ers

The 49ers have a total of 10 draft picks look for them to use at least two of these selections to address the linebacker position, especially after Dre Greenlaw suffered a torn Achilles during the Super Bowl.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Laiatu Latu, UCLA (first round)

2. Dallas Turner, Alabama (first round)

3. Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M (second round)

4. Payton Wilson, North Carolina State (third round)

5. Chris Braswell, Alabama (third round)

6. Curtis Jacobs, Penn State (fifth round)

7. Kalen DeLoach, Florida State (fifth round)

8. JD Bertrand, Notre Dame (fifth round)

9. Ty'Ron Hopper, Missouri (sixth round)

10. Omar Speights, LSU (seventh round)

11. Jett Johnson, Mississippi State (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft inside linebacker Rankings

Underrated: Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State

Ohio State’s Tommy Eichenberg is your classic old school linebacker. While that type of player is not as much in demand as it used to be, Eichenberg should be able to help improve a team like Dallas’s run defense.

Overrated: Cedric Gray, North Carolina

While Cedric Gray has outstanding production having recorded 121 tackles this season, there are some questions about how he will hold up inside in the NFL. The main reason for this is a lack of strength, and another concern is he only has average instincts.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Tyrice Knight, UTEP

One of the most productive players in college football last season was UTEP linebacker Tyrice Knight who recorded 140 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, and seven pass breakups. In addition to his impressive production he also has NFL size coming in at 235 pounds, and strength recording 21 reps on the bench press.

NFL team who needs this position: Minnesota Vikings

While the Vikings had a strong run defense last year only giving up 99 yards a game they need to add some depth to their linebacker unit.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Jeremiah Trotter Jr, Clemson (third round)

2. Junior Colson, Michigan (third round)

3. Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State (third round)

4. Jaylan Ford, Texas (fourth round)

5. Trevin Wallace, Kentucky (fourth round)

6. Cedric Gray, North Carolina (fifth round)

7. Edefuan Ulofoshio, Washington (fifth round)

8. Aaron Beasley, Tennesse (sixth round)

9. Jackson Mitchell, UConn (sixth round)

10. James Williams, Miami (sixth round)

11. Nathaniel Watson, Mississippi State (sixth round)

12. Tyrice Knight, UTEP (sixth round)

13. Marist Liufau, Notre Dame (seventh round)

14. Jontrey Hunter, Georgia State (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft cornerback rankings

Underrated: Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama

My top cornerback in the 2024 NFL Draft is Alabama’s Kool-Aid McKinstry, despite other draftniks seeing him more as a second-round pick. No matter where he goes in the draft look for him to make an impact as a rookie, and be a candidate for Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Overrated: Kamari Lassiter, Georgia

One of the slowest corners in the 2024 NFL Draft is Georgia’s Kamari Lassiter who ran a 4.55 40-yard dash at his pro day. In addition to lacking speed he also only possesses average ball skills having only recorded one interception during his college career.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Micah Abraham, Marshall

A true sleeper in this year’s draft is Marshall’s Micah Abraham. Abraham is a physical corner who loves to challenge at the catch point. Over the past two seasons, he has accounted for 35 passes defended and ten interceptions.

NFL team who needs this position: Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos have a lockdown corner in Patrick Surtain II, but need to find someone to play opposite of him

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama (first round)

2. Terrion Arnold, Alabama (first round)

3. Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo (first round)

4. Nate Wiggins, Clemson (first round)

5. Cooper DeJean, Iowa (first round)

6. Max Melton, Rutgers (second round)

7. Khyree Jackson, Oregon (second round)

8. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri (third round)

9. M.J. Devonshire, Pittsburgh (third round)

10. Jarvis Brownlee Jr., Louisville (third round)

11. T.J. Tampa, Iowa State (fourth round)

12. Kris Abrams-Draine, Missouri (fourth round)

13. Mike Sainristil, Michigan (fourth round)

14. D.J, James, Auburn (fourth round)

15. Kalen King, Penn State (fourth round)

16. Caelen Carson, Wake Forest (fourth round)

17. Nehemiah Pritchett, Auburn (fifth round)

18. Cam Hart, Notre Dame (fifth round)

19. Kamari Lassiter, Georgia (fifth round)

20. Dwight McGlothern, Arkansas (fifth round)

21. Ryan Watts, Texas (sixth round)

22. Renardo Green, Florida State (sixth round)

23. Josh Newton, TCU (sixth round)

24. Johnny Dixon, Penn State (seventh round)

25. Andru Phillips, Kentucky (seventh round)

26. Marcellas Dial, South Carolina (seventh round)

27. Micah Abraham, Marshall (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft safety rankings

Underrated: Cole Bishop, Utah

My second-rated safety in the 2024 NFL Draft is Utah’s Cole Bishop. What stands out about him is his versatility. Against the pass, he shows good range and has the fluid hips to hold up in man coverage. He also is a strong run defender who flies downhill to make the big tackle. Look for Bishop to become an NFL starter early in his career.

Overrated: Jaden Hicks, Washington State

Washington State’s Jaden Hicks was a good in the box safety for the Cougars. However, his lack of agility could present some problems in the NFL. Another area of concern is that he misses some tackles due to his inability to break down in open space.

Non-Power Five player to watch: Jay Stanley, Southern Miss

Another player who will likely go undrafted but should make an impact in the NFL is Southern Miss’s Jay Stanly. Stanly has good size and is a true ballhawk. Last season, he accounted for six turnovers, and over the past two seasons he has picked off eight passes.

NFL team who needs this position: Detroit Lions

One of the biggest needs for Detroit this season is their secondary. Look for the Lions to add several defensive backs in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Tyler Nubin, Minnesota (second round)

2. Cole Bishop, Utah (second round)

3. Kamren Kinchens, Miami (third round)

4. Javon Bullard, Georgia (fourth round)

5. Calen Bullock, USC (fifth round)

6. Evan Williams, Oregon (fifth round)

7. Tykee Smith, Georgia (fifth round)

8. Jaylin Simpson, Auburn (fifth round)

9. Beau Brade, Maryland (fifth round)

10. Patrick McMorris, California (sixth round)

11. Josh Proctor, Ohio State (sixth round)

12. Jaden Hicks, Washington State (sixth round)

13. Kitan Oladapo, Oregon State (sixth round)

14. Malik Mustapha, Wake Forest (seventh round)

15. Jay Stanley, Southern Miss (seventh round)

2024 NFL Draft specialist rankings

Top Punter: Tory Taylor, Iowa

Easily the top specialist in the 2024 NFL Draft is Iowa punter Tory Taylor. Taylor has all the skills to be an All-Pro punter including pin-point accuercey having placed 45% of his punts inside the 20-yard line last season. He also has a booming leg and no trouble punting in the cold Iowa winters.

Overall Rankings (NFL Draft grade I give the player)

1. Tory Taylor, Iowa (fourth round)

2. Ryan Sanborn, Texas (sixth round)

3. Matthew Hayball, Vanderbilt (seventh round)

4. Austin McNamara, Texas Tech (seventh round)

Top Kicker: Joshua Karty, Stanford

While there is no one the caliber of Tory Taylor in this year’s placekicker class it does offer several players with late-round draft grades. The top kicker on my board is Joshua Karty of Stanford. Over the past two seasons he has converted on 91% of his kicks and all but one of those misses was from over 50 yards.