This year’s NFL Draft is set to be one of the most unpredictable and exciting in recent memory. With a record-breaking nine trades made during the first round in 2022, this year’s draft could surpass that mark. Six quarterbacks could be taken in the first round for the first time since 1983, including four within the first four or five picks, which has never happened before.
The draft will kick off in Detroit on Thursday at 8 p.m., with the Chicago Bears expected to select quarterback Caleb Williams with the No. 1 overall pick. After that, all bets are off, with the Washington Commanders deciding between quarterbacks Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye.
One of the biggest storylines of the draft will be the potential for a trade involving the Patriots, who hold the No. 3 pick. Patriots owner Robert Kraft is looking for a “top-rate, young quarterback,” but pseudo-general manager Eliot Wolf could trade down if he doesn’t get his preferred player.
The Cardinals and Chargers, who hold the No. 4 and No. 5 picks, respectively, are also potential trade partners for teams looking to move up for a quarterback. Both teams have their franchise quarterbacks, so they could be willing to trade down for more picks.
A potential run on quarterbacks could push highly graded prospects like Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, and Brock Bowers into steal territory. There are plausible scenarios where no defensive player is picked in the top 10 for the first time in history, which could lead to some interesting trades.
The NFL Draft is always full of surprises, and this year’s draft is sure to be no different. With so many potential trades and quarterback selections, this year’s draft could be one of the most memorable in recent history.
