The Texans’ impressive offseason acquisitions, including Stefon Diggs and Danielle Hunter, have propelled them into a strong position ahead of the NFL Draft. ESPN’s Mike Tannenbaum lauds these additions, which overshadow any perceived draft needs. C.J. Stroud is highly praised for his accuracy and versatility, leading Tannenbaum to believe that the Texans can focus on strategic play rather than spectacular throws. With an abundance of talent surrounding Stroud, the Texans can prioritize first downs and check downs to set up big plays for receivers like Diggs and Collins. Whether they sit back at the 42nd overall pick or trade up in the first round, the Texans have earned the luxury of a patient draft approach after last year’s successful draft and offseason moves.
Results for: NFL Draft
The Los Angeles Chargers, under their new management, are reportedly aiming to bolster their franchise based on Jim Harbaugh’s philosophy of tough, physical play. This strategy involves prioritizing the running game, similar to Harbaugh’s approach at the San Francisco 49ers and Michigan. To execute this plan, the Chargers have already signed former Baltimore Ravens running backs JK Dobbins and Gus Edwards, while releasing Austin Ekeler. They are also anticipated to select a running back in the upcoming NFL draft. ESPN’s Dan Graziano suggests that scouts expect the Chargers to pursue Blake Corum, a standout running back for Michigan the past two seasons. Corum showcased remarkable productivity, rushing for 1,463 yards and 18 touchdowns as a junior and 1,245 yards and 27 touchdowns as a senior, earning him top-10 Heisman Trophy finishes both years. However, concerns arise regarding whether Corum’s potential selection is the most optimal decision for the Chargers’ long-term success.
The NFL Draft 2024 promises to be one of the most unpredictable and exciting in recent history, with the possibility of record-breaking trades, quarterback selections, and a potential run on offensive prospects.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made significant strides under the leadership of their new general manager, Omar Khan. Khan’s acquisitions of Patrick Queen, Russell Wilson, and Justin Fields have been widely praised, while former GM Kevin Colbert has been criticized for his recent draft decisions. However, Ed Bouchette argues that Khan’s success should not overshadow Colbert’s legacy, highlighting the unpredictable nature of NFL drafting. Despite the excitement surrounding Khan’s inaugural draft, Bouchette urges fans to exercise caution, noting that even the most successful executives encounter missteps. As the 2024 draft approaches, Khan’s true abilities will be tested, and a single misstep could erode his current acclaim.
The New York Giants have released their draft board and are open to all possibilities with the No. 6 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. General manager Joe Schoen has been in contact with general managers around the league and is prepared to make decisions once the clock starts running. The Giants own one selection in each of the first six rounds and are without a seventh-round pick. Schoen has made trades in each of his first two drafts with the Giants, but don’t expect the Giants to slide back significantly on Thursday. The pre-draft work will continue through Wednesday night and up until the clock begins on the No. 1 pick Thursday night.
The Dallas Cowboys have met with former running back Ezekiel Elliott to discuss a potential reunion, but a deal is not yet imminent. Despite previous reports of the Cowboys’ interest in reuniting with Elliott, who was cut in 2023, circumstances suggest a possible agreement at a reduced price. However, the meeting is unlikely to influence the Cowboys’ draft plans. The team is still expected to target a running back on Day 2 of the NFL Draft, with Jonathon Brooks being a potential option. Elliott is seen as a Plan B if the Cowboys fail to secure a promising RB1 prospect in the draft, in which case he could share carries with projected starter Rico Dowdle.
With a third overall pick and a new coaching staff, the New England Patriots prepare for a crucial NFL draft. Quarterback remains a top priority following a disappointing season and the departure of Mac Jones. Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye are considered favorites for the Patriots’ selection. While trading down is an option, experts advise against it unless a top-tier talent like Justin Jefferson becomes available. The draft is also an opportunity to address needs at wide receiver and offensive tackle, with prospects such as Marvin Harrison Jr. and Joe Alt likely to be off the board. Despite the team’s defensive background, the focus is expected to be on offense, with potential picks including Xavier Legette and Jordan Morgan.
Los Angeles Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh faces a dual mandate in his inaugural NFL Draft: bolstering Justin Herbert’s offense while potentially leveraging his No. 5 overall pick for additional draft capital to bolster the trenches, particularly the offensive line. Due to the team’s pressing needs, the Chargers could explore trading down to acquire more selections. A hypothetical trade with the Minnesota Vikings, as proposed by Bleacher Report’s Ryan Fowler, could see the Chargers drop six spots while still landing a highly coveted prospect.
Michigan’s national title-winning quarterback JJ McCarthy has spent the most time with the New York Giants during the draft process, hinting at their potential interest in selecting him with the No. 6 overall pick. McCarthy mentioned his familiarity with the Giants’ coaching staff and offensive system, suggesting that he would be a good fit for the team if they decide to draft a quarterback.
The NFL has announced that the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles will retain all draft picks in this year’s event despite ongoing investigations into alleged tampering by both teams. The teams are under scrutiny for their signings of free agents Kirk Cousins and Saquon Barkley.