As the curtain closes on the 2023 NFL season, the focus now shifts to the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, slated to unfold in Detroit from April 25th to 27th. Before diving into the three-day spectacle, let’s address some pressing queries surrounding this highly anticipated event.
Firstly, where will the draft unfold, and which networks will broadcast it? Despite Detroit playing host, Ford Field won’t serve as the venue. Instead, Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza in downtown Detroit will set the stage. Mark your calendars for the first round on April 25th at 8 p.m. EST, followed by the second and third rounds on April 26th at 7 p.m. EST, and concluding with rounds four through seven on April 27th at noon EST. Tune in to ABC, ESPN, or NFL Network for live coverage, or stream via ESPN+, NFL+, Hulu + Live TV, or Fubo.
Preceding the draft are crucial dates, notably the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Scheduled from February 29th to March 3rd, this invitation-only event subjects prospects to measurements, tests, and drills pivotal to their draft prospects. Following this, starting March 7th, draft-eligible players can engage in interviews with teams and visit facilities, with teams allowed to host up to 30 non-local prospects for visits and physicals until April 19th. Teams may conduct up to three interviews per player until April 26th, each lasting a maximum of one hour.
Now, onto the draft order. For the second consecutive year, the Chicago Bears hold the coveted No. 1 overall pick. Here’s a glimpse of the top 10 selections:
1. Chicago Bears (from Carolina Panthers 2-15)
2. Washington Commanders (4-13)
3. New England Patriots (4-13)
4. Arizona Cardinals (4-13)
5. Los Angeles Chargers (5-12)
6. New York Giants (6-11)
7. Tennessee Titans (6-11)
8. Atlanta Falcons (7-10)
9. Chicago Bears (7-10)
10. New York Jets (7-10)
Who will clinch the top spot? While the Bears boast Justin Fields, rumors suggest they may opt for USC’s Caleb Williams, following his stellar performance and Heisman Trophy win in 2022.
Turning to quarterback prospects, the 2024 class brims with talent. Alongside Williams, keep an eye on UNC’s Drake Maye, LSU’s Jayden Daniels, Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy, and Oregon’s Bo Nix, who could all land in the first round.
On the receiving end, Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. shines, with LSU’s Malik Nabers and Washington’s Rome Odunze closely trailing. Wide receiver depth extends to LSU’s Brian Thomas Jr. and Florida State’s Keon Coleman.
In the running back realm, no standout prospect emerges, though names like Texas’ Jonathon Brooks and Florida State’s Trey Benson warrant attention.
Defensively, edge-rushers take the spotlight. Alabama’s Dallas Turner leads the pack, trailed by UCLA’s Laiatu Latu and others, promising fierce competition.
Lastly, trade speculations add spice to the draft drama, with teams like the Atlanta Falcons, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, and Las Vegas Raiders eyeing quarterback upgrades while others contemplate strategic moves to bolster their rosters.
In essence, the 2024 NFL Draft teems with anticipation, promising thrills and surprises as teams chart their future trajectories amidst a sea of talent.
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