As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, teams in the top 10 face crucial decisions that could alter their franchises’ futures for better or worse.
Maurice Moton of Bleacher Report provides insights into the biggest potential mistakes these teams could make.
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- Washington Commanders: Must ignore large trade offers for the No. 2 pick, focusing on securing a quarterback.
- New England Patriots: Should avoid drafting QB J.J. McCarthy at No. 3 due to team needs and his play style.
- Los Angeles Chargers: Trading the No. 5 pick to division rivals could harm long-term success.
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Commanders’ Case for Drafting a QB at No. 2
The Commanders should firmly commit to selecting a quarterback at the No. 2 spot despite potential high-value trade offers.
Drafting a quarterback can significantly contribute to playoff contention, as shown by the Houston Texans’ success with C.J. Stroud.
General Manager Adam Peters expressed interest in quarterbacks such as Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, or J.J. McCarthy, which aligns with the team’s long-term needs despite the presence of recent backup QB signees like Marcus Mariota and Jeff Driskel.
Should Patriots Draft McCarthy or Trade for Depth?
With a critical third pick, the Patriots face the dilemma of either selecting the third-best QB or trading down for better value across multiple rounds.
Analysts suggest that quarterback J.J. McCarthy should be passed over due to the Patriots’ declining defense and lack of offensive weapons, which would put undue pressure on McCarthy.
Arizona Cardinals: Focusing on Receiver Support
Arizona must bolster its receiving corps to support Kyler Murray, especially after key departures like Marquise Brown and Rondale Moore.
With a potential top pick in Marvin Harrison Jr. or trade-down options like Malik Nabers, the Cardinals must ensure Murray has the tools to succeed.
Los Angeles Chargers: Assessing Trade Offers Carefully
With the fifth pick, the Chargers, under new leadership with GM Joe Hortiz and coach Jim Harbaugh, should consider all trade offers except from division rivals like the Broncos and Raiders.
Helping a rival team get a top quarterback could set back the Chargers’ progress.
New York Giants: Quarterback or Playmaker?
Having struggled with offensive output, the Giants should focus on adding high-impact players rather than quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
Given their lackluster performance and the need for robust offensive talent, options like Marvin Harrison Jr. should be higher on their draft list than a quarterback with limited collegiate success.
Tennessee Titans: Not Ignoring Offensive Line Needs
Looking to rebuild under a new coaching regime, the Titans must prioritize offensive line strength to protect and enhance quarterback Will Levis’ performance.
Drafting a top tackle with the No. 7 pick could prove crucial for their offensive stability.
Atlanta Falcons: Strengthening the Defensive Front
The Falcons must aim to draft a leading edge-rusher with the eighth pick to improve their defensive pressure, which has lagged significantly.
This selection could transform their defensive capabilities, complementing their offensive enhancements.
Chicago Bears: Balancing Defensive and Offensive Needs
The Bears, holding two top-10 picks, should be wary of over-drafting a defensive tackle at No. 9 and focus on acquiring a talent that balances Shane Waldron’s offensive scheme and Matt Eberflus’ defensive priorities.
New York Jets: Prioritizing High-Impact Players
Lastly, with the tenth overall pick, the New York Jets should focus on adding a high-impact pass-catcher.
Given quarterback Aaron Rodgers’s needs and the team’s overall offensive strategy, selecting someone like Brock Bowers could be more advantageous than bolstering the offensive line, which has seen significant off-season investments.
