NFL NationMatt MillerJordan Reid 19d

2024 NFL draft: Latest news, questions for all 32 team picks

NFL, NFL Draft, Dallas Cowboys, Atlanta Falcons, Pittsburgh Steelers, Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers, Detroit Lions, Washington Commanders, Seattle Seahawks, Indianapolis Colts, Las Vegas Raiders, New England Patriots, Baltimore Ravens, Arizona Cardinals, Buffalo Bills, Chicago Bears, Cincinnati Bengals, Green Bay Packers, Jacksonville Jaguars, Kansas City Chiefs, Los Angeles Chargers, Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, New York Giants, New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Rams, Miami Dolphins, San Francisco 49ers

The 2024 NFL draft is fast approaching, and teams are finalizing their boards. Round 1 begins April 25 in Detroit (8 p.m. ET on ESPN, ABC, ESPN App).

To prepare, we're giving you intel from all angles. We had each of our 32 NFL Nation reporters answer questions about the mindset of the team they cover heading into the draft, then asked analysts Matt Miller and Jordan Reid to give the inside scoop on what they're hearing about each team and which prospects could be fits throughout the draft.

Here's everything our experts know, starting with the team with the first pick of the draft -- the Chicago Bears -- and going in order of each team's first selection:

Jump to a team:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH

Chicago Bears

Top picks: Nos. 1, 9, 75

At No. 9 overall, do you expect Chicago to further support its rookie QB pick or address the defense?

The Bears' personnel staff and coaches have been sectioned into "pods" to debate three positions the team could address at No. 9: wide receiver, offensive tackle and defensive end. The biggest need is finding a pass-rusher to start opposite Montez Sweat, and Chicago could have a bevy of options to choose from even if Atlanta selects a defensive end at No. 8. But if one of the draft's top receivers, such as LSU's Malik Nabers or Washington's Rome Odunze, falls to No. 9, Chicago could nab him to further help its rookie QB. That would position the Bears to sign a veteran pass-rusher after the draft, which they did last year with Yannick Ngakoue. -- Courtney Cronin

What we're hearing about the Bears' draft: All signs point to USC quarterback Caleb Williams being the No. 1 pick, but what happens after that for Chicago? The Bears have only three additional selections, meaning a move back could be in play at No. 9.

"I'd be shocked if they make that pick at nine," an NFC area scout said. "[Bears GM Ryan] Poles loves to move around and build through the draft, and that roster still needs help in some spots." Don't be surprised if Chicago moves back, adds more draft capital and takes the best defensive end available wherever it lands. Laiatu Latu (UCLA) and Jared Verse (Florida State) are two options who would help off the edge in Chicago. -- Reid


Washington Commanders

Top picks: Nos. 2, 36, 40

Do the Commanders have an early lean on which QB they'd want to take at No. 2?

The Commanders have been tight-lipped, so it's hard to say if they have a true lean. But what is clear is that most of the coaches I've spoken with, as well as ex-coaches who still study prospects, say it should be LSU's Jayden Daniels -- and none have said North Carolina's Drake Maye should be picked over him. Perhaps one clue: Coach Dan Quinn said, among other things, he wants someone who can handle when coverages change post-snap, and he said Daniels "processes things quickly." And that's in addition to his ability to make big plays with his legs. -- John Keim

What we're hearing about the Commanders' draft: Yeah, it's widely accepted at this point that the Commanders will draft a quarterback at No. 2 -- the question is which one. When I asked a dozen NFL scouts and executives about the selection, I kept hearing that Daniels is the most likely pick. That intel, of course, is from people outside the Commanders' organization, so take it with a grain of salt, but it sounds like many people around the league believe the reigning Heisman Trophy winner will follow Williams off the board. -- Miller


New England Patriots

Top picks: Nos. 3, 34, 68

Do you believe the Patriots have a preference on which quarterback falls to them at No. 3?

The Patriots were impressed with Maye's interview at the NFL combine, with coach Jerod Mayo calling it "fantastic." Maye's strong arm also fits well when considering how challenging it can be to throw in Northeast conditions. But at this point, the Patriots are still finalizing their draft board and it's premature to say which quarterback they prefer. They've invested significant resources in evaluating both Maye and Daniels, as reflected by the high total of nine staff members in attendance for each of their pro days. -- Mike Reiss

What we're hearing about the Patriots' draft: Eliot Wolf is entering his first draft in charge of decision-making for the Patriots, and considering his background and experience with the Packers, passing on a QB at No. 3 would be surprising -- even if New England gets an enticing offer for the pick. The Patriots are expected to be able to choose from at least two of Daniels, Maye and Michigan's J.J. McCarthy, depending on what happens ahead of them. "There's no perfect blueprint to build [a roster] up, but it's easier to get the quarterback and build around him then the inverse," an AFC area scout said. "If you trade back, you're hoping and wishing that you're in this position again next year to get your guy."

If the Pats do go QB in the first round, I'd keep an eye on BYU offensive tackle Kingsley Suamataia at No. 34; the team has done a lot of homework on him. -- Reid


Arizona Cardinals

Top picks: Nos. 4, 27, 35

With three picks in the top 35, the Cardinals could find three instant starters. Outside of wide receiver, where do they need the most help?

The Cardinals need help at cornerback, so drafting someone who could compete for CB1 could be a high priority. All of the returning corners who started a game last season each have less than three seasons of experience, and while signing Sean Murphy-Bunting gives them some leadership, the Cards still need another starter. Another significant need for Arizona is a top-tier edge rusher. Internally, those two positions are 2A and 2B behind the No. 1-ranked need of receiver, and it shouldn't be surprising if the Cardinals draft two of each this year. -- Josh Weinfuss

What we're hearing about the Cardinals' draft: General manager Monti Ossenfort is known for wheeling and dealing during the draft, and since the Cardinals are tied for the most picks this year (11), I'd expect more of the same. It shouldn't come as a surprise if Arizona gets aggressive and attempts to move up from No. 27 for a cornerback on Day 1. Murphy-Bunting is more of a CB2. There's a glaring need for a high-upside CB1, and Nate Wiggins (Clemson) and Kool-Aid McKinstry (Alabama) could be Day 1 options for a roster still in the talent collection portion of its rebuild. -- Reid


Los Angeles Chargers

Top picks: Nos. 5, 37, 69

Rank these scenarios in likelihood for the Chargers at No. 5: a) draft a WR, b) draft an OT or c) trade down.

Trade down, draft a WR, draft an OT. General manager Joe Hortiz and coach Jim Harbaugh have mentioned being open to moving their pick at each of their recent media availabilities. They have also mentioned the talent at quarterback and how that could make their pick attractive for other teams. "If four quarterbacks go in the first four picks, that's not like the fifth pick anymore," Harbaugh said. "That's like the No. 1 pick of the draft for teams that have a great quarterback already. So we'll see." -- Kris Rhim

What we're hearing about the Chargers' draft: Wide receiver is an obvious hole, but it is offensive tackle that has continued to come up when speaking to sources about the Chargers. "The offensive line has always been the hub of the offense for Harbaugh," an AFC director of college scouting said. "He didn't even have highly recruited wideouts at Michigan, and now that thought process is supposed to change?"

Notre Dame's Joe Alt has been a popular name at No. 5, but as Kris said, trading back is also possible. If the Chargers do opt to move out of their slot, keep an eye on Alabama's JC Latham or Oregon State's Taliese Fuaga as plug-and-play options at right tackle. Both have more upside than projected starter Trey Pipkins III and fit the style of football that the franchise wants to establish. -- Reid


New York Giants

Top picks: Nos. 6, 47, 70

What would need to happen for the Giants to bypass receiver and go QB at No. 6 overall?

If the right quarterback is there, the Giants wouldn't hesitate to make the move. They are aware Daniel Jones has suffered three serious injuries (twice his neck and a torn ACL) in the past three years. The only problem is New York may have to trade up with the Cardinals at No. 4 or the Chargers at No. 5 to do it with the Vikings, Raiders and Broncos also lurking for a quarterback. -- Jordan Raanan

What we're hearing about the Giants' draft: A high-ranking official with the team told me their draft plans are unlikely to include a first-round passer. However, that doesn't rule out a quarterback being a target in Round 2, where the team owns pick No. 47. Washington's Michael Penix Jr. and Oregon's Bo Nix are expected to be off the board by that point, but a small trade up on Day 2 -- similar to what the Titans did last year to land Will Levis at pick No. 33 -- is possible. -- Miller


Tennessee Titans

Top picks: Nos. 7, 38, 106

If the Titans check the offensive tackle box at No. 7, what is their next biggest need for the rest of the draft?

Help on the defensive front. Jeffery Simmons will receive a lot of attention from opposing offenses, so it's important the Titans find another impactful pass-rusher to team with Harold Landry III and Arden Key to balance out the attack up front. That way, teams will pay for trying to neutralize Simmons by double-teaming him. -- Turron Davenport

What we're hearing about the Titans' draft: One of the most popular mock draft picks this year is the Titans selecting Alt at No. 7, and there's definitely interest there. Tennessee brought the big left tackle in for a pre-draft 30 visit and met with him at the combine, according to team sources. Sometimes it's easy to connect the dots, and this pick feels like a foregone conclusion as long as Alt is still on the board when the Titans pick.

But what if he's already gone? That's where things get interesting. I'm told the Titans would consider trading back and perhaps targeting Penn State's Olumuyiwa Fashanu or Taliese Fuaga. -- Miller


Atlanta Falcons

Top picks: Nos. 8, 43, 74

If the Falcons take an edge rusher at No. 8, what is their next-biggest need for the rest of the draft?

Cornerback, specifically finding a player to line up opposite A.J. Terrell, has to be a priority with Terrell going into a contract year and not yet holding a long-term extension. There's no clear No. 2 opposite him. It rates slightly higher than receiver, where Atlanta added in free agency, but getting a young pass-catcher to pair with Drake London would be optimal if Atlanta wants to run three-WR sets this season. And even if the Falcons take an edge rusher at No. 8, it shouldn't preclude them from adding another later in the draft, considering the issues at the position over the past half-decade. -- Michael Rothstein

What we're hearing about the Falcons' draft: Possible targets in Round 1 for the Falcons? "Anyone with a pulse that can rush the passer," per an NFC executive. And Atlanta could have its pick of the defensive litter at No. 8. Dallas Turner (Alabama), Laiatu Latu (UCLA) and Jared Verse (Florida State) are all viewed as options. Any one of them would help a pass rush that was last in pass rush win rate last season at 30.9%. -- Reid


New York Jets

Top picks: Nos. 10, 72, 111

Do the Jets' free agent signings along the offensive line change anything for them in the draft?

Yes, it changes their approach a little. It opens up the draft board. With Tyron Smith and Morgan Moses slated to start at tackle, general manager Joe Douglas doesn't feel compelled to take a tackle. He can take the best player available, which might be Georgia tight end Brock Bowers. That said, don't rule out a tackle. Smith and Moses are both 33 years old and will be free agents in 2025 -- and let's not forget about Smith's long injury history. -- Rich Cimini

What we're hearing about the Jets' draft: One AFC East evaluator summed up what the Jets should do with pick No. 10 simply, saying, "It's an insurance policy at tackle or a pass-catcher." Another pro scout from inside the division echoed that to me, remarking that the Jets "have to get a young tackle and a young pass-catcher with those first two picks." Because of the Aaron Rodgers trade last offseason, the Jets don't have a Round 2 selection this year. That means checking off boxes at tackle and wide receiver -- even after the addition of Mike Williams -- as early as possible. -- Miller


Minnesota Vikings

Top picks: Nos. 11, 23, 108

Two weeks out, give us a percentage chance the Vikings ultimately trade up from No. 11 for a quarterback.

Fifty percent. The Vikings' preference is to trade up. But to use two words that general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah and coach Kevin O'Connell have both repeated, Minnesota needs a "complicit" team to make that trade, and they'll need the "flexibility" to pivot if none of their offers are accepted. There is a 100% chance the Vikings will draft a quarterback at some point in the draft, but the question is how highly regarded that player will be as a future pro. Adofo-Mensah and O'Connell know they can't simply will a trade into existence. -- Kevin Seifert

What we're hearing about the Vikings' draft: It's no secret the Vikings need a quarterback and are expected to be aggressive in adding one at the draft, but the front office and O'Connell -- a former quarterback himself -- did not attend pro day workouts of the top quarterbacks. Instead, the Vikings are trying something different. "We want to see them work out in a more intimate setting," is how a source with the team put it. "Get them a little uncomfortable running our workout vs. theirs."

The Vikings have scheduled private workouts with five of the top six QBs (everyone except Caleb Williams) and will use those in-person, one-on-one evaluations with more weight than the traditional pro day circuit. This is the first time I can recall a team intentionally avoiding the pro day noise in lieu of in-person scouting, but I like it. -- Miller


Denver Broncos

Top picks: Nos. 12, 76, 121

What's more likely to happen: The Broncos trade up for a QB, or trade down to add more picks?

This is a team that hasn't made a first-round pick since the 2021 draft and therefore has a shallow depth chart. The Broncos also lack the capital to make a move up to have a chance at one of the top three quarterbacks -- at least without surrendering even more first-round picks or their most talented player in cornerback Pat Surtain II. So a move down is more likely at this point. -- Jeff Legwold

What we're hearing about the Broncos' draft: "No way Sean [Payton] goes into the year with that quarterback room." That's how an AFC executive summed up draft expectations for the Broncos, who are expected to address QB at some point over the course of seven rounds. But will it be early or down the board? Bo Nix has been a popular match for Denver this month, and considering the Broncos are without a second-round pick but do have six Day 3 selections, I could see them trading back from No. 12 before selecting their signal-caller of the future -- just as Jeff suggested. -- Reid


Las Vegas Raiders

Top picks: Nos. 13, 44, 77

If the Raiders don't make a dramatic move up the board for a QB, what's the position they most need to target with their first-round pick?

Depends on if they want to make a strength -- their defense -- even stronger by going cornerback, or if they want to address a glaring hole on the right side of the offensive line. If they don't get that franchise QB early in the draft, then it makes sense to go all-in with a foundational right tackle to better protect QBs Aidan O'Connell and Gardner Minshew.

"Yeah man, there's some big boys now, that tackle group," Raiders coach Antonio Pierce said. "Like, you're talking about a bunch of trees walking around at the combine and at these pro days. It's impressive. You look at those three positions -- quarterback, O-line and the DBs -- it's a very talented, deep group." -- Paul Gutierrez

What we're hearing about the Raiders' draft: Expect offensive line or cornerback at No. 13 overall. At Alabama's pro day last month, Pierce seemed to be keeping a close eye on Terrion Arnold, who would give Vegas a shutdown corner on the outside. But sources with the team have also suggested to me that the Raiders could add another tackle to pair with Kolton Miller. Taliese Fuaga is a natural match based on the hole at right tackle and play style, but don't dismiss JC Latham at this spot, either. -- Reid


New Orleans Saints

Top picks: Nos. 14, 45, 150

With only two picks on the first two days of this draft, what's the one position at which the Saints must find a starter?

The Saints are in desperate need of an offensive tackle. Left guard Andrus Peat, who was able to play left tackle, was not re-signed this offseason. Longtime right tackle Ryan Ramczyk has serious knee problems that could affect his career outlook, and 2022 first-round pick Trevor Penning, who was drafted to play left tackle, has yet to prove he's a starter going into Year 2. The Saints need to find their tackle of the future on either side. -- Katherine Terrell

What we're hearing about the Saints' draft: "It's been really quiet there," an NFC area scout said about the Saints. But New Orleans should address offensive tackle early, and Olumuyiwa Fashanu and Taliese Fuaga are two names that have constantly been linked to the Saints. I've also heard Patrick Paul (Houston), Kiran Amegadjie (Yale) and Blake Fisher (Notre Dame) as Day 2 and Day 3 offensive tackle prospects who could fit. -- Reid


Indianapolis Colts

Top picks: Nos. 15, 46, 82

Is GM Chris Ballard more likely to trade up or down in this draft based on how things look now?

Ballard has made just four first-round selections in the seven drafts he's presided over in Indy. In two of those instances, he traded the pick for a player, and he traded down the third. Now that the Colts have their quarterback (Anthony Richardson) and numerous solid starters, it would not be surprising if the Colts are inclined to prioritize depth by trading down. -- Stephen Holder

What we're hearing about the Colts' draft: Cornerback stands out as one of the Colts' biggest needs and realistic targets at No. 15 -- as long as Brock Bowers is off the board. One source with a rival team believed the Colts would "run the card in" if Bowers is available. If he's off the board, though, finding a starting outside cornerback in this draft is noted as the team's priority. Terrion Arnold and Toledo's Quinyon Mitchell could both still be on the board when the Colts' turn to pick comes up thanks to what should be a heavy run on offensive players in the top 10 picks. Ballard could have his choice of the draft's best CBs without having to move up the board. -- Miller


Seattle Seahawks

Top picks: Nos. 16, 81, 102

The Seahawks have interior O-line concerns, but they also hired a defensive head coach this offseason. How do you expect their early picks to play out?

With both guard spots unfilled, the Seahawks are likely to sign a veteran stopgap over the next week or so -- they've shown interest in Laken Tomlinson, Cody Whitehair and Greg Van Roten -- and then address the other side in the draft, perhaps with an early- or middle-round pick. General manager John Schneider often trades back in the first round, and he'll likely be tempted to do so again since Seattle doesn't have a second-round pick.

With no glaring roster holes outside of guard, the Seahawks can approach their other early-round pick with less regard for filling needs than taking the best player available. And given the strong ties their new coaching staff has to the Michigan and Washington programs, don't be surprised if one of those picks played in the national championship game. -- Brady Henderson

What we're hearing about the Seahawks' draft: The hiring of Mike MacDonald as coach shifted how we view the Seahawks' needs, but one constant has been at defensive tackle. The Seahawks re-signed Leonard Williams in free agency, but sources with the team reiterated to me this week that No. 16 is the floor for Texas defensive tackle Byron Murphy II. Murphy's first-step quickness and power are ideal in the 3-technique position and would boost the interior pass-rush skills of this defense. -- Miller


Jacksonville Jaguars

Top picks: Nos. 17, 48, 96

Are the Jaguars more likely to try to draft their replacement for Calvin Ridley or Darious Williams in Round 1?

Wide receiver and cornerback are among the deepest positions in the draft, so that gives the Jaguars some flexibility. But if you look at the roster, they are in much better shape at receiver than they are at corner. Christian Kirk, Zay Jones and Gabe Davis are a solid receiving trio, plus you have to factor in tight end Evan Engram (who had 114 catches last season), who lines up everywhere.  At corner, it's Tyson Campbell and journeyman Ronald Darby as the starters, and there's a plan to play safety Darnell Savage at nickel. So the Jaguars are more likely to target cornerback early. -- Michael DiRocco

What we're hearing about the Jaguars' draft: Yeah, cornerback has continued to come up when talking to people around the league about the Jaguars. There's a lack of depth on the outside beyond Campbell, who's entering the final year of his deal, and Terrion Arnold and Quinyon Mitchell both fit defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen's press-man coverage scheme. That said, I think receiver could be in play here, too. Adonai Mitchell (Texas) would bring a different element to the perimeter and be a good match for quarterback Trevor Lawrence in the offense. -- Reid


Cincinnati Bengals

Top picks: Nos. 18, 49, 80

How much will the outcome of the Tee Higgins situation impact the Bengals' Day 1 plans?

Not much. Higgins is tied to the Bengals for at least a year with the pending franchise tag. Unless he refuses to sign it -- or is traded -- he will be available for them in 2024. Meanwhile, offensive tackle is a much more pressing need than receiver. After signing a one-year deal in free agency, veteran Trent Brown is slotted as the projected starting right tackle but the Bengals could use some depth at the position. -- Ben Baby

What we're hearing about the Bengals' draft: A source close to the Higgins situation told me the two sides haven't talked yet, making it unclear if the Bengals will move Higgins, but that person also noted the team believes it is in win-now mode and can challenge the Chiefs for the AFC title this season with Higgins on the roster. Ja'Marr Chase also needs a new contract, which could play a part and even open the door for the Bengals to draft a receiver in Round 1 to replace Higgins if Cincinnati can't afford both pass-catchers. -- Miller


Los Angeles Rams

Top picks: Nos. 19, 52, 83

Which position is the most likely target for the Rams' first Round 1 pick since 2016?

Edge rusher. The Rams' offseason targets changed after defensive tackle Aaron Donald, a future Hall of Famer, decided to retire. They know they can't replace Donald with one player, but they need to find a way to get to the quarterback more next season. General manager Les Snead said drafting a defensive lineman is a "priority" and the Rams would love to "draft someone who's versatile." -- Sarah Barshop

What we're hearing about the Rams' draft: The Rams currently own 11 selections in the 2024 draft, and the buzz around the league is that they'll look to keep most of those despite the fact that five of them are in Rounds 6 or 7. "Look at how well they've drafted on Day 3," a rival area scout said. "They'll want to keep trying to add impact players late in the draft where the salaries are cheap."

The Rams added three starters in the 2023 draft after Round 2 and stole running back Kyren Williams in the 2022 fifth round, so Snead could certainly look to load up on Day 3 players again this year. -- Miller


Pittsburgh Steelers

Top picks: Nos. 20, 51, 84

Pittsburgh was aggressive in fixing its QB situation in March -- but how can it support Russell Wilson/Justin Fields in the draft?

The Steelers enter the draft with two offensive priorities: center and wide receiver. After releasing Mason Cole prior to the start of free agency, the team doesn't have an obvious starting center on the roster. They could fix that by drafting someone like Oregon's Jackson Powers-Johnson or WVU's Zach Frazier in the first round.

With a deep wide receiver class and a void to fill after trading away Diontae Johnson and cutting Allen Robinson II, the team could wait to address that position in the second round. Adding another speedy, vertical threat would be a big boost to Wilson and Fields in Arthur Smith's offense. -- Brooke Pryor

What we're hearing about the Steelers' draft: What are the Steelers thinking in Round 1? "I can't tell you the player, but I can tell you it'll be an offensive lineman," said one team source. There has been buzz about Pittsburgh adding a wide receiver at No. 20, but the feeling I got in making calls to teams this week is that the Steelers believe they're an elite team at drafting receiver talent outside the top 32 picks, and history backs that up. So someone like Georgia's Amarius Mims or Oklahoma's Tyler Guyton might make sense here. Either right tackle prospect would allow last year's first-rounder Broderick Jones to move to his more natural position after a strong rookie season on the right side. -- Miller


Miami Dolphins

Top picks: Nos. 21, 55, 158

The Dolphins only have two picks in the top 150. How can they still have a successful draft?

By finding players to fill the two remaining positions of need: defensive tackle and right guard. Despite signing seven defensive tackles this offseason, Miami still lacks a long-term answer alongside Zach Sieler. The Dolphins also need to find a replacement for starting right guard Robert Hunt, who left in free agency. And they can address both needs with pick Nos. 21 and 55. -- Marcel Louis-Jacques

What we're hearing about the Dolphins' draft: The Dolphins' Round 1 targets are tough to nail down, but scouts for opposing teams believe the offensive line will be the team's priority at No. 21. Miami did just lose some key players of that unit in free agency. But what about Day 2? I've heard tight end is a position to watch. I think TCU's Jared Wiley, Kansas State's Ben Sinnott and Texas' Ja'Tavion Sanders are names to watch at No. 55. -- Miller


Philadelphia Eagles

Top picks: Nos. 22, 50, 53

Which position on defense are the Eagles most likely to address with their Round 1 pick?

Cornerback. The defense finished second-to-last in passing yards (253 yards per game) and passing touchdowns (35) allowed in 2023. They need to bolster the position both for the upcoming season and for the future with Darius Slay (age 33) and James Bradberry (31 in August), both on the back side of their careers. While younger CBs on the roster like Isaiah Rodgers Sr. and Kelee Ringo offer some promise, selecting one of the top prospects at the position might be just what the doctor ordered for this defense. -- Tim McManus

What we're hearing about the Eagles' draft: I continue to hear in conversations with scouts around the league that general manager Howie Roseman could look to solidify the right tackle position early in this draft -- even in Round 1. Tyler Guyton has spent time in the pre-draft process training with current Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson. The Eagles started planning ahead at center before Jason Kelce's retirement, and drafting Guyton -- who started just 14 games in college -- would allow him to learn and develop under Johnson and famed offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland. -- Miller


Dallas Cowboys

Top picks: Nos. 24, 56, 87

How can the Cowboys make up for a quiet free agency over the first two days of the draft?

Find at least two starters with their top three picks. The Cowboys have drafted well since vice president of player personnel Will McClay took over the draft room in 2014, but there is little wiggle room. The 2023 draft class contributed little last season, and the Cowboys can't have a repeat of that with the 2024 class. The Cowboys are down two starters on the offensive line (Tyron Smith and Tyler Biadasz) so at the very least they need a tackle or a center to be a Day 1 starter. It would be nice if their second- or third-round pick could come in as the lead rusher, but they will still need to backstop the RB position in free agency with a veteran. -- Todd Archer

What we're hearing about the Cowboys' draft: "I don't really understand the plan there so far this offseason, but there's a lot weighing on this draft, and they seem to be confident about finding a bunch of starters," said an NFC scouting director about Dallas' lack of involvement in free agency and potential approach to the draft. Graham Barton (Duke) and Jackson Powers-Johnson would be plug-and-play options along the interior, and drafting either would allow Tyler Smith to move to left tackle. But don't sleep on Dallas doubling up and selecting two offensive linemen early in the draft. Cooper Beebe (Kansas State) and Dominick Puni (Kansas) are Day 2 options who have the potential to be early starters. -- Reid


Green Bay Packers

Top picks: Nos. 25, 41, 58

With 11 picks in this draft, could the Packers move up in Round 1 for a left tackle?

They could very easily move up, whether it's for a tackle or someone else. General manager Brian Gutekunst has five picks in the first 91 selections and has talked repeatedly this offseason about the flexibility that gives him. However, don't expect a move way up -- say, to the top 10 -- because Gutekunst said it's hard to justify giving up that much unless it's for a quarterback, and the Packers aren't in need there. Said Gutekunst: "To give up the kind of picks you're going to have to do ... you don't know what's going to transpire down the road and what you might need. It's never really made a ton of sense for me." -- Rob Demovsky

What we're hearing about the Packers' draft: The Packers are tied for a draft-high 11 picks, and offensive line and cornerback come up the most when discussing them. But I've also heard that the team has done a lot of work on the linebacker class, and finding a running mate for Quay Walker in the middle of the defense seems to be high on the priority list. With two second-round picks (Nos. 41 and 58), Texas A&M's Edgerrin Cooper could fit. And if Green Bay waits until Day 3 to address the position, people I've spoken to have suggested Kentucky's Trevin Wallace. -- Reid


Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Top picks: Nos. 26, 57, 89

Rank these positions based on which the Bucs are most likely to target in Round 1: CB, WR, OL, EDGE

1. Offensive line. 2. Edge rusher. 3. Wide receiver. 4. Cornerback. You could consider interior offensive line and outside linebacker 1A and 1B, depending on who's available at No. 26. Because they have needs at both guard and center, I'm putting offensive line first, followed by edge rusher. After that, the Buccaneers need depth at wide receiver to complement Mike Evans, Chris Godwin and Trey Palmer, and then they need to create competition at cornerback.

The Bucs feel good about the growth of 2022 fifth-round pick Zyon McCollum and signed nickelback Tavierre Thomas and outside corner Bryce Hall in free agency -- but this draft has a talented cornerback class that shouldn't be ignored. -- Jenna Laine

What we're hearing about the Buccaneers' draft: The Buccaneers were very active on the pro day circuit visiting with the top pass-rushers in the class. I spoke to a defensive line coach recently who noted that Tampa Bay has been doing a ton of work on Laiatu Latu, Chop Robinson (Penn State) and Darius Robinson (Missouri). The expectation is the team could target a defensive end with the No. 26 pick and then hit needs on the offensive line in Round 2 or with one of two selections in Round 3. -- Miller


Buffalo Bills

Top picks: Nos. 28, 60, 128

Don't be surprised if the Bills _____ in this draft.

Trade up. It doesn't have to be a big jump, which is possible after trading wide receiver Stefon Diggs, but general manager Brandon Beane has established a trend of moving up in the draft, notably in the first round. He did so in 2022 to draft cornerback Kaiir Elam and again in 2023 for tight end Dalton Kincaid. It's not a secret that this remains a team with clear needs. With 10 picks to work with, including none in the third round, this will be a key draft for Buffalo to bring in big-time contributors. -- Alaina Getzenberg

What we're hearing about the Bills' draft: Even before the Diggs trade, there has been some expectation that the Bills will be aggressive in trying to move up for a wide receiver on Day 1 -- but I'm actually hearing the opposite. The Bills might ultimately be content with letting the draft play out and addressing the position at No. 28 -- or even possibly trading back. If things go that way, Keon Coleman (Florida State) and Xavier Legette (South Carolina) are worth watching. Buffalo lacks a true boundary X receiver, and both would provide value in that role as strong, physical pass-catchers. -- Reid


Detroit Lions

Top picks: Nos. 29, 61, 73

The Lions went unconventional in Round 1 last year with a RB and LB. Should we expect that "by our board" approach again?

Absolutely. Lions general manager Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell have made it clear they have no plans to change their approach of drafting the best player available, regardless of position, due to offseason holes that they've filled via free agency -- notably on defense. Holmes and Campbell are comfortable with their eye for talent and ability to select players that fit their gritty culture.

"Free agency is a time to pull out the depth chart and start plugging holes and all that kind of stuff, but you guys have heard me talk openly about it," Holmes said at last month's league meetings. "But when it comes to the draft, you can really make some mistakes when you're trying to reach for a need and you're missing out on really impact players." -- Eric Woodyard

What we're hearing about the Lions' draft: "Here's your landing spot for Darius Robinson," said an area scout who crossed paths with the Lions' decision-makers multiple times this year and has shared conversations with them about team needs. Robinson, the versatile defensive lineman from Missouri, is an ideal scheme fit at 6-foot-5 and 285 pounds. He played both defensive end and defensive tackle in 2023 while posting 8.5 sacks, and while the Lions have standout players in Aidan Hutchinson and Alim McNeill on the defensive line, Robinson's power and burst on the edge would be a welcome addition. -- Miller


Baltimore Ravens

Top picks: Nos. 30, 62, 93

The Ravens absolutely need to address _____ in the draft.

Offensive tackle. The best-case scenario is the Ravens take an offensive tackle in the first round for the first time in eight years. Baltimore needs a prospect who can start immediately at right tackle and eventually transition to left tackle, where Ronnie Stanley is entering a contract year. "Fortunately, this is a deep draft class [at offensive line], so we'll have a lot of different options in different rounds [and] players that we like at the offensive line position -- at tackle and also guard," Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta said. -- Jamison Hensley

What we're hearing about the Ravens' draft: Wide receiver and offensive tackle are the two positions that dominate conversations when speaking with sources close to the Ravens. Baltimore hasn't been shy about helping quarterback Lamar Jackson with first-round receivers, and that trend could continue. And after trading Morgan Moses to the Jets, Baltimore could also target someone like Jordan Morgan (Arizona) or Tyler Guyton to join Patrick Mekari, Daniel Faalele and Josh Jones in the OL mix.

But here's something that could throw a wrench in either option: I've heard that trading back from No. 30 to land extra draft capital might be in play. -- Reid


San Francisco 49ers

Top picks: Nos. 31, 63, 94

What is the 49ers' biggest need in the back end of Round 1?

Offensive line. In a perfect world, the Niners could land an offensive tackle capable of pushing for the starting job immediately on the right side and who could eventually replace Trent Williams on the left. Although tackle is considered a strength of the draft, the Niners might still have to move up to get one of the top tackles, which means they might be better served drafting one of the top interior linemen who could also step in right away if a trade up doesn't make sense. Either way, bolstering the front five has to be the priority. -- Nick Wagoner

What we're hearing about the 49ers' draft: Colton McKivitz signed a one-year extension this offseason, but that likely won't keep the 49ers from searching for a long-term upgrade at tackle in this deep class. Unsurprisingly, right tackle and cornerback are the two positions brought up most by scouts when talking about where the Niners could improve after their run to the Super Bowl. And with 10 picks and few roster spots available, San Francisco might surprise and attempt a move up for an offensive tackle. Amarius Mims and Jordan Morgan fit in Kyle Shanahan's scheme on Day 1, but Roger Rosengarten (Washington) would also make sense on Day 2. -- Reid


Kansas City Chiefs

Top picks: Nos. 32, 64, 95

If the Chiefs don't take a wide receiver in Round 1, which position are they most likely to target?

Wide receiver makes the most sense from a positional standpoint, but they could go in many different directions. Starting left tackle Donovan Smith is a free agent, so it wouldn't be a surprise if they tried to replace him. Interior offensive line bears watching with Trey Smith and Creed Humphrey headed into the final seasons of their contracts and Joe Thuney carrying a 2025 cap charge of almost $27 million. The Chiefs drafted a defensive end in the first round in each of the past two offseasons but still could use help on the line, too. -- Adam Teicher

What we're hearing about the Chiefs' draft: "Everything is on the table." That's what a Chiefs source told me after the team added Marquise Brown to the wide receiver room in free agency. The Chiefs' offseason thus far has focused on re-signing key players such as Chris Jones and Drue Tranquill, but the feeling in the front office is that the team won't be forced into picking a certain position based on need. I was reminded by the same Chiefs source that there was "leaguewide panic" last year that Kansas City needed to draft a receiver in Round 1, but the team waited until Round 2 before selecting Rashee Rice -- and won the Super Bowl. So while receiver, left tackle and cornerback are needs on paper, don't expect this front office to reach based on holes in the roster. -- Miller


Carolina Panthers

Top picks: Nos. 33, 39, 65

Should we assume the Panthers will target the best available receiver at the top of Round 2?

Not at all. While receiver should be a priority for one of the team's two second-round picks, if a top tight end or even center falls to Carolina at No. 33, they will have to take a serious look. Trading for Diontae Johnson took some of the pressure off of potentially having to reach for a receiver with the first of those picks. -- David Newton

What we're hearing about the Panthers' draft: A conversation with an evaluator for the Panthers brought up the team's desire to add playmakers around second-year quarterback Bryce Young early in this draft. "If we want to keep our jobs, we'll get him some help," the evaluator said. The Panthers could target wide receivers Keon Coleman (FSU) or Xavier Legette (South Carolina) at No. 33. Legette's South Carolina pro day was heavily attended by the Panthers' front office and coaching staff, and Carolina also met with Legette twice during Senior Bowl week, per a source close to the player. -- Miller


Houston Texans

Top picks: Nos. 42, 58, 86

The Texans no longer have a first-rounder, but they do have two Round 2 selections. How can they get an "A" grade on Day 2?

Finding playmakers at defensive tackle or cornerback would give them an "A" grade. The Texans' overall roster has few holes after spending almost $170 million in guarantee money since the start of the new league year. Still, their cornerback and defensive tackle rooms could use talent on rookie deals to develop long-term. Right now, both spots have plenty of guys on one-year deals. -- DJ Bien-Aime

What we're hearing about the Texans' draft: Defensive tackle comes up a lot when speaking to sources about the Texans' draft plans. Adding depth to that defensive line has been a major point of emphasis, and I expect that to continue during the draft. The Texans should be right in target range for many of the DTs to start coming off the board. Kris Jenkins (Michigan) and Michael Hall Jr. (Ohio State) check many of Houston's boxes, and Mekhi Wingo (LSU) is a name to watch if the Texans opt to wait until Day 3. -- Reid


Cleveland Browns

Top picks: Nos. 54, 85, 156

With five picks and no first-rounder, how can the Browns have a successful draft?

By finally selecting a high-impact receiver to add to its young, talented core. Despite numerous swings, especially on Day 2, the Browns have struggled to find that wideout in recent drafts. Landing a young playmaker will be paramount for the Browns as Pro Bowl wide receiver Amari Cooper turns 30 before next season. -- Jake Trotter

What we're hearing about the Browns' draft: I've heard the Browns are doing work on the offensive and defensive line classes, and offensive tackle in particular comes up when speaking to league sources about Cleveland. Jack Conklin and Dawand Jones are coming back off knee injuries, and Jedrick Wills Jr. is entering the final year of his rookie contract. With that in mind, Roger Rosengarten has versatility that could be a good fit. -- Reid

^ Back to Top ^