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NFL Draft Grades: Analysis & Best Futures Bets after the 2024 NFL Draft

Nick Holz Published on: Apr 28, 2024 4:42 PM ET

The 2024 NFL Draft is in the books. An unbelievable weekend full of shocking picks and surprising trades has NFL fans buzzing.

Let's review the draft results, hand out class grades, and provide you with a bet for each team from the NFL futures board:

2024 NFL Draft Team Grades & Best Bets

Jump to team grade:

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

Arizona Cardinals

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 4): WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State
  • Round 1 (No. 27): DL Darius Robinson, Missouri
  • Round 2 (No. 43): CB Max Melton, Rutgers
  • Round 3 (No. 66): RB Trey Benson, Florida State
  • Round 3 (No. 71): IOL Isaiah Adams, Illinois
  • Round 3 (No. 82): TE Tip Reiman, Illinois
  • Round 3 (No. 90): CB Elijah Jones, Boston College
  • Round 4 (No. 104): S Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, Texas Tech
  • Round 5 (No. 138): Edge Xavier Thomas, Clemson
  • Round 5 (No. 162): OT Christian Jones, Texas
  • Round 6 (No. 191): WR Tejhaun Palmer, UAB
  • Round 7 (No. 226): CB Jaden Davis, Miami

With a record seven picks in the top 90, Cardinal General Manager Monti Ossenfort made out like a bandit. Ossenfort added elite offensive talents in Marvin Harrison Jr, and Trey Benson while fortifying the roster across the board.

Arizona put together one of the greatest collections of talent throughout this year's draft.

Grade: B+

Cardinals Best Bet Post-Draft: Marvin Harrison Jr. NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year +600

While the quarterbacks are always going to be favored for this award, Harrison Jr has a clear path to glory during his rookie year. The Cardinals are devoid of other pass-catching weapons. On top of that, his size and skill paired with a veteran quarterback in Kyler Murray will be a devastating combo.

Atlanta Falcons

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 8): QB Michael Penix Jr., Washington
  • Round 2 (No. 35): DL Ruke Orhorhoro, Clemson
  • Round 3 (No. 74): Edge Bralen Trice, Washington
  • Round 4 (No. 109): DL Brandon Dorlus, Oregon
  • Round 5 (No. 143): LB JD Bertrand, Notre Dame
  • Round 6 (No. 186): RB Jase McClellan, Alabama
  • Round 6 (No. 187): WR Casey Washington, Illinois
  • Round 6 (No. 197): DT Zion Logue, Georgia

The Atlanta Falcons shook up the first round on Thursday night by drafting Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr. eighth overall. Long seen as a second-round pick, Penix rose up draft boards over the last few weeks.

The 24-year-old can absolutely sling it, but health concerns, and the presence of Kirk Cousins make this a perplexing move. GM Terri Fontenot just gave Cousins $180M in free agency, and now says Penix could sit for "four or five years." Failure to bring in an elite defensive talent could come back to haunt the Falcons.

Orhorhoro is an unbelievable athlete up front, but is less polished than players like Johnny Newton, who was still on the board.

Grade: D

I'm not sure I can get behind the Falcons drafting an injury prone, 24-year-old quarterback after just landing Kirk Cousins. An impact defensive player, or even a trade back to collect some value would have been my move.

Falcons Best Bet Post-Draft: Atlanta Falcons UNDER 9.5 Wins +120

Atlanta's roster has improved, but not to the level of some of their division rivals. Love this bet at plus money.

Baltimore Ravens

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 30): CB Nate Wiggins, Clemson
  • Round 2 (No. 62): OT Roger Rosengarten, Washington
  • Round 3 (No. 93): EDGE Adisa Isaac, Penn State
  • Round 4 (No. 113): WR Devontez Walker, North Carolina
  • Round 4 (No. 130): CB T.J. Tampa, Iowa State
  • Round 5 (No. 165): RB Rasheen Ali, Marshall
  • Round 6 (No. 218): QB Devin Leary, Kentucky
  • Round 7 (No. 228): IOL Nick Samac, Michigan State
  • Round 7 (No. 250): S Sanoussi Kane, Purdue

Eric DeCosta entered the draft needing to shore up his cornerback room, and he accomplished that mission. Wiggins has the potential to be an impact player at the next level, though he will need to add a few pounds.

I thought Baltimore reached for Rosengarten, but he possesses all the athletic tools necessary to become a starter. Isaac provides another pass rushing threat, and was projected to be gone long before pick no. 93. While Devontez Walker flew under the radar after missing half the season through a brutal NCAA suspension.

I also really like the potential of Tampa, Ali and Leary, especially in the middle rounds. It's not the prettiest class on paper, but as always, the Ravens added a number of excellent football players.

Grade: B

Ravens Best Bet Post-Draft: Baltimore Ravens to Win AFC North +130

Give me the Ravens to win the AFC North next year. This may be the most competitive division in football once again in 2024. However, with Lamar Jackson and an elite front-seven in tow, the Ravens are the most talented team in the division.

Buffalo Bills

Draft Picks:

  • Round 2 (No. 33): WR Keon Coleman, Florida State
  • Round 2 (No. 60): S Cole Bishop, Utah
  • Round 3 (No. 95): DL DeWayne Carter, Duke
  • Round 4 (No. 128): RB Ray Davis, Kentucky
  • Round 5 (No. 141): IOL Sedrick Van Pran-Granger, Georgia
  • Round 5 (No. 160): LB Edefuan Ulofoshio, Washington
  • Round 5 (No. 168): Edge Javon Solomon, Troy
  • Round 6 (No. 204): OT Tylan Grable, UCF
  • Round 6 (No. 219): CB Daequan Hardy, Penn State
  • Round 7 (No. 221): IOL Travis Clayton, International Pathway Program

Buffalo traded out of the first round to pickup the athletic marvel that is Keon Coleman early in the second. He's not a three-cone specialist, but Coleman is an outstanding football player capable of creating highlight reel plays every week. He's not an elite separator like Stefon Diggs, but there's plenty Coleman can offer the Bills offense. Coleman is along the same line of athlete of players like DK Metcalf and George Pickens. Josh Allen can throw it up and allow his monstrous receiving weapon to go and make plays. I love the fit.

Meanwhile, Bishop fills a huge need for Buffalo after the release of Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer. While Carter and Van Pran-Granger shore up the offensive and defensive lines. Brandon Beane did an excellent job of replacing expensive vets with impact rookies. Buffalo will continue to be a force in the AFC this season.

Bills Best Bet Post-Draft: Buffalo To Make Playoffs -192

It's a little juiced up, but I'll hop on the Bills to make the playoffs at -192. Josh Allen is good enough to hide any remaining warts on the Bills roster. This is a reload, not a rebuild. James Cook will continue to ascend in year three. Plus, Buffalo still boasts elite talent in the trenches.

Carolina Panthers

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 32): WR Xavier Legette, South Carolina
  • Round 2 (No. 46): RB Jonathon Brooks, Texas
  • Round 3 (No. 72): LB Trevin Wallace, Kentucky
  • Round 4 (No. 101): TE Ja'Tavion Sanders, Texas
  • Round 5 (No. 157): CB Chau Smith-Wade, Washington State
  • Round 6 (No. 200): DL Jaden Crumedy, Mississippi State
  • Round 7 (No. 240): LB Michael Barrett, Michigan

Carolina moved up to draft Xavier Legette on day one, securing a large perimeter target to aid in the development of Bryce Young. Next, the Panthers traded up to land one of the top running backs in the class in Jonathon Brooks of Texas.

The whole league knew Carolina needed to get Young some skill position help and they did just that, while adding Ja'Tavion Sanders on Day 3.

Unfortunately, the Panthers failed to add talent in front of Young. If he doesn't have time to deliver his playmakers the football, all of the talent in the world outside won't matter. Carolina's failure to draft a trench player until the sixth round pushes this grade down.

Draft Grade: C

Panthers Best Bet Post-Draft: Carolina UNDER 5.5 Wins -150

Young was sacked 60 times while being forced to miss time with an ankle injury in his rookie year. Free agent adds will aid Carolina there, but this draft class doesn't help up front, or deal with the loss of Brian Burns.

Chicago Bears

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 1): QB Caleb Williams, USC
  • Round 1 (No. 9): WR Rome Odunze, Washington
  • Round 3 (No. 75): OT Kiran Amegadjie, Yale
  • Round 4 (No. 122): P Tory Taylor, Iowa
  • Round 5 (No. 144): Edge Austin Booker, Kansas

Landing a franchise altering talent in Williams gives the Bears a high grade in and of itself. He's a generational prospect with the upside to develop into an Aaron Rodgers-like quarterback.

Adding Odunze makes the Bears a legitimate offensive force.

Grade: A

Bears Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 8.5 Wins +100

Bears fan will be hammering the OVER here after they "won" the draft. Don't be hasty. At this time last year, Justin Fields was the most bet player to win MVP.

Williams has the potential to become a generational quarterback in Chicago. But, that won't happen overnight. This is a new offensive system for all, and Matt Eberflus' defense still has a long way to go. I love the UNDER 8.5 wins for Chicago.

Cincinnati Bengals

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 18): OT Amarius Mims, Georgia
  • Round 2 (No. 49): DL Kris Jenkins, Michigan
  • Round 3 (No. 80): WR Jermaine Burton, Alabama
  • Round 3 (No. 97): DL McKinnley Jackson, Texas A&M
  • Round 4 (No. 115): TE Erick All, Iowa
  • Round 5 (No. 149): CB Josh Newton, TCU
  • Round 6 (No. 194): TE Tanner McLachlan, Arizona
  • Round 6 (No. 214): Edge Cedric Johnson, Ole Miss
  • Round 7 (No. 224): S Daijahn Anthony, Ole Miss
  • Round 7 (No. 237): IOL Matt Lee, Miami

Grade: B+

Amarius Mims has the upside to become an absolute monster in the NFL. He only started nine games in college but has a Tyron Smith-like ceiling. On the flip side, Kris Jenkins and McKinnley Jackson give the Bengals two beastly defensive tackles to replace the departed D.J. Reader.

If Jermain Burton can keep himself in check and learn from Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, this could be quite the class for Cincinnati.

Bengals Best Bet Post-Draft: Cincinnati to Make Playoffs -225

A healthy Joe Burrow guides the Bengals back into the postseason. The former No.1 overall pick is also an intriguing wager at +1000 to win NFL MVP.

Cleveland Browns

Draft Picks:

  • Round 2 (No. 54): DL Mike Hall Jr., Ohio State
  • Round 3 (No. 85): IOL Zak Zinter, Michigan
  • Round 5 (No. 156): WR Jamari Thrash, Louisville
  • Round 6 (No. 206): LB Nathaniel Watson, Mississippi State
  • Round 7 (No. 227): CB Myles Harden, South Dakota
  • Round 7 (No. 243): DL Jowon Briggs, Cincinnati

Grade: C

Cleveland was without a first-round pick as part of the Deshaun Watson trade. But, Hall is the type of twitched up 3-technique who will thrive in defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz' defensive scheme.

Zinter has longterm starter upside, but suffered a devastating broken leg at the end of his last college season. While Thrash could become a weapon for Watson, the Browns already have developing receivers in Cedric Tillman and David Bell on the roster. Lacking the capital to add impact players, this class fails to move the needle for Cleveland.

Browns Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 8.5 Wins -110

I'm fading the Browns wherever I can. Watson remains a shell of his former self. Nothing he put on tape last year points to him somehow reverting to his previous playmaking best as 2024 gets underway. Nick Chubb won't be 100% healthy to start the year, and the Browns offense lacks depth and playmakers. Give me the UNDER 8.5 wins.

Dallas Cowboys

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 29): OT Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma
  • Round 2 (No. 56): Edge Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan
  • Round 3 (No. 73): IOL Cooper Beebe, Kansas State
  • Round 3 (No. 87): LB Marist Liufau, Notre Dame
  • Round 5 (No. 174): CB Caelen Carson, Wake Forest
  • Round 6 (No. 216): WR Ryan Flournoy, Southeast Missouri State
  • Round 7 (No. 233): IOL Nathan Thomas, Louisiana
  • Round 7 (No. 244): DL Justin Rogers, Auburn

Tyler Guyton may need some time to reach his full potential, but the Cowboys orchestrated a masterclass by trading back to pickup an additional third-round pick. Guyton possesses the longterm upside to become a dominant tackle in the NFL.

Kneeland fills another need for the Cowboys after they lost both Dorrance Armstrong and Dante Fowler. He rose up draft boards after putting on a show at the Senior Bowl and has the power to become an excellent book end for Micah Parsons. Beebe has a ton of experience up front and is a favorite of #DraftTwitter.

Grade: B

Cowboys Best Bet Post-Draft: Micah Parsons to win Defensive Player of the Year +600

Sprinkle a little bit on Parsons at +600 odds here. He's racked up 40.5 sacks in 50 career games and will go ballistic in new DC Mike Zimmer's aggressive, pressure based scheme.

Denver Broncos

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 12): QB Bo Nix, Oregon
  • Round 3 (No. 76): Edge Jonah Elliss, Utah
  • Round 4 (No. 102): WR Troy Franklin, Oregon
  • Round 5 (No. 145): CB Kris Abrams-Draine, Missouri
  • Round 5 (No. 147): RB Audric Estimé, Notre Dame
  • Round 7 (No. 235): WR Devaughn Vele, Utah
  • Round 7 (No. 256): IOL Nick Gargiulo, South Carolina

Grade: C

I like Nix more than most. But, Denver could have gained some draft capital by trading back here. I'm not sure Las Vegas would have pulled the trigger on Nix at 13. Pairing Nix with his college teammate Franklin in the fourth round provides tremendous value. Audric Estime is the quintessential West Coast back who could quickly climb the depth chart in Denver.

That being said, the Broncos failure to draft an offensive lineman until the seventh round is puzzling. Protecting their new quarterback should have been made a priority.

Broncos Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 5.5 Wins +120

The Broncos have a long way to go in the post-Russell Wilson era rebuild. Sean Payton not only has to install his scheme, but help this young team gel. Playing in a very competitive division, against the likes of Patrick Mahomes and Justin Herbert wont help matters.

Detroit Lions

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 24): CB Terrion Arnold, Alabama
  • Round 2 (No. 61): CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri
  • Round 4 (No. 126): OT Giovanni Manu, British Columbia
  • Round 4 (No. 132): S/RB Sione Vaki, Utah
  • Round 6 (No. 189): DL Mekhi Wingo, LSU
  • Round 6 (No. 210): IOL Christian Mahogany, Boston College

Grade: B+

Arnold and Rakestraw quickly transform a Lions secondary that has been lacking talent at cornerback for years. Along with last year's second round pick of Brian Branch, Brad Holmes has turned a weakness into a perceived strength.

Although, trading 2025 draft capital to pickup a developmental tackle in Manu, and a running back/safety hybrid in Vaki can certainly be criticized. Both players have high ceilings, so perhaps this is Holmes flexing his scouting muscles.

Mahogany has the athleticism to become a starter down the line. This 2024 draft is a very intriguing class for the Lions as they chase the first Super Bowl in franchise history.

Lions Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 10.5 Wins -128

Few of these players help the Lions win now. Another pass rusher would have been a welcome sight in Detroit.

Green Bay Packers

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 25): OL Jordan Morgan, Arizona
  • Round 2 (No. 45): LB Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M
  • Round 2 (No. 58): S Javon Bullard, Georgia
  • Round 3 (No. 88): RB MarShawn Lloyd, USC
  • Round 3 (No. 91): LB Ty'Ron Hopper, Missouri
  • Round 4 (No. 111): S Evan Williams, Oregon
  • Round 5 (No. 163): IOL Jacob Monk, Duke
  • Round 5 (No. 169): S Kitan Oladapo, Oregon State
  • Round 6 (No. 202): OT Travis Glover, Georgia State
  • Round 7 (No. 245): QB Michael Pratt, Tulane
  • Round 7 (No. 255): CB Kalen King, Penn State

Grade: B+

Packers General Manager Brian Gutekunst improved the spine of his team in this year's draft. Morgan will compete to start at either left tackle or right guard as a rookie, and is the quintessential athletic Packers lineman.

Edgerrin Cooper is a buzzsaw with the athleticism to become a second-level menace for offensive coordinators. While Javon Bullard and Evan Williams are heat-seeking missiles on the back end. Lloyd was Daniel Jeremiah's RB1 heading into the draft, and provides a complete to Josh Jacobs. While Hopper, Monk and Oladapo provide much needed depth.

Kalen King is a fantastic dart throw in the seventh round. He was once seen as CB1 in this class.

Packers Best Bet Post-Draft: Green Bay to Win NFC North +185

I'll hop on the Packers to retake the NFC North at +185. Jordan Love will continue to ascend in year two. With a plethora of weapons around him, and Josh Jacobs to hand the ball too, the young Packers set up for success.

Houston Texans

Draft Picks:

  • Round 2 (No. 42): CB Kamari Lassiter, Georgia
  • Round 2: (No. 59): OT Blake Fisher, Notre Dame
  • Round 3 (No. 78): S Calen Bullock, USC
  • Round 4 (No. 123): TE Cade Stover, Ohio State
  • Round 6 (No. 188): LB Jamal Hill, Oregon
  • Round 6 (No. 205): RB Jawhar Jordan, Louisville
  • Round 7 (No. 238):  Edge Solomon Byrd, USC
  • Round 7 (No. 247): DL Marcus Harris, Auburn
  • Round 7 (No. 249): IOL LaDarius Henderson, Michigan

Grade: C

I'm not the biggest fan of Houston's class. However, Lassiter and Bullock give the Texans defensive backfield some juice after they were exploited down the stretch of last season. While Fisher grants the offensive line a needed depth piece.

Jordan and Henderson could develop into late round steals.

Texans Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 9.5 Wins +110

Houston has reached peak hype-mode. At this point, I feel like something's gotta give. Team's will be much more prepared for CJ Stroud and this offense than last year after the rookie burst onto the scene. To me, this uninspiring draft class does little to move the 2024 needle in Houston.

Indianapolis Colts

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 15): Edge Laiatu Latu, UCLA
  • Round 2 (No. 52): WR Adonai Mitchell, Texas
  • Round 3 (No. 79): IOL Matt Goncalves, Pittsburgh
  • Round 4 (No. 117): IOL Tanor Bortolini, Wisconsin
  • Round 5 (No. 142): WR Anthony Gould, Oregon State
  • Round 5 (No. 151): S Jaylon Carlies, Missouri
  • Round 5 (No. 164): S Jaylin Simpson, Auburn
  • Round 6 (No. 201): CB Micah Abraham, Marshall
  • Round 7 (No. 234): DL Jonah Laulu, Oklahoma

Grade: A-

Laiatu Latu could be the steal of this draft class is his surgerically repaired back holds up in the NFL. Moreover, Adonai Mitchell gives Anthony Richardson another explosive outside target. While Gonvalves and Bortolini provide depth and athleticism up front.

Safety Jaylin Simpson adds another outstanding athlete to the Colts secondary. I'm surprised Chris Ballard passed on a cornerback in the early rounds. But, a potentially dominant pass rusher, another receiving threat and two impact offensive lineman makes this weekend a huge win for Indianapolis.

Colts Best Bet Post-Draft: Colts to Win AFC South +330

The value is on Indy to take home the AFC South in year two of the Anthony Richardson era. After resigning Michael Pittman Jr. and Jonathan Taylor, this offense is dangerous. Don't sleep on the Colts.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 23): WR Brian Thomas Jr., LSU
  • Round 2 (No. 48): DL Maason Smith, LSU
  • Round 3 (No. 96): CB Jarrian Jones, Florida State
  • Round 4 (No. 114): OT Javon Foster, Missouri
  • Round 4 (No. 116): DL Jordan Jefferson, LSU
  • Round 5 (No. 153): CB Deantre Prince, Mississippi
  • Round 5 (No. 167): RB Keilan Robinson, Texas
  • Round 6 (No. 212): K Cam Little, Arkansas
  • Round 7 (No. 236): Edge Myles Cole, Texas Tech

Grade: C

I feel like the Jags reached slightly for both Thomas and Maason Smith. Both have massively high ceilings, but Jacksonville has similar receivers in Zay Jones and Gabe Davis already on the roster. 

Smith hardly played in college due to injury, but has the potential to become a disruptive force in the NFL. I also like the selection of Foster in the middle rounds.

Adding another chain moving underneath separator to complement some of the Jags explosive receivers would have been a priority for me.

Jaguars Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 8.5 Wins -110

I think both the Colts and Texans have surpassed the Jaguars in the AFC South.

Kansas City Chiefs

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 28): WR Xavier Worthy, Texas
  • Round 2 (No. 63): OT Kingsley Suamataia, BYU
  • Round 4 (No. 131): TE Jared Wiley, TCU
  • Round 4 (No. 133): S Jaden Hicks, Washington State
  • Round 5 (No. 159): OL Hunter Nourzad, Penn State
  • Round 6 (No. 211): CB Kamal Hadden, Tennessee
  • Round 7 (No. 248): IOL C.J. Hanson, Holy Cross

Grade: A

Somehow, someway, the rest of the NFL allowed the Kansas City Chiefs to add the explosive 4.21 speed of Xavier Worthy. Brett Veach continued to pull off the incredible while grabbing the tackle I thought the Chiefs would take in the first round, in Kingsley Suamataia in the second.

Adding Jaden Hicks and Hunter Nourzad late puts this class over the top for me. The back-to-back Super Bowl champions are poised for another deep playoff run in 2024.

Chiefs Best Bet Post-Draft: KC to Win the AFC +370

I'll take the Chiefs at +370 to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl for the third straight year.

Las Vegas Raiders

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 13): Brock Bowers, Georgia
  • Round 2 (No. 44): IOL Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon
  • Round 3 (No. 77): IOL Delmar Glaze, Maryland
  • Round 4 (No. 112): CB Decamerion Richardson, Mississippi State
  • Round 5 (No. 148): LB Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State
  • Round 6 (No. 208): RB Dylan Laube, New Hampshire
  • Round 7 (No. 223): S Trey Taylor, Air Force
  • Round 7 (No. 229): CB MJ Devonshire, Pittsburgh

Grade: C

Brock Bowers is a fantastic player, but the Raiders already have Michael Mayer on the roster. I think Bowers will help sophomore quarterback Aidan O'Connell move the chains, but with a number of impact defensive players on the board, drafting Bowers was a curious decision.

Failing to pick up defensive help until the fourth round was also a strange move by the Raiders' brass. Powers-Johnson should be a starter on the offensive line from day 1. I also like Eichenburg and Laube late, but this class a lot to be desired in Las Vegas.

Raiders Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 6.5 Wins +118

I have little faith in the Raiders in the AFC West this season. They failed to replace Josh Jacobs effectively, and the inexperience of Aidan O'Connell could haunt them.

Los Angeles Chargers

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 5): OT Joe Alt, Notre Dame
  • Round 2 (No. 34): WR Ladd McConkey, Georgia
  • Round 3 (No. 69): LB Junior Colson, Michigan
  • Round 4 (No. 105): DL Justin Eboigbe, Alabama
  • Round 5 (No. 137): CB Tarheeb Still, Maryland
  • Round 5 (No. 140): CB Cam Hart, Notre Dame
  • Round 6 (No. 181): RB Kimani Vidal, Troy
  • Round 7 (No. 225): WR Brenden Rice, USC
  • Round 7 (No. 253): WR Cornelius Johnson, Michigan

Grade: A

Joe Hortiz first draft in charge of the Chargers looks like a huge win on paper. Joe Alt has the size and athleticism to become a stalwart in LA for a decade. While McConkey could become Justin Herbert's new favorite target.

Colson and Eboigbe stabilize the spine of the Chargers defense. While Still and Hart are excellent depth pickups for the back end. I love Vidal, Rice and Cornelius Johnson late. All three could develop into impact players at the next level. Look out for Vidal on third downs.

Chargers Best Bet Post-Draft: Los Angeles to Make Playoffs -110

Jim Harbaugh can turn this franchise around and guide the Chargers back to the playoffs in year one.

Los Angeles Rams

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 19): Edge Jared Verse, Florida State
  • Round 2 (No. 39): DL Braden Fiske, Florida State
  • Round 3 (No. 83): RB Blake Corum, Michigan
  • Round 3 (No. 99): S Kamren Kinchens, Miami
  • Round 5 (No. 154): Edge Brennan Jackson, Washington State
  • Round 6 (No. 196): DL Tyler Davis, Clemson
  • Round 6 (No. 209): K Joshua Karty, Stanford
  • Round 6 (No. 213): WR Jordan Whittington, Texas
  • Round 6 (No. 217): IOL Beaux Limmer, Arkansas
  • Round 7 (No. 254): IOL KT Leveston, Kansas State

Grade: B+

Verse was the number one edge rusher on my board. Now, he gets to lineup next to college teammate Fiske in the NFL. I'm surprised the Rams picked Corum so early with Kyren Williams in tow, but I love the value on Kinchens, Brennan Jackson and Tyler Davis.

Jordan Whittington could also be a steal in the sixth round. The youth movement is alive and well in Los Angeles.

Rams Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 8.5 Wins +102

There's no way I'm betting money on Matthew Stafford to stay healthy for a full season. With the Cardinals on the upswing, and dominance of the 49ers in the NFC West, the UNDER 8.5 wins is the play for the Rams.

Miami Dolphins

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 21): Edge Chop Robinson, Penn State
  • Round 2 (No. 55): OT Patrick Paul, Houston
  • Round 4 (No. 120): RB Jaylen Wright, Tennessee
  • Round 5 (No. 158): Edge Mohamed Kamara, Colorado State
  • Round 6 (No. 184): WR Malik Washington, Virginia
  • Round 6 (No. 198): P Patrick McMorris, California
  • Round 7 (No. 241): WR Tahj Washington, USC

Grade: B-

While I'm a huge fan of Jaylen Wright and Mohamed Kamara, this class leaves a lot to be desired. Miami needed pass rushing help after both Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb tore their ACLs. Paul provides the Dolphins with some depth along the offensive line, but some help on the interior would have been welcomed after Miami lost Robert Hunt.

The selection of Wright is puzzling for a team that already employs Raheem Mostert and boasts the electric skills of De'Von Achane. I would've liked to see the Dolphins front office add some more beef on the offensive and defensive lines.

Dolphins Best Bet Post-Draft: Miami to win AFC East +185

I'll bite on Miami to take home the AFC East crown. The Dolphins shored up the second and third levels of the defense in free agency and are set up for another successful season in 2024.

Minnesota Vikings

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 10): QB J.J. McCarthy, Michigan
  • Round 1 (No. 17): Edge Dallas Turner, Alabama
  • Round 4 (No. 108): CB Khyree Jackson, Oregon
  • Round 6 (No. 177): OT Walter Rouse, Oklahoma
  • Round 6 (No. 203): K Will Reichard, Alabama
  • Round 7 (No. 230): IOL Michael Jurgens, Wake Forest
  • Round 7 (No. 232): DL Levi Drake Rodriguez, Texas A&M-Commerce

Grade: B+

Vikings fans will hardly even remember the rest of this class if J.J. McCarthy becomes the franchise savior the front office believes him to be. The National Championship victor will simply need to play point guard while delivering the football to Minnesota's plethora of playmakers. I'm also a big fan Khyree Jackson in the fourth round. He's a long, lean corner with the agility to mirror receivers and make plays down the field.

Vikings Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 7.5 Wins -142

Despite the additions of McCarthy and Turner, I see the Vikings as a middle-of-the-pack squad in 2024. The upside is there, but the Vikes defense leaves a lot to be desired.

New England Patriots

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 3): QB Drake Maye, North Carolina
  • Round 2 (No. 37): WR Ja'Lynn Polk, Washington
  • Round 3 (No. 68): OT Caedan Wallace, Penn State
  • Round 4 (No. 103): IOL Layden Robinson, Texas A&M
  • Round 4 (No. 110): WR Javon Baker, UCF
  • Round 6 (No. 180): CB Marcellas Dial, South Carolina
  • Round 6 (No. 193): QB Joe Milton III, Tennessee
  • Round 7 (No. 231): TE Jaheim Bell, Florida State

Grade: A

Patriots fans will be waking up and loving the look of their 2024 NFL Draft haul. The first post-Bill Belichick draft looks promising. Grabbing Drake Maye to become the new face of the franchise is an unequivocal win, while Joe Milton provides some upside to the quarterback room.

Ja'Lynn Polk is a smart, tough, instinctive football player that every team would have loved to add. While Caedan Wallace will battle to start right away. Javon Baker is exactly the type of mid-round receiver who could develop into a target hog in the NFL. While Bell gives the Patriots another receiver weapon.

Patriots Best Bet Post-Draft: OVER 5.5 Wins +116

Though the Patriots are a long way from contention, I believe they can get to at least six wins with their 2024 NFL Draft additions. The veteran leadership and starting experience of Jacoby Brissett makes this a great value bet.

New Orleans Saints

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 14): IOL Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State
  • Round 2 (No. 41): CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama
  • Round 5 (No. 150): QB Spencer Rattler, South Carolina
  • Round 5 (No. 170): WR Bub Means, Pittsburgh
  • Round 5 (No. 175): LB Jaylan Ford, Texas
  • Round 6 (No. 199): DL Khristian Boyd, Northern Iowa
  • Round 7 (No. 239): OT Josiah Ezirim, Eastern Kentucky

Grade: A

Taliese Fuaga gives the Saints a road grading tackle who will become a force in the NFL. I also love the additions of McKinstry, Rattler and Boyd.

While they had little draft capital across the first few rounds, Mickey Loomis made the most of his picks. This class will compete to get on the field immediately.

Saints Best Bet Post-Draft: OVER 7.5 Wins -130

If Derek Carr can stay healthy, the Saints have more than enough talent to win at least eight games.

New York Giants

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 6): Malik Nabers, LSU
  • Round 2 (No. 47): S Tyler Nubin, Minnesota
  • Round 3 (No. 70): CB Andru Phillips, Kentucky
  • Round 4 (No. 107): TE Theo Johnson, Penn State
  • Round 5 (No. 166): RB Tyrone Tracy Jr., Purdue
  • Round 6 (No. 183): LB Darius Muasau, UCLA

Grade: A

I'll take this class all day, every day, and twice on Sundays. Joe Schoen did an oustanding job of adding talent to his roster during the 2024 NFL Draft. Nabers provides the explosive element the Giants offense has sorely lacked. While Nubin may be the best safety in the class. Phillips is a competitive nickel corner, and the athleticism of Johson and Tracy points to them being impact players in the NFL.

New York failed to add a quarterback to take Danny Dimes' job, but there's plenty of time for that next year.

Giants Best Bet Post-Draft: OVER 6.5 Wins +116

The Giants front seven is legit. This defense has the ability to make some noise. Some combination of Drew Lock and Daniel Jones should be able to guide the Giants to 7 wins in 2024. They simply need to throw the ball to Malik Nabers, a lot, and good things will happen. Sportsbooks are torn on how the Giants season could look. Take advantage while you still can.

New York Jets

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 11): OT Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
  • Round 3 (No. 65): WR Malachi Corley, Western Kentucky
  • Round 4 (No. 134): RB Braelon Allen, Wisconsin
  • Round 5 (No. 171): QB Jordan Travis, Florida State
  • Round 5 (No. 173): RB Isaiah Davis, South Dakota State
  • Round 5 (No. 176): CB Qwan'tez Stiggers, Toronto Argonauts
  • Round 7 (No. 257): S Jaylen Key, Alabama

Grade: A

Joe Douglas and the Jets are all in on winning this season after losing Aaron Rodgers to an achilles injury after only four snaps.

New York added the best pass-blocking tackle in the class in Fashanu. While Corley provides Rodgers with a chain moving threat from any point on the field. On top of that, Braelon Allen gives Rodgers a bruiser in the mould of A.J. Dillon to punish defenses.

Jets Best Bet Post-Draft: Garrett Wilson NFL Offensive Player of the Year +4000

With little value on the division or win total odds, I'll sprinkle on Wilson to win NFL Offensive Player of the Year. He's put up back-to-back 1,000 yard seasons despite a revolving door of less than impressive quarterbacks throwing him the football.

Philadelphia Eagles

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 22): CB Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo
  • Round 2 (No. 40): CB Cooper DeJean, Iowa
  • Round 3 (No. 94): Edge Jalyx Hunt, Houston Christian
  • Round 4 (No. 127): RB Will Shipley, Clemson
  • Round 5 (No. 152): WR Ainias Smith, Texas A&M
  • Round 5 (No. 155): LB Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson
  • Round 5 (No. 172): IOL Trevor Keegan, Michigan
  • Round 6 (No. 185): WR Johnny Wilson, Florida State
  • Round 6 (No. 190): IOL Dylan McMahon, North Carolina State

Grade: A

Another Howie Roseman special. The Eagles GM pulled off a masterclass while scooping most analysts top corner in this class at 22nd overall. While I don't believe DeJean can play corner in the NFL, he could become a special safety.

Philly added developmental pass rusher Jalyx Hunt who is the definition of a high ceiling player. While Will Shipley, Jeremiah Trotter Jr., and Johnny Wilson have the skill sets to contribute right away.

Eagles Best Bet Post-Draft: To Win NFC East +120

While the Eagles are forced to reload after losing Jason Kelce to retirement, their offensive line remains elite. They have an unbelievable amount of talent of both sides of the ball and just added Saquon Barkley to take the heat off of Jalen Hurts. Philadelphia is unequivocally the most talented team in the NFC East.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 20): OL Troy Fautanu, Washington
  • Round 2 (No. 51): IOL Zach Frazier, West Virginia
  • Round 3 (No. 84): WR Roman Wilson, Michigan
  • Round 3 (No. 98): LB Payton Wilson, North Carolina State
  • Round 4 (No. 119): IOL Mason McCormick, South Dakota State
  • Round 6 (No. 178): DL Logan Lee, Iowa
  • Round 6 (No. 195): CB Ryan Watts, Texas

Grade: A+

Omar Khan cooked. Fautanu and Frazier should be longtime stalwarts on the Steelers offensive line. While both Roman and Payton (no relation) Wilson can contribute immediately. McCormick adds depth on the offensive line.

Whomever starts at quarterback for the Steelers will be well protected.

Steelers Best Bet Post-Draft: OVER 7.5 Wins -170

A Mike Tomlin coached team has never finished under .500. I like Tomlin to keep that streak alive.

San Francisco 49ers

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 31): WR Ricky Pearsall, Florida
  • Round 2 (No. 64): CB Renardo Green, Florida State
  • Round 3 (No. 86): IOL Dominick Puni, Kansas
  • Round 4 (No. 124): S Malik Mustapha, Wake Forest
  • Round 4 (No. 129): RB Isaac Guerendo, Louisville
  • Round 4 (No. 135): WR Jacob Cowing, Arizona
  • Round 6 (No. 215): IOL Jarrett Kingston, USC
  • Round 7 (No. 251): LB Tatum Bethune, Florida State

Grade: B+

Despite the fact that I'm not a fan of taking Pearsall that early, I love Green, Puni, Mustapha and Cowing. Guerendo is the type of back Kyle Shanahan can turn into a star. However, John Lynch failed to properly address the right tackle position.

49ers Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 11.5 Wins -122

A more competitive NFC West, and conference as a whole should keep this year's 49ers in the 10-11 win range.

Seattle Seahawks

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 16): DL Byron Murphy II, Texas
  • Round 3 (No. 81): IOL Christian Haynes, Connecticut
  • Round 4 (No. 118): LB Tyrice Knight, UTEP
  • Round 4 (No. 121): TE AJ Barner, Michigan
  • Round 5 (No. 136): CB Nehemiah Pritchett, Auburn
  • Round 6 (No. 179): IOL Sataoa Laumea, Utah
  • Round 6 (No. 192): CB DJ James, Auburn
  • Round 6 (No. 207): OT Michael Jerrell, Findlay

Grade: B

Murphy is the best interior pass rusher in this class. I also really like third round selection Christian Haynes and Nehemiah Pritchett looks the part of the Seahawks corner.

It's not a flashy class, but these trench players will pay dividends for Seattle in the hard-nosed NFC West.

Seahawks Best Bet Post-Draft: Seattle to Make the Playoffs +194

I love the value on an underrated Seahawks team to make the playoffs at plus money. Jaxson Smith-Njigba will take a giant leap on offense, and Seattle is strong at both sides of the trenches. Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen also give the Hawks an elite duo at corner. Don't sleep on Geno Smith's Seahawks.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 26): IOL Graham Barton, Duke
  • Round 2 (No. 57): Edge Chris Braswell, Alabama
  • Round 3 (No. 89): S Tykee Smith, Georgia
  • Round 3 (No. 92): WR Jalen McMillan, Washington
  • Round 4 (No. 125): RB Bucky Irving, Oregon
  • Round 6 (No. 220): IOL Elijah Klein, UTEP
  • Round 7 (No. 246): TE Devin Culp, Washington

Grade: A

Protecting Baker Mayfield is paramount after the diminutive signal-caller was sacked 40 times in 2023. Graham Barton fortifies the interior of the Bucs offensive line. While Chris Braswell injects some juice in a disappointing pass rush. I'm a big fan of Tykee Smith, who can play nickel or safety in Todd Bowles aggessive defense.

McMillan gives Baker another reliable pass catcher, and Irving will provide the offense with speed and burst in spades.

Bucs Best Bet Post-Draft: OVER 7.5 Wins -142

While I'm not willing to bet on a return to the playoffs for the Bucs, 8 wins is achievable in a weak division.

Tennessee Titans

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 7): OT JC Latham, Alabama
  • Round 2 (No. 38): DL T'Vondre Sweat, Texas
  • Round 4 (No. 106): LB Cedric Gray, North Carolina
  • Round 5 (No. 146): CB Jarvis Brownlee Jr., Louisville
  • Round 6 (No. 182): WR Jha'Quan Jackson, Tulane
  • Round 7 (No. 242): LB James Williams, Miami
  • Round 7 (No. 252): Edge Jaylen Harrell, Michigan

Grade: C+

Ron Carthon fortified both sides of the trenches, before adding ancillary pieces in the later rounds. Linebacker Cedric Gray will become a fourth round steal.

That being said Sweat's likely already reached his ceiling and will play limited snaps in the NFL. This is a meat and potatoes draft for a Titans team that desperately needed some weapons for their young quarterback.

Titans Best Bet Post-Draft: UNDER 6.5 Wins -134

I can't see the Titans competing in a suddenly loaded AFC South after losing both Mike Vrabel and Derrick Henry this off-season. Vrabel consistently coaxed the very best of a roster than has lacked talent for years. I don't believe Brian Callahan can do the same. Tennessee UNDER 6.5 wins is a great bet at -134.

Washington Commanders

Draft Picks:

  • Round 1 (No. 2): QB Jayden Daniels, LSU
  • Round 2 (No. 36): DL Jer'Zhan Newton, Illinois
  • Round 2 (No. 50): CB Mike Sainristil, Michigan
  • Round 2 (No. 53): TE Ben Sinnott, Kansas State
  • Round 3 (No. 67): OT Brandon Coleman, TCU
  • Round 3 (No. 100): WR Luke McCaffrey, Rice
  • Round 5 (No. 139): LB Jordan Magee, Temple
  • Round 5 (No. 161): S Dominique Hampton, Washington
  • Round 7 (No. 222): Edge Javontae Jean-Baptiste, Notre Dame

Grade: A

Jayden Daniels oozes potential, but to me, he's a one-read quarterback that will struggle to adapt to the NFL game. Talk of him being a more developed Lamar Jackson is blasphemous, considering Jackson was already an NFL MVP at this age.

However, I love each of the next six picks by new Commanders General Manager Adam Peters. Newton is too good to pass on in the second round, and gives Washington some depth on the defensive line. Every team in the league needs a Mike Sainristil, especially in the modern NFL. He's a feisty competitor with the coverage and tackling skills every defensive coordinator dreams of.

Tight End Ben Sinnott is a versatile offensive chess piece, while Brandon Coleman can compete to start at four positions on day one. On top of all that, Luke McCaffrey has the NFL bloodlines to be an early contributor, and Jordan Magee is a fantastic athlete who will be a special teams standout right away. Washington's new regime is off to an impressive start.

Commanders Best Bet Post-Draft: OVER 6.5 Wins -115

Give me the Commanders to win at least seven games and attempt to disrupt the status quo in the NFC East.

 

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