The 2024 NFL Draft is fast approaching, and the competition for quarterbacks is already underway.
Reporters from different NFL teams recently participated in a virtual mock draft. They had the freedom to trade picks as they deemed necessary and two teams in the top 10 made trades to secure quarterbacks. This led to four quarterbacks being selected within the first nine picks, while another team acquired a veteran QB through a trade.
In Chicago, it’s likely that the Bears and general manager Ryan Poles will opt for a quarterback with the first pick for the second year in a row. Despite the temptation to stockpile draft picks, they are considering the worth of a potential quarterback. Poles played a pivotal role in the evaluation process of Patrick Mahomes while working as the college scouting director for the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Commanders, on the other hand, are still weighing their options and considering the possibility of trading up to draft a local talent, namely a quarterback from the D.C. area. However, the most probable scenario is a choice between two quarterbacks, one of whom is two years younger than the other, but possesses a prototypical build and arm talent.
Moving on to the Falcons, owner Arthur Blank and CEO Rich McKay are ready to make a move at quarterback, after being patient in their last attempt with Desmond Ridder. They believe their team can succeed with a talented quarterback and are willing to invest heavily for a successful future.
Meanwhile, other teams faced challenges in maneuvering the draft to their advantage. For instance, the Giants were initially contemplating selecting a particular player, but after his unavailability, they decided to pivot and make a different choice. The Titans also faced a similar dilemma in their selection process.
The Patriots initially had a different plan, but circumstances led them to reconsider and make an offer that allowed them to secure a significant addition to their team. Despite this, they still have their sights set on strengthening their offensive line and may look to do so in the upcoming free agency period.
In Arizona, Selecting a top-ranked player may not have transpired as expected, leading to a reevaluation of their plans. They ended up selecting a player who could address a different need for the team, likely a move that has left them with some unanswered questions about the direction of their roster.
Ultimately, each team faced its own set of challenges and uncertainties in making their selections. Despite not having the exact outcome they hoped for, they adapted their strategies and made choices that they believe will contribute positively to their respective teams.
As the 2024 NFL Draft draws near, the stories of these drafting decisions will likely play a key role in shaping the future of these teams, and perhaps the league as a whole.