The 2024 NFL Draft has come and gone, leaving fans and analysts alike to dissect the picks and predict the future of their favorite teams. In this article, we'll delve into the top 12 picks of the draft, examining the strengths and weaknesses of each selection and what they mean for the teams that made them.
1. Carolina Panthers - Bryce Young, QB, Alabama
The Panthers kicked off the draft by selecting the highly-touted quarterback from Alabama. Young's impressive college stats and athleticism make him an exciting prospect, but questions remain about his durability and ability to adapt to the NFL.
2. Houston Texans - C.J. Stroud, QB, Ohio State
The Texans followed suit by taking another top quarterback prospect in C.J. Stroud. With a strong arm and impressive pocket presence, Stroud has the potential to be a franchise quarterback, but his decision-making and accuracy under pressure are areas for improvement.
3. Arizona Cardinals - Will Anderson Jr., EDGE, Alabama
The Cardinals opted for a defensive star in Will Anderson Jr., who dominated in college with his speed and power off the edge. Anderson's versatility and high motor make him an instant impact player, but he'll need to refine his technique to succeed in the NFL.
4. Indianapolis Colts - Paris Johnson Jr., OT, Ohio State
The Colts addressed their offensive line needs by selecting the athletic and agile Paris Johnson Jr. With his impressive size and quickness, Johnson has the potential to be a top-tier left tackle, but he'll need to work on his strength and consistency.
5. Seattle Seahawks - Jalen Carter, DT, Georgia
The Seahawks bolstered their defensive line by taking the talented but troubled Jalen Carter. With his explosive power and quickness, Carter has the potential to be a dominant force in the middle, but off-field concerns and inconsistent effort are red flags.
6. Detroit Lions - Devon Witherspoon, CB, Illinois
The Lions added a much-needed cornerback in Devon Witherspoon, who impressed with his ball skills and athleticism. Witherspoon's size and speed make him an intriguing prospect, but he'll need to work on his technique and consistency to succeed in the NFL.
7. Las Vegas Raiders - Peter Skoronski, OT, Northwestern
The Raiders addressed their offensive line needs by selecting the technically sound Peter Skoronski. With his impressive size and strength, Skoronski has the potential to be a reliable right tackle, but he'll need to work on his athleticism and agility.
8. Atlanta Falcons - Broderick Jones, OT, Georgia
The Falcons added another talented offensive tackle in Broderick Jones, who impressed with his size and athleticism. Jones's raw talent and upside make him an exciting prospect, but he'll need to refine his technique and consistency to succeed in the NFL.
9. Chicago Bears - Darnell Washington, TE, Georgia
The Bears added a dynamic tight end in Darnell Washington, who impressed with his size and athleticism. Washington's versatility and upside make him an intriguing prospect, but he'll need to work on his route-running and consistency to succeed in the NFL.
10. Philadelphia Eagles - Bryan Bresee, DT, Clemson
The Eagles bolstered their defensive line by taking the talented but injury-prone Bryan Bresee. With his impressive size and strength, Bresee has the potential to be a dominant force in the middle, but his durability and consistency are concerns.
11. Tennessee Titans - Quentin Johnston, WR, TCU
The Titans added a dynamic wide receiver in Quentin Johnston, who impressed with his size and athleticism. Johnston's upside and versatility make him an exciting prospect, but he'll need to work on his route-running and consistency to succeed in the NFL.
12. Houston Texans - Joey Porter Jr., CB, Penn State
The Texans closed out the top 12 by selecting the athletic and physical cornerback Joey Porter Jr. With his impressive size and speed, Porter has the potential to be a shutdown corner, but he'll need to refine his technique and consistency to succeed in the NFL.
In conclusion, the 2024 NFL Draft was filled with talented prospects, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. As these players begin their NFL journeys, it will be exciting to see how they develop and contribute to their respective teams.
