With the NFL season over and the Kansas City Chiefs crowned Super Bowl champions, it’s time for the NFL Scouting Combine to kick off in less than two weeks. To join in on the mock draft excitement, I’ve put together my own projection of the first round.
This will be the first of several editions coming at you every other Friday, leading up to the week of the draft. While a lot can change based on the combine, free agency, and pro days, here are some of the prospects your favorite team might be considering in Round 1.
Let’s dive into the picks!
For more draft coverage, don’t forget to tune in to “With the First Pick,” our year-round NFL Draft podcast featuring NFL Draft analyst Ryan Wilson and former Vikings general manager Rick Spielman. You can find “With the First Pick” wherever you get your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.
NFL Mock Draft
Round 1
Pick 1: Chicago Bears
Caleb Williams, QB, USC
With the hiring of Kliff Kingsbury as offensive coordinator, the Commanders might make a run at Caleb Williams. However, Chicago keeps the top selection, opting for Williams and trading away Justin Fields.
Pick 2: Washington Commanders
Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
Even after missing out on Williams, Washington selects Jayden Daniels to work with Kingsbury, leveraging his experience with dual-threat playmakers.
Pick 3: New England Patriots
Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina
Despite Marvin Harrison Jr.’s allure, the Patriots prioritize securing a franchise QB, selecting Drake Maye to kick off the Jerod Mayo era.
Pick 4: Arizona Cardinals
Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
The Cardinals make an easy choice, taking the best NFL wide receiver prospect in Marvin Harrison Jr.
Pick 5: Los Angeles Chargers
Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State
Emphasizing physicality, the Chargers bolster their offensive line with the selection of Olumuyiwa Fashanu, known for his athleticism and high ceiling.
Pick 6: New York Giants
Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
To support Daniel Jones, the Giants draft Malik Nabers, providing him with a legitimate No. 1 pass-catcher.
Pick 7: Tennessee Titans
Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame
To protect QB Will Levis, the Titans draft Joe Alt, an NFL-ready left tackle prospect.
Pick 8: Atlanta Falcons
Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA
Addressing their edge rush needs, the Falcons select Laiatu Latu, a disruptive force with room for growth.
Pick 9: Chicago Bears (via Seattle Seahawks)
Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama
After securing their QB, the Bears complement their defense with Dallas Turner, a talented edge rusher.
Pick 10: New York Jets
Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State
Prioritizing protection for Aaron Rodgers, the Jets draft Taliese Fuaga, impressed by his Senior Bowl performance.
And the draft continues with more exciting picks and prospects! Stay tuned for further updates and analysis as we approach the NFL Draft.
