Instant grades on 2024 NFL Draft first round picks as they happen

26.04.2024, 04:04 sbnation.com

Once again, ladies and gentlemen, the NFL Draft is here.

The eyes of the NFL world flock to Detroit to see the next wave of NFL athletes enter the league. SB Nation will be doing live grades based on our top 100 big board of the best prospects in the draft this year.

This year looks to be a bit more chaotic after the first three picks. USC QB Caleb Williams is going to be the first overall pick, we know that much is true. He’s more than likely already got his favorite order at JP Graziano’s memorized. The odds of him being the first overall pick are astronomical. Washington picks at 2, and all odds seem to be pointing to LSU QB Jayden Daniels being the pick. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported earlier that the Patriots are fixed on UNC QB Drake Maye at 3. From there, anything can happen. A lot of teams have been discussed moving up and trading back, and seeing what happens will be exciting. There’s also potential of a trade involving San Francisco 49ers WR Brandon Aiyuk going down tonight.

We’re in for a wild night, so follow along as we grade here.

Grade: A+

The Bears have needed a reset at the QB position for a while, and they finally get one in my QB1B, Williams. He’s a dynamic playmaker with a strong arm and a special feel for the game that’ll stand out in Shane Waldron’s offense. While he tends to play a bit too much like Superman, that’s nothing that an NFL coach can’t fix. He’s an instant big play waiting to happen, and can become a star in the NFL immediately.

Grade: B+

The Commanders needed a QB who could provide some pop, and Daniels does that. He’s a big play waiting to happen with his arm and legs, and those explosive plays will work well with Kliff Kingsbury. I have a lot of questions about his ability to mitigate taking massive shots as a runner and passer, and his ability to throw over the middle, but he won’t be asked to do so in Washington. This is a good pick.

Grade: A+

Getting my QB1A at the third overall pick is fantastic for the Patriots. Maye is a strong-armed, aggressive passer and a growing processor at the QB spot. He’s more ready to start right away than people think, and even if he isn’t ready to start by the Pats standards, they have the infrastructure to aid a young QB immediately. Absolutely love this pick.

Grade: A

This one was obvious. Harrison Jr. is the best player in this draft class and a bonafide superstar on the outside. His body control, savvy as a route runner and ability to win with separation and going above the rim is going to do wonders in Arizona with a legit NFL QB and other weapons around him. Hand in glove fit.

Grade: B-

Ok so look: I understand picking Alt. He’s a technician at tackle with NFL bloodlines, and is a strong pass protector. However, he’s a career left tackle, and unless the Chargers plan on moving Rashawn Slater to the right, Alt will be playing right tackle. His play strength wanes sometimes, which could be a problem early in his career, but I understand why the Chargers picked offensive line here. Would’ve loved a trade back, but Harbaugh and co are committed to running the ball and protecting Justin Herbert-can’t get much better than that.

Grade: A-

Yes, the Giants will need a QB soon. However, you can’t force yourself into loving a quarterback just because you need one. So Nabers here rules. He’s a big play waiting to happen, and despite a little bit of a vibey route running repertoire, he can instantly provide some juice into the offense. Would’ve like Washington WR Rome Odunze here a bit more, but this still rules.