Admin April 25, 2024
Is the NFL giving rookie QBs a fair chance? Drake Maye responds
Sports Seriously’s Mackenzie Salmon asks NFL draft prospect Drake Maye if the NFL gives quarterbacks a chance to succeed.
Sports Seriously
Round 1 of the 2024 NFL Draft kicks off at 7 p.m. ET tonight. Thirty-two players will move on to the highest level of football and hope to become the next crop of NFL stars.
There are many players who scouts, analysts and fans expect will be drafted early on in the first round. But who’s on the bubble to go in the first 32 picks? Here are the players whose over/under via NFL Draft odds from BetMGM put them on the cusp of the first round – and the latest USA Today mock draft projection for each prospect.
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Over/under: 28.5
The former Longhorns speedster made waves after breaking the NFL Scouting Combine record in the 40-yard dash. He totaled 2,755 yards and 26 touchdowns in three years at Texas thanks to playmaking instincts that pair with his elite speed. At 5 feet, 11 inches tall and just 165 pounds, his size is a concern but he could make an immediate impact as a returner and deep threat.
USA Today mock draft: Not selected in the first round
Over/under: 28.5
McKinstry entered the 2023 college football season as one of the top prospects at the position. Though his production dipped in his final year in Tuscaloosa, that was more to do with quarterbacks targeting his assignment less often. His size and football IQ makes up for his lack of elite athleticism. He’s drawn comparisons to longtime cornerback James Bradberry.
USA Today mock draft: Not selected in the first round
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Over/under: 28.5
The 6-foot-7 Guyton started the 2023 season at right tackle for the Sooners. The former H-back transitioned to offensive line and his athleticism shines through in pass protection. He has the tools to be at least an above-average offensive tackle but will need time to develop.
USA Today mock draft: No. 25 overall to the Green Bay Packers
Over/under: 31.5
Powers-Johnson is one of the youngest interior offensive line prospects in the NFL Draft. He won the 2023 Rimington Award – given to the top center in college football – and offers a unique blend of size (6 feet, 3 inches and 328 pounds) and athleticism makes him an intriguing player at the NFL level.
USA Today mock draft: No. 24 overall to the Dallas Cowboys
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Over/under: 31.5
Newton is slightly undersized (6 feet, 1 inch tall and 304 pounds) but has one of the quickest first steps in this defensive line class. He accrued 103 pressures combined in 2022 and 2023, the most in the FBS, and his powerful frame helps him get after the quarterback.
USA Today mock draft: No. 31 overall to the San Francisco 49ers
Over/under: 32.5
Morgan started the last three years at left tackle for the Wildcats. He was an efficient mover and a force in the running game in Tucson but his size (just 311 pounds at 6-foot-5) made it tough against some power pass rushers. He could kick inside to guard at the NFL level early in his career to mitigate those struggles in pass protection.
USA Today mock draft: No. 32 overall to the Kansas City Chiefs
Over/under: 32.5
The most experienced quarterback in college football history is a huge question mark for Round 1. His record-tying completion percentage last fall in Oregon makes him a popular pick for teams who may miss out on the top tier(s) of passers in the class. He brings plenty of experience and above-average mobility but can sometimes struggle under pressure in the pocket.
USA Today mock draft: No. 12 overall to the Denver Broncos
Over/under: 32.5
Penix Jr. led Washington to the program’s first national championship game this fall behind an aggressive downfield offense. He did operate behind the best offensive line in college football and had three NFL-caliber wide receivers catching passes. He’s experienced as well (45 college starts) with a strong arm and confidence but he has struggled at times reacting to pressure and anticipating throws.
USA Today mock draft: No. 29 overall to the Las Vegas Raiders (via trade)
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