The 2024 NFL Draft has reached its climax, with Rounds 2 and 3 concluding on Friday night. As teams continue to fill their rosters and address needs, the excitement is palpable. In this article, we’ll delve into the home runs and head-scratchers from the latest rounds, featuring insights from former NFL GM Rick Spielman.
The 2024 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one for the books.
Home Runs
The Commanders got significantly better in the last two days, according to Spielman. They snagged tight end Ben Sinnott, who was ranked as the No. 2 tight end in the draft by Ryan Wilson. The team also took wide receiver Luke McCaffrey, which raised some eyebrows. However, Spielman expressed faith in general manager Adam Peters, saying the Commanders will have a quick turnaround.
The Eagles had a stellar draft, taking cornerback Quinyon Mitchell with the No. 22 pick in Round 1, a great value for the team. They then traded up to No. 40 to get cornerback Cooper DeJean, another positive addition. Wilson and Spielman agreed that the Eagles made some savvy moves.
The Bills, despite trading their pick to the Kansas City Chiefs in the first round, redeemed themselves in the later rounds. Wilson apologized for doubting the Bills’ strategy, admitting he was wrong. Spielman complimented Bills general manager Brandon Beane, saying he is one of the best personnel people in the league.
The Steelers, meanwhile, get an “A” from Wilson, who called it a “great draft.” The team’s selection of wide receiver Roman Wilson was a great fit, and while linebacker Payton Wilson has injury concerns, they think he can put in the work to be successful in the league.
Roman Wilson is expected to make an impact for the Steelers.
Head-Scratchers
One of the biggest surprises was the lack of quarterback picks in Rounds 2 and 3. Spencer Rattler, a highly touted quarterback, remains undrafted, and Wilson notes that typically quarterbacks in the second round and beyond do not work out. Teams often wait to draft them until later and address other needs first.
Running backs also saw little action, leading to questions about the value of the position in the league. Tight ends, aside from the three already drafted, were largely overlooked as well.
The Falcons raised eyebrows with their pick of quarterback Michael Penix Jr., especially after signing Kirk Cousins this offseason. The Patriots, meanwhile, moved down to take wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk, but Wilson and Spielman believe there were better and easier choices on the board.
The Falcons’ pick of Michael Penix Jr. raised some eyebrows.
As the draft comes to a close, teams are left to ponder their moves and prepare for the upcoming season. Which teams will reap the rewards of their draft picks, and which will be left wondering what could have been?
The 2024 NFL Draft has been full of surprises.
