The only time to judge the 2024 NFL Draft is directly after it's over because hindsight is 20/20. I only care about the process of each pick, how much they "reached" over the best available prospects, how much the pick aligned with team needs, and if they are planning on playing the prospect in his best position. I have my Top 100 Big Board here, and I'm going to use it to judge these picks. Because I didn't get to the deep sleepers this year, I'm only going to list Rounds 1-4 in my analysis. They, of course, are the most important to judge.

1. Chicago Bears (Grade: A+)

• 1. QB Caleb Williams (1st overall rank)

• 9. WR Rome Odunze (8)

• 75. OT Kiran Amegadjie (85)

• 122. P Tory Taylor (Nobody ranks punters)

Caleb Williams is a franchise-altering prospect, one I believe can compete for MVPs once he cleans up his fumble problem. He's underrated as a pocket-passer and suddenly has one of the best 3-WR sets in the NFL, thanks to the Rome Odunze selection. Odunze may not be a target hog as a rookie next to D.J. Moore and Keenan Allen, but he'll be Caleb's X receiver for the next half decade at least. His physicality matches well with Moore's explosiveness. No team improved their future more this draft than the Bears with these first two selections... Kiran Amegadjie is an Ivy Leaguer coming off a torn quad, but he has NFL size (6'5"/323 with 36-inch arms) and athleticism. He split his time between left tackle and left guard. He'll be depth and a developmental prospect.

2. Washington Commanders (B-)

• 2. QB Jayden Daniels (4th overall rank)

• 36. DT Jer'Zhan Newton (26) --> Value

• 50. CB Mike Sainristil (50)

• 53. TE Ben Sinnott (97) --> Reach

• 67. OT Brandon Coleman (114) --> Reach

• 100. WR Luke McCaffrey (146) --> Reach

If Jayden Daniels can stay healthy and not attempt a pass on just 50% of his pressured dropbacks, then he'll be a good starter. He just was my QB4 in the class because that's a tough combination to overcome for an experienced college player. Daniels does have two speedy WRs to throw his signature slot fades to, but I question who is blocking for him up front. The Commanders didn't address LT until they reached on Brandon Coleman one round earlier than expected. He split time between LT and LG at TCU... There was speculation Johnny Newton would slide, and the Commanders were able to scoop him up 10 spots after my late Round 1 ranking. Washington is loaded at defensive tackle, so he'll be a rotational player only as a rookie. He can rush the passer... Mike Sainristil is such a dog. He'll be a nickel corner because of his size and he mostly played zone coverage in college, but Sainristil is always around the ball, leading to 6 interceptions last year... Ben Sinnott is an analytics darling. He was in the 77th percentile in production, then lit up the combine. He almost looks like a fullback on tape with some inconsistent hands, but he's a bowling ball with speed after the catch. He only trailed Brock Bowers in forced missed tackles. Sinnott gets to learn under Zach Ertz this year. That brings us to Luke McCaffrey, who transitioned from QB to slot WR. He immediately lit up the box score and will compete for the missing Curtis Samuel role. McCaffrey could be a sneaky 3-WR set starter in Week 1.

3. New England Patriots (B)

• 3. QB Drake Maye (2nd overall rank)

• 37. WR Ja'Lynn Polk (54) --> Reach

• 68. OT Caedan Wallace (186) --> Huge Reach

• 103. OG Layden Robinson (175) --> Reach

• 110. WR Javon Baker (92) --> Value

90% of this draft will be based on if Drake Maye is going to be a hit. He was my QB2 because he possesses the traits of the top-5 quarterbacks and led college football in total EPA as a true sophomore before regressing in a bad environment last year. Maye needs some coaching and for the Patriots to get serious at OL and WR, so we must stay patient here, especially with how the rest of their draft unfolded... Ja'Lynn Polk is a high-floor, medium-ceiling prospect with inside and outside versatility and below-average athleticism. He went earlier than expected, but he does give the Patriots a legit target during Maye's rookie season. Javon Baker is a boom-bust X receiver with some intriguing highlights. He can win downfield and play the ball in the air. He ran real routes, but sometimes was an over seller. With more development, Baker can be a starter. I hope he gets playing time immediately because he has more upside than the rest of the group... The Patriots' 3rd-round pick was maybe the worst pick of the draft, and I'd call it a full-blown panic. In the picks right before they were on the clock, the tackle-needy Pats watched LTs Patrick Paul, Kingsley Suamataia, and Brandon Coleman go, creating a massive drop-off to the next tier. Instead of moving up to secure one or moving back to get better value, the Patriots drafted the consensus 186th player with their 68th overall pick. He also wasn't a top-100 prospect for me. It's a shame that Maye will be playing behind an uncertain OL, just like Mac Jones dealt with.

4. Arizona Cardinals (B+)

• 4. WR Marvin Harrison Jr. (6th overall rank)

• 27. EDGE Darius Robinson (39)

• 43. CB Max Melton (51)

• 66. RB Trey Benson (69)

• 71. OT Isaiah Adams (133) --> Reach

• 82. TE Tip Reiman (154) --> Reach

• 90. CB Elijah Jones (138) --> Reach

• 104. S Dadrion Taylor-Demerson (104)

Everyone agrees Marv is going to be a beast... Darius Robinson was caught between EDGE and DT in college and based on his NFL Combine results. He's too small to stop the run as a DT but not athletic enough to be a permanent edge rusher. The Cardinals will need a plan for him. Their desperation for defensive line talent was obvious pre-draft. I trust this coaching staff. They'll also start Max Melton as a rookie based on their secondary depth chart. He was one of my favorite players on tape (lots of man coverage) and then lit up the NFL Combine with 95th percentile athleticism. That's why he went earlier than expected. I'm okay with it! ... Trey Benson will be the lightning to James Conner's thunder. 67% of Benson's carries were pointed towards the outside, which matches up with his 4.38-speed. Expect this to be a 1-2 punch in 2024 before Benson develops into a full-time player long-term... Compared to consensus rankings, the Cardinals reached on their final three top-100 picks. All of them were off my Top-100 Big Board, so I have no takes. But I am dubious!

5. Los Angeles Chargers (A+)

• 5. OT Joe Alt (5th overall rank)

• 34. WR Ladd McConkey (31)

• 69. LB Junior Colson (41) --> Huge Value

• 105. DT Justin Eboigbe (152)

Joe Alt vs. Malik Nabers was a legit debate, but the available Round 2 WRs were much better than the available Round 2 OTs. Alt has rare traits and should be able to kick over to right tackle, just like Penei Sewell had to do. He was my top non-QB prospect... Ladd McConkey is going to eat. He's the most talented receiver on the roster with the versatility to win downfield as a Z or kick inside as a shifty slot receiver. It's a perfect fit next to Josh Palmer and Quentin Johnston, plus he has experience in a run-heavy offense (Georgia). McConkey is a mid-round fantasy target... Jim Harbaugh reunites with his green dot middle linebacker in Junior Colson, who'll help teach DC Jesse Minter's defense. Colson is more of a throw-back type with most linebackers sitting at 225-230 pounds now. He was a huge value in Round 3, particularly for this fit... Overall, the Chargers found 3 high-floor, long-term starters. It'll take more time to find answers at DT, CB, and C. That's okay.

6. New York Giants (A-)

• 6. WR Malik Nabers (7th overall rank)

• 47. S Tyler Nubin (78) --> Reach

• 70. CB Andru Phillips (62)

• 107. TE Theo Johnson (96)

I compared Malik Nabers to Odell Beckham, who was the last 1,000-yard receiver in New York. Nabers will be moved around the formation to take advantage of his explosiveness. Expect Darius Slayton and Jalin Hyatt to rotate on the perimeter, while Wan'Dale Robinson gets his snaps cut inside with this addition. Nabers has the potential to change this franchise around. He was a 99th percentile prospect... Next up, the secondary. Tyler Nubin scared me because of his 4.59 forty and lackluster tackle production, but he's highly experienced and instinctual in the back-half. Meanwhile, Dru Phillips has the upside to be a CB2 given his mirror ability and physicality. He only played in man coverage 11% of the times, so there's some development needed, but there are plenty of react reps to underneath throws. His athletic traits (42-inch vert) suggest there's potential long-term... Theo Johnson didn't look as athletic as he tested (6'6"/259 with 86th percentile speed, a 92nd percentile 10-yard split, 96th percentile vert, 89th percentile broad, 89th percentile short shuttle, and a 44th percentile three cone) on tape, and it showed in the box score. That said, Johnson can block well and at least has the ability to rumble after the catch when schemed up. I don't expect Darren Waller to play.

7. Tennessee Titans (B-)

• 7. OT JC Latham (9th overall rank)

• 38. DT T'Vondre Sweat (101) --> Huge Reach

• 106. LB Cedric Gray (86)

Once LT Joe Alt was sniped, the attention turned to my OT2 JC Latham. He's a mammoth with quick enough feet to be an asset in the pass game. Nobody questions his skills in the ground game. Latham will move from right to left tackle under legendary OL coach Bill Callahan. This was a solid pick... Things got weird quickly afterwards. T'Vondre Sweat is someone who wouldn't have been on my board after a deeply unserious pre-draft process. He's struggled with weight at Texas, was unwilling to weigh in at the Senior Bowl, then caught a DWI charge after teams were already concerned with his partying. The Titans just saw the worst of this profile with Isaiah Wilson. Let's see if they have better luck this time... Cedric Gray is a high-floor starter found at the end of Round 3. He's made 100+ tackles in 3-straight seasons, made plays in the pass game, and has special teams experience. Come on! Gray says he's capable of handling the green dot, too. What's not to like?

8. Atlanta Falcons (D)

• 8. QB Michael Penix Jr. (36th overall rank) --> Huge Reach

• 35. DT Ruke Orhorhoro (57) --> Huge Reach

• 74. EDGE Bralen Trice (74)

• 109. DT Brandon Dorlus (82)

Alright... The point of sports is to make runs in the playoffs. Signing Kirk Cousins to $100M guaranteed gives them a chance of getting hot in a horrendous division. In fact, they are the favorites. So why not add a starter right now? The Rams went all in after getting Matthew Stafford, but now the Falcons are caught between windows to win (read: purgatory). If Cousins is done after two years via trade or release, then the Falcons will still carry $25M in 2026 dead money while spending $65M over the first two years. That's a lot! Then there's the Michael Penix profile itself. If this plan works, Penix won't start until he's 26 or 27 years old when the value of his rookie contract is already halfway done. His arm strength is great. His accuracy was mediocre. And his play under pressure or when needing to scramble was underwhelming. Penix was an early Round 2 prospect to me... It didn't stop there either. The Falcons traded up for a consensus late 2nd round prospect, essentially trading away a 4th-round pick in the process. Ruke Orhorhoro (57th overall prospect) was drafted before DT Johnny Newton (27th), so it was an unnecessary move in general. Orhorhoro also is a developmental player on this win now team! He's barely played football. That's not an exaggeration... I did like Bralen Trice and Brandon Dorlus (announced as a DT, not an EDGE) in Round 3. Too little, too late.

10. Minnesota Vikings (A-)

• 10. QB JJ McCarthy (3rd overall rank) --> Value

• 17. EDGE Dallas Turner (12) --> Trade Up

• 108. CB Khyree Jackson (101)

The Vikings called the Giants bluff, opting to stay put until they moved up one spot for what equates to losing just a 4th rounder. McCarthy was highly efficient, particularly on third downs and while throwing over the middle. He's an ideal scheme fit, and McCarthy will benefit from having three stud pass-catchers soon under long-term contracts. His cap hits will be 20% of what a veteran QB would cost, so now the Vikings can add some legit starters on defense, too... Turner was my 12th overall player but started sliding with the QB and OT thirst. The Vikings made a controversial trade up for the best player available. The trade equated to losing an early 4th-rounder, but I don't mind that at all because there was a drop-off in edge talent after Turner. His speed matches up well with how DC Brian Flores plays defense (threatening with defenders at the line, forcing OLs into pre-snap one-on-ones). This was a good move.

11. New York Jets (B-)

• 11. OT Olu Fashanu (10th overall rank)

• 65. WR Malachi Corley (93) --> Reach

• 134. RB Braelon Allen (108)

The mature move was to draft a versatile, high-upside linemen over the flashy tight end. The Jets agreed. Fashanu is a thickly-built LT who could play guard to get into the starting lineup as a rookie. If Metlife Stadium snipes LT Tyron Smith at any point, Fashanu is ready made to start. He's a great athlete with a mean streak as a run blocker... Malachi Corley isn't a fit for everyone because he's all manufactured touches, but I can see the vision as a distant WR3 behind Garrett Wilson and Mike Williams. There are already plenty of mouths to feed (don't forget Breece Hall's touches in the flats), so I'd keep expectations down. And please save your Deebo comparisons. He's not nearly as athletic or as good as an intermediate route runner... Braelon Allen will be Breece Hall's direct backup. He's not nearly as explosive, but he is a big back who has more shiftiness than most of his size. Allen was better than Izzy Abanikanda as prospects.

12. Denver Broncos (A-)

• 12. QB Bo Nix (14th overall rank)

• 76. EDGE Jonah Elliss (83)

• 102. WR Troy Franklin (49) --> Huge Value

Many don't agree with me, but Nix is intriguing. Power 5 QBs don't walk into 97th percentile EPA per play by accident, no matter how experienced they are. Nix did so without other top-100 overall talent on offense, too. He's very smart with the ball and can extend some plays out of the pocket. His production was aided by Oregon's screens and RPOs, but Nix was 2nd in EPA per play and 1st in PFF grade when you removed those manufactured throws. Sean Payton will appreciate his football IQ. He'll just have to overcome a lack of weapons early on... Edge rusher was a huge need, and there are a lot of sleeper characteristics to Jonah Elliss' profile. He's a 21-year-old early declare led led the class in sacks per game (1.2) and had 90th percentile tackles for loss numbers compared to drafted edge rushers since 2005 despite being undersized... Troy Franklin was a whiff by me (48th overall) and an even bigger whiff for consensus rankers (39th). Ultimately, his lack of play strength, ability to work over the middle, and reliably catch the ball were too much to handle. In hindsight, we should've seen this coming, despite his strong production profile. While the draft was disappointing for Franklin, this is a good landing spot. Courtland Sutton isn't long for Denver, and he's probably competing with Marvin Mims for the downfield targets. Mims isn't good and could play the slot more without Jerry Jeudy, so Franklin could see the field as a rookie. Just don't expect heavy targets at any point. He's there to do one thing. Run.

13. Las Vegas Raiders (B)

• 13. TE Brock Bowers (16th overall rank)

• 44. IOL Jackson Powers-Johnson (27)

• 77. OT Delmar Glaze (150)

• 112. CB Decamerion Richardson (163)

Consensus rankings loved Bowers (7th overall), but I dinged him for positional value (16th) and I question the overall process in Las Vegas after they just drafted Michael Mayer in Round 2 last year. Bowers is the way better version of Mayer, neither of whomsth are great blockers. Expect Bowers to play slot in most 2-TE sets. Fantasy drafters just need to be patient while the Raiders figure out QB, their offensive identity, and target tree. Davante Adams will remain the dude for one more year before his guaranteed money runs out... The Raiders lost a couple of offensive line starters this offseason, so Jackson Power-Johnson's slide ending here checks out. He was a center at Oregon but will play guard as a rookie. JPJ was a mauler in the ground game when he played with low pads. His ability to find defenders in the screen game was quite impressive... Delmar Glaze has started at left and right tackle, but he was ranked too low (150th in consensus) for me to watch pre-draft. The Raiders needed right tackle competition.

14. New Orleans Saints (B+)

• 14. OT Taliese Fuaga (21st overall rank)

• 41. CB Kool-Aid McKinstry (24) --> Huge Value

The Saints were as desperate for tackle play as any team needed any position. Taliese Fauga was a multi-year right tackle starter as a Beaver, but he has a guard body with below-average arms. His aggressive, physical play style matches NOLA's DNA. We'll see if his pass protection can hold up against NFL speed. If not, Fuaga can be a solid guard... Kool-Aid McKinstry fell out of Round 1, possibly because of his foot surgery. On tape, he's a mean corner with straight-line speed. McKinstry's fluidity is average but manageable. He can start from Day 1, potentially forcing Marshon Lattimore out as a post-June 1st trade candidate. They could use the long-term cap relief while they take their lumps roster wise. The Saints' move up only cost the equivalent of a 5th round pick. I liked it.

15. Indianapolis Colts (A-)

• 15. EDGE Laiatu Latu (11th overall rank)

• 52. WR Adonai Mitchell (32)

• 79. OT Matt Goncalves (134)

• 117. C Tanor Bortolini (130)

Tempted by a trade up for a skill guy, the Colts stayed patient and wound up with the top defensive prospect. It was the latest DEF1 draftee in NFL history, a sign of how much the modern NFL values offense. Latu's 23% pressure rate dwarfs the draft class, and his medical concerns (neck) were lessened after starting 25-straight games at UCLA. The Colts were quietly 5th in ESPN's Pass Rush Win Rate last year. Latu can take that to the next level... Adonai Mitchell has Round 1 talent, but he slid after disappointing in college. The Colts are an ideal landing spot for him, assuming he's ready for the moment. Mitchell can Wally Pipp Alec Pierce as the low-volume deep threat from the perimeter. He can play X receiver, while Michael Pittman and Josh Downs handle things underneath. Anthony Richardson's arm talent deserved a downfield separator. Hopefully Mitchell can develop by the time Pittman's 2-year guaranteed contract is up... Both Matt Goncalves and Tano Bortolini were outside of my Top 100 Big Board, so I have no takes other than Bortolini is a Short Shuttle Club Member. Shoutout to Josh Norris.

16. Seattle Seahawks (B+)

• 16. DT Byron Murphy II (16th overall rank)

• 81. IOL Christian Haynes (46) --> Huge Value

• 118. LB Tyrice Knight (192)

• 121. TE AJ Barner (181)

The Seahawks were 30th in defensive EPA allowed last year, and coach Mike MacDonald's scheme has had a star pass rusher at defensive tackle every year. That was Justin Madubuike, who Byron Murphy is nearly identical to in terms of NFL Combine measurables. Murphy is short but feisty with the first step to get into the backfield in a hurry. It's a great fit for him... Christian Haynes was one of the best picks in the entire draft. He was 46th on my board, yet fell to 81st overall. Haynes has 88th percentile speed and danced in a zone scheme at UConn. He's a Week 1 starter most likely. Seattle was killed on the interior last year... I have no Tyrice Knight opinion, but 4th-rounder AJ Barner is a Will Dissly clone. The Seahawks lost two run-blocking tight ends this offseason. Barner will do the dirty work for Noah Fant.

18. Cincinnati Bengals (A-)

• 18. OT Amarius Mims (15th overall rank)

• 49. DT Kris Jenkins (44)

• 80. WR Jermaine Burton (66)

• 97. DT McKinnley Jackson (136)

• 115. TE Erick All (155)

Trent Brown ($2M guaranteed) can help coach up Amarius Mims in training camp, but Mims is ready to play immediately despite 800 career snaps. He's too big and too athletic to get around in the pass game, especially with Joe Burrow's ability to get the ball out. Mims' inexperience scared some. It intrigued me. He has the tools to be a Pro Bowler. That's music to Burrow's ears (and ribs and knees and wrists)... Kris Jenkins has 81st percentile speed with the versatility to rush the passer as a three tech or edge rusher. He'll hopefully be the answer to DJ Reader... Jermaine Burton has top-40 talent. He would've been my WR6 on tape alone. Burton's downfield ball tracking, hands, and speed are ideal as the eventual Tee Higgins replacement. As a rookie, Burton can see the field whenever Ja'Marr Chase slides into the slot and he has "better in best ball" upside immediately. If there's a Round 3 sleeper to buy, it's him. This is a great locker room for him to end up in.

19. Los Angeles Rams (C)

• 19. EDGE Jared Verse (23rd overall rank)

• 39. DT Braden Fiske (79) --> Huge Reach

• 83. RB Blake Corum (80)

• 99. S Kamren Kinchens (100)

The Rams were 20th in EPA allowed with Aaron Donald last year, so starting the draft with two defensive linemen isn't a bad idea. Jared Verse is a powerful edge rusher with a solid 16% pressure rate. He didn't have the elite production that a 23-year-old prospect should have, but Verse is a high-floor prospect... The Rams watched DTs Ruke Orhorhoro, Jer'Zhan Newton, and T'Vondre Sweat fly off the board in the mid 30s and couldn't wait to join the party. Their trade up was too much in my opinion (equivalent of a 3rd rounder lost), and Braden Fiske has some red flags as a prospect. The 24-year-old has 12th percentile weight and short arms, likely limiting him as a run defender. He has the freaky athleticism to be a pass rusher at least. We'll see. I ranked him 79th overall... Blake Corum's vision and lightning-quick decision-making will tranlsate to the pros and in this offense in particular. The Rams ran a ton of duo (double team blocks) in 2023, then added beef on the interior. Corum has some Kyren Williams traits. He'll likely back up the fantasy star, but if Corum gets the start, he has the skills and experience of handling a huge workload. The upside is very obvious. Williams should fall a round or two with this addition. He's a real threat.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers (A-)

• 20. OT Troy Fautanu (22nd overall rank)

• 51. IOL Zach Frazier (37) --> Value

• 84. WR Roman Wilson (68) --> Value

• 98. LB Payton Wilson (73) --> Value

• 119. G Mason McCormick (121)

The Steelers couldn't keep their 2023 OL with sack artists Russell Wilson and Justin Fields at QB. Troy Fautanu is fantastic in the ground game and has the athletic traits and arm length to eventually be a pass protector at left tackle. His chaotic technique made me nervous, which is why I protected him to guard or even center. The plan is to keep him at tackle. We'll see if that lasts... Zach Frazier is a center or guard immediate starter after starting 47 games in college. He's smart and plays mean, matching the identity this coaching staff wants. Frazier blasted off 30 bench press reps at the NFL Combine and was 159-2 as a high school wrestler. Dog... Roman Wilson isn't a traditional slot. He has 4.39 speed and isn't the shifty route runner he's often comped to. He wins on "run away" routes like crossers, which he'll see plenty of in this play-action based offense. There's little target competition as a rookie. He has fringe size and skills to start in 2-WR sets. Wilson was a great value at 84th overall... Payton Wilson fell because of medicals. He straight up doesn't have one of his ACLs, then tore the other. Wilson can still fly in the pass game as a pass-coverage specialist. He made a million tackles, though doesn't have the size and diagnosing of the top NFL tacklers. The boom-bust prospect is likely worth the dice roll at 98th overall.

21. Miami Dolphins (C+)

• 21. EDGE Chop Robinson (29th overall rank) --> Reach

• 55. OT Patrick Paul (34) --> Value

• 120. RB Jaylen Wright (95)

The late-season injuries and the loss of two free agents put Miami in a tough spot up front. Chop Robinson isn't likely to fill the void immediately, however. He only had 15 tackles as a junior, often getting subbed out against the run. Robinson is a pass-rusher only, yet had 4.0 sacks on a mediocre 14% pressure rate. We'll see if his elite speed and bend can make up for his 30th percentile weight and 5th percentile wingspan... Patrick Paul is a potential heir apparent to oft-injured LT Terron Armstead. He started 44 games at Houston and has elite size (6'7"/331 and 36.25-inch arms). Paul also can move his feet and barbells (30 bench press reps). He doesn't have to start as a rookie until there are injuries. Good pick... Jaylen Wright's tape was fascinating because of the Tennessee offense. He faced more 5-man boxes than he did 7-man boxes and never ran from under center. It wouldn't have made sense to go to a normal offense. And he didn't! Wright's 4.39 speed will be maximized by coach Mike McDaniel, just look at Raheem Mostert as inspiration. Mostert is 32 years old without guaranteed money in 2025. Expect Wright to be the RB3 and a core special teamer. I, regrettable, said the same with De'Von Achane last year.

22. Philadelphia Eagles (A)

• 22. CB Quinyon Mitchell (17th overall rank) --> Value

• 40. CB Cooper DeJean (25) --> Huge Value

• 94. EDGE Jalyx Hunt (140) --> Reach

• 127. RB Will Shipley (126)

I mocked Quinyon Mitchell to the Eagles, but they didn't even have to trade up to make it happen. Philly's secondary fell off last year and didn't let that problem linger another offseason. Mitchell is an athletic freak with a ton of zone experience. He's a match for DC Vic Fangio. There's a chance he plays nickel as a rookie before taking over outside long-term. Mitchell has CB1 ability... Cooper DeJean fell further than expected while coming off a broken ankle. He's also a great athlete with a ton of zone experience. The Eagles eventually could use him at corner where he played in college, but his simplest path to playing time is as a box safety and nickel corner. There's a lot of bodies in the secondary all of a sudden. That's a good problem to have after last year.... I don't know who Jalyx Hunt is to be honest... I do very much know Will Shipley. He's my RB sleeper of the year because he's an early-declare with three years of versatile experience. His contact balance needs work (hint: follow Saquon Barkley around the weight room), but he can run real routes with breakaway speed. At Clemson, Shipley handled goal-line work and ran with some power up the middle. He's a poor man's Austin Ekeler... My WR sleeper was Johnny Wilson, who fell to the 6th round. There aren't many 6-foot-7 receivers that can run 4.5. Wilson can compete with DeVante Parker if he can groom his troubling hands.... As always, GM Howie Roseman went stealing future draft picks with great success. Don't answer the phone when Roseman is on the other line, GMs.

23. Jacksonville Jaguars (A-)

• 23. WR Brian Thomas Jr. (13th overall rank) --> Huge Value

• 48. DT Maason Smith (58)

• 96. CB Jarrian Jones (145) --> Reach

• 114. OT Javon Foster (132)

• 116. DT Jordan Jefferson (204)

My favorite galaxy-brain move of the draft was the Jaguars' trade down that netted them the equivalent of an early 4th-round pick, while still managing to add Brian Thomas at great value. Thomas has rare length, speed, and ball tracking. That combination led to a college football high 17 TDs as a 20-year-old junior. The LSU Tiger can play all three receiver positions long term but will take over Calvin Ridley's downfield role at X and Z. They share similar traits, though Thomas' 4.34 speed is unmatched. Trevor Lawrence desperately needed a talent like this. Missing out on Ridley during free agency could be the biggest win of their offseason. Thomas has difference-making ability long term a la DK Metcalf... Two more LSU prospects landed in Jacksonville, starting with the long-armed Maason Smith. The 5-star recruit hasn't played much but has pass-rushing traits with some development. It's no surprise 35-inch arms made it move for GM Trent Baalke... I haven't watched their other draft picks, so no opinions from me.

24. Detroit Lions (B+)

• 24. CB Terrion Arnold (18th overall rank) --> Trade Up

• 61. CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (53)

• 126. OT Giovanni Manu (Nobody ranks Canadians)

• 132. RB Sione Vaki (151)

GM Brad Holmes is picky with his corners, but he found a couple potential starters in the draft after already trading for Carlton Davis. Terrion Arnold was 18th on my board, so a trade up to 24 to scoop up value is understandable, even if it cost a 3rd rounder. There was a drop off in talent, especially if the Lions were searching for tackling, instincts, and zone experience. Ironically, that's exactly what Ennis Rakestraw Jr. also brings. He was a PFF darling in zone coverage at Missouri but fell due to a lack of size and speed. Rakestraw could be a nickel player next to Brian Branch. All of a sudden, this Lions secondary is pretty sweet... The Lions threw us a curveball with a European OT prospect in Round 4, then added to the fun with a safety-turned-running back out of Utah. Sione Vaki will play running back after splitting his time in college. He absolutely lit up my Trojans to the tune of 9-68 rushing and 5-149-2 receiving. The dog levels are a Dan Campbell wet dream. I'll be paying attention to his development. Fun pick.

25. Green Bay Packers (B-)

• 25. OT Jordan Morgan (30th overall rank)

• 45. LB Edgerrin Cooper (70)

• 58. S Javon Bullard (61)

• 88. RB MarShawn Lloyd (88)

• 91. LB Ty'Ron Hopper (153) --> Reach

• 111. S Evan Williams (197)

Jordan Morgan played left tackle at Arizona but has the 4-position versatility that Green Bay covets to get their best starting group on the field. Morgan is a great athlete who is built for a zone scheme. His lack of length could make him a guard, where his lack of power could be felt as he transitions. I trust the Packers to groom him... Edgerrin Cooper has 90th percentile speed and the downhill aggressiveness to meet ball-carriers in the backfield. The Packers can use him as a blitzer and sideline-to-sideline weapon, though he's not the classic green dot mike linebacker. Quay Walker will be managing him as a rookie... Javon Bullard is really small, but he has the instincts, 4.47 speed, and change-or-direction ability of a deep safety in a zone-heavy unit. He'll start next to Xavier McKinney... Marshawn Lloyd should win backup duties against AJ Dillon, but Lloyd is difficult to trust in a big role. He will bounce some runs and put the ball on the turf. His size and cutting ability are highly appealing, however. There's a D'Andre Swift to his game as a change of pace to Josh Jacobs, who is likely under contract for 2-3 seasons. He's essentially insurance only for awhile.

26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (B-)

• 26. IOL Graham Barton (28th overall rank)

• 57. EDGE Chris Braswell (43) --> Value

• 89. S Tykee Smith (125)

• 92. WR Jalen McMillan (91)

• 125. RB Bucky Irving (123)

The Bucs were 27th in rushing EPA and 26th in short-yardage rushing success rate, largely because their interior was a mess. Graham Barton has left tackle experience, but he's shaped like a guard or center. His forty and three cone were in the 96th percentile, so Barton can work in the screen game for Rachaad White, too... Chris Braswell isn't flashy, yet still put up 9.0 sacks on a fantastic 19% pressure rate at Alabama. Like other recent draft picks, Braswell is likely destined for a pass-rush rotational role given his lack of size. It's a good fit for his style... Jalen McMillan is a slot receiver who is unlikely to play much with the new staff expected to use Chris Godwin inside more often. There wasn't a standout trait on McMillan's tape... Bucky Irving becomes the first RB in a long time to be under 200 pounds with a 4.50 or worse forty to go before Round 5. There's a mini Kyren Williams to his game minus the pass protection. He's likely the eventual Chase Edmonds replacement, not the RB2 behind Rachaad White. I was surprised Tampa didn't want a bigger back.

28. Kansas City Chiefs (A-)

• 28. WR Xavier Worthy (33rd overall rank)

• 63. OT Kingsley Suamataia (49) --> Value

• 131. TE Jared Wiley (118)

• 133. S Jaden Hicks (67) --> Huge Value

A slight trade up with the Bills could have hilarious consequences if Xavier Worthy hits. It's an ideal landing spot for his skillset, as Andy Reid has toyed with this role with lesser talent. Worthy's speed is unmatched and he can run with tempo. The route running and ability to play through contact are work in progress (and what keeps him away from Tyreek Hill comparisons), but the NFL has never been so ready to handle his strengths and hide his weaknesses. Worthy will be 3rd in WR snaps most likely as a rookie. Expect inconsistent, high variance weekly production. He's better in best ball... After the Round 1 run on tackles, the Chiefs were left with developmental types on Day 2. Kinglsey Suamataia is a mess technically and has only started two seasons, but he has 5-star athleticism. Just picture a lighter version of his cousin, Penei Sewell. He might get thrown to the wolves as a rookie given their lack of depth at the position. Hopefully Suamataia can get enough work this offseason to look more polished by the time the Chiefs are in the Super Bowl again early in 2025... Jared Wiley is a freak athlete with some pass-game upside when Travis Kelce retires after this year... Jaden Hicks is a box safety, which is trending out of the game. He has better tape than his 4th-round draft capital, and DC Steve Spagnuolo will get creative with him. Hicks made 24 run stops (top 10 in college football) while flying around the field. Kansas City might value DB tackling more than anyone.

29. Dallas Cowboys (B-)

• 29. OT Tyler Guyton (35th overall rank)

• 56. EDGE Marshawn Kneeland (40)

• 73. IOL Cooper Beebe (45) --> Value

• 87. LB Marist Liufau (165) --> Reach

Originally a tight end at TCU, Guyton is a work-in-progress athlete attempting to convert from right to left tackle. For a team "all in" this year, Guyton is an odd fit because he'll likely be forced into the Week 1 starting lineup. The good news is he'll be ready to block for whoever replaces Dak Prescott when he (somehow) leaves for free agency next offseason... Marshawn Kneeland went a bit later than expected, but he has average size and athleticism, paired with above-average college production. How well he'll translate from Western Michigan to the pros is the unanswerable question... Cooper Beebe is as wide as he is tall. He could be the answer at center even though he played tackle and guard in college. Beebe led all Power 5 left guards in PFF pass blocking grade and was 3rd in run blocking, then lit it up at the NFL Combine (minus those 20 bench press reps).

30. Baltimore Ravens (A)

• 30. CB Nate Wiggins (19th overall rank) --> Value

• 62. OT Roger Rosengarten (64)

• 93. EDGE Adisa Isaac (81)

• 113. WR Devontez Walker (82)

• 130. CB T.J. Tampa (63) --> Huge Value

Nate Wiggins isn't for everyone, but he is for me and the Ravens. His 178-pound frame at 6'1" makes him a risk in the tackling department. Corners are meant for pass coverage last time I checked, however. Wiggins played man coverage on an absurd 60% of his snaps and was a total lockdown while doing so. The rest of the Ravens secondary can tackle well, so let's get Wiggins on the speedy receivers in this division (Ja'Marr Chase, George Pickens, and Amari Cooper). He has the dog in him to compete in isolation... Roger Rosengarten is similar in that his lack of power isn't for everyone, though his movement skills are a plus for a team willing to get their offensive line on the move. That's the Ravens. The Washington right tackle should be an asset for Derrick Henry on those stretch runs... Adisa Isaac is an undersized outside pass rusher with average explosiveness since his achilles tear. He was still a productive player at Penn State and should be rotational depth on passing downs... Devontez Walker was too much of a freestyler on tape to be relied upon by Drake Maye, but he's young and has nice speed. He'll backup Rashod Bateman... T.J. Tampa was an active zone coverage specialist with 9 pass deflections, but it's hard to win in the NFL with 4.58 speed and 39th percentile agility. That explains his massive slide. The Ravens have the other secondary pieces to manage his obvious weakness.

31. San Francisco 49ers (B-)

• 31. WR Ricky Pearsall (42nd overall rank)

• 64. CB Renardo Green (110) --> Reach

• 86. OG Dominick Puni (55) --> Huge Value

• 124. S Malik Mustapha (124)

• 129. RB Isaac Guerendo (164)

• 135. WR Jacob Cowing (137)

The offers weren't good enough (yet) to move Brandon Aiyuk or Deebo Samuel, but that didn't stop the 49ers from grabbing athletic slot Ricky Pearsall. His ball tracking skills and shiftiness are sweet, giving him some Christian Kirk vibes as a vertical slot. He won't be targetted until one of the receivers is moved (I'd guess Deebo is moved this offseason or next so they can prioritize a big Aiyuk extension), but he has the skills that win in the NFL... Renardo Green was the first player I didn't have ranked in the top 100. He went 64th overall... Dominick Puni is a Short Shuttle Club Member and potential Week 1 starter. Although not technically sound, Puni has only allowed 2 QB hits in the last 2 seasons. His NFL Combine performance shows how well he'll slide in with this complex, movement-based offensive line. It's a great fit... Malik Mustapha was one of my favorite prospects in the draft. He's undersized, but the dude is absolute teach tape as a tackler. There's a Talanoa Hufanga to his game. If he doesn't start, expect him to be a hell of a special teamer... Isaac Guerendo's vision was lackluster, but this offense can be point-and-shoot at times and he has the speed to get to the edge. He's a bigger version of Elijah Mitchell, with a lot lower floor. Kyle Shanahan is as hit-and-miss as they come with RB evaluations... Jacon Cowing is small and undersized. He's nothing but depth in this stacked receiver room. Cowing likely was drafted with special teams in mind.

32. Carolina Panthers (C-)

• 32. WR Xavier Legette (67th overall rank) --> Huge Reach

• 46. RB Jonathon Brooks (56) --> Reach

• 72. LB Trevin Wallace (87)

• 101. TE Ja'Tavion Sanders (71)

The Panthers needed upside and size at receiver. That's exactly Xavier Legette, who averaged 105 yards per game as a redshirt senior. He's twitched up in a straight line, but he isn't there yet with his hands and route running. Expect him to be slow-played into the lineup, perhaps given some easier completions on mesh routes to get that speed rolling. In general, this was a very risky Round 1 selection... Everyone was saying the Panthers were one RB away from competing. Oh? Nobody ever said that??? Jonathon Brooks should push for the starting job by the middle of the year, if not Week 1. His torn ACL recovery timeline is July 1st, and he has the size and light feet of the typical bellcow. Brooks doesn't have the elite athleticism of the tier above him, but he should be a 15-touch foundational piece sooner rather than later. He'll need the Panthers offense to cooperate to reach a fantasy ceiling... Trevin Wallace has 88th percentile weight-adjusted speed (4.51 forty at 237) and a 37.5-inch vertical, but the production didn't match his athleticism. The 21-year-old needs some development. He has starter skills once he's ready... Ja'Tavion Sanders underwhelmed on tape. He's not a separator, nor a run blocker. His pass skills are his reliable and comfort working in zone coverage. Don't expect an every-down role from Sanders yet.

33. Buffalo Bills (B-)

• 33. WR Keon Coleman (47th overall rank) --> Reach

• 60. S Cole Bishop (77)

• 95. DT DeWayne Carter (105)

• 128. RB Ray Davis (128)

The Bills didn't have many WRs to chose from once Brian Thomas Jr. went off the board. They needed size to pair with Curtis Samuel and Khalil Shakir, and they weren't likely to take Adonai Mitchell after just trading Stefon Diggs. Keon Coleman has size, but his inconsistent stats and lack of downfield separation make this a bit of an awkward fit. He'll have to play X receiver and use his catch radius on Josh Allen's signature broken plays. Coleman's post-draft interviews were elite. He has alpha energy... Cole Bishop is an above-average athlete with impressive versatility. He lined up at deep safety on 42% snaps, in the box or on the line of scrimmage on 37% snaps, and at corner or in the slot on the remaining 21% snaps. He projects as a starter, just in time to replace Buffalo's long-time safety duo... I didn't watch DeWayne Carter, so no opinions there... Ray Davis is a nice complement for James Cook. He's not a shifty player, but he doesn't have to be in this Damien Harris or Latavius Murray role. Davis can pass protect and catch passes when necessary. He'll be a short-yardage thumper immediately. Davis has a ton of experience.

42. Houston Texans (B-)

• 42. CB Kamari Lassiter (52nd overall rank)

• 59. OT Blake Fisher (99) --> Reach

• 78. S Calen Bullock (60) --> Value

• 123. TE Cade Stover (102)

At 187 pounds with a 4.64 forty (3rd percentile), Kamari Lassister is destined for nickel corner and a lot of zone coverage. That was a position of need next to Derek Stingley. Lassiter is instinctual and plays tougher than his size. He can jam receivers off their route and was trusted by Kirby Smart at Georgia... Blake Fisher is only 21 years old but started 25 games at right tackle for Notre Dame. He's an average athlete with average size. He flies out of his stance but can play too out of control afterwards. Fisher was more developmental than pro ready. He can be a starter in a year or two... Calen Bullock is a safety who is built like a corner. He has range and can matchup with slot receivers and athletic tight ends in man coverage. Jesse Bates is built similarly and has been a ball hawk in the NFL. There's an argument to be made that USC didn't maximize his skills... Cade Stover could eventually replace Dalton Schultz, who has guaranteed money for the next two seasons. Stover has below-average size but above-average athleticism, leading to 576 yards as a redshirt senior with the Buckeyes.

54. Cleveland Browns (B+)

• 54. DT Michael Hall Jr. (38th overall rank) --> Value

• 85. IOL Zak Zinter (112)

Michael Hall Jr. was one of my favorite prospects. A career 13% pressure rate puts him elite company, and he managed to pull it off as a 20-year-old redshirt sophomore. Hall's 99th percentile forty and 84th percentile vertical jump at the NFL Combine are further signs that his non-existent box score production will turn the corner in the pros. It's exactly what the Browns needed... Zak Zinter was beloved at Michigan and has a ton of experience. He won't have to play as a rookie given their depth, but Zinter has starter ability once he recovers from his unfortunate broken leg. The videos of the 100,000 fans chanting "Let's go Zak" gives me the chills. It likely gives him superpowers moving forward. Dog.