2024 NFL Draft: All-Pros, Pro Bowlers and overachievers in this class
The 2024 NFL Draft class is loaded with talent, but as was true last year, the blue-chip prospect pool is not as deep as scouts hoped it would be. The uncertainty around the league regarding the "elites" in this class could lead to some draft-day surprises in the early rounds. This is also similar to the prediction I offered in my breakdown of All-Pros, Pro Bowlers and overachievers of last year's class -- and, for what it's worth, a number of intriguing developments unfolded in that draft, like the Texans' bold trade up for Will Anderson Jr. and the Lions' decision to jump on Jahmyr Gibbs early.
Despite the hoopla around the 2024 quarterback class, this group features more solid starters than superstar candidates. USC's Caleb Williams is the headliner as a spectacular playmaker with elite passing skills. He makes every throw in the book with flair and pizzazz while also displaying the poise and patience to flourish in a managerial role when surrounded by premier talent. LSU's Jayden Daniels is just as impressive as a dynamic dual-threat with A-plus passing skills and running ability.
Opinions are split on the upside and long-term potential of UNC's Drake Maye, Michigan's J.J. McCarthy, Washington's Michael Penix Jr. and Oregon's Bo Nix. But the league's need for QB1s could result in a surprising number of quarterbacks being selected on Day 1.
The 2024 running back class lacks a consensus RB1. Though scouts can envision several top prospects making key contributions in prominent roles, the private straw polls I've conducted on this year's draft class with NFL coaches, NFL scouts and other experts in the media suggest teams are undecided on the pecking order at the position. Texas' Jonathan Brooks, Florida State's Trey
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