The NFL draft of 2024 is rapidly approaching. We’ve completed the Senior Bowl and Combine, and a significant number of free agent signings have occurred. Though there’s still time for adjustments, what is the current standing of this offense-heavy draft class?
I ranked my top 50 prospects for the 2024 class after months of video research, travelling to games during the college football season, and getting a close-up look at players at the Senior Bowl, East-West Shrine Bowl, combine, and a few pro days. In-depth scouting comments, intriguing statistics, and my top five positional rankings are all given at the bottom of the page for each player.
1. Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.
6-foot-4 in height and 209 pounds in weight
Harrison ranks among the best receiving prospects we’ve seen this century thanks to his exceptional flexibility, strong hands, and unusual body control.
He was perhaps the most dangerous playmaker in the nation in 2023, even though his QB play at Ohio State was spotty. He recorded 67 receptions for 1,211 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. He can win in a number of ways, demonstrating his smaller receiver’s ability to run routes.
Harrison is also the kind of prospect who can make an immediate impression and could rank among the NFL’s top 10 receivers in his rookie campaign.
2. USC QB Caleb Williams
6-1 in height and 214 lbs.
Williams has remained my QB1 throughout this class. I watch a lot of “wow” moments on tape, which are the result of his amazing playmaking skills and arm confidence. He has the ability to throw the ball fast and analyse defensive looks.
On the other hand, he will need to control his all-or-nothing mentality because he frequently takes the defense’s easy plays rather than going for the highlight-worthy ones.
With a fifth-best completion rate of 72.9% on throws from inside the pocket at the end of the season, Williams concluded the 2023 season with 3,633 yards, 30 touchdown passes, and five interceptions.
3. North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye
6-4 in height and 223 in weight
If you watch his tape, you will be amazed by Maye’s total skill as you will see five or six plays every game. He is the third-most prolific passer in the nation with 35 throws of 20 yards or more, demonstrating his arm strength to move the ball to all levels. He is a really good runner and has the ideal build.
Maye has to get better at progression effectiveness since he often stays on a read for too long and makes mistakes compounding instead of moving on to the next option. Even while Maye’s arm isn’t quite as strong as Justin Herbert’s, I can see some similarities.
4. LSU’s Malik Nabers, WR
200 lbs. | 6-0 in height
The greatest way to characterise Nabers’ game is explosive. He was used on quick screens, jet sweeps, and reverses by the LSU offence because he is a dynamic and aggressive player who can convert short throws into long gains.
Nabers forced 27 failed tackles on receptions (sixth most) and led the nation in receiving yards per game (120.7), demonstrating his versatility as a route runner and his ability to create extra opportunities to put pressure on defences at any time. His style of play is reminiscent of Bears wide receiver DJ Moore.
5. LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels
6-4 in height, 210 lbs.
Every year, a quarterback who had a breakout season goes on to become an unexpected star. This time, that’s Daniels. In terms of throwing yards per attempt (11.7) and total QBR (95.6), he led the FBS.
Daniels is a superb vertical passer who completes 67% of passes thrown 20 yards or more downfield. He also possesses a terrific feel for stacking the ball. Daniels can also convert rapid scrambles into spectacular plays because of his innate runner’s sense. His next challenge is to improve his ball placement over the centre and learn how to drive the ball in the intermediate zones.
6. Joe Alt, Notre Dame’s OT
6-9 in height and 321 in weight
While out on the road doing live scouting this past year, I was more pleased with one prospect than any other. Although Alt joined the Irish as a tight end, he made a smooth transition to offensive tackle over the course of the previous three seasons. Among this talented OT class, he is the most adaptable blocker.
He is challenging for defenders to wrap around because of his unusual arm length, yet he also overwhelms pass-rushers. Prior to the previous season, Alt’s technique and flexibility were questioned, but he has since resolved those problems and established himself as a model of consistency. He’s also fast; in the combine, he ran a 5.05-second 40-yard dash and a 1.73-second 10-yard split, which tied him for ninth place among offensive linemen. Alt is a plug-and-play left tackle who will be a plus starter for over ten years after giving up just one sack in 2023.
7. Odunze Rome, Washington, WR
6-3 in height, 212 lbs.
Odunze is the most skilled player in this class at the position and a silky-smooth receiver. Operating mostly out of the outside, he rarely lets defences set the pace of his routes. With 92 catches for 1,640 receiving yards and 13 touchdown catches in the previous season, Odunze is a reliable target who makes catches in a variety of circumstances.
Ten of his touchdown catches came on those patterns, demonstrating how well his game developed in the Huskies’ vertical offence. Odunze also turned in a strong 4.45-second 40-yard dash at the combine. With his strong hands and excellent body control at the catch point, he tied for the most contested catches in the FBS with 24.
8. Penn State’s Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT
Weight: 312 | Height: 6-6
Fashanu has been a starter for three years, and in that time, he has only allowed one sack. His balance, strength, and ability to recover in pass protection make him an NFL player. His physicality and hand placement have improved, but his run blocking is still a work in progress. His remarkable ability to detect and perform against various defensive scheme looks is a major factor in Fashanu’s consistency. He has the makings of a franchise left tackle and is expected to start on the first day.
9. Georgia’s Brock Bowers, TE
6-3 in height and 243 lbs.
In this class, Bowers is unrivalled in his formational variety and dependability at the catch point. On the pitch, the obvious TE1 can be a mismatch. His ability to run after a catch is one of his most amazing skills; he is hard to bring down. He topped all FBS tight ends in receiving yards after the catch last season with 494 and 253 after first contact. Bowers is one of the class’s top all-around playmakers, but positional value will play a part in his game. Although Bowers skipped Georgia’s pro day and the combine, he is anticipated to work out independently for NFL teams on April 10.
10. Dallas Turner, Alabama’s Edge
6-3 in height and 247 in weight
When Turner joined the Alabama defence in 2023, the main concern was how effectively he would fill the shoes of Will Anderson Jr. He answered that issue admirably, with 10 sacks and the eighth-best pressure rate (16.7%) in the FBS. Turner has a lot of potential, and even if he still needs to refine his pass-rush techniques, he already has a strong toolkit to work with. In addition, he’s getting better at stopping runs by constantly establishing a solid edge and using his length to stop them.
Turner’s skill set allows him to fit in numerous defensive fronts, and he has even demonstrated that he is comfortable dropping into coverage. Of all the defensive ends at the combine, he recorded the fastest 40 time (4.46 seconds) and highest vertical leap (40.5 inches).
11. Alabama’s Terrion Arnold, CB
Size: 6-0 | Mass: 189
Arnold joined Alabama as an undeveloped safety, but in 2022 he moved to cornerback, where the redshirt sophomore recorded five interceptions in the previous campaign. His time spent at safety has aided him when asked to play in the slot. He moves with ease and has the hip mobility to pivot and run with receivers. Although Arnold needs to learn to trust his technique more since he can be grabby at the top of routes and when re-directing, he has the potential to be the first corner off the board in April.
12. Jared Verse from Florida State’s EDGE
6-4 in height and 254 in weight
Verse, a strong-handed pass-rusher, made his debut before the 2022 season after joining from Albany. At the point of attack, he frequently exhibits speed-to-power manoeuvres to assist generate pressure and collapse the pocket by deflecting offensive tackles. He also possesses a lot of knock-back strength. After a sluggish start to the 2023 season, he went on to have a strong finishing run, accounting for 6.5 of his nine sacks in the last five regular-season games. Like Cowboys pass-rusher DeMarcus Lawrence, Verse has a skill set that allows him to win with power, quickness, and/or finesse in addition to his versatility in playing several front-row positions.
13. Oregon State’s Taliese Fuaga, OT
Weight: 324 | Height: 6-6
Fuaga is a pass-protector who plays with adequate balance to keep his physique in front of opponents. During positional drills at the combine, we witnessed his rapid footwork. His strongest suit, though, is his hand power, which allows him to rapidly strike and finish pass-rush reps. Fuaga tries to control the game, and in his two seasons as a full-time starter, he gave up just one sack. A strategy that would allow him to employ his play strength and toughness, or one that involves man-blocking, would be perfect for him. Since he committed six of his eight penalties from last season on false starts, Fuaga needs to learn how to play with greater poise.
14. UCLA, EDGE, Laiatu Latu
6 feet 5 inches tall, 259 pounds
The best pass-rusher in this draft class is Latu. His ability to finish strong, bend, and get off the ground quickly allowed him to step up his game last season. In 2022, he joined only one other player (20.4%) who had a pressure rate higher than 20%. Since then, he has accumulated 23.5 sacks. Latu is also adept at dropping into coverage and strong against the run; in fact, he had two interceptions last season. Despite missing two seasons due to a neck injury in 2020, Latu’s pass-rush skills should make him an impact player right immediately. However, his health is still the main concern.
15. Toledo’s Quinyon Mitchell, CB
Size: 6-0 | Mass: 195
Following a four-interception effort against Northern Illinois in 2022, Mitchell attracted the attention of scouts. The Toledo secondary’s pivot alternates between playing safety, nickel, and outside. However, Mitchell is a ball magnet everywhere he goes; in the previous season, he tied for third in the country with 15 pass breakups. He is fast to plant and drive on routes in front of him, and he plays with his busy eyes. In 2023, Mitchell ranked among the top 30 in the nation for allowing completions on 35.6% of passes while serving as the primary defence. After a stellar Senior Bowl performance and a 4.33 40-yard sprint time at the combine, his draft status has progressively increased, and he now has a chance to be taken in the top 15.
16. JC Latham, Alabama, OT
Weight: 342 | Height: 6-6
Latham embodies everything that makes a person move. He can create a lot of movement at the first level and is a great run-blocker. For a blocker of his size, I’m impressed by his outstanding quickness, and his upper and lower bodies stay in unison as his base helps him anchor against pass-rushers. As seen by his two sacks allowed in as many seasons as a starter in Tuscaloosa, Latham can rapidly neutralise players’ pass-rush manoeuvres once he gets their hands on them. However, he is vulnerable to countermoves from within. Latham is most suited for an NFL squad that values running downhill.
17. Texas’s Byron Murphy II, DT
6-1 in height and 297 in weight
After a breakthrough season, Murphy, a dynamic three-technique, played his first season as a starter. With 11 run stops and 6.5 tackles for loss from the previous season, he is a formidable force in the backfield when it comes to stopping the run. Murphy also possesses the lower body power to hold off double teams and the hand quickness to overcome one-on-one blocks. And in the combine, we witnessed his explosiveness as he placed in the top three among DTs with times of 4.87 seconds for the 40 and 33 inches for the vertical leap. However, his ability to disrupt plays as a pass-rusher is his biggest strength. Murphy had the greatest pressure rate in the FBS last season, registering 12.7% while playing defensive tackle.
18. Troy Fautanu, Washington’s OT/G
6-4 in height and 317 in weight
After bouncing between tackle and guard throughout his career, Fautanu made Washington his permanent left tackle in 2023. In the pros, I might try him first at offensive tackle, but I think there’s more room for him as a guard at this level. Fautanu is a quick and powerful blocker who tries to finish every defender he comes across. He plays the game with active feet and aggressive hands (two sacks allowed over 1,249 career pass-block snaps). He rarely gets out of position because of his lower-half agility, and he plays through the whistle. His combo show truly amazed me as well.
19. Amarius Mims, Georgia, O.T.
6-8 feet tall and 340 pounds
With Mims, the sample size is modest (he has only started eight games in the last two seasons), but the movie is outstanding. Despite having exclusively played on the right side of the field throughout his career, he possesses the mobility to switch to the left. Mims can match and mirror pass rushers thanks to his lower body quickness, and his balance allows him to recover and reroute against countermoves. Rushers find it difficult to manoeuvre around him due to his bulk. Furthermore, Mims is a beast in the run game because of his ability to immediately overwhelm opponents at the moment of attack. However, durability is still a big worry because he missed six games due to an ankle injury the previous season.
20. Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell
I am 6-2 and weigh 205 pounds.
Prior to the 2023 season, Mitchell, who had begun his career with Georgia, switched to Texas and rapidly established himself as a key member of the Longhorns’ offence. In terms of receptions (55), receiving yards (845), and touchdowns (11), he set career highs. Mitchell also possesses remarkable vertical speed (4.34 seconds for a 40-yard dash) and body control to break off routes despite being a larger receiver. In contested circumstances, he can make catches outside of his frame because to his strong hands. However, he needs to be more reliable in announcing his release schedule in spite of media attention.
21. Iowa’s Cooper DeJean, CB/S
6-1 in height and 203 lb
Though he played cornerback at Iowa, DeJean is an all-around defensive back who can play various positions in the secondary. He was a dynamic player with three career pick-sixes and the ability to force turnovers. Because of all the things he can do as a defensive backfield, I like his projection more at safety. DeJean might become a valuable rookie player very quickly after recovering from a lower-leg injury sustained in November thanks to his physicality, fluidity, and versatility.
22. LSU’s Brian Thomas Jr., WR
6-3 in height and 209 in weight
Thomas, a huge target and conventional X receiver, recently set career highs in receiving yards (1,177) and catches (68), and he led the FBS in touchdown grabs (17). He takes huge strides to get past opponents with a frightening vertical speed. Additionally, he excels in contested situations because of his exceptional hands and ball-tracking abilities. With plenty of potential as a complementing No. 2 option in the NFL, Thomas is a rising star.
23. Illinois’s Jer’Zhan Newton, DT
6-2 in height and 304 in weight
Playing every position along the defensive line, Newton is explosive. Despite his little stature, he finished with 42 pressures, 7.5 sacks, and a 11.4% defensive pressure rate, indicating that he is virtually unblockable up front. Given that he played 715 snaps, ranking ninth among all FBS defensive lineman, Newton’s endurance is one of the more underappreciated aspects of his grade. At the next level, he projects best as a 3-technique.
24. Alabama’s Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB
Size: 6-0 | Mass: 199
McKinstry is a skilled outside defender who is difficult to confound at the line. He is a long, energetic press-man corner. He has excellent eye discipline to read routes and respond accordingly, but he mostly relies on his instincts. Additionally, McKinstry has a good but modest skill set; he is a technician who regularly completes his responsibilities without being showy. He often shows up to wrap up and complete his tackles on ball carriers against the run. He possesses the vertical speed and sufficient short-area quickness to carry matchups. Targeting McKinstry last season, opponents completed 32.1% of their passes (9 of 28), which ranked 14th in the FBS. But during the combine’s medical examinations, a Jones fracture in his right foot was found, and following his pro day on March 20, he is anticipated to have surgery (though he should be prepared for training camp).
25. Oregon’s Jackson Powers-Johnson, C.
6-3 in height and 328 in weight
Powers-Johnson exhibits unwavering consistency. With his broad build, which makes it challenging for opponents to wrap around him, strong hands, and a sturdy anchor, he can immediately stop interior defenders in their tracks by sinking his weight. JPJ only played centre for one season (2022; he played right guard), but his polish makes it practically hard to detect. Powers-Johnson, regardless of position, was, in my opinion, the best Senior Bowl performer and has the potential to be a Day 1 starter.
26. Duke Graham Barton, C.
6 feet 5 inches tall, 313 pounds
Although Barton started his career with the Blue Devils as a centre, he has spent the last two seasons as a starter at offensive tackle. Because of his awareness, I see him playing centre again in the NFL, where he might start on Day 1. He plays through the whistle and is a gritty, strong blocker. Barton excels at running his feet on contact and rolling his hips as a run-blocker. When up against longer opponents, his weaknesses show through since he finds it difficult to countermove and realign his hands to obtain advantageous positions.
27. Texas A&M’s Edgerrin Cooper, LB
6-2 in height, 230 lbs.
Although the linebacker class is lacklustre, Cooper sticks out as a prototype for the contemporary NFL second-level defence. He possesses the abilities to blitz off the edge in addition to the range and instincts to man the controls inside. If Cooper had received enough pass-rush snaps to be eligible, his 26% pressure rate would have topped all FBS linebackers in 2023. Cooper also had 14 tackles for loss and eight sacks. Although he occasionally turns into an arm tackler, which results in wasted opportunities, his aggressive playing style can be both a blessing and a curse (12 missed tackles).
28. Nate Wiggins of Clemson, CB
6-1 in height and 173 in weight
Wiggins is a patient and quick defender, one of the best in the nation. He can stifle matchups with his versatility in man and zone coverage. He rarely loses control of his technique and sticks close to wide receivers. In addition to having excellent ball skills (three picks and 17 pass breakups over the previous two seasons), he also possesses some of the strongest vision and instincts in this class when it comes to reacting to routes. Additionally, he beat all defensive backs at the combine with a time of 4.28 seconds for the 40-yard dash.
29. Darius Robinson from Edge, Mo.
6 feet 5 inches tall, 285 pounds
Among the defensive lineman in this class with the most scheme versatility is Robinson. His 2023 stats included 8.5 sacks, first-step quickness, strong hands, and good finishing ability. However, Robinson is also a consistent physical player who plays as a run defender; in fact, I’ve seen him compared to Keion White, the defensive lineman for the Patriots. Following a strong performance at the Senior Bowl, Robinson is eligible to play in Round 1.
30. Chop Robinson of Penn State’s EDGE
6-3 in height, 254 lbs.
Regardless of position, Robinson is one of this class’s most explosive players because of his quickness, which allows him to consistently race past opponents. He demonstrated it in the combine with a 10-foot-8 broad leap and a 4.48-second 40-meter pace. Although he recorded four sacks in the previous season, if his 18% pressure rate had qualified, it would have been fourth-best in the FBS. I notice a lot of lower body flexibility to turn the corner fast and make blockers give up on their strategy. Robinson still needs to improve his physicality and discipline while setting the edge in his run defence, but his greatest asset is his pass-rush ability, which is where he shines. He still has to put weight on his frame because he will be a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL.
31. Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma, overtime
6-8 inches tall and 322 pounds
Guyton started his career at TCU (2020–21), but since coming to Oklahoma, he has grown significantly. He has experience at both tackle positions and allowed zero sacks in his most recent campaign. He took up residence on the right side, thriving in an area large enough for him to employ his arm length. Although his agility and footwork offer a solid base for pocket expansion, his lack of play strength is an issue. Guyton only has to gain more strength to advance to the following developmental phases. Scouts are enthralled with his potential at either tackle position after he shown intriguing tools at the Senior Bowl.
32. Keon Coleman, wide receiver, FSU
6-3 in height and 213 in weight
Coleman transferred from Michigan State prior to the previous season, and he immediately made an impression at FSU. In addition to being a powerful route runner and dominating at the catch point, his large body aids in his ability to play through contact. His ball-tracking abilities are reliable (he caught 11 touchdowns in 2023), and it seems as though he sees the ball slowly. However, there is still opportunity to increase the continuous separation in the areas below and outside of the red zone. His combine 40-second time wasn’t the best, but his measured speed doesn’t match his playing speed.
33. J.A. McCarthy, quarterback from Michigan
6-3 in height and 219 in weight
One of the most talked-about prospects in this draft cycle is McCarthy. In 12 of his 28 career starts, he only reached 25 or more passing attempts in a Michigan offence that prioritises the run and play-action concepts. The scouts desired to view more. Nevertheless, aside from an unusually subpar performance against Bowling Green early in the season, McCarthy showed good ball placement, anticipation, and movement when given the opportunity to toss the ball. In 2023, his completion percentage of 72.3% and QBR of 88.2 were both in the top six in the nation.
34. Arizona’s Jordan Morgan, OT
6 feet 5 inches tall, 311 pounds
After sustaining an ACL tear in 2022, Morgan decided to return to Arizona for his final year in 2023. With his thick build and strong blocking ability, he can anchor as a pass-protector. He can identify and convey defensive frameworks with speed. Regarding his NFL position, scouts are divided; some think he would be better at tackle, while others think he would be better at guard.
35. Georgia’s Ladd McConkey, WR
Size: 6-0 | Mass: 186
In this talented receiver class, McConkey may very well be the finest route runner overall. His suddenness and exaggerated body language at the top of his routes allow him routinely get open. He demonstrated his ability to reverse direction during his mid-March pro day. Despite a couple injuries, McConkey caught 30 passes for 478 yards and two touchdowns in 2023. He can find openings against zone looks and uses leverage to get fast wins versus man coverage. His game is ready for the NFL, and as a rookie, it will get him on the field quickly.
36. BYU’s Kingsley Suamataia, OT
Weight: 326 | Height: 6-5
Suamataia played right tackle for the Oregon Ducks during his freshman year before transferring to BYU prior to the 2022 season. As a redshirt sophomore last season, he switched to the left side, but he’s still getting used to the position’s specifics. NFL teams are smitten with Suamataia because he possesses every desirable quality, and his lower-half quickness keeps him square with most rushers. However, scouts still view him as a projection. He frequently plays with an excessive amount of forward body lean, which creates an unstable base. He also has uneven balance and hand placement. Suamataia has the ability to develop into a dependable starter at either tackle position in the future with more repetitions and strength.
37. Georgia’s Kamari Lassiter, CB
Size: 6-0 | Mass: 186
The best way to characterise Lassiter’s playing is as steady. He thrives when given the opportunity to press opponents and is most effective when he can contest matchups at the line. Although he likes to allow vertical separation, he has the transition ability to stay with receivers in routes in the short-to-intermediate areas. Additionally, he may be the most willing defensive back in this class to tackle against the run, displaying consistency in his finishing and balance. As Lassiter has only had one career interception, one concern will be concerning on-ball production (2021).
38. Texas’s Xavier Worthy, WR
Weight: 165 | Height: 5-11
Coach Steve Sarkisian grabbed Worthy as his first recruit after joining Texas. Worthy is a quick pass-catcher with some build who can split routes. Worthy’s combine stats showed us two sides of the story: despite weighing only 165 pounds, he ran the fastest 40-yard sprint since at least 2003 in 4.21 seconds. He is the epitome of a “sudden-change player”—someone who has the ability to change the score in a single play. His quickness enables him to quickly accumulate yards after the catch when he has the ball in space (579 of his 1,014 receiving yards from last season came after the catch). Worthy is also physically fit and competitive. Even though he has struggled with drops throughout his career, in 2023 his percentage of drops dropped from 8.8% in 2022 to 4.2%.
39. Adisa Isaac, Penn State EDGE
6-4 in height and 247 in weight
Since his Achilles tendon rupture prior to the 2021 season, Isaac has demonstrated further development. He is a quick runner up the field with the bend to finish around the corner. He is an explosive edge rusher. Last season, he recorded the seventh-highest pressure rate in the country (16.8%) with 7.5 sacks. He now understands and executes pass-rush manoeuvres better, and because he puts pressure on stunts in late-down situations, he is valuable. Isaac will likely need to start his professional career as a designated pass-rusher because of his lack of lower-body power, which is evident when taking on blocks. He will also likely need to continue adding bulk to his frame.
40. Missouri’s Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB
Weight: 183 | Height: 5-11
Rakestraw, a large, strong outside corner, can match most receivers in man coverage with his technique and change of direction. Rakestraw was targeted on just 8.4% of his coverage snaps in the previous season, indicating that he limited opponents despite his one career interception. Though his compulsive tendencies occasionally land him in hot water, his competitive spirit shines through on video. Rakestraw possesses untrainable physical characteristics.
41. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr., Washington
I am 6-2 and weigh 216 pounds.
Penix has had a difficult journey; during his time at Indiana, he sustained four consecutive season-ending injuries. He has, however, been able to maintain his health over the last two years after moving to Washington, though his appraisal will still heavily weigh durability. Penix is a lefty with a powerful throw and the ability to push the ball to any area of the field. Over the course of 15 games, he amassed 4,903 passing yards, 36 touchdown passes, and 11 interceptions. Penix can layer and distribute with ease when he can plant his feet; in the previous season, he completed 69.2% of his passes in this manner. With shuffling, that percentage dropped to 54.9%, and while moving, it dropped to 45.8%. Penix can go around a little, but he likes to win close to home.
42. South Carolina wide receiver Xavier Legette
6-1 in height and 221 in weight
Before hauling in 71 passes for 1,255 receiving yards and seven scores in 2023, Legette had only reached double digits in receptions in one of his previous four seasons. Despite having a linebacker’s build, he can easily enter and exit breaks by dropping his weight. Legette also puts a lot of effort into overcoming and triumphing over media attention; he seldom loses a route stem and maintains his competitiveness through contact.
43. Bo Nix, quarterback, Oregon
6-2 in height, 214 lbs.
For Nix, it has been a story of two careers. While at Auburn, he appeared to be an NFL afterthought, but after moving to Oregon prior to the 2022 season, he revitalised his career. Nix makes decisions quickly and doesn’t take long to get the ball out. In the Ducks’ timing-based system, he was an accurate passer as well. He finished the previous season with the greatest completion percentage in the nation, 77.4%. Additionally, he is a reliable passer who commits few errors, as evidenced by his 45 touchdown passes to just three interceptions.
44. Zachary Frazier, C., WV
6-3 in height and 313 in weight
Perhaps the toughest member of the centre group is Frazier. Think about this: He hobbled off the pitch at the conclusion of the 2023 season due to a broken leg in order to prevent a 10-second clock runoff. And his game tape is replete with moments of that kind of grit. Over the last two seasons, Frazier has given up only one sack and is an extremely reliable player. When healthy, he is expected to start early.
45. JJ Colson, linebacker, Michigan
6-2 in height and 238 in weight
Colson was a genuine downhill spark plug last season, serving as the cornerstone of the Wolverines’ defence. With his powerful running style, he filled 101 tackles last season. Furthermore, from a run defence standpoint, he is immediately prepared to contribute due to his strong sense of keying, reading, and diagnosing run schemes. Colson has to improve his zone awareness, and his man covering fluidity may be patchy, so he’s still a work in progress in that area.
46. Florida’s Ricky Pearsall, WR
6 feet 1 inch tall and 189 pounds
With a stellar performance at the Senior Bowl and a fantastic combine week (4.41 seconds for the 40-yard dash and 42 inches for the vertical), Pearsall has dominated the pre-draft process. The transfer from Arizona State has a flair for opening doors at all three levels and is a terrific route runner. When he can immediately generate separation, he performs best in short and intermediate areas. Pearsall can also reel in off-target passes thanks to his excellent grab radius. Although his skill is still developing, he could be able to play valuable snaps early in his professional career despite projecting as a WR2. By the end of 2023, he had four touchdowns and 965 yards from 65 catches.
47. Oregon’s Troy Franklin, WR
I am 6-2 and weigh 176 pounds.
Franklin is a powerful downfield threat and a coverage influencer who makes defensive backs scramble out of the way. He is great at tracking vertical throws and switches up the tempo of his routes to keep the opposition guessing. Last season, he caught 14 touchdown passes thrown at least 20 yards. At the next level, his role will need to be more focused because his small body hinders his ability to win in contested situations and his play strength. Franklin needs to improve both in his route stems and hand physicality at the line.
48. Texas’s T’Vondre Sweat, DT
6 feet 5 inches tall, 366 pounds
Sweat is a formidable opponent at the first level and a tremendous nose tackler, but he’s much more than just a gap-plugger. In addition to his ability to eat up blocks and provide second-level defenders freedom, he is a valuable pass-rusher who finished the previous season with two sacks, nine tackles for loss, and 22 pressures. Sweat is a classic 0-technique since it is difficult for blockers to move him about due to his large stature. He can instantly alter an NFL team’s run defence because he consistently keeps control at the point of attack.
49. Florida State’s Braden Fiske, a DT
6-4 in height and 292 in weight
After transferring from Western Michigan, Fiske had a breakout 2023 season with the Seminoles, improving with every passing game. I saw Fiske in person during the ACC Championship game versus Louisville, where he recorded two sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss. He had ten run stops in the interior and six sacks for the season. He has also shown promise in the pre-draft process, as evidenced by his excellent combine and outstanding Senior Bowl performance. In the Indianapolis 40-yard sprint (4.78 seconds), broad jump (9 feet 9 inches), vertical (33.5 inches), and short shuttle (4.37 seconds), Fiske won first place among the interior defenders.
50. Michigan’s Mike Sainristil, CB
5-9 in height and 182 in weight
Sainristil can play outside corner as well as nickel, but his thin build will probably keep him inside at the next level. Nevertheless, nickel corners are now crucial in the NFL, and Sainristil consistently produced plays that changed games the previous season. In 2023, he picks off six passes, demonstrating good ball skills and adding toughness to a defence. Is he going to be selected in the top 50? Not likely. However, he’s the one inside corner that I could see breaking into the starting lineup very early in their rookie campaign.
Rankings by position
Quarterback:
1. USC’s Caleb Williams
2. North Carolina’s Drake Maye
3. LSU’s Jayden Daniels
4. J.A. McCarthy, Michigan
5. Penix Jr. Michael, Washington
Reversing course:
1. Jonathan Brooks, the Texan
2. From Florida State, Trey Benson
3. Michigan’s Blake Corum
4. Wisconsin’s Braelon Allen
5. Shawn Lloyd MarShawn, USC
H-back/fullback:
1. Kansas State’s Ben Sinnott
2. Florida State’s Jaheim Bell
3. Holker, Dallin, Colorado State
Broad receiver:
1. Oh State’s Marvin Harrison Jr.
2. Malik Nabers from LSU
3. Odunze, Rome, Washington
4. Texas’s Adonai Mitchell
5. LSU’s Brian Thomas Jr.
End of the tight:
1. Georgia’s Brock Bowers
2. Texas’s Ja’Tavion Sanders
3. Penn State’s Theo Johnson
4. Ohio State’s Cade Stover
5. Jared Wiley from TCU
Attacking tackle:
1. Joe Alt from Notre Dame
2. Fashanu Olumuyiwa, Penn State
3. At Oregon State, Taliese Fuaga
4. Latham, Alabama JC
5. GA’s Amarius Mims
Guard:
1. Fautanu Troy, Washington
2. UConn’s Christian Haynes
3. Kansas State’s Cooper Beebe
4. Michigan’s Zak Zinter
5. Kansas’s Dominick Puni
Centre:
1. Jackson, Oregon Powers-Johnson
2. Duke of Graham Barton
3. West Virginian Zach Frazier
4. Georgian Sedrick Van Pran
5. Beaux Limmer, Arkansas
Rusher on the edge:
1. Turner, Dallas, Alabama
2. Florida State’s Jared Verse
3. UCLA Laiatu Latu
4. Missouri’s Darius Robinson
5. Robinson Chop, Penn State
Defending tackle:
1. Texas’s Byron Murphy II
2. Newton, Jer’Zhan, Illinois
3. Texas’s T’Vondre Sweat
4. Fiske Braden, Florida State
5. Kris Jenkins from Michigan
Linebacker:
1. Cooper, Edgerrin, Texas A&M
2. Michigan’s Junior Colson
3. Wilson Payton, NC State
4. Grey, Cedric, North Carolina
5. Clemson, Jeremiah Trotter Jr.
Reverse corner:
1. Terrion Arnold, the state of Alabama
2. Quinyon Mitchell and Toledo
3. McKinstry, Alabama’s Kool-Aid
4. Wiggins, Nate, Clemson
5. GA’s Kamari Lassiter
Security:
1. Iowa’s Cooper DeJean
2. Minnesota’s Tyler Nubin
3. Miami’s Kamren Kinchens
4. Bullard, Javon, Georgia
5. USC’s Calen Bullock
The kicker:
1. Arkansas’s Cam Little
2. Alabama’s Will Reichard
3. Stanford’s Joshua Karty
Bettors:
1. Iowan Tory Taylor
2. Tech’s Austin McNamara
3. From South Carolina, Kai Kroeger
Long-snapper:
1. Wisconsin’s Peter Bowden
2. Nebraska’s Marco Ortiz
3. Shimko Joe, NC State
The 2024 NFL draft is coming up fast. The combine and Senior Bowl are behind us, and we’re through quite a bit of free agent signings. There’s still time for changes in how this offense-heavy draft class stacks up, but where do things stand right now?
After months of film study, going on the road for games throughout the college football season and getting an up-close look at players at the Senior Bowl, East-West Shrine Bowl, combine and a handful of pro days, I ranked my top 50 prospects for the 2024 class. I also included in-depth scouting notes and interesting statistics on each player, as well as my top five positional rankings at the bottom.
1. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
Height: 6-foot-4 | Weight: 209 pounds
Harrison has rare body control, strong hands and great flexibility, putting him in line with the top receiver prospects we’ve seen this century.
Despite inconsistent QB play at Ohio State in 2023, he still managed to be arguably the most dangerous playmaker in the country, compiling 67 catches for 1,211 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns. He’s able to win in a variety of ways, showing the route-running skills of a smaller receiver.
And Harrison is an instant-impact type of prospect with the potential to be a top-10 receiver in the NFL as early as his rookie season.
2. Caleb Williams, QB, USC
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 214
Williams hasn’t wavered as my QB1 in this class. I see a lot of “wow” moments on tape, a product of his confidence in his arm and terrific playmaking ability. He’s capable of dissecting defensive looks and delivering the ball quickly.
But on the flip side, his all-or-nothing habits will need to be tempered, as he tends to want the highlight-worthy play rather than just taking what the defense gives him too often.
Williams finished the season with a 72.9% completion percentage on throws from inside the pocket (fifth-best in the FBS), and he threw for 3,633 yards, 30 touchdown passes and five interceptions in 2023.
3. Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 223
Watch his tape, and you’ll see five or six plays per game that make you marvel at Maye’s overall ability. He has the arm strength to get the ball to all levels, completing 35 passes of 20-plus air yards — third-most in the country. He has prototypical size and is also an underrated runner.
Progression effectiveness is an area where Maye will need to improve, as he tends to hang onto reads too long and compound mistakes instead of getting through to the next available option. I see some similarities to Justin Herbert, though Maye’s arm isn’t quite as strong.
4. Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 200
Explosive is the best word to describe Nabers’ game. The LSU offense involved him on quick screens, jet sweeps and reverses, as he’s a dynamic and competitive playmaker who can turn short passes into long gains.
Nabers led the country in receiving yards per game at 120.7 and forced 27 missed tackles on receptions (sixth), proving that he’s a well-rounded route runner who can put stress on defenses at any moment because of his ability to create extra opportunities. He has some shades of Bears receiver DJ Moore to his game.
5. Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 210
Every year, there’s a quarterback who makes a surprise ascension after a breakout season. That’s Daniels this time around. He finished first in the FBS in Total QBR (95.6) and passing yards per attempt (11.7).
An exceptional vertical passer, Daniels has a great feel for layering the ball, completing 67% of passes thrown 20-plus yards downfield. Daniels is also an instinctive runner who can turn quick scrambles into explosive plays. The next step for him is learning to drive the ball in the intermediate areas and showcasing more consistent ball placement over the middle.
6. Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame
Height: 6-9 | Weight: 321
There isn’t another prospect I was more impressed with while out on the road live scouting this past year. Alt came to the Irish as a tight end, but his transition to offensive tackle over the past three seasons has been seamless. He’s the most versatile blocker in this loaded OT class.
Thanks to unique arm length, he is difficult for defenders to get around — but he also overwhelms pass-rushers. Alt had some technique and flexibility question marks coming into last season, but he has fixed those issues and become a model of consistency. And he’s quick, posting a 5.05-second 40-yard dash at the combine with a 1.73-second 10-yard split — tied for ninth-best among offensive linemen. After allowing one sack in 2023, Alt is a plug-and-play left tackle who will be a plus starter for more than a decade.
7. Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 212
A silky-smooth receiver, Odunze is the most polished player at the position in this class. He hardly ever allows defenders to dictate his route tempos while operating primarily from the outside, and with 92 catches for 1,640 receiving yards and 13 touchdown catches last season, Odunze is a sure-handed target who makes catches in all types of situations.
His game flourished in the Huskies’ vertical offense, as 10 of his touchdown catches came on those patterns — and Odunze ran a solid 4.45-second 40 at the combine. His 24 contested catches were tied for the most in the FBS, as he has very strong hands and body control at the catch point.
8. Olumuyiwa Fashanu, OT, Penn State
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 312
Fashanu is as consistent as they come — one sack allowed during his three-year career as a starter — and his balance, strength and recovery ability in pass protection are NFL-ready. His run blocking remains a work in progress, but his physicality and hand placement have improved. His ability to identify and execute against different defensive scheme looks is exceptional — and a big key to Fashanu’s consistency. He has franchise left tackle written all over him and projects as a Day 1 starter.
9. Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 243
Bowers’ formational versatility and reliability at the catch point are unmatched in this class. The clear TE1 can be a mismatch all over the field. One of the most impressive parts about his game is his run-after-catch ability; he’s difficult to bring down. His 494 receiving yards after the catch and 253 after first contact both led all FBS tight ends last season. Positional value will come into the equation with Bowers, but he’s one of the best overall playmakers in this class. Bowers didn’t participate in combine workouts or at Georgia’s pro day, but he is expected to have his own workout for NFL teams on April 10.
10. Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 247
The biggest question for Turner entering the 2023 season was how well he would assume the Will Anderson Jr. role in the Alabama defense — and he delivered with 10 sacks and the FBS’ eighth-best pressure rate of 16.7%. Turner’s upside is immense, and while he still needs to add some nuance to his pass-rush arsenal, he already has an intriguing starter kit of tools. He’s also improving as a run defender, consistently setting a firm edge and using his length to contain runs.
Turner has even shown he’s comfortable with dropping in coverage — he has a versatile skill set that can fit in many defensive fronts. He had the fastest 40 time (4.46 seconds) and highest vertical leap (40.5 inches) of all defensive ends at the combine.
11. Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 189
He came to Bama as a raw safety, but Arnold transitioned to cornerback in 2022, where the redshirt sophomore had five interceptions this past season. He is an effortless mover with the hip mobility to turn and run with receivers, and his time at safety has helped him when asked to play in the slot. Arnold tends to be grabby at the top of routes and when re-directing, and he will need to learn to trust his technique more, but his upside could make him the first corner off the board in April.
12. Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 254
A heavy-handed pass-rusher, Verse burst onto the scene after transferring from Albany prior to the 2022 season. He has plenty of knock-back strength at the point of attack, and he often displays speed-to-power moves to help generate pressure, collapsing the pocket by keeping offensive tackles off-balance. He had a slow start to the 2023 season but followed that up with a dominant back-end stretch — 6.5 of his nine sacks came during the final five regular-season games. Verse’s skill set is similar to that of Cowboys pass-rusher DeMarcus Lawrence in that he can win with speed, power and/or finesse while also having the versatility to play multiple spots up front.
13. Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 324
As a pass-protector, Fuaga plays with enough balance to keep his frame in front of defenders, and we saw his quick footwork at the combine during positional drills. His hand power is his best trait, though — he shows unique strength to strike and end pass-rush reps quickly. Fuaga seeks to impose his will throughout games, and he allowed one sack over his two seasons as a full-time starter. He’s an ideal fit in a man-blocking scheme or one that would allow him to use his play strength and physicality. Fuaga must learn to play with more control, as six of his eight penalties last season came on false starts.
14. Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 259
Latu is the most skilled pass-rusher in this draft class. His combination of get-off quickness, bend and finishing ability helped him take his game to another level last season. He was one of two players with a pressure rate above 20% (20.4%) last season, and he had 23.5 sacks since transferring in from Washington in 2022. Latu is also stout against the run and comfortable with dropping in coverage, even recording two interceptions last season. Medicals remain the biggest question — he was forced to sit out for two seasons because of a 2020 neck injury — but Latu has the potential to be an impact player right away because of his pass-rush traits.
15. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 195
Mitchell caught scouts’ attention in 2022 after a four-interception performance against Northern Illinois. The linchpin of the Toledo secondary bounces between playing outside, nickel and safety. But wherever he is, he is a ball magnet; Mitchell was third in the nation with 15 pass breakups last season. He plays with busy eyes and is quick to plant and drive on routes in front of him. And Mitchell allowed completions on 35.6% of passes when he was the primary defender in 2023, top-30 in the country. His draft stock has steadily improved, and he now has a chance to be selected in the top 15 after a great Senior Bowl showing and a 4.33 in the 40-yard dash at the combine.
16. JC Latham, OT, Alabama
Height: 6-6 | Weight: 342
Latham is the definition of a people-mover. He’s a dominant run-blocker with the power to generate plenty of movement at the first level. I see impressive quickness for a blocker of his size, and his upper and lower body remain in sync as his base helps him anchor against pass-rushers. Once Latham gets his hands on defenders, he can quickly halt their pass-rush moves, evidenced by two sacks allowed in as many seasons as a starter in Tuscaloosa. He can be susceptible to inside countermoves, though. Latham will fit best with an NFL team that prioritizes downhill running.
17. Byron Murphy II, DT, Texas
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 297
Murphy is a versatile 3-technique coming off a breakout season (his first as a starter). He’s a stout presence against the run, consistently able to penetrate the first level to make plays in the backfield (6.5 tackles for loss and 11 run stops last season). Murphy also has the hand quickness to defeat one-on-one blocks and the lower-body strength to hold up against double-teams. And we saw his explosiveness at the combine, as he ran a 4.87-second 40 and jumped 33 inches in the vert — both ranking in the top three among DTs. But his greatest asset is causing disruption as a pass-rusher. Murphy recorded a 12.7% pressure rate while at defensive tackle last year, the highest rate in the FBS.
18. Troy Fautanu, OT/G, Washington
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 317
Fautanu settled into the left tackle spot for Washington in 2023 after seesawing back and forth between tackle and guard throughout his career. I might try him at offensive tackle first in the pros, but he has better upside as a high-level guard at the next level. A sudden and physical blocker, Fautanu plays the game with active feet and aggressive hands (two sacks allowed over 1,249 career pass-block snaps), and he looks to finish every defender he encounters. Because of his lower-half quickness, he’s hardly ever out of position, and he plays through the whistle. I was really impressed with his combine showing, too.
19. Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia
Height: 6-8 | Weight: 340
The sample size is small with Mims — he only started eight games over the past two seasons — but the film is very impressive. He has only played on the right side during his career but has the movement skills to transition to the left side. Mims has the lower-body quickness to mirror and match pass-rushers, and his balance helps him to re-direct and recover against countermoves. His frame makes it hard for rushers to get around him, too. And Mims is a mauler in the run game — his power can quickly overwhelm defenders at the point of attack. Durability, though, remains a major concern after he missed six games last season with an ankle issue.
20. Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 205
After originally starting his career with Georgia, Mitchell transferred to Texas before the 2023 season and quickly became a big part of the Longhorns’ offense. He had career-highs in receptions (55), receiving yards (845) and touchdowns (11). And despite being a bigger receiver, Mitchell has impressive vertical speed (4.34-second 40-yard dash) and the body control to break off routes. He also has strong hands to make catches outside his frame and in contested situations. But he must become more consistent with his release plans against press coverage.
21. Cooper DeJean, CB/S, Iowa
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 203
DeJean is an all-around defensive back who can wear multiple hats in the secondary, though he primarily played corner at Iowa. An electrifying playmaker who can generate turnovers, he had three career pick-sixes. I like his projection better at safety because of all he can do in a defensive backfield, and with his physicality, fluidity and versatility, DeJean could quickly turn into a key contributor as a rookie after healing up from a lower-leg injury suffered in November.
22. Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 209
A traditional X receiver, Thomas is a big target who just hit career-highs in catches (68) and receiving yards (1,177) while leading the FBS in touchdown receptions (17). With threatening vertical speed, he uses his long strides to accelerate past defenders. And thanks to excellent hands and good ball-tracking skills, he’s also great in contested situations. Thomas is an ascending talent who has a lot of upside as a complementary No. 2 option in the NFL.
23. Jer’Zhan Newton, DT, Illinois
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 304
Newton is explosive and plays every spot along the defensive line. Despite a lack of length, he is seemingly unblockable up front, finishing with 42 pressures, 7.5 sacks and a 11.4% defensive pressure rate. One of the more underrated parts of Newton’s evaluation is his endurance, as his 715 snaps played ranked seventh among all FBS defensive linemen. He projects best as a 3-technique at the next level.
24. Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 199
A long and active press-man corner, McKinstry is a polished outside defender who is hard to confuse at the line. He’s heavily reliant on his instincts, with great eye discipline to read and react to routes. And McKinstry’s skill set is strong but understated — he’s not flashy, he’s just a technician who consistently takes care of his assignments. He has adequate short-area quickness and the vertical speed needed to carry with matchups, and he frequently shows up to wrap up and finish his tackles on ball carriers against the run. Opponents completed 32.1% percent of their passes (9 of 28) when targeting McKinstry last season, 14th-best in the FBS. However, a Jones fracture in his right foot was discovered during medical checks at the combine, and he’s expected to undergo surgery after his March 20 pro day (and he should be ready for training camp).
25. Jackson Powers-Johnson, C, Oregon
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 328
Powers-Johnson is as consistent as they come. He has a wide frame that makes it difficult for defenders to get around him, strong hands and a durable anchor, with the ability to sink his weight and quickly stop the rush of interior defenders. JPJ has only played center for one season — he played right guard in 2022 — but it’s nearly impossible to tell because he’s so polished. Powers-Johnson has Day 1 starter potential, and I thought he was the best Senior Bowl performer, regardless of position.
26. Graham Barton, C, Duke
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 313
Barton originally began his career with the Blue Devils as a center but has been a starter at offensive tackle over the past two seasons. I see him ending up back at center in the NFL, where he has the potential to be a Day 1 starter because of his awareness. He’s a tough and gritty blocker who plays through the whistle. As a run-blocker, Barton is excellent with rolling his hips and running his feet on contact. His flaws are exposed when facing longer defenders, as he struggles with counter moves and re-adjusting his hands to gain winning positions.
27. Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Texas A&M
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 230
It’s an underwhelming linebacker class, but Cooper stands out as a model of the modern-day NFL second-level defender. He not only has the range and instincts to man the controls inside but also the traits to blitz off the edge. Cooper’s 26% pressure percentage would have led all FBS linebackers in 2023 if he had enough pass-rush snaps to qualify, and he added 14 tackles for loss and eight sacks. His aggressive playing style can be a gift and a curse, though, as he occasionally becomes an arm tackler, which leads to missed opportunities (12 missed tackles).
28. Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 173
One of the most improved defenders in the country, Wiggins is patient and sudden. He has the versatility in man and zone coverage to suffocate matchups. He hardly ever panics in his technique, staying glued to wide receivers. His vision and instincts in reacting to routes are among the best of this class, and he also has very good ball skills (three picks and 17 pass breakups over the past two seasons). And his 4.28-second 40-yard dash time paced all of the defensive backs at the combine.
29. Darius Robinson, EDGE, Missouri
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 285
Robinson is one of the most scheme-versatile defensive linemen in this class. With heavy hands, first-step quickness and solid finishing ability, he had 8.5 sacks in 2023. But Robinson is also a dependable run defender who constantly plays with a physical nature, and I’ve heard comparisons to Patriots defensive lineman Keion White. After an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl, Robinson has the chance to go in Round 1.
30. Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 254
Robinson is among the most explosive players in this class, regardless of position, with the quickness to routinely race past blockers. We saw it at the combine, when he posted a 10-foot-8 broad jump and 4.48-second time in the 40. He had four sacks last season, but his 18% pressure rate would have been fourth-best in the FBS had it qualified. I see plenty of lower-body flexibility to quickly turn the corner and force blockers to abandon their technique. His run defense remains a work in progress, as Robinson must be more physical and disciplined when setting the edge, but most of his value comes as a pass-rusher — where he excels. He’ll be a 3-4 outside linebacker in the NFL but still needs to continue to add weight to his frame.
31. Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma
Height: 6-8 | Weight: 322
After beginning his career at TCU (2020-21), Guyton has developed quite a bit since arriving at Oklahoma, gaining experience at both tackle spots (zero sacks allowed last season). He settled in on the right side, thriving in space where he can use his arm length. His footwork and quickness provide a dependable foundation to expand the pocket, but a lack of play strength is a problem. Guyton simply needs to get stronger to unlock the next stages of his development. He flashed intriguing tools at the Senior Bowl, and scouts are enamored with his potential at either tackle spot.
32. Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 213
Coleman made an instant impact with FSU after transferring from Michigan State before last season. His big frame helps him play through contact, and he’s also a strong route runner and dominant at the catch point. He has consistent ball-tracking skills (11 touchdown catches in 2023); he seems to see the ball in slow motion. But creating consistent separation outside of the red zone and in the underneath areas has room for improvement. His 4.61-second run in the 40 at the combine wasn’t ideal, though he plays faster than his timed speed would indicate.
33. J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 219
McCarthy is one of the most talked about prospects in this draft cycle. In a Michigan offense that leans on the run and incorporates play-action principles, he only reached 25 or more passing attempts in 12 of his 28 career starts. Scouts wanted to see more. That said, McCarthy displayed ball placement, anticipation and mobility when he has been allowed to throw the ball, outside of an uncharacteristically poor three-interception performance against Bowling Green early last season. His 88.2 QBR and 72.3% completion percentage were both top-six numbers in the country in 2023.
34. Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 311
Morgan suffered a torn ACL in 2022 and opted to return to Arizona for his 2023 senior season. He is a stout blocker with a dense frame, which enables him to anchor as a pass-protector. He’s able to quickly call out and communicate defensive structures. Scouts have mixed opinions on his NFL position, as some like him at tackle, while others believe he has more upside at guard.
35. Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 186
A strong argument could be made that McConkey is the best overall route runner in this loaded receiver class. Overexaggerating body movements and suddenness at the top of his routes helps him consistently get open. His change-of-direction traits were on full display at his mid-March pro day. McConkey — who caught 30 passes for 478 yards and a pair of scores in 2023 while dealing with a few injuries — leverages his way into quick wins against man coverage and can find holes against zone looks. He has an NFL-ready game that’s going to get him on the field very early as a rookie.
36. Kingsley Suamataia, OT, BYU
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 326
After spending his first season at Oregon, Suamataia transferred to BYU before the 2022 campaign and played right tackle for the Cougars. He transitioned to the left side as a redshirt sophomore last year, and he’s still feeling his way through the details of the position. Suamataia has all the traits that NFL teams covet, and his lower-half suddenness helps him stay square with most rushers. But he’s still a projection for scouts. His balance and hand placement are inconsistent, and he often plays with too much forward body lean (which leads to an unstable base). With increased reps and added strength, Suamataia has the potential to be a dependable starter at either tackle spot in the future.
37. Kamari Lassiter, CB, Georgia
Height: 6-0 | Weight: 186
Lassiter’s game can be best described as steady. He’s at his best when allowed to play press-man, thriving when able to challenge matchups at the line. He has the transition ability to stick with receivers in routes in the short-to-intermediate areas (but tends to allow separation vertically). And his willingness as a tackler against the run is arguably the best of any defensive back in this class, showing consistency with balance and finishing. One question will be about on-ball production; Lassiter has one career interception (2021).
38. Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 165
The first recruit that coach Steve Sarkisian signed after being hired at Texas, Worthy is a speedy but slightly built pass-catcher who can create separation in routes. We saw both sides in his combine numbers: Worthy weighed in at just 165 pounds but then ran the fastest 40-yard dash since at least 2003 at 4.21 seconds. He is the definition of a “sudden-change player” — a guy who can flip the scoreboard in one play. When he has the ball in space, his speed allows him to gain yards after the catch in a hurry (579 of his 1,014 receiving yards last season came after the catch). Worthy is competitive and physical, too. And while drops have plagued him throughout his career, his drop percentage reduced from 8.8% in 2022 to 4.2% in 2023.
39. Adisa Isaac, EDGE, Penn State
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 247
Isaac has continued to show growth since his return from a torn Achilles before the 2021 season. He is an explosive edge rusher who gets up the field in a hurry and has the bend to turn the corner and finish. He had 7.5 sacks and the nation’s seventh-highest pressure rate at 16.8% last season. His understanding and execution of pass-rush moves has improved, and he has value in late-down situations by creating pressure on stunts. Isaac will need to continue to add mass onto his frame — his lack of lower-body strength shows up when taking on blocks — and he will probably need to primarily be a designated pass-rusher at the beginning of his pro career.
40. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri
Height: 5-11 | Weight: 183
A big, physical outside corner, Rakestraw has the technique and change-of-direction skills to match most receivers in man coverage. He had one career interception, but he limits opponents; Rakestraw was targeted on just 8.4% of his coverage snaps last season. His handsy nature can get him in trouble at times, but his competitiveness is evident on tape. Rakestraw has physical traits that aren’t coachable.
41. Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 216
It has been a long road for Penix, suffering four straight season-ending injuries while at Indiana. But after transferring to Washington, he has managed to stay healthy over the past two years — though durability will still be a major talking point with his evaluation. Penix is a hard-throwing lefty who can push the ball to any part of the field. He compiled 4,903 passing yards, 36 touchdown passes and 11 interceptions over 15 games. When he’s able to set his feet, Penix can layer and distribute with ease, as he completed 69.2% of his passes last season when planted. That number slipped to 54.9% when shuffling and 45.8% while on the move. Penix has some mobility, but he prefers to win from within the pocket.
42. Xavier Legette, WR, South Carolina
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 221
Legette only reached double-digit catches in one of four seasons before grabbing 71 receptions for 1,255 receiving yards and seven touchdowns in 2023. He’s built like a linebacker but is able to sink his weight to get in and out of breaks with ease. Legette also works hard to fight through and win against press coverage — he is hardly ever knocked off his route stems and remains competitive through contact.
43. Bo Nix, QB, Oregon
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 214
It has been a tale of two careers for Nix. He was seemingly an NFL afterthought while at Auburn, but he revived his career after transferring to Oregon before the 2022 season. Nix is a quick decision-maker and wastes little time getting the ball out. He’s also an accurate passer who operated in a timing-based Ducks system, finishing last season with a 77.4% completion rate (best in the country). And with 45 touchdown passes to three interceptions, he is an efficient thrower who doesn’t make many mistakes.
44. Zach Frazier, C, West Virginia
Height: 6-3 | Weight: 313
Frazier is arguably the toughest of the center group. Consider: After suffering a broken leg at the end of the 2023 season, he limped his way off the field to avoid a 10-second clock runoff. And that type of grit is littered throughout his game film. Frazier surrendered just one sack over the past two seasons and is as consistent as they come. He projects as an early starter once fully healthy.
45. Junior Colson, LB, Michigan
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 238
Colson was the anchor of the Wolverines’ defense last season as a true downhill spark plug. He fills running lanes with authority, making 101 tackles last season. And with a good feel for keying, reading and diagnosing run schemes, he is ready to contribute right away from a run defense perspective. But Colson remains a work in progress in coverage, as his zone awareness must improve and his fluidity in man coverage can be inconsistent.
46. Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida
Height: 6-1 | Weight: 189
Pearsall has aced the pre-draft process, standing out at the Senior Bowl and then having a really good combine week (4.41-second 40-yard dash and 42-inch vertical). The Arizona State transfer is a natural route runner with a knack for getting open at all three levels. He’s at his best in the short and intermediate areas where he can create separation right away. Pearsall also has a great catch radius to reel in off-target passes. He projects as a future WR2, but the maturity of his game could give him an opportunity to play quality snaps early in his pro career. He finished 2023 with 65 catches for 965 yards and four TDs.
47. Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
Height: 6-2 | Weight: 176
An explosive downfield target, Franklin is a coverage influencer who forces defensive backs to retreat immediately. He varies his route tempos to keep the opposition guessing and is excellent in tracking vertical throws — six of his 14 touchdown catches last season came on passes thrown at least 20 yards. His role will need to be specific at the next level, as his slender frame limits his play strength and ability to win in contested situations. Franklin must get better with his hand physicality at the line and in his route stems, too.
48. T’Vondre Sweat, DT, Texas
Height: 6-5 | Weight: 366
A massive nose tackle, Sweat is an immovable force at the first level, but he’s far from just a gap-plugger. Eating up blocks and allowing second-level defenders to roam free is part of his game, but he’s also a pocket-pusher with value as a pass-rusher (two sacks, nine tackles for loss and 22 pressures last season). Sweat is a prototypical 0-technique, as his wide frame makes it challenging for blockers to displace him. He always maintains control at the point of attack, and he has the potential to immediately change a team’s run defense in the NFL.
49. Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State
Height: 6-4 | Weight: 292
Fiske transferred from Western Michigan and enjoyed a breakout season with the Seminoles in 2023, continuing to get better each game. I had an opportunity to see Fiske live against Louisville in the ACC Championship, when he had 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks. On the season, he had six sacks and 10 run stops on the interior. He has impressed during the pre-draft process, too, as he had a standout Senior Bowl and terrific combine. Fiske finished first among all interior defenders in the vertical (33.5-inches), broad jump (9-foot-9), 40-yard dash (4.78 seconds) and short shuttle (4.37 seconds) in Indianapolis.
50. Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan
Height: 5-9 | Weight: 182
Sainristil has experience at both nickel and outside corner, but his lean frame will likely keep him inside at the next level. Even so, nickel corners have become important in today’s NFL, and Sainristil constantly made game-changing plays last season. He brings toughness to a defense and shows good ball skills, picking off six passes in 2023. Will he be drafted in the top 50? Unlikely. But if there’s one inside corner who I could see becoming a starter very early in their rookie season, he’s the guy.
Positional rankings
Quarterback
:
1. Caleb Williams, USC
2. Drake Maye, North Carolina
3. Jayden Daniels, LSU
4. J.J. McCarthy, Michigan
5. Michael Penix Jr., Washington
Running back:
1. Jonathon Brooks, Texas
2. Trey Benson, Florida State
3. Blake Corum, Michigan
4. Braelon Allen, Wisconsin
5. MarShawn Lloyd, USC
Fullback/H-back
:
1. Ben Sinnott, Kansas State
2. Jaheim Bell, Florida State
3. Dallin Holker, Colorado State
Wide receiver
:
1. Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State
2. Malik Nabers, LSU
3. Rome Odunze, Washington
4. Adonai Mitchell, Texas
5. Brian Thomas Jr., LSU
Tight end
:
1. Brock Bowers, Georgia
2. Ja’Tavion Sanders, Texas
3. Theo Johnson, Penn State
4. Cade Stover, Ohio State
5. Jared Wiley, TCU
Offensive tackle
:
1. Joe Alt, Notre Dame
2. Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
3. Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State
4. JC Latham, Alabama
5. Amarius Mims, Georgia
Guard:
1. Troy Fautanu, Washington
2. Christian Haynes, UConn
3. Cooper Beebe, Kansas State
4. Zak Zinter, Michigan
5. Dominick Puni, Kansas
Center
:
1. Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon
2. Graham Barton, Duke
3. Zach Frazier, West Virginia
4. Sedrick Van Pran, Georgia
5. Beaux Limmer, Arkansas
Edge rusher
:
1. Dallas Turner, Alabama
2. Jared Verse, Florida State
3. Laiatu Latu, UCLA
4. Darius Robinson, Missouri
5. Chop Robinson, Penn State
Defensive tackle
:
1. Byron Murphy II, Texas
2. Jer’Zhan Newton, Illinois
3. T’Vondre Sweat, Texas
4. Braden Fiske, Florida State
5. Kris Jenkins, Michigan
Linebacker
:
1. Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M
2. Junior Colson, Michigan
3. Payton Wilson, NC State
4. Cedric Gray, North Carolina
5. Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson
Cornerback:
1. Terrion Arnold, Alabama
2. Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo
3. Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama
4. Nate Wiggins, Clemson
5. Kamari Lassiter, Georgia
Safety
:
1. Cooper DeJean, Iowa
2. Tyler Nubin, Minnesota
3. Kamren Kinchens, Miami
4. Javon Bullard, Georgia
5. Calen Bullock, USC
Kicker
:
1. Cam Little, Arkansas
2. Will Reichard, Alabama
3. Joshua Karty, Stanford
Punter
:
1. Tory Taylor, Iowa
2. Austin McNamara, Texas Tech
3. Kai Kroeger, South Carolina
Long-snapper
:
1. Peter Bowden, Wisconsin
2. Marco Ortiz, Nebraska
3. Joe Shimko, NC State
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