The 2024 NFL Draft’s first round was filled with excitement and surprises as three quarterbacks were selected in the first three picks. A total of six quarterbacks were taken in the first 12 picks, showcasing the league’s focus on developing young quarterbacks. The first defensive player was not selected until the 15th overall pick, leading to a mini run of defensive players being chosen. The round featured a total of five trades, including two involving the Minnesota Vikings and a shocking deal between two of the AFC’s top teams. Despite the first round being completed, there are still six more rounds to go with a wealth of talent still available.
The first round results of the 2024 NFL Draft included a mix of top quarterbacks, wide receivers, offensive and defensive linemen, and defensive players. Notable picks included Caleb Williams going first overall to the Chicago Bears, Jayden Daniels being selected second by the Washington Commanders, and Drake Maye taken third by the New England Patriots. The Los Angeles Chargers picked Joe Alt, the New York Giants selected Malik Nabers, and the Tennessee Titans chose JC Latham. The Atlanta Falcons surprised many with their pick of Michael Penix Jr., while the Minnesota Vikings made two trades to secure J.J. McCarthy and Dallas Turner.
Several trades occurred during the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, adding to the excitement of the event. The New York Jets traded their 10th pick and a sixth-round pick to the Minnesota Vikings for the 11th pick and additional picks. The Jacksonville Jaguars traded their 17th pick to the Vikings for the 23rd pick and multiple future picks. The Dallas Cowboys made a trade with the Detroit Lions, exchanging picks and a future seventh-round pick. The Kansas City Chiefs also made a trade with the Buffalo Bills, swapping picks and future selections. The Bills later traded with the Carolina Panthers to acquire additional picks.
The draft showcased a mix of top college talent being selected by NFL teams, with a focus on building for the future. Teams strategically made trades to secure the players they coveted, leading to a dynamic and competitive first round. With six more rounds to go, there is still plenty of excitement and prospects left on the board for teams to choose from. The first round sets the stage for the rest of the draft, as teams look to fill their rosters with young talent and build for the upcoming season. Overall, the 2024 NFL Draft’s first round was a thrilling and eventful start to the annual selection event.
