The first round of the 2024 NFL Draft was filled with excitement, with six quarterbacks taken in the first 12 picks and 14 offensive players selected in the first 14 picks. The Atlanta Falcons made a surprising move at pick No. 8, shocking the world by selecting Michael Penix Jr. Despite this unexpected move, there were several winners and losers from the first round of the draft. The Chicago Bears emerged as one of the biggest winners after selecting quarterback Caleb Williams and wide receiver Rome Odunze. With Williams being touted as one of the best quarterback prospects in recent memory, the Bears are poised for success in the upcoming season.
Offensive players dominated the first round of the draft, with an NFL-record 14 consecutive picks used on offensive players. In total, 23 offensive players were selected, including six quarterbacks, seven wide receivers, nine offensive linemen, and one tight end. The San Francisco 49ers were also named winners of the draft after sticking to their original plan and selecting a wide receiver despite rumors of trading up. Although the player they selected may not have been the top choice according to experts, the 49ers remained satisfied with their pick.
On the other hand, the Denver Broncos were among the losers of the first round after seemingly panicking and selecting Bo Nix with the No. 12 pick. Nix, a 24-year-old quarterback, was not expected to be a first-round pick and will now compete for a starting spot with Zach Wilson. The Las Vegas Raiders were also named losers of the draft for failing to address their quarterback need and entering the 2024 season with Gardner Minshew and Aidan O’Connell as their top quarterbacks.
One of the most shocking moves of the draft was made by the Buffalo Bills, who traded down and ultimately helped the Kansas City Chiefs by allowing them to select Xavier Worthy, one of the fastest receivers in the draft. This move raised eyebrows as the Bills missed an opportunity to add a much-needed weapon for quarterback Josh Allen. The Atlanta Falcons also made a surprising move by selecting Michael Penix Jr. at No. 8, despite already having a high-paid quarterback in Kirk Cousins. The decision was compared to the Green Bay Packers’ choice to draft Jordan Love, but with key differences in the quarterback situations.
Overall, the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft was filled with excitement, surprises, and several winners and losers. With a record number of offensive players selected and several unexpected moves, the stage is set for an intriguing season ahead. Teams will now look towards the second round of the draft to continue building their rosters and addressing remaining needs. The 2024 draft is shaping up to be one of the most memorable in recent years, with the potential for impact players and game-changing moves throughout the remainder of the selection process.
