2024 NFL Mock Draft: Justin Fields traded to AFC, Sean Payton gets a new QB and New York teams add playmakers (2024)

The Bears don't make things difficult. They pick Williams to get all of his arm talent, mobility and creativity as a playmaker. He'll be fun in Shane Waldron's offense that unlocked Geno Smith into his 30s. Even this early in the process, I've come around on this pairing. I'll be shocked if it doesn't happen.

Maye is a pure pocket passer with mobility and the full franchise quarterback skill set. Sam Howell played relatively well -- and really flashed at times in Year 2 -- but with a new coaching staff incoming in D.C., this is almost a lock to be a quarterback, and Maye would be the right choice.

The Patriots turn to a new chapter at quarterback with the creative, athletic, deep-ball specialist who just won the Heisman out of the SEC. I know quarterback-quarterback-quarterback doesn't happen often at the start of a draft, but these are all quarterback-needy clubs and these are high-caliber prospects.

The Cardinals are absolutely thrilled to land Harrison Jr. to give the receiver group a jolt for Kyler Murray. Until free agency starts -- and trades inevitably happen -- these first four selections feel as chalky as they can be as this stage of the pre-draft process.

New GM Joe Hortiz identifies the interior of the Chargers defensive line one of the team's most glaring weaknesses, and Murphy is an uber-athletic and powerful penetrator.

With the top-tier quarterbacks gone, the Giants get whomever will be their starter in 2024 a dynamic weapon in Nabers.

The Titans land the premier blocker in the class as they enter Year 2 of the Will Levis era.

The Falcons add a premier, NFL-ready outside rusher to the defense. Huge need filled.

Turner's athleticism and ascending pass-rush-move arsenal could sneak him inside the top 10, and the Bears will likely be interested in adding an outside rusher opposite Montez Sweat.

The Jets go best player available, and it just so happens to be a versatile weapon for Aaron Rodgers.

Newton is a ferocious up-the-field rusher that can win with a loaded arsenal of pass-rush moves.

If the Broncos do trade Russell Wilson, they'll of course be in the quarterback market. Nix became an awesome point guard after transferring to Oregon, and that's precisely what Sean Payton would ask him to do in his offense.

Arnold is a super-fluid athlete who became a ballhawking corner in his final season at Alabama. Huge boost for the Raiders secondary.

Alt has too high of a ceiling for the Saints to pass up here.

Wiggins is a sleek athlete on the perimeter who was around the football often in the air for the Tigers in 2023.

Most clubs will have Kinchens as the top safety in the class, as he is a rangy, versatile defensive back.

If the Jaguars don't re-sign Calvin Ridley, they'll have a clear need on the perimeter at receiver, and Odunze can fill that void instantly.

If Tee Higgins bolts in free agency, another sizable and athletic wideout would be sensible for the Bengals offense. I have a feeling Thomas is going to be a riser during the pre-draft process. Big and fast.

Fuaga is a giant human being with impeccable athletic traits. He's exactly the type of offensive lineman Sean McVay will love in Los Angeles.

More offensive line help in what is a vital season in 2024 for Kenny Pickett.

Paul is another incredibly large and long tackle with plenty of power on contact.

The Eagles absolutely need to address their secondary early in the draft, and McKinstry has long looked like a future first-round pick on the field.

From Cleveland Browns

DeMeco Ryans adds a secondary chess-piece to the defense with twitchy movements and plus ball skills.

Nubin is a three-down safety who, given the Cowboys' pass-rush capabilities, could become a turnover machine in Dallas.

Lassiter pieced together a fine season at Georgia and possesses first-round-caliber traits. The Packers haven't been shy about drafting defensive backs in Round 1.

The Buccaneers and head coach Todd Bowles need more youthful outside pass-rushing talent. Verse pieced together back-to-back awesome seasons at Florida State after transferring there before the 2022 season.

From Houston Texans

While on the smaller side, Robinson is uber explosive and wraps the corner as well as any edge-rusher in this class. Fun, needed addition to the Cardinals defense.

Walker wasn't cleared to play by the NCAA until well into the season, and when he played, he rocked. In eight games, the former Kent State star had 41 catches for 699 yards with seven touchdowns.

Mitchell was a magnet to the football in his illustrious Toledo career with 45 pass breakups and six picks in his final three seasons for the Rockets. He's the type of sticky outside cornerback the Lions need.

At 6-foot-5 and over 280 pounds, Robinson fits the classic Ravens outside pass rusher mold who can also kick inside. He wins up and down the line.

Shifty with great hands and plenty of explosiveness, don't be surprised if McConkey lands in Round 1. He'd be a fun addition to the Chiefs offense, and can hit the ground running in Kansas City.

The 49ers want to remain stout up front on defense, and Taylor can become an instant start next to Javon Hargrave.