The buzz around the 2024 NFL Draft is already building, especially when it comes to the quarterbacks expected to enter the league. Last year, 14 quarterbacks got the call, a high we hadn’t seen since 2016. This year? We’re looking at even more talent and depth across the board.
Watching how quarterbacks filter through the NFL Draft process this year should be glimpse into what Tennessee redshirt freshman Nico Iamaleava will be having to endure one day. After all, he’ll be eligible for the NFL Draft in 2026 and most expect he’ll be a top prospect. Former Vol Joe Milton is currently going through the draft process and is expected to be chosen in the sixth or seventh round.
As for the elite crop of quarterbacks this season…
The Cream of the Crop
Leading the pack is Caleb Williams from USC, a name that has been on everyone’s lips and the buzz around many betting promos like the Caesars Sportsbook promotions since he clinched the Heisman Trophy in 2022. Williams’ arm strength and accuracy have been nothing short of phenomenal, boasting 42 touchdowns to just 5 interceptions in his sophomore year, followed by 30 TDs in 2023. His consistency and performance under pressure make him a hot commodity for teams drafting early.
Not far behind is Drake Maye from North Carolina. Standing tall at 6’4″ and weighing 230 pounds, Maye combines physicality with skill in a way that has analysts ranking him as the number two QB prospect. His size and arm strength are attributes that can’t be overlooked, making him a potential game-changer at the professional level.
Beyond the Top Picks
The depth of talent extends beyond just Williams and Maye. Jayden Daniels from LSU offers a dual-threat capability that draws comparisons to NFL legends like Randall Cunningham, thanks to his athleticism and ability to escape pressure. Then there’s J.J. McCarthy of Michigan, whose track record of 27 wins in 28 starts, including a national championship, showcases his winning mentality and A+ arm talent. However, his relatively limited starting experience raises intriguing questions about his transition to the NFL.
Scouting Combine and Draft Prospects
The NFL Scouting Combine, set to run from February 27 to March 3 in Indianapolis, presents a golden opportunity for these quarterbacks to solidify their draft stock. With 14 quarterbacks drafted in 2023, the most since 2016, this year’s class is under pressure to showcase its depth and top-end talent.
Michael Penix Jr. from Washington and Bo Nix from Oregon are also in the mix, ranked among the top 10 quarterback prospects. Their performances in the upcoming combine will be necessary for their draft positioning. Spencer Rattler’s exceptional arm talent is undeniable, but his decision-making will be under the microscope, especially his tendency to throw interceptions.
While it’s unlikely any quarterback will be selected as high as Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud were last year, Williams, Maye, and Daniels are all in the conversation for top-10 picks. McCarthy, Penix, and Nix are not far behind, expected to be selected in the early to mid-rounds.
Draft Position Predictions
While it is still early to predict exactly when each quarterback will be taken in the 2024 NFL Draft, experts and analysts have already started making predictions. Caleb Williams is expected to be the first quarterback taken, likely in the top 5 picks, followed by Drake Maye in the top 10. Jayden Daniels and J.J. McCarthy are also expected to be taken in the first round, while Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix may go in the second or third round.
The Impact of These Quarterbacks
The quarterbacks in the 2024 NFL Draft have the potential to make a meaningful impact on their teams and the league as a whole. With the right fit and development, they could become franchise quarterbacks and lead their teams to success for years to come. It will be exciting to see how they perform in the NFL and how they shape the future of professional football.
Final Thoughts
As the combine approaches and pro days are scheduled, all eyes will be on these talented quarterbacks. Their performances during these critical pre-draft events can drastically affect their draft stock. For NFL teams, the right quarterback can be the difference between a rebuild and a playoff run. For fans, it’s a chance to dream about the future. Let’s see where these promising quarterbacks will land.
