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Last week, we saw 257 names called in the 2024 NFL draft, as teams filled out their classes and tackled big needs. Some front offices did better than others as a whole -- the Eagles and Steelers stood out to me -- but how did the individual picks stack up across all seven rounds? I ranked the best 100 selections.
This isn't just a list of the most talented players -- we did that before the draft. Instead, we are incorporating a bit more into the equation than just what each prospect put on tape. As such, 41 picks from Day 3 made the list, but I didn't have all of the top-10 selections in there. To create our ranking, we factored in value (where a player was drafted vs. where he was ranked pre-draft), scheme fit, how the selection addressed a need, what the prospect brings on the field and whether additional assets were gained or lost in draft-day trades to acquire him.
Which picks crack the top 10? What moves from Rounds 4-7 make the list? And which teams dominated with multiple highly ranked selections? Let's stack the best 100 picks of the 2024 draft, starting with a pair of them from one team.
Note: When each player was selected is listed by Round-Pick in parentheses.
Jump to the best pick in each round: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7
1. Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears (Pick 1-9)My final overall ranking: No. 3
Chicago's second pick of the first round was my favorite of the entire draft for a few reasons. Not only was this a great value for Chicago -- a difference of six spots in ranking vs. slot inside the top 10 is huge -- but it's also smart to help your rookie quarterback with a star rookie wide receiver. It also helps that Caleb Williams (said QB) and Odunze have been working out together since the 2023 college season ended. Odunze led the nation in receiving last season (1,640 yards) and fills out a potentially really good offense.
2. Caleb Williams, QB, Chicago Bears (Pick 1-1)My final overall ranking: No. 1
The Bears go back-to-back here for me. Maybe it's cheating to say the No. 1 overall pick in the draft ranks this high, but the Bears didn't overthink this and landed a potential star at quarterback to turn things around. Plus, they've dedicated efforts throughout the process to building a system around Williams where he can thrive. In a year with six quarterbacks selected in the top 12, the Bears didn't have to move around the board and drafted the best passing prospect of the past decade.
3. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Arizona Cardinals (Pick 1-4)My final overall ranking: No. 2
Arizona, much like Chicago, didn't get cute with its early pick. The Cardinals had the opportunity to draft the best wide receiver prospect I've evaluated in the past 10 years and fill the team's biggest need. Despite trade offers for the No. 4 pick, GM Monti Ossenfort stuck to his board and drafted my No. 2 overall prospect. Harrison has All-Pro ability and drew a pre-draft comparison from me to A.J. Green.
4. Xavier Worthy, WR, Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 1-28)My final overall ranking: No. 25
The NFL seriously let the fastest person ever timed at the combine (4.21 seconds) go to Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs? After two years of desperately trying to add a speedy target to replace Tyreek Hill, GM Brett Veach moved up four spots in the first round to get his guy. Worthy is a dangerous deep threat but also has a diverse set of route skills and can change the game as a punt returner.
5. Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders (Pick 1-2)My final overall ranking: No. 5
The Commanders' offense will be one of the most electric in the NFL with the dual-threat Daniels airing it out to Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson when he's not gashing defenses with his legs. My No. 5 overall player and QB2 in the class, Daniels was the smart pick for first-time general manager Adam Peters. He should be an Offensive Rookie of the Year contender here as a Day 1 starter.
6. Zach Frazier, C, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick 2-51)My final overall ranking: No. 29
When I was writing scouting notes on Frazier before the draft, I kept thinking he was a Pittsburgh-type player thanks to his toughness, agility and background as an elite high-school wrestler. Steelers GM Omar Khan apparently agreed. Frazier has the profile of a 10-year starter at center and can immediately step in to boost an offensive line that got a complete makeover during draft weekend.
7. Adonai Mitchell, WR, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 2-52)My final overall ranking: No. 18
The Colts are building an all-star roster at wide receiver with quarterback Anthony Richardson entering his second season. Mitchell is an elite deep threat with 4.34 speed and 11 touchdowns for the Longhorns last season. He's exactly what the team needed to pair with Michael Pittman Jr. and Josh Downs. His speed, size and ball skills will make him an ideal vertical target to open up the Indianapolis offense.
8. Cooper DeJean, CB, Philadelphia Eagles (Pick 2-40)My final overall ranking: No. 20
The Eagles did great work addressing needs in the secondary during this draft, but it's the DeJean pick I liked best. DeJean can play either cornerback alignment and has potential as a great safety, too. The Eagles will probably get him reps right away at safety, where he'll push for the starting nickel spot. His versatility is the key, though, as DeJean can be a true matchup player on a weekly basis. He also had seven career picks in college.
9. Dallas Turner, EDGE, Minnesota Vikings (Pick 1-17)My final overall ranking: No. 7
I didn't love the value of the trade to go get Turner, which is the only reason this pick isn't even higher on this list. Focusing more on the player and the team fit, he'll have an opportunity to be a big-time impact right out of the gate opposite Jonathan Greenard. Turner had 10 sacks last season and has great speed getting after the passer.
10. Terrion Arnold, CB, Detroit Lions (Pick 1-24)My final overall ranking: No. 8
The Lions may have had the best first two rounds of the draft of any team when you look at the value they got. Arnold, my top cornerback in the class, perfectly personifies the type of feisty, tough player that coach Dan Campbell and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn want. He'll likely be tasked with the team's top CB role, and behind a remade defensive line, he has a chance to post Defensive Rookie of the Year-level numbers.
11. Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants (Pick 1-6)My final overall ranking: No. 4
Some will knock the Giants for not drafting a quarterback or offensive tackle at No. 6 overall, but both positions would have been reaches on my board. Instead, the Giants selected my No. 3 overall player in Nabers, who should be the team's WR1 from the jump. With the explosive receiver on board, the team can fully evaluate Daniel Jones and Drew Lock at quarterback before potentially making a change at the position in the 2025 draft/offseason.
12. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Philadelphia Eagles (Pick 1-22)My final overall ranking: No. 15
We have to give Philadelphia GM Howie Roseman credit for going way outside his comfort zone and selecting a defensive back and a non-Georgia defender in the first round. Roseman had never selected a corner in the first round during his long tenure with the team but patiently waited for Mitchell and stole a great pick. Mitchell's 4.33 speed and ball skills are badly needed in Philadelphia, where he'll work under Darius Slay and James Bradberry for a bit before becoming a full-time starter in the near future.
13. Byron Murphy II, DT, Seattle Seahawks (Pick 1-16)My final overall ranking: No. 13
Throughout the pre-draft process I was told the Seahawks were the latest that Murphy would be picked. That proved to be true. He's an ideal scheme fit for new coach Mike MacDonald and can be Seattle's version of Justin Madubuike at the 3-technique spot. When assessing the value and scheme fit of the Murphy selection, Seattle made an A+ pick in the first round.
14. Joe Alt, OT, Los Angeles Chargers (Pick 1-5)My final overall ranking: No. 6
Let's applaud the Chargers for staying true to the identity of coach Jim Harbaugh and GM Joe Hortiz with his selection. Harbaugh wants to dominate the trenches, and Alt was the clear-cut best offensive tackle in the class. Now, will Alt play left tackle with Rashawn Slater on the right side, or vice versa? Time will tell, but the Chargers are now protected long-term.
15. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Detroit Lions (Pick 2-61)My final overall ranking: No. 29
We talked about the Lions' pick of Arnold already, but this one was just as impressive. Rakestraw had late-Round 1 ability, which is where I had him ranked pre-draft. He's tough at the line and feisty with receivers, and he will absolutely pop ball carriers as a tackler. Rakestraw battled a core muscle injury last season but now profiles as an immediate starter at either the slot or an outside cornerback spot. A trio of Rakestraw, Arnold and Carlton Davis III is an offseason haul at the position.
16. Payton Wilson, LB, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick 3-98)My final overall ranking: No. 46
Were it not for injuries, Wilson would have been a first-round pick. That's part of the calculus for every NFL team as they evaluated players and as we grade their picks, but keep this in mind: Wilson played every game the past two years at NC State and posted jaw-dropping production (130 tackles, 18.5 tackles for loss and three interceptions last season). If he can match that going forward, the Steelers will have one of the steals of the draft.
17. Audric Estime, RB, Denver Broncos (Pick 5-147)My final overall ranking: No. 110
Remember this post in two years when Estime is the starting running back for the Broncos. He's seriously that talented. The 221-pound back is a load for defenders to handle between the tackles, and he has enough speed to make you miss in the hole and then run to daylight. Estime fell in the process partially because his 40-yard dash time of 4.71 seconds, but watch the tape over the past two seasons, and you will see a player who can carve up defenses when unleashed in an inside zone-blocking scheme.
18. Jared Wiley, TE, Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 4-131)My final overall ranking: No. 83
In the 2013 NFL draft, the Chiefs drafted a quarterback-turned-tight end with great traits named Travis Kelce. In the 2024 draft, they drafted a quarterback-turned-tight end with great traits in Wiley. No, I'm not saying he'll be the next Kelce, but Veach and coach Andy Reid know former QBs make great tight ends because they understand the entire offense and are great at finding space on the fly. His 6-foot-6 size and overall potential are intriguing enough to make this one of the more fun developmental picks in the class.
19. J.J. McCarthy, QB, Minnesota Vikings (Pick 1-10)My final overall ranking: No. 19
When looking at the value of this pick, yes, the Vikings slightly reached. But when adding the context that they didn't panic and trade up into the top five picks for McCarthy, this grades out much better. McCarthy is pro-ready coming out of Jim Harbaugh's system and enters an offense with a ready-made infrastructure for a young passer. The offense has great skill players, a talented offensive line and a savvy playcaller. The scheme fit is ideal.
20. Drake Maye, QB, New England Patriots (Pick 1-3)My final overall ranking: No. 9
The Patriots are the opposite of the Bears and Vikings when it comes to the offensive surroundings, but the selection of Maye is still one of the best in the class. At just 21 years old, he has considerable talent as a thrower, mover and leader. And if New England hadn't drafted him, he very likely still would have been selected in the top six via a trade up or by the Giants grabbing him. Maye has the toughness and poise to lead the Patriots through this rebuild.
21. Olu Fashanu, OT, New York Jets (Pick 1-11)My final overall ranking: No. 11
The Jets deserve accolades for doing the right thing and selecting an offensive tackle at No. 11 overall after a trade back of one spot in the first round. Months of speculation suggested the front office might draft a pass-catcher, but with two 33-year-old starting offensive tackles with injury histories (Morgan Moses and Tyron Smith), the smart play was investing in the future and getting insurance in case there's another injury up front. Fashanu has serious potential as a franchise left tackle.
22. Jared Verse, EDGE, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 1-19)My final overall ranking: No. 14
The Rams entered the draft with a monumental need at defensive end and added my No. 2 pass-rusher in Verse. The value of the pick was exceptional, and the scheme fit is perfect. Verse is a power-based defensive end who can stack up against the run and will pair well with last year's rookie standout Byron Young. All in all, the Rams had a fantastic draft that started with a home run.
23. Laiatu Latu, EDGE, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 1-15)My final overall ranking: No. 22
Colts GM Chris Ballard got the most pro-ready pass-rusher in the class. Latu has expert-level hand usage and always has a plan for getting after the quarterback. The Colts were clearly comfortable with the neck injury and surgery that Latu had while at Washington (before a transfer to UCLA), as the team made him the first defensive player off the board.
24. Taliese Fuaga, OT, New Orleans Saints (Pick 1-14)My final overall ranking: No. 12
You could make the argument that no team had a more clearly defined need than the Saints' hole at offensive tackle. Trevor Penning (2022 first-rounder) hasn't hit, and the injuries to veteran Ryan Ramczyk make his future a question mark. Fuaga's power at right tackle and agility in zone-blocking schemes made him a lock to be selected in the top 15. The value, fit and need are all aligned here.
25. Ladd McConkey, WR, Los Angeles Chargers (Pick 2-34)My final overall ranking: No. 26
When the Chargers didn't draft a receiver in the first round, I was a little worried coach Jim Harbaugh would ignore the position until the later rounds. Instead, they drafted one of the toughest route runners in the class in Round 2. McConkey was banged-up at times in college, but he's sure-handed and boasts 4.39 speed.
26. Troy Fautanu, OT, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick 1-20)My final overall ranking: No. 16
Fautanu started at left tackle for the best offensive line in college football last season and showed at the combine that he has the length and footwork to excel on the blindside in the pros. Pittsburgh has the choice to move him to a new position and slide Broderick Jones in at left tackle, but the great thing about this pick is that the offense will have two really good options at tackle no matter what. Fautanu is tough, agile and the best finisher in the draft in the run game.
27. Braden Fiske, DT, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 2-39)My final overall ranking: No. 44
Aaron Donald is gone, and part of the job in replacing his production will go to Fiske, the team's second-rounder. The Rams traded up to select him with expectations he'll be an instant-impact starter alongside former college teammate Verse on the defensive line. Between Verse and Fiske, the Rams are insuring the work ethic and culture on the defensive line are in great hands moving forward. Fiske just had back-to-back six-sack seasons.
28. Junior Colson, LB, Los Angeles Chargers (Pick 3-69)My final overall ranking: No. 36
One of my favorite players in the class is reunited with his college coach (Jim Harbaugh) while also filling one of the key team needs on this Chargers roster. Colson will quickly slide into the starting lineup, and it speaks to Harbaugh's trust in him that he selected his former college 'backer in the third round. Colson was a player I thought had late first-round potential, so the value by L.A. is elite. He has great range and totaled 101 tackles last season.
29. Calen Bullock, S, Houston Texans (Pick 3-78)My final overall ranking: No. 55
Bullock was my top-ranked safety. He's not a big striker or hitter, but his ball skills (nine interceptions since 2021) and range are beautiful from a deep safety alignment. And his addition will allow Jimmie Ward to thrive in the slot for Houston.
30. Brock Bowers, TE, Las Vegas Raiders (Pick 1-13)My final overall ranking: No. 10
Tight end was not a need for the Raiders after selecting Michael Mayer in the second round of the 2023 draft, but there was a need for more pass-catchers. Thinking of Bowers as a slot playmaker instead of expecting him to be a classic tight end changes the perception of the pick. Bowers will be a safety valve for the quarterback and a true building block in the passing game. He's awesome after the catch.
31. Keon Coleman, WR, Buffalo Bills (Pick 2-33)My final overall ranking: No. 38
One of the most obvious picks in every mock draft was the Bills selecting a wide receiver. Coleman was a solid value at No. 33 (after two trade-backs) with seven receivers off the board in the first round, and with his size and post-up ability, he's exactly what Buffalo and quarterback Josh Allen wanted. Coleman's ability to win on 50-50 balls and create yards after the catch will help the Bills replace Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis.
32. Brian Thomas Jr., WR, Jacksonville Jaguars (Pick 1-23)My final overall ranking: No. 17
The wide receiver room in Jacksonville is stacked now with the addition of Thomas, even after Calvin Ridley signed in Tennessee. The front office had already added Gabe Davis earlier this offseason to join Christian Kirk, and Thomas will bring a size/speed element to the Jaguars' passing game that was missing. His 17 touchdowns last season led all FBS receivers.
33. Roman Wilson, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick 3-84)My final overall ranking: No. 62
When the Steelers traded Diontae Johnson this offseason, a hole appeared at slot receiver. In the third round, the front office drafted an excellent option there. Wilson will get tough yards and has enough juice with the ball in his hands to keep defenses honest. He's also a reliable punt returner. Throw him into the starting lineup with George Pickens and tight end Pat Freiermuth, and the Steelers have a trio of pass-catchers to build an offense around.
34. Graham Barton, C, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Pick 1-26)My final overall ranking: No. 21
Looking at the pre-draft needs of the Bucs, it was clear a center had to be added at some point in the early rounds of the draft. In Barton, the Bucs got the first snapper off the board and a player with exceptional versatility. He played both center and left tackle in college but should slide in as the Day 1 center for Tampa Bay. Barton has great movement traits.
35. Nate Wiggins, CB, Baltimore Ravens (Pick 1-30)My final overall ranking: No. 28
Veteran Marlon Humphrey enters his age-28 season at cornerback, and the Ravens are looking for consistency opposite him. In Wiggins, Baltimore gets a 6-foot-2 cornerback with 4.28 speed. He also brings a hustle and hunger to the position that fits the Baltimore mentality on defense. Wiggins has to continue to get stronger, but his quickness and ability to eliminate targets will get him into the starting lineup immediately.
36. Tyler Guyton, OT, Dallas Cowboys (Pick 1-29)My final overall ranking: No. 23
Entering the draft, Dallas had issues at left tackle, running back, center and linebacker. The front office waited and played the board well, trading back and still getting one of the top tackles in the class. Guyton should be seen as a developmental player after just 15 starts in college, but Dallas does a great job identifying talent and coaching it up on the line (as we saw with Tyler Smith before him).
37. Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Green Bay Packers (Pick 2-45)My final overall ranking: No. 27
The modern NFL requires playmakers at linebacker who can run down quarterbacks, use length to take away passing lanes and stack up against the run. I saw Cooper do all of that last season at Texas A&M. He's a true three-down threat to offenses and should be playing next to Quay Walker in the starting lineup in Week 1.
38. Jonathon Brooks, RB, Carolina Panthers (Pick 2-46)My final overall ranking: No. 33
The strategy of the Panthers' draft was bringing talent around Bryce Young. Brooks is a patient, powerful and agile runner who will boost the team's running game. But maybe most importantly is that he is the best pass-protecting back in the class. That will get him on the field as soon as he's recovered from November ACL surgery.
39. Amarius Mims, OT, Cincinnati Bengals (Pick 1-18)My final overall ranking: No. 24
At pick No. 18 overall, the Bengals watched the run on offensive tackles and quickly jumped into action by drafting the OT with the most potential in the class. Mims started just eight games in college after sitting behind Broderick Jones and then suffering an ankle injury, but those eight games were as impressive as any tackle tape I watched. There's some boom-or-bust here, but Mims' ceiling is All Pro-caliber.
40. Brandon Dorlus, DT, Atlanta Falcons (Pick 4-109)My final overall ranking: No. 85
If the Falcons had gone defensive tackle in Round 1 (over Washington quarterback Michael Penix Jr.), it would have been lauded as a great pick. Instead, they waited until Round 4 and found a gap-shooting standout in Dorlus. He fits the same profile as long-time Falcons starter Grady Jarrett and gets the honor of playing under a coach in Raheem Morris who knows how to scheme up plays for a smaller defensive tackle.
41. Austin Booker, EDGE, Chicago Bears (Pick 5-144)My final overall ranking: No. 87
Chicago was out of draft picks after selection No. 122 but traded back into the fifth round to get Booker. A developmental pass-rusher with just over 500 snaps in college, Booker put out tape against Illinois and Texas that made you think he would be a top-75 pick. His rawness led to a fall, but he's a great understudy for Montez Sweat and offers similar upside as a rusher.
42. Beaux Limmer, C, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 6-217)My final overall ranking: No. 95
This was one of the best values in the draft when evaluating the difference between my ranking and where a player was selected. Limmer started for four seasons at Arkansas, and his tape says he's a starting-level center in the pros. The Rams do have Steve Avila at center with newly added Jonah Jackson joining Kevin Dotson at guard, but Limmer has a future in the starting five.
43. Chop Robinson, EDGE, Miami Dolphins (Pick 1-21)My final overall ranking: No. 35
Given injuries to Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips, plus the departure of Andrew Van Ginkel, the Dolphins had to find a pass-rusher in this draft who could not only play immediately but also offer upside as a third rusher in Anthony Weaver's defense. Robinson has elite get-off speed, and despite limited college production (11.5 sacks over 35 games), he has the ability to make a huge impact early thanks to his bend off the edge.
44. Xavier Legette, WR, Carolina Panthers (Pick 1-32)My final overall ranking: No. 37
All throughout the pre-draft process, I was told the Panthers loved Legette. And they did enough to trade up a spot into the first round to land him. Legette's power and speed after the catch will make life much easier for second-year quarterback Bryce Young.
45. Ricky Pearsall, WR, San Francisco 49ers (Pick 1-31)My final overall ranking: No. 45
The pre-draft speculation that the 49ers could trade either Deebo Samuel or Brandon Aiyuk ramped up once Pearsall was selected in Round 1, but a 49ers source told me before the night began that they would be a true "best player available" team. Pearsall will get into the lineup early as a slot receiver but has the power and route-running chops to become a starter on the outside early in his career if needed.
46. Michael Barrett, LB, Carolina Panthers (Pick 7-240)My final overall ranking: No. 153
I will never understand how or why Barrett fell to the seventh round after he put out fantastic tape as a two-down linebacker at Michigan. He is a little on the short side at 5-foot-11, but he's powerful and consistently made great plays against the run in the Big Ten. At a minimum, the Panthers will get fantastic special-teams play from Barrett.
47. Brenden Rice, WR, Los Angeles Chargers (Pick 7-225)My final overall ranking: No. 80
The biggest surprise of the draft (after the Michael Penix Jr. selection) was the fall of Rice to the seventh round. His reliable hands, expert-level route running and big frame were enough that I put a Round 3 grade on him as a future starting "big slot" receiver. Rice now enters a Chargers receiver room that did add Ladd McConkey and Cornelius Johnson but is in desperate need of talent at the position. I'm betting he finds his way into the receiver rotation here by his second season.
48. Jordan Morgan, OT, Green Bay Packers (Pick 1-25)My final overall ranking: No. 42
Versatility up front is a key asset the Packers value when looking at offensive linemen. Morgan has it. A college left tackle, he has the agility to play guard and the footwork to be a very good one. We could see major changes on this line if Zach Tom moves to center. If that happens, Morgan may work into the lineup at right tackle or even guard during his rookie season if the Packers intend on moving him from his college position.
49. JC Latham, OT, Tennessee Titans (Pick 1-7)My final overall ranking: No. 34
The value of the Latham pick wasn't great on my board, but the fit is understandable, given the Titans' needs at tackle and the fact that Joe Alt was off the board. Line coach Bill Callahan oversaw his former team, the Bengals, sign Orlando Brown Jr. to play left tackle last offseason, and he may see a similar player in Latham. This is a complete projection, though, as Latham never took snaps on the blindside while at Alabama.
50. Bo Nix, QB, Denver Broncos (Pick 1-12)My final overall ranking: No. 39
Was this a reach? Yes. But the Broncos watched the entire quarterback board get wiped out in the first 10 picks and had to stick and pick their guy. Nix's accuracy and poise are ideal for coach Sean Payton's offense, even if the ranking on him as a player said this was too early for the pick.
51. Mason McCormick, G, Pittsburgh Steelers (Pick 4-119)My final overall ranking: No. 81
The Steelers drafted three offensive linemen in the top four rounds of the 2024 draft, and all three make this list. McCormick started at guard for South Dakota State, but some in the league think he could be a star center. He'll lock in at left guard for Pittsburgh for now.
52. Ja'Tavion Sanders, TE, Carolina Panthers (Pick 4-101)My final overall ranking: No. 49
Building the talent base around a young quarterback is so important, and the Panthers did that throughout the 2024 draft. Sanders is a superb "move" tight end with the agility and instincts to find space and make defenders miss once he has the ball in his hands. He didn't test well in the pre-draft process, which is why he fell, but Sanders has the talent to be a very good starter.
53. T.J. Tampa, CB, Baltimore Ravens (Pick 4-130)My final overall ranking: No. 52
The Ravens somehow come out of the draft with players who fall to them in great spots every year. Tampa is the latest example. Cornerback was a major team need, and alongside first-rounder Nate Wiggins, Tampa will make an immediate contribution to the lineup, taking care of the Ravens' slot cornerback spot.
54. Dominick Puni, G, San Francisco 49ers (Pick 3-86)My final overall ranking: No. 76
If you watched the 49ers last season, you noticed the holes along the offensive line at every position to the right of left tackle Trent Williams. Kansas' versatile Puni should be penciled in as a Day 1 starter at right guard, where his power and agility will be a major upgrade over Jon Feliciano.
55. Sedrick Van Pran-Granger, C, Buffalo Bills (Pick 5-141)My final overall ranking: No. 140
The Bills lost longtime center Mitch Morse in free agency and will give Van Pran-Granger every opportunity to take his place. He's a powerful, easy-moving center with a boatload of SEC experience (44 starts).
56. Kamren Kinchens, S, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 3-99)My final overall ranking: No. 111
ESPN analyst Louis Riddick said during the draft that Kinchens has Pro Bowl ability, and I agree. Kinchens will be given Day 1 reps at free safety and should quickly supplant 2022 seventh-rounder Russ Yeast as the projected starter. His toughness and ball skills (11 picks in college) definitely point to a bright career.
57. Tanor Bortolini, C, Indianapolis Colts (Pick 4-117)My final overall ranking: No. 86
Center Ryan Kelly has been a tremendous player for the Colts since being selected in the first round of the 2016 draft. But he's set to turn 31 before next season, and having a backup with future starter ability at such a key position is savvy drafting. Bortolini has elite agility and short-area explosion. He may see time at guard before sliding back to center.
58. Caelen Carson, CB, Dallas Cowboys (Pick 5-174)My final overall ranking: No. 88
Carson was one of the biggest value picks based on where I had him ranked pre-draft. Dallas does a great job playing the board in every round, and Carson could be the team's next great Day 3 steal given his toughness and instincts. Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland have two starting spots locked down, but Carson should be a factor in nickel and dime packages.
59. Mekhi Wingo, DT, Detroit Lions (Pick 5-189)My final overall ranking: No. 94
It's fun when teams draft a player who will have a clear mentor on the roster based on play type and physical attributes. That's the case with Wingo and current starter Alim McNeill. The Lions were seeking depth up front and would love a situation with three or four defensive tackles rotating throughout the game. Wingo doesn't have rookie starting potential, but he can be an impact third tackle.
60. D.J. James, CB, Seattle Seahawks (Pick 6-192)My final overall ranking: No. 101
The Seahawks have a prototype at cornerback, and James fits the mold. He's a long, lean cornerback with good speed but not great burst. He's also instinctive and does a great job swatting away passes. Even as a sixth-round pick, James could work into the lineup alongside Riq Woolen and Devon Witherspoon.
61. Kamal Hadden, CB, Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 6-211)My final overall ranking: No. 126
The Chiefs are one of the NFL's best teams at finding defensive backs on Day 3, and Hadden might be the next in that line. He has excellent size at 6-foot-1 and 196 pounds, and he showed the ball skills to be a key NFL player in college (three interceptions in 2023). With L'Jarius Sneed traded to Tennessee, Hadden has a path to early playing time.
62. Malik Washington, WR, Miami Dolphins (Pick 6-184)My final overall ranking: No. 96
I'm here for the track meet that is the Dolphins' wide receiver room. Washington is built like a running back at 5-foot-8 and 191 pounds, and he has the contact balance and burst to create after the catch. The Dolphins' depth chart is crowded, but Washington has a pathway to WR4 and a special teams role out of the gate.
63. Tanner McLachlan, TE, Cincinnati Bengals (Pick 6-194)My final overall ranking: No. 160
The Bengals used two picks on Day 3 at the tight end position, and both could be listed here -- but I'll go with McLachlan over Erick All as the better pick. He is a throwback with excellent toughness and an ability to find soft zones and sink into them. Quarterback Joe Burrow is going to love having a reliable target like him over the middle.
64. Christian Mahogany, G, Detroit Lions (Pick 6-210)My final overall ranking: No. 130
Detroit lost Jonah Jackson in free agency and very likely found his replacement in the sixth round. I had a future starter grade on Mahogany due to his expertise in the run game. He needs to clean up some footwork issues in pass protection but has an opportunity to learn behind veteran Kevin Zeitler this season before moving into the starting lineup as a sophomore.
65. Cedric Johnson, EDGE, Cincinnati Bengals (Pick 6-214)My final overall ranking: No. 158
Time will tell if the Bengals will ultimately give in to the trade request of star pass-rusher Trey Hendrickson, and if the front office does move him, it needed to secure more depth at defensive end. Johnson has to develop more pass-rush tools, but his potential is much better than a sixth-round selection would have you believe.
66. Myles Harden, CB, Cleveland Browns (Pick 7-227)My final overall ranking: No. 165
Smart teams take fliers late in the draft on high-end potential, and that's what Harden brings out of South Dakota. The 5-foot-11 cornerback likely fell in the draft after a 4.5-second time in the 40-yard dash, but his instincts and timing in coverage are eye-opening. He's a sleeper worth watching as a future third or fourth corner.
67. Michael Pratt, QB, Green Bay Packers (Pick 7-245)My final overall ranking: No. 129
The Packers seemingly struck gold with Jordan Love, but how about a young quarterback to develop behind him? Pratt could have come off the board in the fourth round and been a good selection for a team. He's accurate, poised and tough as nails. He has the makeup of a really good QB2 for a long time. That's great value in Round 7.
68. Nathan Thomas, OT, Dallas Cowboys (Pick 7-233)My final overall ranking: No. 170
Dallas made three picks along the offensive line, and I could talk myself into Thomas as the best value of the bunch. The Louisiana tackle has very good agility, great power and the upside to be coached into a future starter. If first-rounder Tyler Guyton moves to left tackle, I think Thomas is the team's future on the right side.
69. Jaylen Wright, RB, Miami Dolphins (Pick 4-120)My final overall ranking: No. 66
Miami selecting one of the fastest running backs in the class should surprise no one. Wright will pair with 2023 third-rounder De'Von Achane to be the team's future in the backfield with Raheem Mostert recently turning 32 years old.
70. Kris Abrams-Draine, CB, Denver Broncos (Pick 5-145)My final overall ranking: No. 103
There was pre-draft consideration that the Broncos could select a corner in the first round, but they waited. And in Round 5, GM George Paton stole one of my favorite corners in the class. Abrams-Draine has battled injuries, but he's incredibly tough and has impeccable timing on breaking routes. I'd take him over incumbent starter Levi Wallace in the lineup this season.
71. Jarvis Brownlee Jr., CB, Tennessee Titans (Pick 5-146)My final overall ranking: No. 105
I didn't love what the Titans did early in this draft, but they made up for it late. Brownlee is one of the best press-man corners in the class and has the quickness and toughness to thrive in the slot. The cornerback room here is crowded with talent now, but Brownlee could carve out a nice role in sub-packages.
72. Theo Johnson, TE, New York Giants (Pick 4-107)My final overall ranking: No. 69
It was very wise of the Giants to grab more options at tight end, and Johnson had flashes on tape throughout his career that would make you think he's a future NFL starter. If the Giants can coach him up, he could be a steal. He caught seven touchdowns last season.
73. Spencer Rattler, QB, New Orleans Saints (Pick 5-150)My final overall ranking: No. 121
If the Saints had drafted Rattler in the third round, the pick still would have made my list. Stealing him in the fifth round gets an even higher ranking. Rattler's toughness as he battled adversity at Oklahoma and South Carolina impressed me. He has a big arm and good mobility, and he is fearless in the pocket. He can be developed, potentially as a future starter.
74. Jaden Hicks, S, Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 4-133)My final overall ranking: No. 57
Hicks had buzz as the top safety in the class, making this a great get for the Chiefs. He has experience at safety, inside linebacker and slot corner, and he could be a Drue Tranquill-like player in Steve Spagnuolo's defense.
75. Sataoa Laumea, G, Seattle Seahawks (Pick 6-179)My final overall ranking: No. 125
I had a starting grade on Laumea in a power run scheme after watching him pancake Pac-12 defenders for the past two years. Seattle signed Laken Tomlinson in free agency, but Laumea and fellow rookie Christian Haynes should be viewed as potential starters on the interior of the line -- checking a huge need for Seattle.
76. M.J. Devonshire, CB, Las Vegas Raiders (Pick 7-229)My final overall ranking: No. 175
It seems like every year we're writing about the Raiders not having enough talent at cornerback. The new regime waited to address that, but Devonshire and fourth-rounder Decamerion Richardson are both speedy, long corners who've been battle-tested in college. Devonshire was one of the best overall values in the class.
77. Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB, New Orleans Saints (Pick 2-41)My final overall ranking: No. 41
Marshon Lattimore has been among the league's best cornerbacks since he was drafted in 2017, but his peak years may be behind him. Lattimore can mentor McKinstry to take his role as CB1 on the depth chart. The right foot Jones fracture that caused McKinstry to drop has to be watched, but scouts raved about his football sense and instincts in the pre-draft process.
78. Tyler Nubin, S, New York Giants (Pick 2-47)My final overall ranking: No. 56
When starter Xavier McKinney left in free agency for the Packers, it was obvious the Giants would target a safety at some point in the draft. Nubin has All-American ball skills (13 career picks) and proved during his college career that he can read the eyes of quarterbacks and then use his range to attack the ball. He's a classic center-fielder free safety who should top the team's depth chart in Week 1.
79. Mike Sainristil, CB, Washington Commanders (Pick 2-50)My final overall ranking: No. 50
Washington had one of this year's best draft classes, and the selection of Sainristil was a big part of it. The versatile Michigan defensive back should be a Day 1 starter at the nickel cornerback spot. He has Mike Hilton-like upside and could be one of the NFL's best nickels in short order. He picked off six passes last season.
80. Michael Hall Jr., DT, Cleveland Browns (Pick 2-54)My final overall ranking: No. 53
The Browns needed to land an impact 3-technique early in the draft, and without a first-round selection, Hall was a smart choice on Day 2. A first-step maven with the quickness to shoot past interior blockers, he will slot into the defensive line's starting four very quickly.
81. Ben Sinnott, TE, Washington Commanders (Pick 2-53)My final overall ranking: No. 90
Commanders GM Adam Peters likely took one look at Sinnott's film from Kansas State and thought he had found his Washington version of Kyle Juszczyk. Sinnott's versatility made him my top fullback/H-back and even a top-five tight end prospect in this class. He's tough, fast and selfless -- three qualities that I think will get him into the Commanders' starting lineup alongside Zach Ertz at tight end.
82. Javon Bullard, S, Green Bay Packers (Pick 2-58)My final overall ranking: No. 74
The Packers identified a need in the secondary this offseason and aggressively attacked it, signing free agent Xavier McKinney and drafting three safeties in the top five rounds. Bullard should see immediate starting snaps opposite McKinney in the split-safety look. He's a sure tackler with awesome read-and-react skills.
83. Javon Baker, WR, New England Patriots (Pick 4-110)My final overall ranking: No. 100
Baker is a fantastic red-zone threat with the body control and footwork to make a mark in the NFL in his first season. He caught 52 passes for 1,139 yards and seven TDs last season. The Pats knew they needed to add playmakers and went about it over the three days of the draft.
84. Ja'Lynn Polk, WR, New England Patriots (Pick 2-37)My final overall ranking: No. 67
Back-to-back favorite picks at wide receiver for New England! This was a desperate need for the front office to build around Drake Maye, and Polk is a physical route runner with really good post-catch ability. He'll dominate on breaking routes and should become the team's go-to underneath possession receiver.
85. Kingsley Suamataia, OT, Kansas City Chiefs (Pick 2-63)My final overall ranking: No. 64
The connections between Suamataia and Kansas City were red-hot before the draft, so it's not a shock that the team selected him in Round 2. The question will be where he plays. The Chiefs have a need at left tackle, but Wanya Morris played well when thrust into action late last season as a rookie. Could Suamataia be a future replacement for pricey right tackle Jawaan Taylor, given his struggles in 2023? I think so.
86. Malachi Corley, WR, New York Jets (Pick 3-65)My final overall ranking: No. 61
Without a second-round pick, the Jets' front office had to follow the Olu Fashanu pick up with a marquee receiver in Round 3. Corley has the run-after-catch speed and power to be an asset opposite Garrett Wilson.
87. Trey Benson, RB, Arizona Cardinals (Pick 3-66)My final overall ranking: No. 58
James Conner is entrenched as the Cardinals' starting running back, but there was no proven second option behind him before Friday night. Benson has power at 221 pounds and is also a great receiver out of the backfield. He had a Round 2 grade on my board and projects as a future starter.
88. Cooper Beebe, G, Dallas Cowboys (Pick 3-73)My final overall ranking: No. 63
Dallas was forced to restock on the offensive line after losing Tyron Smith and Tyler Biadasz in free agency. Beebe was a college left guard who did take some snaps at tackle, but don't be surprised if he moves inside to center for the Cowboys. He has rookie starter ability.
89. Bralen Trice, EDGE, Atlanta Falcons (Pick 3-74)My final overall ranking: No. 72
The Falcons' primary need entering the draft was for an edge rusher. After foregoing that position in Round 1, getting a productive 4-3 defensive end in Trice in Round 3 was a must-add. While he doesn't flash elite measurables (6-foot-4 but only 245 pounds), Trice shows consistent production in generating pressure.
90. Luke McCaffrey, WR, Washington Commanders (Pick 3-100)My final overall ranking: No. 143
Commanders general manager Adam Peters came from the 49ers, who have running back Christian McCaffrey. In his first draft as a GM, he made sure to add another McCaffrey to his new team. The younger brother is likely a slot receiver in Washington, where he'll provide the underneath option for Jayden Daniels with Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson working down the field.
91. Dadrion Taylor-Demerson, S, Arizona Cardinals (Pick 4-104)My final overall ranking: No. 93
Free safety Budda Baker is locked into one starting spot, but there is room for Taylor-Demerson to work his way into the lineup very quickly as the nickel safety. With excellent ball skills and instincts, Taylor-Demerson's best fit is from an inside alignment. He can remove receivers in coverage and make rangy plays on the ball.
92. Devontez Walker, WR, Baltimore Ravens (Pick 4-113)My final overall ranking: No. 79
The wide receiver room in Baltimore was thin heading into the draft, and the selection of Walker could pay off very soon. He has deep-threat ability and is a polished route runner on breaking routes. His size and toughness will be an ideal pairing opposite speedster Zay Flowers.
93. AJ Barner, TE, Seattle Seahawks (Pick 4-121)My final overall ranking: No. 173
Seattle has Noah Fant as the starting tight end, and while the veteran is a good player, he is not an in-line option. Barner will take over that role, where his expertise as a run blocker fits with new coach Mike MacDonald's style of football. Barner has more upside as a pass-catcher than he showed in college, making him one of my favorite offensive breakout candidates from Day 3.
94. Giovanni Manu, OT, Detroit Lions (Pick 4-126)My final overall ranking: No. 437
The final ranking on Manu is misleading, as he was given a seventh-round grade that could have ranked him anywhere from No. 275 on down. He's a true developmental prospect, and I love that the Lions are taking the low-risk opportunity to try and build up the next international star at tackle. The positional traits are all there; he just needs time to learn the game.
95. Malik Mustapha, S, San Francisco 49ers (Pick 4-124)My final overall ranking: No. 113
When healthy, Talanoa Hufanga is one of the best hitters in the NFL. As he makes his way back from a knee injury, the 49ers drafted the hardest-hitting safety in the class to team up with him. Mustapha is a bit of a throwback strong safety, but Mustapha plays with fire coming downhill to strike ball carriers. Given the uncertainty of the 49ers' future at safety, I love this pick.
96. Brennan Jackson, EDGE, Los Angeles Rams (Pick 5-154)My final overall ranking: No. 154
The Rams' commitment to building the defensive line in this draft was remarkable, and Jackson has the goods to be another Day 3 find from GM Les Snead. Jackson will work with fellow rookie Jared Verse and last year's steal Byron Young to be the Rams' three-man rotation at defensive end.
97. Mohamed Kamara, EDGE, Miami Dolphins (Pick 5-158)My final overall ranking: No. 176
Even after adding Chop Robinson in Round 1, the Dolphins knew they needed more pass-rushers given injuries and free agent departures. Kamara looked like a top-75 pick at times last season and plays with a relentless effort that's infectious. He doesn't profile as a future starter but has the traits to be a disruptive third rusher after 13 sacks in 2023.
98. Christian Jones, OT, Arizona Cardinals (Pick 5-162)My final overall ranking: No. 98
Jonah Williams was signed to a two-year deal this offseason, and Jones continues the effort to improve the Cardinals' line. Jones was a six-year college player with extensive experience at right tackle. He won't wow you with movement ability, but he's as steady as they come in pass protection and has a shot to develop from a swing tackle into a starting right tackle.
99. Jordan Travis, QB, New York Jets (Pick 5-171)My final overall ranking: No. 249
When your starting quarterback is 40 years old and coming off an Achilles injury, having a backup plan in place is a great idea. Travis is a gamer who consistently stepped up and led Florida State's offense to a revitalization in 2023 before suffering a season-ending ankle injury. He doesn't have eye-popping measurables (6-foot-1, 200 pounds), but his poise and ability to create in key moments make him my favorite Day 3 quarterback. He can learn behind Aaron Rodgers, too.
100. Darius Robinson, EDGE, Arizona Cardinals (Pick 1-27)My final overall ranking: No. 31
The final entry in the best 100 picks, Robinson is a versatile defensive lineman that the Cardinals can build a defensive line around. The question will be where he lines up -- at defensive tackle or defensive end -- in coach Jonathan Gannon's defense, but he has the length, power and quickness to be a threat at either spot.
