2024 NFL Draft Projections: What Happens After the Top Two Picks?

The 2024 NFL Draft’s first round is shaping up with the Jacksonville Jaguars and New York Jets set to select the top two picks, according to multiple reports. But what happens after that remains a focal point for teams and analysts. As of April 2024, the Jaguars hold the first overall pick, while the Jets, who traded up to secure the second, are expected to target a defensive playmaker, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Why the Top Two Picks Are Considered Locked In

The Jaguars’ selection of a quarterback with the first pick is widely anticipated, with LSU’s Joe Burrow and Ohio State’s CJ Stroud as leading candidates, according to NFL.com’s draft analysis. The team’s decision to draft a signal-caller aligns with their long-term strategy, as noted by Pro Football Focus. Meanwhile, the Jets’ second pick is expected to go to a defensive player, with Illinois’ K’Von Wallace and Alabama’s Malaki Reynolds emerging as top targets, per The Athletic’s Daniel D’Addona.

What Teams Might Do With Third Through 32nd Picks

After the top two selections, teams face critical decisions. The Arizona Cardinals, holding the third pick, are reportedly considering a trade, as reported by NFL Network. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles, who hold the fourth pick, are focused on bolstering their defense, with Georgia’s Travon Walker and Notre Dame’s Isaiah Fournette as potential targets, according to ESPN’s Todd McShay.

Teams like the Denver Broncos and Chicago Bears are also evaluating their options, with the Broncos prioritizing a pass rusher and the Bears targeting a wide receiver, per CBS Sports’ Tom Pelissero. These moves reflect broader trends of teams addressing positional needs while balancing long-term roster building.

How Draft Strategy Differs Across Teams

While the Jaguars and Jets focus on immediate impact, other teams are adopting a more measured approach. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, for instance, are exploring trades to move up or down the draft board, as reported by The New York Times. Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers, holding the 12th pick, are weighing between a wide receiver and an offensive lineman, according to 247Sports’ Matt Crystal.

This divergence in strategy highlights the complexity of the draft, where teams must balance short-term needs with future flexibility. As NFL analyst Mike Tanier noted, “The first round is about setting the tone, but the real story is how teams adapt after the top picks.”

Why This Draft Matters for the 2024 Season

The 2024 draft’s early picks could significantly influence the league’s competitive landscape. For example, if the Jaguars select a quarterback, it could accelerate their rebuild, while the Jets’ defensive additions might impact their playoff aspirations. Historical precedents, such as the 2020 draft’s impact on the Cincinnati Bengals and Baltimore Ravens, underscore the long-term effects of early selections.

Analysts like ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. emphasize that “the first round is where teams define their future, and the next 30 picks will determine how quickly they can compete.” With the draft set for April 25, all eyes will be on how teams translate projections into action.