The first round of the 2024 NFL Draft is in the books, and now the anticipation builds for Day 2. Teams are looking to fill crucial gaps and find hidden gems in the second and third rounds. NFL Draft Diamonds provides an in-depth look at potential picks, offering a unique perspective on who could be selected. Let’s dive into our bold predictions for Day 2.
NFL Draft Diamonds Day 2 Mock Draft
Round 2: Surprises and Potential Steals
Round 2 often sees teams reaching for players with high upside or addressing immediate needs. This year promises to be no different. Expect some surprising picks and potential steals that could define franchises for years to come. We predict the Buffalo Bills, holding the 33rd pick, will select Keon Coleman, the explosive wide receiver from Florida State, to bolster their receiving corps. The Patriots, always looking for offensive line depth, are projected to snag Patrick Paul, the massive offensive tackle from Houston, with the 34th pick.
The Cardinals, at pick number 35, could surprise many by selecting Cooper DeJean, the versatile cornerback from Iowa, adding much-needed talent to their secondary. The Commanders, with back-to-back picks at 36 and 40, are expected to address both defensive and offensive line needs, potentially drafting defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton from Illinois and offensive tackle Kingsley Suamataia from BYU.
Round 3: Value Picks and Hidden Gems
Round 3 is where astute general managers can find exceptional value. Players with specific skill sets or those who may have slipped due to positional depth can be unearthed. We predict a run on tight ends in the early part of the third round, with players like Theo Johnson from Penn State (projected to the Panthers) and Ja’Tavion Sanders from Texas (potentially going to the Bengals in Round 2) being highly sought after.
Teams looking to add depth to their pass rush could target players like Chris Braswell from Alabama (projected to the Cardinals) or Adisa Isaac from Penn State (a potential pick for the Bears). Round 3 is also where quarterbacks who didn’t get selected in the first two rounds could hear their names called. We believe Spencer Rattler, the talented but inconsistent quarterback from South Carolina, could be a high-risk, high-reward pick for a team like the Giants at pick number 70.
Impact Players and Long-Term Potential
Day 2 of the NFL Draft is not just about filling immediate needs; it’s about finding players who can contribute for years to come. Several players projected to be selected on Day 2 have the potential to become impact players in the NFL. Wide receivers like Ladd McConkey (Georgia), Adonai Mitchell (Texas), and Roman Wilson (Michigan) all possess the skills to become reliable targets for their future quarterbacks.
On the defensive side of the ball, edge rushers like Bralen Trice (Washington) and Brandon Dorlus (Oregon), along with linebackers like Payton Wilson (NC State) and Trevin Wallace (Kentucky), could become disruptive forces in the league.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future of the NFL
Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft promises to be filled with excitement and intrigue. The decisions made by teams on this day will significantly impact the future of their franchises. While some picks may be predictable, others will undoubtedly surprise. The players selected will have the opportunity to prove themselves and make their mark on the NFL. Which players will rise to the occasion and become the next generation of stars? Only time will tell.
