2024 NFL Draft: 5 teams that should explore trading up feat. Sean Payton’s Broncos
As April begins, we are only three weeks away from the 2024 NFL draft. This highly anticipated three-day event will see numerous top college prospects being selected on the first night.
The top five picks in the draft include the Chicago Bears with the No. 1 and No. 9 selections, followed by the Washington Commanders (No. 2), New England Patriots (No. 3), Arizona Cardinals (No. 4), and Los Angeles Chargers (No. 5).
Despite the fact that most drafts typically have a high number of quarterbacks selected in the first round, this year’s draft is expected to continue this trend due to the abundance of talented quarterbacks in this year’s class. It is anticipated that at least five quarterbacks will be chosen in what is considered a deep quarterback class.
There are numerous teams that may consider trading up in order to acquire a franchise quarterback.
5 potential trade-up targets for the 2024 NFL draft
Many of the listed teams would be willing to make a trade in order to secure a franchise quarterback who may not be available by their original pick. Additionally, there are a handful of teams that may trade up for a different position other than quarterback.
Despite the draft’s unpredictability and chaos, there are five teams that may consider trading up on draft night.
#1. Kansas City Chiefs
The Denver Broncos, like numerous other teams, may consider trading up on draft night.
Since parting ways with Russell Wilson this off-season, the team now faces a significant gap at quarterback and must find a replacement. With no free-agent quarterbacks signed to fill the role, it would be logical for them to trade up in the draft for a top quarterback prospect.
Sean Payton stated that, with the team’s No. 12 pick, it is “realistic”for them to consider moving up from their original position. This suggests that they have a strong interest in trading up for a quarterback.
#2. Kansas City Chiefs
Some teams on this list may not be looking to trade up for a quarterback, such as the Jacksonville Jaguars who already have a reliable starter in Trevor Lawrence.
The Jaguars were dealt a significant blow to their offense when Calvin Ridley decided to join the Tennessee Titans in free agency. However, just days before Ridley’s departure, the Jags managed to secure the signing of Gabe Davis. They were also actively pursuing a contract extension with Ridley before his decision to leave.
The Jaguars, who hold the No. 17 pick, are situated in the middle of the draft order. Given the abundance of talented quarterbacks in this draft class, the team may consider trading up to secure Marvin Harrison Jr. or Malik Nabers, providing another dynamic receiver option for Lawrence.
#3. Minnesota Vikings: A Dominant Force in the NFC North
With Kirk Cousins opting to join the Atlanta Falcons this off-season, it is probable that the Minnesota Vikings will turn to the draft to find a successor for him.
The Vikings possess two first-round selections (No. 11 and No. 23) which were obtained through trades. There is speculation that the team may have acquired an additional first-round pick in order to facilitate a potential trade for a higher draft position.
At pick No. 11, Minnesota is behind at least 4-5 teams who may also be looking to draft a quarterback. It is possible that they may choose to trade up in order to secure their desired quarterback.
#4. The Silver and Black: Las Vegas Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 11 pick, just two spots behind the Minnesota Vikings. The Denver Broncos are positioned at pick No. 12, sandwiched between the Raiders and the Vikings.
The Raiders have decided to part ways with Jimmy Garoppolo, whom they had acquired last off-season. As they prepare for the upcoming season, they will have Antonio Pierce leading the team as their head coach for the first time.
Las Vegas is aiming to secure a promising quarterback to groom alongside Pierce. This may involve the Raiders trading up from their current No. 13 draft position.
#6. Kansas City Chiefs
Similarly to the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Kansas City Chiefs may also see advantages in exchanging draft picks to acquire a top wide receiver. Last season, the Chiefs had one of the weakest wide receiver groups and they could potentially face a period without their top wide receiver. There is a possibility that Rashee Rice could face legal consequences and face disciplinary action after being connected to a car accident.
The Chiefs have acquired free agent wide receiver Marquise Brown, but they are still in need of another offensive playmaker, especially with aging tight end Travis Kelce.
At the 32nd pick, the Chiefs may find that several noteworthy wide receivers have already been chosen. This year’s class of receivers is widely considered to be stronger, meaning that if they have their sights set on one of the top options at the position, they may need to make a trade to secure them.
Who do you believe should make a move in the 2024 NFL draft? Share your opinions in the comments section.
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