NFL Draft 2024: Worst fits for top 10 prospects feat. Caleb Williams and more

The upcoming 2024 NFL draft is expected to be filled with top-tier talent, making it one of the most highly anticipated drafts in recent memory. From players like Caleb Williams and Marvin Harrison Jr. with the potential to become All-Pros, to a versatile defender like Dallas Turner, this draft is brimming with game-changing prospects. It is undoubtedly a draft that has the potential to shape the future of many franchises.

Instead of writing the typical “best fit”analysis, let’s take a look at the worst possible scenarios for the top 10 prospects in the upcoming NFL draft. These situations would create major difficulties for the players and could hinder their progress in the early stages of their careers.

Biggest Busts among Top 10 Prospects of the 2024 NFL Draft

#10, Rome Odunze, wide receiver: Las Vegas Raiders

Rome Odunze’s college football career with the Washington Huskies was nothing short of extraordinary. Alongside Michael Penix Jr., he formed a formidable QB-and-WR duo that struck fear into opposing defenses. With his diverse receiving abilities, Odunze would be a valuable addition to any NFL team.

Nonetheless, Odunze’s progress would be more beneficial on a team where he is either the top or secondary wide receiver. The New York Jets currently have Garrett Wilson and the newly acquired Mike Williams occupying those positions. Both have proven to be capable of achieving 1,000 receiving yards when in good health, which would result in Odunze receiving fewer opportunities if he were to be selected by the Jets.

#9, Drake Maye, quarterback: New England Patriots

It is widely acknowledged that Drake Maye is among the top three quarterbacks in the upcoming NFL draft. Quarterbacks of his caliber should align themselves with teams that have a well-defined strategy for their leaders.

Hence, it would be more beneficial for his growth if he was not based in Las Vegas. The Raiders have a history of struggling to develop quarterbacks. Additionally, with the arrival of Gardner Minshew, it is probable that any rookie quarterback from this draft would have limited opportunities to play in 2024.

#8, Joe Alt, offensive tackle: Kansas City Chiefs

Alt is an exceptional lineman, with prior experience playing at every position on the offensive line.

The Tennessee Titans would be the perfect team for him, as they do not have a established starter in the position he prefers. If the Titans were to select another prospect, it would be a nightmare for Alt. He could potentially fall to the Atlanta Falcons, a team that already has sufficient depth in his position.

#7, Olumuyiwa Fashanu, offensive tackle: Las Vegas Raiders

Despite being a rookie, Olumuyiwa Fashanu proved to be a cornerstone on the Penn State offensive line, making him a highly sought-after prospect for the 2024 NFL draft. His skills as a tackle would be a valuable asset to any team in need of reinforcement at the position.

Despite Fashanu’s talents, it would be a disservice for the Chicago Bears to use their second lottery pick to select him as they have no pressing need for his position.

#6, Dallas Turner, edge rusher: Miami Dolphins

Despite being overshadowed by Will Anderson Jr. during his time in Alabama, Dallas Turner emerged as an integral player for Nick Saban’s team after Anderson was drafted by the Texans in the 2023 NFL draft.

It would be unfortunate if the Texans selected Turner and subjected him to yet another competition with Anderson. There are more suitable options for Turner in this year’s draft.

#5, Malik Nabers, wide receiver: New Orleans Saints

This is a mutually beneficial decision for both parties. Nabers will have the opportunity to catch passes from Justin Herbert, while Herbert will gain a valuable receiver in the absence of Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.

Despite the potential for Malik Nabers to excel on a team like the New York Giants or Atlanta Falcons, there are concerns about his selection by the Chargers. This is due to new coach Jim Harbaugh’s preference for a run-first offense and the Chargers’ track record of struggling to develop rookie pass catchers, such as Quentin Johnston.

#4, Brock Bowers, tight end: Atlanta Falcons

In addition to the Detroit Lions, every franchise will benefit greatly from adding Brock Bowers. This is because the Lions already have All-Pro pass catcher Sam LaPorta on their roster.

#3, Jayden Daniels, quarterback: Arizona Cardinals

Jayden Daniels possesses unparalleled athleticism among the quarterbacks in this year’s NFL draft class. His agility and coordination make him a valuable asset for any team, particularly one with a versatile offensive strategy.

The New England Patriots have a history of favoring traditional pocket-passing quarterbacks. Therefore, selecting Drake Maye or Bo Nix would be a more suitable decision for the team. Jayden Daniels could potentially follow in the footsteps of Cam Newton in 2020 and join Jerod Mayo’s team.

#2, Caleb Williams, quarterback, Washington Football Team

Although the Washington Commanders would be thrilled to have Caleb Williams as a consolation prize, they would quickly accept him. However, being drafted second could have a negative impact on Williams’ growth.

The Chicago Bears are equipped with an outstanding supporting cast for Williams as they approach the NFL draft. Some analysts have gone as far as drawing comparisons between the current situation in Chicago and that of the Pittsburgh Steelers when they selected Big Ben Roethlisberger in the past. In contrast, the Commanders lack both the same level of talent and draft resources as the Bears.

#1, Marvin Harrison Jr., wide receiver: Indianapolis Colts

The Chicago Bears will enter next season with both Keenan Allen and D.J. Moore on their roster. Another star receiver who demands targets from the quarterback is not necessary.

Harrison would be a valuable addition to the Arizona Cardinals, as they are in need of a young wide receiver to team up with Kyler Murray for the next decade.