We're officially into April, which means the 2024 NFL draft is right around the corner. Just about all pre-draft events are behind us -- all-star games, the combine and pro days -- save for team visits and interviews. So after returning from a couple of pro day trips out West, I wanted to update my projections for where the top prospects could land in a few weeks.
What's the only thing better than a first-round mock draft? A two-round mock draft. I went 64 picks deep this time around, and I found new homes for six quarterbacks, a ton of offensive playmakers and some really talented defensive stars. Adding to the fun, I projected four intriguing trades in this exercise -- two in each round. Which teams could make a move up the board to get their guy?
Here are my predictions for Rounds 1-2, starting with a really easy choice for the Bears. And check out the "SportsCenter" special on these picks Wednesday at 5 p.m. ET (ESPN2).
ROUND 1
1. Chicago Bears (via CAR)
Caleb Williams, QB, USC
We know the Bears will use the first overall pick on a quarterback -- they traded Justin Fields to the Steelers last month -- and Williams is a safe bet to be the answer under center. His dazzling playmaking ability will travel to the NFL, and he'd be set up for early success with an enviable wide receiver duo of DJ Moore and Keenan Allen. Chicago might even be able to further improve his supporting cast with its second top-10 selection at No. 9. Either way, this pick concludes the stress-free portion of the draft, as things get interesting from here.
