Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell is among the most intriguing playmakers available in the 2024 NFL Draft. The big-bodied Mitchell creates separation at all three levels of the field. In 2023, Mitchell was a key contributor to Steve Sarkisian’s offense, recording 55 receptions for 845 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns.
Mitchell showcased a rare nose for the end zone. Among all receivers with 10-plus touchdowns, the Longhorn standout was particularly efficient, averaging one touchdown every five catches. That should allow the Missouri City, Texas native to make an immediate impact in the red area.
Mitchell is a nightmare in coverage. A smooth route-runner, opposing cornerbacks struggle to match him stride for stride. We've identified three ideal team fits for Mitchell in the 2024 NFL Draft.
BUFFALO BILLS
I'm not sure the Bills could hand-pick a better like-for-like replacement for Gabe Davis in this draft than Mitchell. Buffalo's designated vertical playmaker, Davis essentially said bye to Bills fans via social media earlier this week. Davis is expected to sign a more lucrative contract with another team in free agency than what Bills general manager Brandon Beane can offer him.
Davis has been inconsistent, but his inevitable departure frees up 81 targets, more than 700 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns from this past season. Some of that workload will be bestowed upon improved versions of Dalton Kincaid and Khalil Shakir, but with Stefon Diggs also doing his best work underneath nowadays, a field-stretcher is necessary for this offense to really tick. Mitchell would be a seamless fit.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Panthers general manager Dan Morgan must strongly consider a receiver with the No. 33 overall selection, the top pick of the second round. Carolina was left with a depleted pass-catching room following the blockbuster trade that sent superstar wideout D.J. Moore to the Chicago Bears. Moving up to draft Bryce Young also cost Carolina the first overall selection this April.
Morgan, a first-year GM, is tasked with picking up the pieces. Further investing in Young's development following a lackluster debut campaign is the only answer. Hiring offensive-minded head coach Dave Canales is a good start. Young must be surrounded by a far better supporting cast moving forward. Laviska Shenault and D.J. Chark are two unrestricted free agents who aren’t expected back in Carolina next season. Moves must be made to ensure Adam Thielen is no longer Young’s go-to target. Mitchell could be Carolina's most productive receiver next season.
TENNESSEE TITANS
New Titans head coach Brian Callahan is an aggressive leader who plans to upgrade Tennessee's drop-back passing game. Callahan was part of a Bengals regime that drafted Ja'Marr Chase ahead of Penei Sewell, prioritizing playmakers over protection. Now faced with developing Will Levis into a franchise quarterback, Callahan is going to reshape Tennessee's receiver room behind DeAndre Hopkins.
If the Titans don't draft a receiver with the No. 7 overall selection, they'll almost certainly earmark one with their second-rounder, the 38th pick. Mitchell is one of those receivers I can see Callahan and the Titans falling in love with, a big-bodied vertical playmaker a la Tee Higgins. If Mitchell slides to the second round, the Titans could get aggressive.
