TDN scout Damian Parson recently dropped an appetizing two-round 2024 NFL Mock Draft. With draft weekend swiftly approaching, Parson decided to expand his projections to 64 selections. I’ve been chosen to dissect the latest mock.
March’s TDN100 update has served as a reference point for both Parson’s mock draft and my analysis. I've identified my favorite selections, scheme fits, and the best prospect not selected. I also have some question marks. Let’s dive into Parson’s latest 2024 NFL mock draft.
Favorite pick: Adonai Mitchell, WR, Cincinnati Bengals (No. 18 overall)
Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins requested a trade after long-term contract discussions failed to materialize despite him receiving the franchise tag. Bengals decision-maker Duke Tobin must now navigate through a difficult situation. He either has to convince Higgins to play out the 2024 season on a one-year fully guaranteed contract, or trade him in exchange for draft capital.
Texas' Adonai Mitchell would be an outstanding immediate replacement or succession plan. Mitchell possesses a similar skill set to Higgins as a big-bodied vertical threat. Swapping out Higgins for Mitchell would make for a seamless transition in the Bengals offense.
Biggest Question Mark: Kris Jenkins, DT, Dallas Cowboys (No. 56 overall)
The Cowboys drafted defensive tackle Mazi Smith with their first-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. Smith didn’t meet expectations as a rookie, but are the Cowboys going to draft a potential replacement like Kris Jenkins with a top-60 pick just one year later? Smith likely gets a longer leash due to his draft status.
Dallas has more glaring roster holes they should consider addressing with their lone second-round selection. A running back to replace Tony Pollard, doubling down at offensive line, a linebacker or safety would all make more sense than another interior defensive lineman. Jenkins is a quality prospect, but the Cowboys should look elsewhere.
Best Scheme Fit: Blake Corum, RB, Los Angeles Chargers (No. 42 overall)
The Chargers have undergone sweeping changes at running back this offseason. Long-time great Austin Ekeler departed the franchise by signing with the Washington Commanders. The Chargers responded by signing Gus Edwards to a modest two-year contract.
Jim Harbaugh and the new regime weren't the ones who drafted Isaiah Spiller and Joshua Kelley. I believe Harbaugh is about to completely revamp this backfield. His familiarity and appreciation for Michigan's Blake Corum makes him a clear target. Corum has been successfully executing Harbaugh's scheme for several seasons now.
Best Value: Amarius Mims, OT, New York Giants (No. 39 overall)
Amarius Mims was one of the most impressive performers among all offensive linemen at the NFL Combine. The 6-foot-7, 340-pound Mims possesses rare size, movement skills, and length (36 ⅛” arms, 86 ¾” wingspan) for the position. Mims is a little raw and inexperienced, but I’d be totally stunned if he slipped to 39th overall as Parson suggested here.
The Giants no longer own this selection (No. 39) after trading it to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for Brian Burns, but this is more about Mims' projected landing spot. Mims possesses the rare traits at a premium position that will make NFL teams covet him with a top-20 selection.
Best Player Not Selected: Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State
I had to search a little harder than usual for our "Best Player Not Selected" section considering Parson's did a two-round mock. Florida State's Braden Fiske jumps out. Parsons couldn't find a home for Fiske despite him being the No. 26 ranked prospect in the latest TDN100 update.
Fiske was the best interior defensive performer at the NFL Combine. Fiske posted elite results in the 40 (4.78), broad jump (9-foot-9), and vertical (33.50 inches). Fiske likely solidified his status as a top-50 pick in Indianapolis.
