The 2024 NFL Draft is approximately one week away! TDN scout Ryan Fowler recently dropped an exciting two-round NFL mock draft. I’ve been chosen to dissect Fowler’s latest mock.
The latest TDN100 update has served as a reference point for both Fowler’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 TDN’s latest 2024 NFL mock draft.
Favorite pick: Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Indianapolis Colts (No. 15 overall)
The Colts fielded a middle-of-the-pack secondary last season, allowing a 16th-ranked 226 passing yards per contest. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley did an outstanding job getting instant contributions from rookie cornerbacks such as JuJu Brents and Jaylon Jones. There's room for another competitor here as this room continues sorting itself out.
Quinyon Mitchell is the first cornerback off the board in Fowler's mock. The Colts should sprint that pick to the podium if given the opportunity. Mitchell has enjoyed an outstanding pre-draft process through impressive showings at the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine. Mitchell is a terrific fit for Bradley's zone-heavy scheme.
Biggest Question Mark: Keon Coleman, WR, Dallas Cowboys (No. 24 overall)
Dallas is entering the 2024 NFL Draft with two massive needs across their offensive line. The Cowboys lost Tyron Smith and Tyler Biadasz to free agency. Even if Tyler Smith moves to left tackle, the Cowboys require two new starters, at left guard and center. I can't fathom the Cowboys exiting the first round without drafting a plug-and-play offensive lineman.
The Jones family has always prioritized high-level offensive line play. Protecting quarterback Dak Prescott remains of the utmost importance. I understand Fowler's sentiment to pair Keon Coleman as the long-term WR2 opposite CeeDee Lamb. I just believe the Cowboys have bigger needs that must be addressed.
Best Scheme Fit: Adonai Mitchell, WR, New England Patriots (No. 34 overall)
Fowler has the Patriots drafting their quarterback of the future in Michigan's J.J. McCarthy at No. 3 overall. There's been some skepticism that the Patriots may trade down to accumulate additional draft capital instead of taking a QB. I prefer Fowler's projection. The Patriots must take advantage of a deep quarterback class to find Mac Jones' successor.
Attention swiftly shifts to ensuring McCarthy has weapons at his disposal. I have a first-round grade on Adonai Mitchell, so drafting him at No. 34 would be excellent. Mitchell would immediately become New England's No. 1 receiver, surpassing JuJu Smith-Schuster, Kendrick Bourne, and K.J. Osborn on the depth chart.
Best Value: Dallas Turner, EDGE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 26 overall)
The general expectation is that Dallas Turner will be the first defensive player drafted. Turner proved he's worthy of a top 10 selection following a historically impressive showing at the NFL Combine that included a 40.5-inch vertical and 4.46 40. Pairing Turner's production and traits with his athleticism screams premium first-round pick.
The Buccaneers get outstanding value at No. 26 overall. Turner would join a young group of pass rushers that features Calijah Kancey, Yaya Diaby, Logan Hall, and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka. Turner would help the Buccaneers replace the production they lost when Shaq Barrett signed with the Miami Dolphins in free agency.
Best Player Not Selected: Kris Jenkins, DT, Michigan
Michigan's Kris Jenkins is the No. 68 ranked overall player in our latest TDN100 update, which is fitting since Fowler couldn't identify a landing spot for him within his opening 64. The thing is, I expect Jenkins to be drafted significantly higher than 64 or 68. Conversations with sources indicate Jenkins possesses an outside chance to be a first-round pick. The Buffalo Bills (No. 28) and San Francisco 49ers (No. 31) are intriguing fits toward the conclusion of round one.
