RIPPLE EFFECT
Teams angling for QBs will influence where stars at other positions land
As March Madness again leaks into April, the sporting world’s spotlight remains on the hardcourt. But the mystery of the NFL draft is only growing more compelling with less than a month remaining, and soon the event will produce its own signature frenzy.
Arguably this year’s biggest point of interest is which – if any – teams will try to trade into the top five picks in a play for one of the class’ prized quarterbacks.
The Minnesota Vikings have widely been suspected to be one of the leading candidates to make a drastic move, as the franchise has two first-rounders at its disposal and little certainty behind center. But what if another team hops up for a signal-caller, sending ripples throughout the rest of Day 1?
That’s the scenario explored in USA TODAY Sports’ latest 2024 NFL mock draft, which features one significant projected trade:
1. Chicago Bears (from Carolina Panthers) – Caleb Williams, QB, USC.
What’s left to say about an outcome that has never been in serious doubt since the Bears secured this slot? Let’s focus instead on Chicago’s overall approach. Williams will step into an offensive outlook far more promising than the one awaiting other potential rookie signal-callers in Washington and New England, as the Bears’ receivers and offensive line look capable of holding their own while a first-year passer finds his way. General manager Ryan Poles recently pushed back against ESPN analyst Robert Griffin III’s remarks about the franchise’s history of developing quarterbacks, saying “we were hired to break a cycle.” Far too early to say whether he will succeed, but the setup for Year 3 has been impressive.
2. Washington Commanders – Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU.
Could J.J. McCarthy end up as high as No. 2 to Washington? It’s a fun hypothetical, but it still sounds too farfetched. For now, Daniels makes plenty of sense as the centerpiece for Washington’s reboot under Dan Quinn and Adam Peters, as he can alternate between a poised distributor from the pocket and an electric threat as a runner.
3. New England Patriots – Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina.
Yes, Robert Kraft undoubtedly wants a quick return back into postseason contention. But new coach Jerod Mayo and director of scouting Eliot Wolf seem to be employing a much more patient approach in initiating the Patriots’ turnaround. Keeping that focus on the long view could point them toward Maye, a puzzling prospect whose dazzling highlights are occasionally offset by repeat