(Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) As we enter into the heart of the 2024 NFL draft season, it's time for the unveiling of Brad Fowler's first mock draft. It aims to strategically address team needs and bolster rosters across the league with all 32 first-round picks, following the initial frenzy of free agency. While notable free agents still linger, the dust has settled on the major signings, allowing us to focus squarely on the draft landscape. This mock draft refrains from projecting any trades, providing a clear snapshot of each team's potential selections.
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(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) In NFL the running back position still remains crucial for many teams’ offensive strategies. As we continue to break down the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, the spotlight shifts to five exceptional players poised to make a significant impact at the next level. Let’s explore the top five running back prospects, each bringing their unique blend of skills and potential.
1. Jonathon Brooks — Texas Leading this year’s class is Jonathon Brooks from Texas. Regarded by many as the cream of the crop in this year’s running back class, Brooks combines agility, vision, and NFL-caliber burst. His standout quality lies in his patience, allowing blocks to form before exploiting openings with remarkable field awareness. As a first-time starter in 2023, Brooks showcased his explosive potential by amassing 1,425 yards and 11 touchdowns in just 11 games, cementing his status as a game-changer. 2. Jaylen Wright — Tennessee Hailing from Tennessee, Jaylen Wright emerges as a formidable prospect with explosive athleticism and breakaway speed. Wright’s versatility shines through as he exhibits a keen eye for open space, complemented by his adeptness in pass protection against blitzing defenders. With a quick jump-cut and the ability to power through tackles, Wright poses a dual-threat capability, capable of altering the course of a game with his dynamic playmaking skills. 3. Trey Benson — Florida State Florida State’s Trey Benson embodies the epitome of a tough, relentless runner who thrives on contact. His sheer power and acceleration make him a nightmare for defenders to bring down on initial contact, often dragging them for additional yards. Benson’s playmaking extends to the passing game, where his natural catching abilities and willingness to sacrifice his body add another dimension to his skill set, making him a coveted prospect for NFL franchises. 4. MarShawn Lloyd — USC USC’s MarShawn Lloyd distinguishes himself with his patience and astute decision-making on the field. A smooth athlete with quick footwork, Lloyd excels in allowing plays to develop, but shows a sense of urgency when needed. Despite running behind a subpar offensive line, Lloyd consistently generated dynamic plays, highlighting his toughness and overall ability as a playmaker in adverse conditions. He accumulated 816 rushing yards on 115 carries, boasting an exceptional 7.1 yards per carry average. 5. Bucky Irving — Oregon Rounding up our list is Oregon’s Bucky Irving, whose skills in the passing game set him apart. Exceptional foot quickness and agility in change of direction. He’s Capable of halting abruptly and redirecting smoothly. With excellent contact balance and leg drive, Irving has the ability to make defenders miss but also power through tackles. His knack for making defenders miss, coupled with an impressive yards-after-contact average, underscores his value as a creative runner capable of turning any play into a big gain. As the 2024 NFL Draft draws near, these five running back prospects have the skills to shine in the NFL this fall. Each with their unique skill sets and unwavering determination, they are set to make an instant impact on the league, captivating fans and shaping the future of the running back position. Keep an eye on these young playmakers as they transition from college stardom to the NFL. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football The 2024 NFL Combine was a showcase of young talent, with some of the brightest prospects all vying for spots on an NFL roster this fall. Among the many aspiring players, these five prospects showed why they could be climbing draft boards after strong showings at the NFL combine. Let's jump into the stellar performances of these rising draft prospects who have illuminated their path to the 2024 NFL Draft.
Braden Fiske, DT, Florida StateBraden Fiske, the powerhouse from Florida State, stormed onto the Combine stage, leaving a lasting impression on scouts and analysts. Weighing in at 292 pounds, Fiske's agility and speed were impressive for his size, earning him accolades as one of the standout performers of the event. Fiske's Relative Athletic Score (RAS) ranked as the 14th-best score out of 1620 defensive tackle prospects since 1987, underscoring his elite athleticism and potential impact at the next level. Add his stellar showing at the Senior Bowl and it has further bolstered his rising stock, catapulting him up the draft boards with serious momentum. Troy Fautanu, OT, WashingtonTroy Fautanu, hailing from Washington, emerged as a titan among offensive tackles at the Combine. With NFL prototypical size and explosive athleticism, Fautanu dazzled scouts with his quick feet and fluid movements, reaffirming his versatility to play both tackle and guard positions. His impressive physical metrics, including a 1.71-second 10-yard split and a 5.01-second 40-yard dash, showcased his ability and potential to anchor NFL offensive lines. Fautanu's stellar performance solidifies his standing as a coveted prospect, who could be a day-one impact player in the NFL. Ladd McConkey, WR, GeorgiaLadd McConkey, the speedster from Georgia, captivated audiences with his electrifying performance at the Combine. Clocking a blazing 4.39-second 40-yard dash, McConkey's speed, agility, and measurables mirrored that of former New York Jets' 2022 first-round pick Garrett Wilson, cementing his status as a polished prospect destined for success. His flawless execution during positional drills underscored his versatility and playmaking ability. McConkey's meteoric rise from an underrated prospect to a potential late first-round selection epitomizes the transformative power of the NFL Combine. Jaylen Wright, RB, TennesseeJaylen Wright, the explosive playmaker from Tennessee, left a lasting impression with his standout performance at the NFL Combine. With a staggering Relative Athletic Score (RAS) and remarkable physical attributes, Wright emerged as one of the most intriguing running back prospects in the 2024 draft class. Recording the second-fastest 40-yard dash time and showcasing unparalleled acceleration, Wright's dynamic skills set him apart from his peers. His NFL Combine performance catapults him into the upper echelons of the running back conversation, poised to make a profound impact at the pro level. Mike Sainristil, CB, MichiganMike Sainristil, the dynamic cornerback from Michigan, shattered expectations with his stellar showing at the NFL Combine. Despite concerns about his size, Sainristil's exceptional performance in key drills and his impressive production at Michigan have thrust him into the spotlight as a top prospect among nickel cornerbacks. His transition from wide receiver to cornerback shows up on tape and in drills because of his great ball skills and playmaking ability. Sainristil's standout performance at the Combine raises his position as a coveted prospect, who can be an impact defender in the NFL. The 2024 NFL Combine unveiled a group of rising talent, with Braden Fiske, Troy Fautanu, Ladd McConkey, Jaylen Wright, and Mike Sainristil all showing the athleticism and measurables of players who can excel in the NFL. As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on these rising prospects as they embark on their journey to the NFL. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football The NFL offseason is always rife with speculation, and this year, the focus is on the talented young quarterback, Justin Fields of the Chicago Bears. As rumors swirl about his potential departure, let's dive into three compelling landing spots that could redefine the trajectory of Fields' career.
Atlanta Falcons: Revitalizing the Offense with Fields' Explosiveness The Atlanta Falcons find themselves at a crossroads, and the quarterback position is undeniably a weak link in their chain. Desmond Ridder's struggles to prove himself as a capable NFL starter have left the franchise yearning for a dynamic playmaker. Enter Justin Fields. Fields brings to the table a skill set that transcends conventional quarterbacking. His ability to create and extend plays with his legs adds an explosive dimension to an offense already brimming with versatile, young talent. In the hands of Fields, players like Kyle Pitts, Drake London and Bijan Robinson could flourish, providing the Falcons with a much-needed spark. General manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Arthur Smith find themselves on the hot seat, and to secure their future, they must make a bold move. Fields represents not just a quarterback upgrade but a potential game-changer for the entire franchise. Pittsburgh Steelers: Time for a Quarterback Revolution In the Steel City, the quarterback situation is ripe for a revolution. The uninspiring options of Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph do little to inspire confidence in the offensive strategy. Mike Tomlin has legitimate concerns about the direction of his offense, and the time is now for a drastic change. Acquiring Justin Fields could be the catalyst for this change. Fields' dynamic playmaking abilities and versatility could inject life into a stagnant quarterback room. The Steelers more than likely won’t have a high enough draft pick in April to acquire one of the top signal callers so trading some later draft picks and taking a chance on Fields could be worth the risk. The Steelers can ill-afford to stick with the status quo. Pursuing Fields represents not just a move for today but an investment in the future of the franchise. New Orleans Saints: A Strategic Move for Future Success The New Orleans Saints, find themselves at a crossroads with their quarterback situation. While other teams might make a splash in the draft, the Saints could have an alternative route in mind: Justin Fields. Securing Fields would serve as a reasonable alternative if the Saints decide against another draft trade-up. The roster, potentially depleted in the coming seasons, might not justify sacrificing additional picks for marquee names. However, Fields presents a unique opportunity to build for the future. With the chance to learn from Derek Carr and eventually take the reins, Fields could seamlessly integrate into the backfield alongside Alvin Kamara. This move not only provides a strategic succession plan but also ensures the team remains competitive in the face of uncertainty. As the Justin Fields saga unfolds, these three potential landing spots offer not only a change of scenery for the talented quarterback but also the promise of a brighter future for the franchises willing to make a bold move. Stay tuned for the next chapter in the NFL offseason drama. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football As the NFL is set to play its final game of the season, we take a look back at the 2023 NFL Draft and reflect on the selections and the impact these rookies made on the field. Despite uncertainties and speculation, some draft classes have defied our expectations, while others delivered what we expected with each propelling their franchises toward a brighter future. Let's dive into the top five NFL draft classes of 2023, highlighting the standout picks and their contributions to their respective teams' success.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers Original Grade: A- | New Grade: A- Best Pick: Joey Porter Jr. The Pittsburgh Steelers' rookie class showcased remarkable talent, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. First-round pick Broderick Jones became the starting right tackle, not the starting left tackle they hoped for and was up and down his rookie year with some trouble in pass protection. Second-round pick Joey Porter Jr. emerged as a formidable cornerback, poised to anchor the secondary for years to come. Notable defensive standouts include Keeanu Benton and Nick Herbig. Darnell Washington, wasn’t a big contributor catching the ball but made an impact as a blocker. Each made significant contributions in their rookie campaign. The Steelers' draft class has a bright future for Steel City football. 4. Los Angeles Rams Original Grade: D | New Grade: A- Best Pick: Puka Nacua Despite initial skepticism, the Los Angeles Rams unearthed hidden gems in the 2023 NFL Draft. Led by the steal of the entire draft fifth-round pick Puka Nacua, who broke all-time rookie NFL records for both receptions and receiving yards. The Rams' draft class exceeded expectations. Offensive lineman Steve Avila was a key contributor and a full-time starter. Defensive standouts Byron Young and Kobie Turner (who earned All-Rookie Team honors) showcased their immediate impact, solidifying the Rams' defensive foundation. With a blend of talent on both sides of the ball, the Rams' 2023 class was one of the biggest surprises this season and it lays the groundwork for sustained success in Los Angeles. 3. Detroit Lions Original Grade: D+ | New Grade: A Best Pick: Sam LaPorta The Detroit Lions defied expectations with their 2023 draft class, turning perceived reaches into key contributors. Dynamic running back Jahmyr Gibbs and linebacker Jack Campbell proved their worth with standout rookie seasons, helping to propel the Lions to newfound heights. Sam LaPorta, arguably had the greatest rookie season by a tight end in NFL history, tallying 86 receptions, 889 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns. Second-round pick Brian Branch became the best player in the Lions’ secondary and underscored the Lions' ability to continue to build a competitive roster. With a resurgence in the NFC North, the Lions' draft class symbolizes a new era of Detroit football. 2. Green Bay Packers Original Grade: A | New Grade: A Best Pick: Jayden Reed The Green Bay Packers' 2023 draft class signifies a bright future, anchored by breakout star Jayden Reed. With a blend of offensive and defensive talent, including Lukas Van Ness, Carrington Valentine, and Dontayvion Wicks, the Packers cultivated a roster poised for success. Sixth-round nose tackle Karl Brooks was an impactful rotational player on the defensive line all season. Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft both improved the TE position. Special teams standout kicker Anders Carlson and defensive contributor Colby Wooden highlight the depth and versatility of Green Bay's draft selections. As the Packers move forward, their 2023 class added a multitude of depth to a roster with championship aspirations. 1. Houston Texans Original Grade: B+ | New Grade: A Best Pick: C.J. Stroud The Houston Texans orchestrated a draft masterclass in 2023, reshaping the franchise's trajectory with strategic selections. Led by quarterback C.J. Stroud and edge rusher Will Anderson Jr., the Texans solidified their foundation for future success. The Texans found great value with players like Tank Dell a third-rounder, designated as the team's big-play specialist, and Juice Scruggs who finished the year as a starter. Houston's offense and defense boast massive potential. Henry To'oto'o was a steal in the fifth-round wreaking havoc on opposing offenses. The Texans' draft class embodies the type of tough and talented players head coach DeMeco Ryans wanted to reshape this franchise with and ushers in a new era of dominance in the AFC South. The 2023 NFL Draft unveiled a crop of talent poised to leave a lasting mark on the league. From defensive dynamos to offensive juggernauts, these draft classes embody the essence of gridiron greatness. As the NFL landscape evolves, the legacy of these rookies will endure, shaping the future of the NFL for years to come. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football As we get closer to the 2024 NFL Draft, the spotlight shines not only on the marquee names but also, on underrated talents emerging ready to make their mark in the NFL. Here, we take a look into the depths of talent, uncovering five NFL Draft Sleepers poised to surprise fans in the fall.
Blake Watson, RB, Memphis Blake Watson is an electrifying player, with a sudden burst and impeccable lateral quickness, Watson maneuvers the field with the grace of a seasoned pro. Transitioning from wide receiver to running back, his versatility makes him an instant impact player. As an inside or outside runner, Watson boasts remarkable field vision, effortlessly finding open spaces. Dynamic and multifaceted, he's a playmaker who’s equally comfortable lining up in the slot as a wide receiver. Ainias Smith, WR, Texas A&M Texas A&M's Ainias Smith is a name to keep an eye on. Smith's polished route running paired with exceptional speed makes him a difficult assignment for corners. His versatility is his hallmark, seamlessly transitioning between wide receiver, running back, and punt returner. He should add value to any team as a playmaker on offense and special teams. He is an explosive and tenacious athlete who fearlessly traverses the middle of the field, leaving defenders in his wake. Kiran Amegadjie, OT, Yale Kiran Amegadjie, is a stalwart presence on the offensive line. With two-and-a-half years of starting experience at both guard and tackle under his belt, Amegadjie displayed dominance. His aggressive play style, coupled with impeccable quickness, sets him apart. Possessing remarkable balance and a strong base, Amegadjie drives defenders backward with ease. A true athlete, his long arms help fend off rushers in pass protection. AJ Hampton Jr., CB, Tulane AJ Hampton Jr. brings speed and talent to the cornerback position. A transfer from Northwestern, Hampton Jr. boasts exceptional ball skills and a keen football IQ. He can play man-to-man but excels in zone coverage. With a quick burst and outstanding closing speed, he can cover quick slot wide receivers in space. Hampton Jr. is a fluid athlete who separates the ball from defenders and could be a steal in the 2024 NFL Draft. Luke McCaffrey, WR, Rice A former QB at Nebraska, the brother of Christian McCaffrey and the son of Ed McCaffrey, Rice's Luke McCaffrey epitomizes versatility. Luke McCaffrey exudes talent and toughness. His performance at the 2024 Reese's Senior Bowl turned heads, showcasing his ability as a natural pass catcher who can separate from defenders. With a high football IQ and short-area quickness, McCaffrey thrives in the slot, making tough catches look effortless. The NFL Draft is a showcase of young talent, where the best of the best vie for a spot in the league. But beyond the obvious stars, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These five NFL Draft Sleepers have proven themselves on the field, displaying a rare combination of skill, versatility, and athleticism. They are ready to take on the challenge of the next level, and to make an impact on their future teams. Don’t sleep on these players, because they are about to wake up the league in 2024. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football
Are you ready for the biggest NFL game of the year? The 2024 Super Bowl is here, hosts Brad Fowler and Alex Higdon dive deep into the ultimate showdown of Super Bowl 58 between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers. Special guest Connor Allen, Sports Betting Manager at 4for4 Football & Betsperts, and host of "Move The Line NFL Podcast" is also on the show for a segment to share his insights on the Super Bowl from a betting perspective. this episode is a must-listen for football fans and bettors alike.
In this exciting episode, Brad and Alex leave no stone unturned as they break down the epic matchup between the Kansas City Chiefs and the San Francisco 49ers. From analyzing key matchups to offering expert predictions and picks, they provide invaluable insights to help you navigate the excitement of Super Bowl 58. But that's not all – special guest Connor Allen brings his A-game, sharing his extensive knowledge and expertise in sports betting. As a seasoned analyst, Connor breaks down the strategic advantages of each team and highlights his favorite player prop bets, long-shot bets, and off-the-field prop bets. His insights are sure to elevate your Super Bowl LVIII experience to new heights. Wondering who will emerge victorious on the biggest stage of them all? Connor Allen doesn't hold back as he reveals his prediction for the winner of the game and the final score. With his track record and deep understanding of the game, his insights are not to be missed. Whether you're a die-hard fan, a seasoned bettor, or just looking to enhance your Super Bowl experience, this episode has something for everyone. So grab your snacks, settle in, and get ready for an unforgettable Super Bowl LVIII showdown between the 49ers and the Chiefs. And who knows, you might just come out a winner with the expert picks and prop bets discussed in this episode. Tune in now and gear up for football's biggest night! You can listen to it on your favorite podcast platform or Simply say "Alexa, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast" or "Hey Google, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast." Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast, and follow us on Twitter @PGFpodcast PLUS subscribe to our FREE newsletter at pintglassfootball.com to get exclusive content!
Welcome to the latest episode recap of the Pint Glass Football Podcast, where we dive deep into the thrilling matchups of the AFC and NFC Championship games, alongside the recent NFL coaching hires. Join Brad and Alex as they dissect the pivotal moments, strategic blunders, and coaching decisions that defined these electrifying clashes.
AFC Championship Showdown: Ravens vs. Chiefs The stage was set as the Baltimore Ravens squared off against the reigning champions, the Kansas City Chiefs. Brad and Alex waste no time in scrutinizing the Ravens' offensive approach, particularly questioning Todd Monken's play calling. Despite a dominant defensive stance, the Ravens succumbed to critical mistakes, paving the way for the Chiefs' triumph. The duo sheds light on Patrick Mahomes' impeccable game management skills and their profound impact on the outcome. NFC Championship Thriller: 49ers vs. Lions In the NFC Championship spectacle, the San Francisco 49ers clashed with the Detroit Lions in a game of epic proportions. The hosts dissect Dan Campbell's audacious fourth-down decisions and the subsequent fallout. Critical errors by the Lions proved costly, enabling the 49ers to orchestrate a historic comeback. Furthermore, the episode delves into the evolving role of analytics in sports, highlighting its limitations in capturing the essence of momentum shifts. NFL Coaching Carousel: Recent Moves and Speculations Beyond the on-field action, our podcast explores the latest coaching updates across the NFL landscape. Ben Johnson's commitment to the Lions, Kellen Moore's perceived mismatch with the Eagles, and Vic Fangio's potential move to the Eagles are among the topics under scrutiny. The hosts delve into unexpected coaching appointments, such as Raheem Morris in Atlanta, offering insightful analysis on Jerod Mayo's prospects as the Patriots' next head coach. Doubts loom over Arthur Smith's compatibility with the Steelers, adding another layer of intrigue to the coaching saga. You can listen to it on your favorite podcast platform or Simply say "Alexa, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast" or "Hey Google, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast." Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast, and follow us on Twitter @PGFpodcast PLUS subscribe to our FREE newsletter at pintglassfootball.com to get exclusive content!
2024 NFL Playoffs Conference Championships Preview: Predictions & Betting Picks
As the 2024 NFL Playoffs unfold, anticipation reaches its peak with the upcoming Conference Championships. In this preview, we dive into the AFC and NFC Championship matchups, alongside insights into Jim Harbaugh's pivotal move to the Los Angeles Chargers. Jim Harbaugh's Impact on the Los Angeles Chargers A significant topic of discussion is Jim Harbaugh's recent hire by the Los Angeles Chargers. With a stellar track record in both college football and the NFL, Harbaugh's expertise brings immense potential to reshape the Chargers' trajectory. Our hosts explore the implications of this game-changing decision and its potential impact on the team's performance moving forward. AFC Championship: Kansas City Chiefs vs. Baltimore Ravens The AFC Championship presents a showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens. Our experts provide an in-depth analysis of key matchups, team strengths, and weaknesses. They identify the X factor pivotal to the game's outcome, offering exclusive insights for bettors. Brad and Alex share their predictions for the victor and unveil their top betting picks, guiding fans through the thrilling encounter. NFC Championship: Detroit Lions vs. San Francisco 49ers In the NFC Championship, the Detroit Lions collide with the San Francisco 49ers in a battle for supremacy. Detailed analysis of crucial matchups, team dynamics, and potential game-changers sets the stage for an electrifying showdown. Our hosts reveal their predictions for the game's outcome and offer expert betting picks tailored to enhance the viewing experience. You can listen to it on your favorite podcast platform or Simply say "Alexa, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast" or "Hey Google, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast." Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast, and follow us on Twitter @PGFpodcast PLUS subscribe to our FREE newsletter at pintglassfootball.com to get exclusive content!
NFL Divisional Round Recap: Chiefs vs. Bills Rematch and Key Takeaways
in this episode of Pint Glass Football our hosts break down the thrilling NFL Divisional Round, fans witnessed an array of intense matchups and standout performances that left football enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. From the Chiefs asserting dominance over the Bills to Lamar Jackson's MVP-worthy showcase, each game delivered its own set of storylines and implications for the teams involved. Chiefs vs. Bills: A Rematch Analysis The much-anticipated rematch between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Buffalo Bills showcased the Chiefs' unwavering dominance once more. Despite the Bills missing a golden opportunity to defeat the Chiefs on their home turf, questions arise about the future of Bills head coach Sean McDermott as his team falls short against what appeared to be a less talented Chiefs squad. 49ers' Comeback Win and Coaching Duel Amidst the rain, the San Francisco 49ers orchestrated a stunning comeback win against the Packers, with quarterback Purdy leading a clutch game-winning drive. Matt LeFluer outcoaching Kyle Shanahan's strategies in a loss, but the talent of the Niners came up big in crucial moments. Packers' Future with Jordan Love The episode also delves into the promising future of the Green Bay Packers with Jordan Love, sparking discussions about the team's quarterback situation and long-term prospects. Ravens' Dominance over Texans and Lamar Jackson's MVP Performance In another showdown, the Baltimore Ravens displayed their superiority over the Texans, with Lamar Jackson delivering an MVP-worthy performance. The Ravens' defensive clinic underscored their talent and potential for a deep playoff run. Lions' NFC Championship Run and Jared Goff's Stellar Performance Jared Goff's stellar performance behind the NFL's best offensive line shines a spotlight on the Detroit Lions' rise and their potential impact on the NFC Championship race. Ben Johnson: Rising Coaching Candidate The podcast explores Ben Johnson's coaching prowess and his status as a hot coaching candidate, reflecting on his contributions to his team's success and his potential future in the NFL coaching landscape. Baker Mayfield's Future as the Starter Lastly, Baker Mayfield's compelling case for the future as the Cleveland Browns' starter is examined, shedding light on his recent performances and contributions to the team's success. You can listen to it on your favorite podcast platform or Simply say "Alexa, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast" or "Hey Google, play the latest episode of the Pint Glass Football Podcast." Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast, and follow us on Twitter @PGFpodcast PLUS subscribe to our FREE newsletter at pintglassfootball.com to get exclusive content! |