NFL mock draft: Seven trades, quarterbacks figure into final predictions

DETROIT, April 25 (UPI) -- A record-tying six quarterbacks are featured in my final NFL mock draft for 2024. I also predict seven trades on Day 1 of the 2024 NFL Draft.

Once again, former USC quarterback Caleb Williams leads my list of projected selections in the first round, which will be held Thursday in Detroit. He most likely will be chosen by the Chicago Bears at No. 1 overall.

I then expect the Washington Commanders and New England Patriots to also pick quarterbacks, with respective selections of LSU's Jayden Daniels and North Carolina's Drake Maye.

Be prepared for a trade frenzy after the passers walk the stage. Look for the New York Jets to make a move for a pass-catching target for Aaron Rodgers, which could come through a trade for the No. 4 overall pick.

My first round features six wide receivers, including three selected within the Top 10, eight offensive linemen, and 11 defensive players, in addition to the six quarterbacks.

My predictions are based on interviews with NFL coaches, general managers, prospects, player personnel experts, scouts and personal evaluations.

The 2024 NFL Draft will be held from Thursday through Sunday in Detroit.

The first round of the 2024 NFL Draft will air at 8 p.m. EDT Thursday. Day 2 of the draft, with second- and third-round picks, will air at 7 p.m. Friday. Rounds four through seven will air at noon Saturday.

All draft coverage will be shown on ABC, ESPN, ESPN2 and NFL Network.

2024 NFL mock draft 3.0

1. Chicago Bears

QB Caleb Williams, USC

2. Washington Commanders

QB Jayden Daniels, LSU

3. New England Patriots

QB Drake Maye, North Carolina

4. New York Jets (traded from Arizona Cardinals)

WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State

5. Minnesota Vikings (traded from Los Angeles Chargers)

QB J.J. McCarthy, Michigan