The 2024 NFL Draft is quickly approaching, and among the most intriguing mid-round wide receivers available for the taking is former Rice pass-catcher Luke McCaffrey.
McCaffrey has the ability to help a team in multiple different facets as he played quarterback at Nebraska before transition to a full-time wide receiver for two seasons at Rice.
McCaffrey recorded 129 catches for 1,715 yards and 20 total touchdowns. He also added 265 rushing yards on just 27 in that time span with the Owls.
With successful Senior Bowl and Combine appearances in the books to accompany his overall body of work, McCaffrey's footwork, catch radius, blocking ability, contested catch ability, overall versatility, and ability to work from the Wildcat continue to impress scouts.
There are multiple teams that have been connected to McCaffrey in the pre-draft process, but here's a look into three fits that could make the most sense:
1. San Francisco 49ers
The level of versatility McCaffrey brings to the table could appeal greatly for 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan when the team makes its selections in the upcoming draft. And, thinking about the long-term future at the receiver position is becoming an area of concern for the 49ers with how long they'll be able to retain Brandon Aiyiuk and Deebo Samuel where the salary cap restrictions are concerned.
In this scenario, the younger McCaffrey would join forces with his older brother, Christian McCaffrey, on the same roster. This could be the start of a great mentorship and one of the more intriguing NFL storylines.
2. Denver Broncos
Like father, like son. Such would be the case if McCaffrey were to be drafted by the Broncos -- the same team his father, Ed McCaffrey, played for. Denver has already shown some very concrete interest in the Rice product, as it was reported the Broncos "had dealings with" McCaffrey at the Combine and hosted him for a pre-draft visit.
The Broncos need more firepower at receiver, and McCaffrey could fill that void for them as a mid-round selection.
McCaffrey was asked at the Combine about his thoughts on potentially joining the Broncos.
"It's be awesome," he responded. "That'd be a dream come true. I grew up kind of in that locker room with my dad playing and then doing broadcasting."
3. Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings need a solid third wide receiver on the depth chart heading into next season and McCaffrey could be just that for them. The team failed to capitalize on the opportunity to secure an adequate player at the position for that spot during free agency, so it's something they should be expected to address in the fourth or fifth round of the draft.
McCaffrey would have the opportunity to learn there from some of the best with the two-headed snake that is Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison.
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