Football season is officially upon us. As teams start putting their Big Boards together for 2024, here's a look at our latest NFL first-round mock draft as of September 2023.
Williams has struggled more than expected late this season, but he's still the likely No. 1 overall pick for his dynamic ability under center. The Bears saw strong play from former first-round pick Justin Fields in Week 11, but it will be too difficult to pass on Williams, especially with the opportunity to reset the rookie contract clock at quarterback.
Despite missing time to injury, Ewers has taken a giant leap when he's played this season and could head for the NFL with Arch Manning breathing down his neck in Austin. Arizona doesn't have a strong quarterback need following Kyler Murray's return from a torn ACL, but they could reset their roster by trading Murray and adding a cheap quarterback.
As Mac Jones continues to struggle, it's more likely the Pats will go back to the quarterback well in next year's draft. Maye had a breakout season as Sam Howell's replacement at UNC last season with 4,321 yards passing and 38 touchdowns, plus nearly 700 yards on the ground.
The Giants offensive line continues to struggle, so that will certainly be one of their priorities in the offseason. Fashanu has the potential to be a brickwall and has performed well at Penn State.
Normally an area of strength of the Titans, the offensive line has seen significant turnover of late. The team used its top pick in 2023 on Peter Skoronski, but could need another pillar next offseason. Alt has the pedigree as the son of former first-round tackle John Alt, and plenty of size at 6-foot-7.
Washington's secondary has struggled early this season despite spending significant draft capital. While slightly undersized, King showed great potential for the Nittany Lions last season with three picks and 18 passes defensed.
David Bakhtiari's future in Green Bay is uncertain after another injury-plagued season Latham shows that potential to emerge as a top left tackle prospect this year.
The Jets would certainly like to revamp for Aaron Rodgers' return, and it's hard to imagine a better addition than Bowers. Bowers is listed at tight end, but he's a mammoth athlete who has been almost indefensible in college. Bowers had over 1,800 yards receiving and 20 touchdowns through two seasons at Georgia, though he missed time this year with an ankle injury.
Turner recorded 12.5 sacks over the last two seasons at Alabama. Khalil Mack's advanced age and Joey Bosa's continued injuries open the door for an edge rusher in LA.
Despite the addition of Samson Ebukam, the Colts could still use more pass rush help. Tuimoloau is set to take a step forward this season after recording 3.5 sacks and two picks last season.
Denver's defense has started to flex its muscle after a very slow start, but they still need more talent on the interior. Hall has upside as an elite interior pass rusher, with 4.5 sacks in limited work last season.
The potential loss of free agent Tee Higgins could leave a huge hole in Cincinnati's offense. The speedy Worthy could be ready to pop this year after recording a combined 122 catches over the last two years.
Buffalo's front seven has been a bit of a disappointment this season, and future Hall of Famer Von Miller could be headed toward retirement. Sawyer has a chance to be Ohio State's next great pass rusher with additional opportunities in 2023 after recording 7.5 sacks over the last two years.
The Saints need a plan to replace star inside linebacker Demario Davis, and Trotter is a potential solution. Trotter was everywhere for the Tigers last season with 6.5 sacks and 89 tackles.
Minnesota has wasted multiple high draft picks at cornerback in recent years, but the current front office has a chance to get the pick right. Lassiter is set for more playing time this year after recording 38 tackles and four passes defensed last season.
Geno Smith continues to be serviceable as Seattle's starter, but they could look for more upside. Jefferson and the Razorbacks have run into some struggles this season, but his athletic ability could be too good to pass up. He's a big quarterback with the ability to run over defensive players, as he's done with over 600 yards rushing in the last two seasons, but Jefferson has also completed over 67% of his passes in consecutive years.
Finding a long-term replacement for veteran Cameron Heyward could become more of a priority for Pittsburgh. Smith is set for a rebound season after a knee injury last year, and could put himself on the first-round radar as an elite athlete.
Houston has gotten the most out of their defensive line this season but could use more talent. Newton is coming off a great year with 5.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss, and will be on the first-round radar if he improves again this year.
The Cowboys have long been the offensive line a priority, and could look to continue improving. The 6-foot-4 Jackson has elite potential at guard.
Wisconsin has been a factory for NFL offensive lineman in recent years, and Nelson is their next first-round prospect. He's experienced at both guard and tackle, while the Jags could use help across the line.
It's become apparent the Ravens can't count on Marlon Humphrey, who suffered another injury in training camp. Burke has struggled to generate takeaways in two seasons with the Buckeyes but still has elite potential.
Detroit added Aidan Hutchinson in last year's draft, but could still use more defensive talent. A massive 300-plus pound lineman, Taylor recorded three sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss last season.
Philadelphia hasn't exactly prioritized safety in recent seasons, but they have the chance to find a long-term player. Mukuba is the next blue-chip defensive back to come out of the Tigers program. He's already a first-round prospect after two strong seasons.
The loss of cornerback L'Jarius Sneed would be a huge blow to the Chiefs despite their success drafting the position last year. DeJean is coming off an excellent season, with five interceptions and 75 tackles.
Seth Trachtman is a fantasy sports expert and diehard Kansas City Chiefs fan. He doesn't often Tweet, but when he does, you can find him on Twitter @sethroto.
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