Updated 2024 NFL Draft Order: Surprises and Rising Prospects

Key Takeaways:

• The 2024 NFL draft order is starting to take shape, with some unexpected results and rising prospects in the early weeks of the 2023 season.
• Cincinnati currently holds the top spot, but the true contenders for the coveted No. 1 overall selection will likely emerge in the coming weeks.
• USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams is a standout prospect, gaining attention as the potential top pick in the 2024 draft with impressive performances and Heisman aspirations.

2024 NFL Draft Order Shakeup

The 2024 NFL draft order is beginning to take an intriguing shape, driven by surprising results and standout performances during the opening weekend of the 2023 season. While it’s still early in the campaign, the Cincinnati Bengals currently find themselves atop the projected draft order, defying preseason expectations.

Projected NFL Draft Order Before The Season Starts:

1. Cardinals
2. Rams
3. Raiders
4. Colts
5. Buccaneers
6. Cardinals (Via Texans)
7. Bears (Via Panthers)
8. Bears
9. Broncos
10. Vikings

— Nico (@elitetakes_) September 7, 2023

However, it’s crucial to note that the true contenders for the coveted No. 1 overall selection will likely reveal themselves as the season progresses. As the NFL teams in need of quarterbacks make their presence felt, the draft landscape will evolve, and we’ll soon identify the frontrunners in the race to secure the first pick.

One thing that’s becoming increasingly evident about the 2024 draft is the potential prominence of USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams.

Caleb Williams: A Rising Star

Caleb Williams, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, has been making waves with his stellar performances for the USC Trojans. His exceptional display on Saturday against the Stanford Cardinal only solidified his status as a top NFL prospect.

Williams delivered a remarkable performance, completing 18 of 25 passes for 278 yards and four touchdowns in just a single half of play. USC dominated the first half, securing a commanding 49-3 lead at home.

Just STOP IT Caleb Williams just toying with teams now pic.twitter.com/zOwRWDTmd7

— Ray G (@RayGQue) September 2, 2023

Through three games, Williams has accumulated an impressive 878 passing yards and 12 touchdown passes. His consistently outstanding performances have positioned him as the frontrunner for this year’s Heisman Trophy, and he’s expected to continue producing remarkable statistics throughout the season, including Pac-12 play.

Williams will enjoy a brief hiatus from in-game action before returning to the field against the Arizona State Sun Devils on September 23. This upcoming clash presents another opportunity for Williams to showcase his NFL potential, especially against Deion Sanders’ Colorado Buffaloes team, which boasts several prospective NFL players.

Contenders for the Top Pick

As the dust settles after Week 1, it’s clear that the NFL landscape is still finding its balance. Surprising outcomes in the opening week, such as the Cincinnati Bengals, Kansas City Chiefs, and Seattle Seahawks all starting 0-1, have added uncertainty to the projected draft order.

Teams that have rarely picked near the top 10 in recent years, like Cincinnati, Kansas City, and Seattle, may eventually slide down the draft order. Conversely, less fortunate teams will have the opportunity to move up as the season unfolds.

While some have labeled the New York Giants as the weakest team following their 40-0 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 1, it’s important to remember that early-season struggles can be rectified. Teams like the Giants could bounce back, turning things around in the coming weeks.

Week 1 featured no team appearing entirely out of place on the NFL field, making it likely that a clearer picture of the top contenders for the No. 1 draft pick will emerge after Week 3. As the competitive balance takes shape, football enthusiasts can anticipate an exciting and evolving journey towards the 2024 NFL draft.