2024 NFL draft: Cardinals select WR Marvin Harrison Jr. at 4

NFC West Watch: Cardinals draft WR Marvin Harrison Jr

A new offensive weapon is coming to the NFC West. With the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, the Arizona Cardinals selected Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. It is little surprise that Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison Sr.’s son would end up being a top draft prospect, and now he is officially the first receiver drafted this year.

Harrison Jr. made life for Big 10 defenders miserable. Now he heads to the Valley of the Sun to be quarterback Kyler Murray’s newest weapon, and he won’t even have to change his red-themed wardrobe.

Harrison Jr. was a monster for Ohio State. Over the last two years, the Buckeye standout hauled in 144 receptions for 2,474 and 28 touchdowns.

Of course, one can’t help but think how this will affect the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks’ secondary is underdoing a bit of a rebuild, with the likes of Quandre Diggs and Jamal Adams no longer in town. The responsibility of containing Harrison Jr. now falls to Julian Love, Riq Woolen, and of course, Devon Witherspoon – last year’s No. 5 overall pick.

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Here’s why Arizona Carindals fans can’t buy Marvin Harrison Jr. jerseys (for now)

Marvin Harrison Jr. is officially in the NFL! His jersey is not.

Congratulations, Arizona Cardinals fans! You just selected one of the most can’t-miss wide receiver prospects to hit the NFL Draft in quite some time with Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. going No. 4 overall.

You’re probably extremely excited and ready to spend some of your hard-earned money on a brand new Cardinals jersey with “HARRISON JR.” splashed across the back.

But if you’re reading this, you’ve probably figured out that isn’t possible at the moment. It’s not because of any supply chain issues or production problems, either. The hold up here, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, is purely contractual as Harrison Jr. has yet to sign a licensing agreement with the NFLPA.

That means no official jerseys and no using his likeness in any video games (sorry, Madden fans).

While this gets sorted out, you can try your luck creating your own Harrison Jr.  jersey in the Cardinals. And don’t worry, you’re not alone. Chicago Bears fans are currently unable to grab Caleb Williams jerseys for the exact same reason.

All in all, the slight delay in merch feels like a decent trade when the reward is landing Harrison Jr. or Williams on your favorite team.

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Arizona Cardinals select Ohio State WR Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick. Grade: A

The Cardinals hope they have the next Larry Fitzgerald in Marvin Harrison, Jr.

The Cardinals need receivers more than any other NFL teams needs just about anything, and it’s smart of them to go with Marvin Harrison Jr. here. Harrison might not be the most explosive receiver in this class, but he’s got everything else, and when you’re building a receiver room from scratch, that’s what you want. He reminds me of Larry Fitzgerald, another highly-drafted receiver who worked out pretty well for this franchise. 

Marvin Harrison Jr., the son of the former Indianapolis Colts receiver who totaled 1,102 catches on 1,781 targets for 14,580 yards and 128 touchdowns over 13 seasons from 1996 through 2008, was a four-star recruit out of St. Joseph’s High School in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He chose Ohio State over Syracuse (his father’s alma mater), Florida, LSU, Michigan, Notre Dame, and Penn State.

Harrison, thought by most to be the No. 1 receiver prospect in this class, caught 67 passes on 114 targets for the Buckeyes last season for 1,211 yards and 14 touchdowns. On throws of 20 or more air yards, he caught 15 passes on 24 targets for 598 yards and five touchdowns. Harrison is capable of burning defenders on any route, but he ran primarily go, dig, hitch, post, drag, and seam routes.

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PLUSES

— Contested-catch artist who can wriggle out of press coverage by slow-playing cornerbacks and adjusting his moves off the line of scrimmage.

— Has an impeccable understanding of voids in zone/man/match; he’ll become his NFL quarterback’s best friend.

— His release into route stems is absolutely filthy. Basically, covering him all day just sucks.

— Catch radius is also ridiculous. He’ll do as much as any receiver to mitigate inaccurate throws.

MINUSES

— Doesn’t have Tyreek Hill-level burner speed, but it won’t matter because he has so many ways to get open downfield.

— Focus drops can be a problem, even after he’s tied a poor cornerback into knots.

— Could work on blocking.

Harrison is absolutely plug-and-play in the NFL from Day 1. If he had a fifth gear at the third level of a defense, he might be the best player in this class, regardless of position. He has just about everything else.

Marvin Harrison Jr. honored his dad by wearing an awesome chain piece ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft

Alright, this is awesome from Marvin Harrison Jr.

Former Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. will find out which team he’ll play for to start his professional football career on Thursday night in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

The son of Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver Marvin Harrison, the 2024 draft prospect decided to honor his dad with an awesome piece of jewelry that shows the awesome connection between father and son.

One side of the chain piece shows a lion and a cub on opposite ends of each other, while the other shows Harrison Sr. in his Colts jersey in the same formation with Harrison Jr.

This is just the coolest way for Harrison Jr. to honor his dad as the Harrison family sends another dynamic wide receiver to the NFL.

We’ll see soon enough where Harrison Jr. lands in the league, and we’re expecting to know within this year’s draft first five picks.

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Final 2024 NFL Mock Draft: Russell Brown predicts 4 trades with 5 quarterbacks drafted in the first round

The final 2024 NFL Mock Draft from Lions Wire’s Russell Brown predicts 4 trades with 5 quarterbacks drafted in the first round

It’s the best weekend of the year! I cannot wait to get to Downtown Detroit to walk the city, do radio and talk with all of the great fans in the NFL. It’s been great going through the draft process to figure out which players go to each team.

Over the last two drafts (2022 and 2023), there’s only been a total of 3 trades occurring on the day of each draft. In this draft, I predict that we’ll see 4 trades and 5 quarterbacks selected in the first round. Let’s take a look at which players go where in the 2024 NFL Draft!

  1. Chicago Bears (via CAR) – Caleb Williams, QB, USC

This one has been evident for months now. Especially after the Bears traded Justin Fields to the Steelers, there’s no bigger need for Chicago than to get this pick right. One of the top players in the draft and to me, the best quarterback in the draft, Caleb Williams is the pick. 

  1. Washington Commanders – Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU

Whether it’s unclear which quarterback the Commanders prefer, one thing we do know is that they seem likely to keep this pick. With that, I think the quarterback that makes the most sense is Jayden Daniels. His touch downfield is great and his mobility is even better. He’ll be a weapon for offensive coordinators and it would be a wise choice for the Commanders to tap into his potential and his skill-set. 

  1. New England Patriots – Drake Maye, QB, North Carolina 

For weeks I’ve had Drake Maye penciled into this spot so my guess is as good as yours, folks. Also, would the Patriots really trade back to salvage their opportunity for potentially their next signal caller? Their roster is bad and they sure could use a left tackle but I’ll have them stay at this spot despite the trade talk. With that, I think Maye is a good selection to jump start their new regime in Foxborough. 

  1. Arizona Cardinals – Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State

Even though it’s fun to predict a trade back scenario for the Cardinals, it doesn’t make a lot of sense to pass on the best player in the draft. After all, the Cardinals have 6 picks in the top-100 and that includes two selections in the first round. They can get aggressive later in the draft but for now, they should stay put and take Harrison Jr., to give quarterback Kyler Murray a true number one receiver. 

  1. Los Angeles Chargers – Joe Alt, OT, Notre Dame 

I’ve gone back and forth about a trade down with the Vikings and other teams but I just can’t see it happening right now. With that, we all know that Jim Harbaugh loves the offensive line and wants to run the football. Protecting Justin Herbert is a wise plan for Harbaugh as well so this selection makes sense. Part of me considered J.C. Latham in this spot as I’ve had multiple sources tell me that “Harbaugh loves him.” However, I think they’ll stick with the best tackle in the draft. Alt is athletic enough to play left or right tackle for the Chargers. 

  1. New York Giants – Rome Odunze, WR, Washington 

It’s no secret that the Giants have been researching the quarterbacks in this draft. I’d be somewhat surprised if they took Michael Penix Jr., in this spot but I guess anything is possible. Meanwhile, it sounds like they’re “off” on McCarthy. That said, I think Rome Odunze is just a home run pick for the Giants because he’s different from most receivers they have on the roster. They pass on the signal caller and reassess the draft board on day two.  

  1. Tennessee Titans – J.C. Latham, OT, Alabama 

If Joe Alt is here, I think it’s a sprint to the podium spot for the Titans. With him gone, I think the Titans could pivot to Malik Nabers or one of the defensive players but ultimately, they need to ensure that Will Levis is well protected. J.C. Latham is a good athlete for his size and has some of the strongest hands of any tackle in the class.

  1. Indianapolis Colts (Mock Trade with Atlanta) – Malik Nabers, WR, LSU 

There’s been speculation that Nabers could be the first WR off the board. If he’s not, I think he falls right into this 8 or 9 range. There could be a deal that occurs from the Buffalo Bills or even the Los Angeles Rams but I think the Colts make sense by taking full advantage of quarterback Anthony Richardson being on a rookie deal. Adding Nabers gives them legit playmakers all over the field and makes them one of the more fun offenses in the league.

Mock Trade Details:

  • ATL Receives: 2024 1st-Round Pick (15th overall) and 2024 2nd-Round Pick (46th overall)
  • IND Receives: 2024 1st-Round Pick (8th overall)

 

  1. Chicago Bears – Byron Murphy, IDL, Texas 

I could see Dallas Turner or Brock Bowers in this spot but ultimately, I think this would be a terrific addition for the Bears. As much as I like Gervon Dexter and Zacch Pickens in the middle of their defensive line, Murphy provides more as a pass-rusher and a run defender. He could be a plug-and-play starter to help prevent the potential threats that the offenses in the NFC North present. 

  1. New York Jets – Taliese Fuaga, OT, Oregon State 

Went back and forth for about a week between Bowers and Fuaga but ultimately, I landed on Fuaga. That was the player that the Jets fell in love with at the Senior Bowl and with Joe Douglas being an offensive line guy, this just makes sense. This gives them guard and tackle flexibility to start the season and if anything were to happen with Tyron Smith or Morgan Moses, I think Fuaga can slide right into a starting tackle role for the Jets. 

  1. Minnesota Vikings – J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan 

I could see the Vikings getting antsy and moving up but the more I talk with those connected to the Vikings, the thought is that they will keep the 11th and 23rd overall picks. With that, McCarthy falls right into the Vikings lap and they take their quarterback of the future. I think McCarthy is a great fit for Kevin O’Connell’s offense and him having Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison should bode well for his success. 

  1. Denver Broncos – Dallas Turner, EDGE, Alabama 

It wouldn’t surprise me if a team moved up for a pass-catcher or a cornerback in this spot. That said, Dallas Turner would be the best player available for the Broncos and that’s exactly what this team needs to do currently. Take the best player available and figure out who’s playing quarterback later. 

  1. Las Vegas Raiders – Troy Fautanu, OT, Washington 

Similar to the Broncos, the Raiders just need to add good football players. Despite the connections and interest in Michael Penix Jr, I think the Raiders will be interested in an offensive tackle such as Troy Fautanu. He’s athletic enough to play anywhere on the offensive line and certainly has the arm length necessary to play tackle. 

 

  1. New Orleans Saints – Olu Fashanu, OT, Penn State 

There could be a scenario where Fashanu is off the board in this spot but ultimately, he ends up falling in the lap of the Saints. We all know about the left and right tackle needs for the Saints due to concerns of Ryan Ramczyk’s knee. With that, Fashanu should be a plug-and-play starter at either tackle position with great length and ability to anchor consistently. 

 

  1. Atlanta Falcons (Mock Trade with Indianapolis) – Laiatu Latu, EDGE, UCLA 

Fatu or Turner are real possibilities at 8th overall but with the Colts projected to move up, the Falcons are able to acquire additional capital and still get their guy. Latu is the best pure pass rusher in this draft and the only hold up for him to be locked into the top-10 is the medical concerns with his neck.

Mock Trade Details:

  • ATL Receives: 2024 1st-Round Pick (15th overall) and 2024 2nd-Round Pick (46th overall)
  • IND Receives: 2024 1st-Round Pick (8th overall)
  1. Philadelphia Eagles (Mock Trade with Seattle) – Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Toledo 

For the last two days, we continuously hear about the Eagles having interest in a cornerback. The name that continues to be mentioned is Quinyon Mitchell and it’s easy to see why any team needing help at cornerback would have him at the top of their board. This could be a smoke screen to force other teams to draft a cornerback so a pass-catcher or offensive tackle gets within the reaching distance of the Eagles. For now, they add Mitchell to their secondary as he’s got some of the click-and-close ability of any cornerback we’ve seen in awhile. 

Mock Trade Details:

  • SEA Receives: 2024 1st Round Pick (22nd overall) and 2024 2nd Round Pick (53rd overall)
  • PHI Receives: 2024 1st Round Pick (16th overall) and 2024 3rd Round Pick (81st overall)
  1. Jacksonville Jaguars – Terrion Arnold, CB, Alabama 

It’ll be interesting where teams value Arnold as he’s a bit of a “wild man” with his lower body technique. However, his physicality and praise from Nick Saban won’t go unnoticed from NFL decision makers. The Jaguars need help on the perimeter and with teams like the Texans and Colts getting better on offense, this defense needs to stop the bleeding. 

 

  1. Cincinnati Bengals – Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia 

Where does Bowers fit in the first round? If it’s not the Bears at 9 or Jets at 10, it feels like he slips outside of the top-15. Especially if the Colts trade up for a receiver. So with that, the Bowers’ fall stops here. By adding Bowers, the Bengals give themselves a legitimate receiving threat and it allows them to use their other tight end, Drew Sample in more of a blocking role while in max protection to keep Joe Burrow upright. That’s exactly what the LSU Tigers did with Burrow in college and it would be wise to consider it here for the Bengals. 

 

  1. Los Angeles Rams – Jared Verse, EDGE, Florida State 

Could we see Amarius Mims in this spot? It could happen and one name that’s been mentioned is Chop Robinson. However, Jared Verse is a top-15 player in this draft and he’d be a great fit for a defensive line that just lost Aaron Donald. Verse may not be an interior player but he should be able to align in multiple spots while having the speed-to-power needed to disrupt the pocket. 

 

  1. Pittsburgh Steelers – Graham Barton, IOL, Duke 

Sure feels like the Steelers have been connected to interior offensive lineman for much of the draft process. Preferably a center. With Barton staring them in the face, this just feels like a player they would take and we’d watch him carve out a starting role for the next 10-to-12 years in black and gold. Barton is a strong run blocker that looks to finish those blocks consistently and he’s athletic enough to play anywhere needed for the Steelers. 

 

  1. Miami Dolphins – Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas 

The two most common names brought to my attention for the Dolphins are Verse and Worthy. With Verse gone, the Dolphins select Worthy here and it makes all the sense in the world. Their offense already has one of the most explosive players in the league with Tyreek Hill and by adding Worthy, this just helps this offense take another step. There’s a lot of holes on the roster so I wouldn’t rule out a trade down with a team like the Cardinals but for now, they stay put and add another playmaker to their offense. 

 

  1. Seattle Seahawks (Mock Trade with Philadelphia) – Cooper Dejean, CB, Iowa 

This would be a perfect scenario for the Seahawks as they get additional draft capital and a player I’d have them take at 16th overall. Dejean just fits what Mike Macdonald could use for his defense with the cover 3 and quarters coverage that he runs. Dejean could play cornerback or safety and would be able to contribute on special teams as a returner. 

Mock Trade Details:

  • SEA Receives: 2024 1st Round Pick (22nd overall) and 2024 2nd Round Pick (53rd overall)
  • PHI Receives: 2024 1st Round Pick (16th overall) and 2024 3rd Round Pick (81st overall)
  1. Minnesota Vikings – Jer’Zhan Newton, IDL, Illinois

If the Vikings keep the 23rd overall pick, I think they end up landing on a defensive player like Darius Robinson or Jer’Zhan “Johnny” Newton. Reason I mention Robinson is because at the Senior Bowl two years ago, I heard Brian Flores just talking about the speed-to-power that Derrick Hall had and I could see the same thing about Robinson. That said, I think Newton is a first round type of player and he’d be a great addition to the Vikings bone thin interior defensive line. Newton has quick hands and he shows a good motor in run support. 

 

  1. Dallas Cowboys – Tyler Guyton, OT, Oklahoma 

The Cowboys draft plan should be about adding talent to their offensive line and a running back. With no running back worthy of a first round selection, Tyler Guyton is the player that makes a lot of sense for Dallas. They need a starting right tackle and if Guyton can stay healthy, he can certainly be that type of player at some point as a rookie. He’s got a great first step and there’s plenty of power behind his hands. 

 

  1. Green Bay Packers – Amarius Mims, OT, Georgia 

To me, this would be the best landing spot for Mims in the first round. He could sit behind Zach Tom for a season, if needed or he could play right tackle as Tom moves inside to guard or center. There’s been discussions of Tom making that move so while Mims is a bit of a project due to only starting 7 games in college, he’s incredibly athletic for a player of his size. Protecting Jordan Love and keeping the Packers offense flowing should be a top priority. 

 

  1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State 

While I don’t view Chop Robinson as a first round player, I can still see why teams would value him. Meanwhile, I’ve heard that he’s interviewed incredibly well. The Bucs would be thrilled to add his first step explosiveness to the mix of Joe Tyron-Shoyinka, Yaya Diaby and Randy Gregory. With Robinson, he’ll need to get home more consistently versus the pass and become more consistent against the run but this would be a good landing spot for him in the first round. 

 

  1. Arizona Cardinals (via HOU) – Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson 

Like I mentioned with the Dolphins pick, I could see the Cardinals moving up from the 27th overall pick rather than moving down from the 4th overall pick. That said, I’ll keep them here to take Nate Wiggins. He does struggle as a tackler but his long speed, effort and press-man ability is worthy of a first round pick. 

 

  1. Buffalo Bills – Brian Thomas Jr., WR, LSU 

Every mock draft that I’ve done, I struggle on where to place Brian Thomas Jr from LSU. In this spot, he falls in the lap of the Bills and that’s mostly because I could see them considering a move up for him. He’s a player that I’ve labeled as the “slot fade king” and with his vertical ability, he seems destined to catch touchdown passes from Josh Allen. 

 

  1. Washington Commanders (Mock Trade with Detroit) – Jordan Morgan, IOL, Arizona 

There’s been a lot of buzz around Patrick Paul from Houston as a first round pick and I do wonder if the Lions are one of the teams that are interested in him. But one of the worst kept secrets in this draft is the Commanders using their draft capital to get back into the first round for offensive line help. One player they’ve met with is Jordan Morgan from Arizona and he’s a player with 32 ⅞” arms so a move to guard could happen. But the Commanders move up and try him at tackle to protect their new franchise quarterback, Jayden Daniels. 

Mock Trade Details:

  • DET Receives: 2024 2nd Round Pick (36th overall) and 2024 3rd Round Pick (100th overall)
  • WAS Receives: 2024 1st Round Pick (29th overall)
  1. Baltimore Ravens – Kool Aid McKinstry, CB, Alabama

I’m still a firm believer that Christian Haynes could be the pick in this spot. We’ll see if that happens or not but with Kool-Aid McKinstry available, I think he’d be an ideal fit for the Ravens due to how well he plays in press-man and ability to tackle on the perimeter. Keep in mind, Ozzie Newsome may not be the general manager anymore but he’s still got a key role in the organization so I think that pipeline between the Ravens and Alabama players is a real thing. 

  1. Las Vegas Raiders (Mock Trade with San Francisco) — Michael Penix Jr., QB, Washington 

The 49ers just feel like they’re in such a weird place as a team. There’s all types of connections to them moving on from one of their receivers but it’s unclear if they actually do. With that, I think they’d be more than happy to trade out of this spot and let a team like the Raiders jump up and get their quarterback of the future.

Mock Trade Details:

  • SF Receives: 2024 2nd Round Pick (44th overall), 2024 4th Round Pick (70th overall) & 2025 5th Round Pick
  • LV Receives: 2024 1st Round Pick (31st overall)
  1. Kansas City Chiefs – Mike Sainristil, CB, Michigan

There could be a real connection with Kingsley Suamatia here, especially with Andy Reid playing at BYU back in the day. However, the Chiefs traded away one of their best defensive players in L’Jarius Sneed and I think that may force the Chiefs to take a corner sooner rather than later. Sainristil is just a playmaker that is always around the football and he can play inside or outside for a defense. Defensive Coordinator Steve Spagnuolo would know exactly how to use him for his defense.

2024 NFL mock draft round-up: Experts make final picks for Chargers

Analysts make their final predictions on what the Chargers will do with their first-round pick.

The 2024 NFL draft is a little under 24 hours away, and the final predictions have been made.

Here’s one last mock draft roundup as analysts make their picks for the Chargers:

NFL.com’s Daniel Jeremiah: OT JC Latham, Alabama

Analysis: “This is where we could potentially see a trade, but I’m going to take the Chargers at their word that they want to be a more physical team and improve their run game. It might be a little bit of a surprise to see Latham go before Joe Alt, but the former Alabama star is ready to rock at right tackle and is a more powerful blocker than his Notre Dame counterpart.”

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Yahoo Sports’ Charles McDonald & Nate Tice: OT Olu Fashanu, Penn State & EDGE Jared Verse, Florida State (via trade with Vikings)

Analysis: “Head coach Jim Harbaugh has stressed the importance of offensive linemen and can get his hands on a big-time talent with Fashanu, who is falling down draft boards after an inconsistent senior season, which may have been due to injury. Either way, Fashanu can slide into right tackle while the Chargers figure out a different route for their wide receiver problem.”

“The second Chargers pick goes to the defensive trenches, picking up Verse to solidify their future at defensive end. Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack are still on the roster, but Mack isn’t going to be around that much longer and the Chargers need insurance in case Bosa’s injury history continues. This is a good landing spot for Verse at this point in the draft.”

ESPN’s Matt Miller: OT Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State & Clemson’s Nate Wiggins (via trade with Vikings)

Analysis: “The Chargers trade back from No. 5 here in my projected deal but still land a powerful right tackle to shore up the offensive line. Fuaga is a massive people-mover at 324 pounds and has also shown excellent agility in space in the Beavers’ zone-run scheme. The Chargers do need wide receiver help, but the depth at that position means addressing it at pick No. 23 (acquired from the Vikings in our projected trade) or in Round 2 is possible.”

“The fastest cornerback in the class goes to the Chargers, where the team has a gigantic need that must be addressed early. Wide receiver can wait a little longer, with the Chargers back on the clock at No. 37 in Round 2 and the cornerback class not as deep. Wiggins’ speed (4.28 in the 40-yard dash), motor and length at 6-2 make him a high-ceiling player with a bright future. The Chargers allowed 7.7 yards per pass attempt last season (28th), but he can help.”

The 33rd Team’s Ari Meirov: OT Joe Alt, Notre Dame

Analysis: “New Los Angeles Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh is all about getting more physical up front. While I could see a receiver going here, there was one quote I picked up from GM Joe Hortiz last week at his pre-draft presser: “I can promise you that wide receiver is going to be a deep position in the draft every year. It’s just the way the game has changed and evolved.”

So yes, the Chargers need to replace Keenan Allen and Mike Williams, but they could get a receiver later in the draft. This also could be a trade-down spot because the Chargers covet a few of the top offensive linemen. If they go with Joe Alt, the plan would more than likely be to play him at right tackle.”

Pro Football Focus’ Gordon McGuinness: OT Joe Alt, Notre Dame

Analysis: “Given their needs at both tackle and receiver, I don’t think the Chargers can go wrong with either Alt or LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers here. Alt earned a 90.7 PFF grade last season, leading all offensive linemen in this class. A phenomenal prospect at tackle, the 6-foot-8, 322-pounder allowed just five pressures from 368 pass-blocking snaps last season.”

Fox Sports’ Joel Klatt: TE Brock Bowers, Georgia & JC Latham, Alabama (via trade with Vikings)

Analysis: “Bowers is a prototypical player for Harbaugh’s offense. Many will argue that this is a prime receiver destination, but Harbaugh has never prioritized the position. It doesn’t mean he hasn’t had good ones, but he prioritizes tight ends because he wants to run offense out of 12 personnel (two tight ends). It creates extra pressure on the defense by either spreading out the offense to pass the ball or getting big to run the ball. Bowers can own the middle of the field in the pass game and block in the run game.”

“There are plenty of quality offensive linemen available here that would allow Harbaugh to run a team in his image. Do we expect him to suddenly deviate from that? He once told me and my announcer partner, Gus Johnson, that his offensive philosophy comes from his dad saying, “When you finally bury me, I want a diagram of a power play on my tombstone.” That’s how deeply they care about the physical nature of how to run the football.”

Draft Wire’s Jeff Risdon: OT JC Latham, Alabama (via trade with Vikings)

Analysis: “The Latham-to-the-Chargers buzz has been building, and he’s the exact type of lineman Jim Harbaugh has loved in his prior stops.”

NBC Sports’ Connor Rogers: OT JC Latham, Alabama

Analysis: “I don’t think there is a “consensus” No. 1 tackle across NFL front offices compared to how the media views Joe Alt. This makes Latham in play for the Chargers at No. 5, where he plugs in at right tackle and fits the mauling style Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz crave.”

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco: WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State

Analysis: “I thought about tackle Joe Alt here, but opted to go for a weapon for Justin Herbert. I could see the Chargers trading down to get more picks, but I think they would be wise to add Harrison.”

The Ringer: OT JC Latham, Alabama & DT Jer’Zhan Newton, Illinois

Analysis: “As we approach the draft, I’ve heard nothing but rosy projections for Latham. New head coach Jim Harbaugh saw Latham firsthand in the semifinal of the College Football Playoff this year and certainly has an appreciation for his dominant run-blocking profile. Latham’s experience at right tackle, where the Chargers have their biggest need on the offensive line, is a big boost as well.”

“I’m not really sure what the Chargers will prioritize with a second first-rounder, so I’m just defaulting to the classic Harbaugh trope: the trenches. The Chargers’ defensive tackle position is totally decimated, and Newton is a true three-down player with equal impact against the run and the pass. He reminds me often of Christian Wilkins with his ability to make tackles at or behind the line of scrimmage with penetration and power.”

Cory Bonini’s 2024 NFL mock draft 3.0

Quarterbacks dominate our final mock draft update of 2024.

Here’s my final 2024 NFL mock draft. Be sure to check our NFL Draft Central page for the rest of our mocks, player scouting reports, and post-draft analysis of every key pick relevant to fantasy football.

*projected trade

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Should the Bears attempt to trade up for Marvin Harrison Jr.?

Why the Bears should consider trading up to land WR Marvin Harrison Jr. in the NFL draft.

The Chicago Bears, as everybody knows, are going to use the first overall pick on Caleb Williams in the 2024 NFL draft. The star USC quarterback is expected to be a very good player once he reaches the NFL. 

But the question is what are the Bears going to do with the ninth overall pick? Most people believe that they will select one of the top receivers in Rome Odune or Malik Nabers, if they are available. If not, it feels like defense (or trading back) is on the table.

There’s been some debate about who the best receiver in this loaded class is. While Nabers has been gaining plenty of steam, Marvin Harrison Jr. appears to have the edge in that conversation.

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There’s been some discussion about whether the Bears would consider moving up to land Harrison Jr. With a lot of teams putting a lot of stock on QBs, maybe he falls enough for the Bears to pull the trigger? 

It’s certainly telling that Harrison Jr. only had two Top 30 visits — with the Arizona Cardinals and the Bears.

Would Chicago trade next year’s first to do it? Would they even need to? There are a lot of questions that come with the idea. If the option is there, general manager Ryan Poles will have no choice but to at least consider it. 

Harrison Jr. is incredible and could be one of the best receivers in the NFL, if he lives up to his current trajectory. That is something you simply can’t ignore if you have the opportunity. 

If Harrison Jr. came to the Bears, he’d have the luxury of playing with some other incredible players, as well. With DJ Moore and Keenan Allen already there, that would be one of the best trios in the league. 

Learning how to develop into a star with those mentors around would be great for him. A few years from now, Harrison Jr. could be an even better player if he had great leadership playing alongside him in his early years.

Having all of these incredible weapons around Williams would be great for him, as well. Although it may be hard for a variety of reasons, it is an idea to think about for Poles and his team.

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2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Ohio State

Marvin Jr. looks to improve the Harrison brand as an NFL wideout

There is a consensus best wide receiver in every NFL draft. But no rookie prospect has a father who was a Top-5 receiver in NFL history. To say that expectations are high is an understatement.

In high school, Harrison helped St. Joseph’s Preparatory School in Philadelphia to win three consecutive state championships while setting career receiving yardage (2,625)  and touchdown (37) records for the Philadelphia Catholic League. He left as a four-star prospect and was heavily recruited as one of the top receivers entering college in 2021. He selected Ohio State over his father’s alma mater Syracuse.

Harrison was little used as a freshman, playing behind Garrett Wilson, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Chris Olave. With Wilson and Olave opting out of the Rose Bowl before entering the NFL draft, Harrison’s first start resulted in six catches for 71 yards and three touchdowns to help win the game.

As a sophomore, he became the primary wideout and recorded two straight 1,200-yard seasons with 14 touchdowns in each. Harrison played with C.J. Stroud in 2022 and recorded his career-best marks in catches, yards, and touchdowns. Harrison was considered the best wideout in college last year and won the 2023 Fred Biletnikoff Award as the best receiver in the NCAA.

Height: 6-3
Weight: 209 pounds
40 time: 4.3ish estimated

Harrison attended the NFL Combine and was measured but declined to participate in any drills. He had nothing to win by doing them. Harrison is not considered a burner per se, but then again, he recorded a 22.2 mph touchdown catch versus Youngstown State. That matches up with D.K. Metcalf’s 22.23 mph as the NFL’s fastest play for last year. There’s no concern about any physical attribute or measurement for the future star.

Marvin Harrison Jr. stats (2020-23)

Year School Games Catch Yards Avg. TD Rush Yards TD
2021 Ohio State 13 11 139 12.6 3 0 0 0
2022 Ohio State 13 77 1263 16.4 14 2 32 0
2023 Ohio State 12 67 1211 18.1 14 2 26 1

Syndication: USA TODAY

Pros

  • Best college receiver for the last two years
  • Versatile and played on outside and in slot
  • Hall-of-Fame genetics at play
  • Elite hands and body control win on contested catches, deep routes, and over-the-middle receptions
  • High production came despite constant double teams and press coverage by defense
  • Rare combination of speed and a 6-3 frame
  • Tremendous instincts on all aspects of getting open and catching the ball
  • Knows how to influence defensive backs to break free and optimize positioning for the catch
  • Solid blocker

Cons

  • Doesn’t break many tackles despite size and strength
  • Disappointed when did not workout at NFL Combine or the Ohio State Pro Day
  • Some ball security concerns

Fantasy outlook

While a few believe Malik Nabers should be the first wideout taken, the majority of analysts and scouts expect Harrison to be the first selected, likely the fourth-overall after the Top-3 quarterbacks are selected. He is a lock for the Top-5 by all accounts and will be drafted by a team looking for an immediate difference-maker. Likely the Arizona Cardinals who currently hold the No. 4 pick, or the Los Angeles Chargers who pick at No. 5.

There is always a chance of a trade. Unless some team moves up to grab him or a different player which slides him back, Harrison should be paired with either Kyler Murray or Justin Herbert and either case bodes well for the rookie since both teams have a glaring need at wideout and  above average-quarterbacks who are in their first or second year of a new offense.

Harrison is as hyped as any wideout in recent memory, boosted not only by the production of the last two seasons but also with his bloodlines. He’ll be an exciting pick in a fantasy football redraft league and an expensive acquisition in a dynasty league.

Cardinals expected to stand firm and select Marvin Harrison Jr. 4th overall

The Cardinals have received numerous serious inquiries from teams looking to move up in the draft, but they will almost certainly pick

The Arizona Cardinals have been subject to rampant draft rumors the last few weeks leading up to Thursday’s 2024 NFL draft. At first, they were certain to stick and pick the best player with the 4th overall selection — which was a miracle (or was it) granted by Matt Prater in the team’s finale against the Seattle Seahawks.

Then, reports circled about them being a lock to move down with the Minnesota Vikings. When those rumors dwindled, talks about trades with the New York Giants and even the Chicago Bears became popular.

Despite all of the speculation, the Cardinals held firm on the fourth overall selection. The rumor mill even ran into Monday, where reports came out how the Cardinals won’t move down until they are on the clock, heightening the pre-draft excitement and nerves of all Cardinals fans.

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General manager Monti Ossenfort has undoubedtly done his due diligence into what his highly-coveted 4th overall pick could return, but there has always been a player atop their draft boards, one they’ve had keen eyes on for two years now.

Barring a late offer the team cannot refuse, the Arizona Cardinals likely will select Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick.

Harrison Jr. is the best wide receiver prospect in years and many believe him to be the top player in the last two draft classes. He’s a near-perfect prospect for his abilities, but also his off-the-field character and maturity, traits Ossenfort highly covets.

Last season, the Cardinals were motivated to move down, as Ossenfort knew he was staring a multi-year rebuild in the face and needed as many picks as possible to expedite the process. He also had two top prospects — those being Paris Johnson Jr. and Will Anderson, who he thought highly of.

This year, however, Ossenfort will not budge from the rights to draft Harrison Jr. unless the offer is akin to what the San Francisco 49ers once mortgaged to select Trey Lance back in 2021. Teams aren’t overly jumping at the thought to give up that haul for the consensus fourth-best quarterback prospect in the draft.

The Cardinals have actively scouted and had heavy interest in Harrison Jr. for two years now. The dominos leading to their incoming selection of Harrison began with the release of All-Pro DeAndre Hopkins a year and a half ago. Even current-Cardinal Paris Johnson Jr. has spoken to reporters about his conversations about Harrison to the desert dating back to 2022.

The Cardinals also were not aggressive in their negotiations with Hollywood Brown and traded Rondale Moore to the Falcons. They’ve been preparing to build the roster with Harrison headlining their receiving corps since January.

Could Ossenfort look to move down and right back up for Harrison this year? Some have speculated he could look to replicate this move from last year, and while that is certainly possible, the team is certainly not going to do anything without knowing they can still get their guy.

While most of the draft speculation has been surrounding the fourth overall pick, the Cardinals also have No. 27 from the Houston Texans. They may look to move up from that spot for one of the top three edge rushers, should one fall into striking distance. Those three are Alabama’s Dallas Turner, Florida’s Jared Verse and UCLA’s Laiatu Latu.

It makes sense, given the Cardinals have the most draft capital this year and have a glaring hole at edge rusher. Should they walk away with the top receiver prospect and one of the best three edge rushers, the Cardinals will be in much better shape to make a playoff push in 2024.

Listen to the latest from Cards Wire’s Jess Root on his podcast, Rise Up, See Red. Subscribe on Apple podcasts or Spotify.