With the 2023 NFL season officially in the books, the order for the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft is set. Now the work of figuring out who will fill those slots takes center stage, with the NFL Scouting Combine just around the corner (February 26 through March 4 in Indianapolis). In the immediate aftermath of Super Bowl LVIII, here’s the current order for Round 1, which is scheduled to be held April 25 through 27 in Detroit, along with the top five needs for each team.
The Bears are still not tipping their hand as to whether they will keep Justin Fields or select a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick. Beyond that massive decision, the team also needs to focus on upgrading the offensive line, bringing in more playmakers and adding depth on defense.
Washington’s new braintrust will be remaking the team in its image via free agency and the draft. The Commanders will likely pick a quarterback here, then look to support their young signal-caller with receivers and linemen in later rounds. Finding veteran and rookie edge rushers is necessary, too, after the team traded Montez Sweat and Chase Young during the season.
Even with the Patriots looking from within to replace Bill Belichick, his absence alone makes it tough to project the degree of roster turnover we’ll see in New England this offseason. The team should focus on the offense at the start of free agency and at the top of the draft, and look to add defensive depth via veteran bargain pickups and Day 3 selections.
