Three quarterbacks will be chosen with the first three picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, according to mounting rumors. The Chicago Bears, New England Patriots, and Washington Commanders are the three teams at the top of the draft, and they all need help behind center. For several months, it was believed that Jayden Daniels would be selected first, followed by Drake Maye, then Jacob Williams. On DraftKings Sportsbook, Jayden Daniels has surpassed Drake Maye as the favorite to be the second choice in the 2024 NFL Draft, but there has been a significant change in the odds.
The New Favorite Jayden Daniels at -115
During his Heisman campaign in 2023, LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels had an incredible year and soared up the draft boards. He has long been predicted to be taken third overall, behind Williams and Maye, among quarterbacks. Daniels had an incredible 50 touchdowns in all during his last year with the Tigers. Daniels is currently predicted to be the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, suggesting that the excitement has persisted into the months leading up to the draft.
All eyes will be on the Washington Commanders’ sizeable contingent during LSU’s Jayden Daniels pro day on March 27.
The Old Favorite Drake Maye at -105
Since 2024 mock drafts surfaced last June, North Carolina prototype quarterback Drake Maye has been projected as the second-best quarterback in this draft class, behind Caleb Williams. In his last season with the Tar Heels, Maye saw a decline in passing yards and touchdowns, which has caused some uncertainty about his draft prospects. In the past, highly anticipated prospects have appeared to lose their luster as the selection draws near. Maye is now the favorite to go third, even if he does not finish second, indicating that the sportsbooks still predict three quarterbacks to be selected in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
On March 28, just one day after LSU’s, is Drake Maye’s pro day at North Carolina.
What Will Washington Do?
The Washington Commanders, who presently own the second overall pick, are strongly anticipated to choose a quarterback. As their offensive coordinator, the Commanders brought on former Arizona Cardinals head coach Cliff Kingsbury in February. In his offense, Kingsbury has nearly always used a dual threat quarterback. To give their new franchise captain some comfort, the Commanders have been bolstering their offensive during the summer by adding Tyler Biadsz, Austin Ekeler, and Zach Ertz. The dual-threat quarterback Marcus Mariota was also signed by the Commanders to be their backup; this could be another sign of the player the Commanders will select in this year’s selection.
While I wouldn’t claim Jayden Daniels is a lock to be the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, I wouldn’t be shocked if these odds continued to point to Daniels as the next quarterback for the Washington Commanders.
