The
NFL Draft
The event kicks off on Thursday evening, generating significant excitement over which team might select certain prospects, as well as the possibility of potential trades.
Minnesota Vikings
Much will depend on how the draft progresses leading up to their turn, including which players they select or whether they can maneuver their picks. Therefore, we’ll examine what odds makers, insider information, and player interactions reveal about the potential path of the draft before the Vikings make their move at No. 24.
The Easy Part
The initial three to four selections ought to be quite straightforward to forecast, considering all the information available.
#1: Tennessee Titans – QB Cam Ward, Miami
The general manager of the Titans mentioned lately that the team won’t trade their current pick and everyone agrees on whom they will select. There’s been consistent speculation linking them to the leading quarterback in this year’s draft, a stance that remains unchanged. Additionally, they’ve had multiple meetings with him during the pre-draft period. According to DraftKings, the likelihood of Cam Ward joining the Titans as the number one choice stands at an astounding -20000 odds, equivalent to a 99.5% chance. Consider it sealed.
#2: Cleveland Browns – Wide Receiver/Cornerback Travis Hunter from Colorado
Hunter is highly regarded as the lead contender on numerous draft lists and has frequently been associated with the
Browns
At number two for an extended period now, DraftKings gives the chances of Hunter being selected second by the Browns as -900, indicating a 90% likelihood. Abdul Carter comes in far behind at +550. Additionally, the Browns have held meetings with Hunter twice during the pre-draft proceedings.
The Browns are largely expected to choose a quarterback relatively early in the draft; however, they are more likely to make this selection with their second pick when addressing the position.
#3: New York Giants – DE Abdul Carter from Penn State
For quite some time, the Giants have shown significant interest in Carter and have held meetings with him thrice during the pre-draft phase. According to DraftKings, the likelihood of Carter joining the Giants as their third pick stands at -800 odds, translating to approximately an 88.9% chance. While the team has also interacted with several other high-profile prospects anticipated to be selected within the first ten picks, alongside all leading quarterback candidates, Carter ranks among just four to five elite talents available in this year’s draft pool. It appears probable that the Giants will opt for a quarterback with their subsequent selection.
#4: New England Patriots – OT Will Campbell from LSU
Campbell had a meeting with the Patriots and their newly appointed head coach, Mike Vrabel, and is thought to be well-suited for what Vrabel needs from his team. Although Campbell lacks the preferred arm length needed for playing left tackle, he might shift positions to play guard instead. He’s considered a reliable choice and someone who can set expectations under Vrabel within the offensive lineup. According to DraftKings, he holds significant favoritism at odds of -500, which equates to an 83.3% chance of occurrence.
Complications Arise From This Point On
At the fifth spot, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ selection could introduce an element of surprise early in the first round. Following their choice, several picks may head in various directions. Additionally, there’s potential for trades; however, many teams seem inclined to trade down rather than up, which suggests modest incentives due to high availability over fewer demands. Rumors suggest that both the Jaguars and the Raiders might reach out about moving up from selections five and six respectively. The idea is that the Raiders might try to leapfrog the Jaguars to select Jeanty, or they might explore whether the Browns would prefer trading back, allowing another squad to choose Travis Hunter instead. While this scenario appears improbable, it isn’t entirely beyond the realm of possibility.
#5: Jacksonville Jaguars – RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State
Defensive tackle Mason Graham has faced significant criticism from many observers, yet DraftKings currently favors Jeanty at odds of -125, whereas Graham’s chances stand at +220. According to reports from Charles Robinson and Albert Breer, the Jacksonville Jaguars might opt for a skilled offensive player instead of focusing on defensive needs. It appears that the team had limited top-30 pre-draft visits; seemingly, the new leadership places greater emphasis on scouting over hosting prospects for interviews.
James Gladstone, the new general manager for the Jaguars, stated that this selection will send a strong message regarding the team’s future direction. While Mason Graham might serve as a dominant force at defensive tackle, setting the right tone, choosing what could be one of the finest running backs in recent times is expected to have a far greater impact on defining the team’s image moving ahead.
Nevertheless, this marks a fresh era for the Jacksonville team, and other squads view the Jaguars as an unpredictable factor in this scenario. However, it would be logical for them to use their initial draft choice on a prominent player like Jeanty in this revamped setup.
#6: Las Vegas Raiders – LT Armand Membou, Missouri
The Raiders were expected to be the top choice to select Jeanty, but now that he’s unavailable, they might explore several options. After Jeanty, offensive tackle Armand Membou is next in line at odds of +130, though defensive tackles like Mason Graham and wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan also fit their needs. Adding an edge rusher would also align well with their goals. So far, the Raiders haven’t had discussions with Membou, but they’ve held meetings twice each with Graham, McMillan, and edge defender Jalon Walker.
If the Raiders opted for Membou, present right tackle DJ Glaze might shift to right guard, taking over from Alex Cappa, who has been having difficulties.
#7: New York Jets – Tight End Tyler Warren from Penn State
The Jets have had multiple meetings with Warren during the pre-draft process and might want to provide their quarterback, currently Justin Fields, with a dependable receiving target in passing situations. Offensive tackle Armand Membou is another potential pick for them; however, DraftKings rates him as less likely compared to Warren based on current odds (+170 versus +370). The team has also held discussions with offensive tackle Aireontae Ersery through top-30 visits and could select him later in the draft’s second round. Additionally, cornerbacks like Jahdae Barron present themselves as viable options since they can complement Sauce Gardner under the guidance of new head coach (and ex-NFL cornerback) Aaron Glenn.
In general, selecting Warren could be the best choice for the Jets, since he is among the top tight end prospects in recent times, and New York has reasonable opportunities to address remaining needs further along in the draft.
#8: Carolina Panthers – DE Jalen Walker, Georgia
Currently, Walker is favored to be selected eighth on DraftKings at -105 odds, and the Panthers have interacted with him thrice during the pre-draft evaluations. There’s an evident requirement for an edge rusher within their roster; former Vikings defensive end DJ Wonnum along with the seasoned Jadaveon Clowney occupy those positions now. Given these circumstances, Walker would align well with their system. Moreover, he could very likely be considered the top talent still accessible to a squad with numerous requirements. However, the Panthers seem inclined towards trading back from this spot. It appears unlikely that another franchise will offer significant compensation to move ahead of them at this juncture in the draft.
#9: New Orleans Saints – ED Mykel Williams, Georgia
The speculation about the Saints potentially drafting a quarterback hasn’t been backed up by their actions. They did not send many representatives to Shedeur Sanders’ pro day and have had limited interaction with him after the combine, suggesting they’re less likely to pick Sanders—or any quarterback—here. Currently, Williams is favored at odds of +270 for this selection. Additionally, the Saints have shown interest in Williams throughout the pre-draft process, having invited him multiple times, including during one of their Top 30 visits.
An offensive lineman could be an attractive choice here, particularly since the Saints decided against exercising the fifth-year option for right tackle Trevor Penning.
#10: Chicago Bears – Overtime selection: Kelvin Banks Jr., from the University of Texas
OT Kelvin Banks Jr. is the favorite here on Draftkings at +550, which isn’t a lot of conviction. New Bears head coach Ben Johnson recently talked up the tackles currently on the roster, which may be a smokescreen, but the draft falling this way to the Bears at #10 doesn’t do them any favors. Colstan Loveland is the second-favorite at +600 among those still on the board in this scenario (Tyler Warren is +370 and Ashton Jeanty is +425). The thought is that Ben Johnson wants to create a similar offense as he had in Detroit by drafting a top back to pair with D’Andre Swift or a tight end to run more double tight-end sets. He may opt to do so later in the draft, however.
#11: San Francisco 49ers – Defensive Tackle Mason Graham from Michigan
Graham falling to the
49ers
This is a blessing, and people would probably rush to submit their draft cards. The 49ers have odds of -140 at DraftKings to select a defensive lineman, and Graham meets those requirements.
#12:Dallas Cowboys -OT Josh Simmons,Ohio State
The Cowboys have odds at -250 to select a wide receiver this time around; however, Jerry Jones mentioned that several potential deals might be revealed either prior to or following the draft. There are speculations suggesting that the Lions may choose against activating the fifth-year contract for WR Jameson Williams, leading to rumors indicating the possibility of the Cowboys engaging with the Lions about acquiring him through a trade. This development would certainly affect the Cowboys’ drafting strategy.
The offensive line is the second most probable position for the Cowboys’ draft pick, with some speculation surrounding OG Tyler Booker. Nonetheless, LT Josh Simmons appears to be a more valuable option at this point and addresses an urgent requirement.
#13: Miami Dolphins – CB Jahdae Barron from Texas
The offensive lineman is the preferred role for the player.
Dolphins
Here (+130), they could choose to select a player, followed by picking a cornerback at +190. Considering how the draft has progressed in this situation, selecting a cornerback appears to offer greater value. It’s challenging to determine which cornerback the Dolphins favor; however, due to concerns regarding Will Johnson’s foot injury and his speed, drafting Barron might be the wiser choice.
#14: Indianapolis Colts – Tight End Colston from Loveland, Michigan
The tight end spot is the top choice for the Colts at this point (+100), with reports suggesting they favor both Tyler Warren and Colston Loveland. Once Warren is taken out of play, the Colts decide on selecting Loveland instead.
#15: Atlanta Falcons – JD James Pearce Jr., Tennessee
The defensive line is strongly favored for the Falcons at -360 odds. Reports suggest that Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. and Marshall’s Mike Green are leading contenders for Atlanta. So far, the Falcons have only had discussions with Pearce and not with Green; this influences my choice of Pearce as well. It appears that Green has certain character issues which could potentially raise red flags for various teams.
#16: Arizona Cardinals – DT Walter Nolen, Ole Miss
The Cardinals could potentially focus their defense on the line at odds of +100, with Nolen and Kenneth Grant being possible choices they’ve shown interest in meeting. Rumors suggest that Nolen might be climbing draft boards and could even be ranked higher by certain teams compared to general opinion.
#17: Cincinnati Bengals – DT Kenneth Grant from Michigan
The Bengals have set their sights on improving the defense with a focus on the defensive line, where they’re heavily favored at -175 odds. At this stage of the draft, Grant stands out as potentially being one of the best values available.
#18: Seattle Seahawks – IOL Grey Zabel from North Dakota State
The
Seahawks
They have been connected to Zabel for some time now, and the odds stand at -125 that they will select an offensive lineman. The Seahawks also clearly need reinforcement in their defensive line interior.
#19: Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Ed Shemar Stewart from Texas A&M
The Buccaneers have odds of +135 for strengthening their defensive line or edge, and Stewart is someone they’ve had discussions with and could be a great pick at this point.
#20: Denver Broncos – RB Omarion Hampton from North Carolina
The Broncos have odds of -150 for being active as a team searching for a running back, and there were speculations about them possibly trading up; however, this possibility seems less likely now. After Jeanty, Hampton is widely regarded as the second-choice running back.
#21: Pittsburgh Steelers – DT Derrick Harmon from Oregon
Some discussion has arisen regarding the
Steelers
GoingQB here (+130), though beat reporters suggest that bolstering the defensive line might be more likely (+185) should their player still be available at pick number 21. The Steelers have had multiple meetings with Harmon, who mirrors the style of Steeler star Cam Heyward. Rumors indicate that Pittsburgh may choose Shaneir Sanders; interestingly, head coach Mike Tomlin seems open to this idea. Nevertheless, past experiences from drafting Kenny Pickett linger, leading some within the Steelers’ ranks to prefer addressing the quarterback position either later in this draft or during subsequent drafts instead of using another top choice on what they perceive as a less strong group of quarterbacks currently available.
#22: Los Angeles Chargers – WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona
Chargers
Are +125 odds to focus on the defensive line/edge position. The next most likely choice is wide receiver at +400 odds. Nevertheless, considering how the draft has unfolded in this situation, the Chargers decide on selecting a wide receiver. Although they’ve had discussions with McMillan and Matthew Golden, McMillan appears to be the more cost-effective option here.
#23: Green Bay Packers – CB Shavon Randle, East Carolina
The
Packers
The odds are +125 for selecting a defensive lineman or edge rusher, and +195 for choosing a cornerback. However, considering how the draft has progressed so far, going with the cornerback appears more advantageous. The Green Bay Packers have had multiple meetings with Revel during the pre-draft phase. Additionally, with reports suggesting that Jaire Alexander might be departing soon, the team’s need for reinforcement at cornerback becomes even clearer.
Therefore, with the Vikings’ pick coming up…
Many intriguing options are up for grabs as the Vikings have several picks, which could appeal not only to the Vikings but more often to other teams.
- QB Shadeur Sanders
- QB Jaxson Dart
- S Malaki Starks
- S Nick Emmanawori
- LB Jihaad Campbell
- ED Mike Green
- WR Matthew Golden
- OG Tyler Booker
- CB Will Johnson
- OT Josh Conerly Jr.
- OG Donovan Jackson
For the Vikings, the question remains whether there is an opportunity too lucrative to overlook among the prospects still available, and how much trading interest they can generate considering these players remain on the list.
Definitely, some teams selecting near the beginning of the second round might want to trade up to secure either Sanders or Dart. Perhaps the Chiefs could show interest in moving up for Conerly? I suspect the Chiefs were expecting Josh Simmons to drop farther down the draft order, but they may still consider trading up for Conerly, particularly since both the Chiefs and Conerly seem aligned.
Texans
The Rams might choose an offensive lineman (or possibly a quarterback) with their draft pick. They’ve apparently shown significant interest in Jaxson Dart. Meanwhile, the Texans hold the 25th selection and are heavily favored at -400 odds to focus on reinforcing their offensive line.
I suspect the Vikings will receive several offers to move back within the upper part of the second round, but the key issue is whether these deals would offer enough value as compensation.
It wouldn’t be shocking if both safeties, Conerly and Jackson, along with Will Johnson, get picked somewhere within the last eight spots of the first round. This means the Vikings would need to feel good about their position even without these players when considering trading back into the early part of the second round.
I reckon the Vikings will receive offers and opt for trading back multiple times should the draft progress like this, possibly even before they make their initial selection.
