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Overview
- The article discusses the potential for a redraft of the NFL Draft based on rookie performances post-Super Bowl.
- It highlights top picks like Jayden Daniels, Caleb Williams, and Drake Maye as standout players.
- The article emphasizes the importance of fitting players to team needs rather than solely focusing on their college statistics.
Rethinking the NFL Draft: A Redraft After the Eagles’ Super Bowl Victory
Last year, the Philadelphia Eagles took home the Vince Lombardi Trophy, becoming the champions of the NFL and giving their fans an unforgettable celebration. This victory not only highlighted the Eagles’ strengths but also brought attention to the potential future stars emerging from the latest class of rookies. So, what if we could redo the 2024 NFL Draft right after the Super Bowl, changing the order of picks based on how these new athletes performed in their rookie year? That’s exactly what a redraft does! In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into this fresh perspective, exploring how each team could benefit from selecting rising stars and talented players based on their performances and coaching needs, rather than just the original team choices.
The Importance of a Redraft
A redraft examines the performances of college athletes transitioning into the pros, considering how their skills fit with different teams. Since the NFL is not just about what players can do individually, but about how well they mesh with the team’s system and coaches, a redraft encourages a more thoughtful approach to team building. Imagine if a coach needed a mobile quarterback who could scramble and throw on the run—that’s a very specific skill set! In a redraft, teams wouldn’t just select players based on their college stats but would instead evaluate how they would flourish in an NFL environment.
Top Picks in the Redraft
- Jayden Daniels, Quarterback – First Overall
Let’s start with the first overall pick. During the 2023 NFL season, Jayden Daniels showcased his unbelievable talent, leading his team with skill and poise that wowed fans and scouts alike. His ability to read defenses and his quick decision-making made him an attractive choice for many teams looking for a franchise quarterback. Daniels’ agility and accuracy could be game-changers in a professional setting, and many teams would kick themselves for not snatching him up first.
- Caleb Williams, Quarterback – Second Overall
Not far behind Jayden, Caleb Williams also made headlines for his outstanding performances. Winning the Heisman Trophy in college and standing out throughout the season, he quickly established himself as a future star. Williams possesses a unique combination of arm strength, mobility, and football IQ that makes him extremely valuable. For a team looking for a dynamic leader at quarterback, he would be a stellar addition.
- Drake Maye, Quarterback – Third Overall
At number three, we have Drake Maye. Though he faced fierce competition, Maye proved he could compete at the highest level with strong performances during his rookie year. His ability to pull off exciting plays while maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure made scouts take notice. In this redraft, a team in need of a franchise quarterback would have Maye high on their draft board.
Defensive Powerhouses and Skill Position Stars
- Jared Verse, Edge Rusher – Fourth Overall
Switching gears from quarterbacks, let’s take a look at the defensive side of the ball. Jared Verse emerged as one of the top edge rushers in his rookie season. A relentless player with the speed to chase down quarterbacks, Verse has the kind of tenacity that makes opponents think twice before dropping back to pass. The ability to pressure quarterbacks is crucial in the NFL, and a team landing Verse would likely have a significant advantage on defense.
- Brock Bowers, Tight End – Fifth Overall
Now, let’s shine a light on a different position—tight end. Brock Bowers became one of the most exciting players to watch throughout the season, thanks to his unmatched route-running ability and explosive speed. Tight ends have become key players who can create mismatches on the field. If a team needs an offensive weapon to stretch the field and open up passing lanes for the quarterback, Bowers would fit the bill perfectly.
- Keon Coleman, Wide Receiver – Sixth Overall
Another standout was Keon Coleman, who captivated fans with jaw-dropping catches and athletic plays. Coleman showed flashes of brilliance that suggest he could become a number-one wide receiver in the league. His physicality and ability to win one-on-one battles make him an appealing target for any quarterback looking for reliable options downfield.
The Undrafted Gems
Now, it’s not just the players who were drafted that deserve our attention—undrafted free agents can also change the game. These hidden gems often become key contributors despite slipping through the cracks during the initial draft:
- Jahmyr Gibbs, Running Back – Seventh Overall
Jahmyr Gibbs might have gone undrafted, but he proved his worth quickly in the league. His speed, agility, and ability to catch passes out of the backfield give him an edge. Coaches love dual-threat running backs who can do it all, and Gibbs excelled in that role. A team looking for a fresh face in their backfield would be wise to take a chance on him.
- Darius Rush, Cornerback – Eighth Overall
Moving on to defense, cornerback Darius Rush was another player who went undrafted but quickly turned heads with his performances on the field. His skills in coverage, combined with an ability to tackle, made him a valuable asset for any defense. Teams need solid cornerbacks to keep up with flashy wide receivers, and Rush fits that requirement well.
Teams and Their Needs
The beauty of this redraft is that it takes into account the specific needs of each team. A great player might not be the best fit for a team’s system. For example, if a team has a strong defense but struggles offensively, they might opt to grab a skill player over a defensive one—even if the defensive player was rated higher otherwise.
What makes this exercise fascinating is that we recognize how fragile NFL careers can be. It’s all about timing, opportunity, and getting into the right system. A player might thrive in one environment but struggle in another. Think about how many talented players have failed to shine simply because they didn’t have the right coaching or offensive scheme suited to their strengths!
Conclusion: What’s Next?
As the dust settles after the Eagles’ Super Bowl triumph, the 2024 NFL Draft promises to bring its share of excitement and drama. GMs will make decisions based on need, potential, and how a player fits in with their existing roster. By redrafting based on rookie performances, we’re reminded of how unpredictable and thrilling the draft can be. It’s a little like playing a video game, where you get to rebuild your entire team every time you make a selection.
In the end, what do you think? Who would be your number one pick, and who do you believe is a hidden gem that teams should look out for? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
