Monday Mocks: 2024 Free Agent Class
Editors note: Ryan McDowell gets a well-deserved week off, with Mike Faiella covering for him. Mike and friends put together a mock draft, focusing on 2024 free agents. This was submitted prior to today's "legal tampering period," which has already resulted in many new landing spots for these players, but the content is still relevant, and entertaining. Enjoy!
Welcome to Monday Mocks, where Ryan brings you…you guessed it, a new mock draft every Monday during the off-season. With Ryan out, I will attempt to fill the space with a mock that meets the incredible standard that Ryan has set.
After consecutive weeks of rookie mock drafts, we turn our attention to the latest date on the NFL calendar, Franchise Tags and Free Agency. With all the tags in as of March 5th, we are doing a Superflex/Tight End Premium mock draft using only NFL Free Agents post tag deadline. This means that while we are very happy for Mike Evans and Dalton Schultz receiving new deals, they will be ineligible for this draft. As will Tee Higgins and Michael Pittman who both received the franchise tag from their respective organizations.
The one exception that was allowed was Russell Wilson who is not technically a free agent until the start of the NFL season but we know it is coming and, to be honest, we could use him to make this a little more exciting.
We have a star-studded cast of analysts making two picks each (with me making four because I was short one friend), so let’s get rolling!
ROUND ONE:
1.01 (Bob Gilchrist) - Saquon Barkley RB (former New York Giant)
Ideal Landing Spot: Los Angeles Chargers
The clear number one running back on the market, Saquon is an easy choice here. At only 27 years old, Saquon should quickly find a new team and cement himself as an RB1 in dynasty for a few more years
1.02 (Matt Price) - Derrick Henry RB (former Tennessee Titan)
Ideal Landing Spot: Baltimore Ravens
I want Derrick Henry to the Ravens to happen more than anything else in free agency. The identity of the Ravens is to play tough defense and run with authority. No one fits with Baltimore more than Derrick Henry.
1.03 (Dustin “Omega” Keith) - Baker Mayfield QB (former Tampa Bay Buccaneer)
Ideal Landing Spot: Returning to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Baker is sure to go back to TB with Mike Evans locked in for two more years. It will be hard to find a better QB2 for the cost to acquire him.
1.04 (Ric Avery) - Calvin Ridley (former Jacksonville Jaguar)
Ideal Landing Spot: Returning to the Jacksonville Jaguars
Reuniting Ridley with the Jaguars and a healthy Lawrence could be an ideal scenario, capitalizing on their connection and his first year's productivity as the team's top receiver. I expect him to elevate the offense again.
