2024 NFL Draft: Live Dynasty Analysis
Editor’s Note: This live analysis of the 2024 NFL Draft will provide pick-by-pick dynasty perspective in the early rounds, transitioning to round-by-round analysis as we get into day three. The latest updates will always appear at the bottom of the post. We will continue providing more in-depth recaps, breakdowns, rankings, and mock drafts, which you can find here.
INTRODUCTION:
The time is here! Welcome to the 2024 NFL Draft! I will be covering all the offensive skill position selections and giving an instant reaction for the player and their respective team. I am excited to see what will transpire as the draft continues throughout the weekend. If you aren't already a DLF Premium subscriber, you won't want to wait any longer! We're covering the NFL Draft and dynasty rookie drafts from every perspective. You can get 20% off the normal price by clicking the banner below, or you can check out our "deals" section to see how you can get it for free. Now, on to the analysis!
ROUND ONE ANALYSIS (Thursday, April 25th):
Preliminary Thoughts:
We made it.
We have consumed all the analysis. We have stomached the hot takes and engagement farming. Finally, we get to see how the NFL Draft unfolds.
Fantasy managers always get hot and bothered when rookies are entering the league, but 2024 has a chance to be a special group. Need a quarterback? Four are expected to go in the Top 11, with some forecasting the top four picks are going to be signal callers. Eyeing receivers? Welcome in three true studs along with outstanding depth. Elite tight end? Nab Brock Bowers and sleep soundly. Top running back? Well...just hope Jonathan Brooks gets a cozy landing spot.
There is no drama at the top: Caleb Williams will be a Bear. Jayden Daniels is expected to be a Commander, though there is still some doubt at number two overall. The third pick looks to be a pivot point. The Patriots desperately need a quarterback and Drake Maye is the favorite, though they may attempt to maneuver within the Top 10 if they do not perceive much of a gap between the second tier at the position. It will be a fantasy friendly first round. Sit back and enjoy the festivities.
Pick 1.01 (1 Overall): Caleb Williams, QB CHI
For all the posturing, this has been the pick since the season ended. Williams is one of the best quarterback prospects we have seen in recent times and immediately opens the Bears Super Bowl window. With D.J. Moore and Keenan Allen out wide and Darnell Wright looking like a foundational piece along the line, the Bears all of a sudden have a strong supporting cast. The former Sooner and Trojan is a dynasty QB1 from day one. Get excited, Chicago.
Pick 1.02 (2 Overall): Jayden Daniels, QB WAS
As expected, it is Jayden Daniels. It would be an understatement to say he had a big year; he absolutely eviscerated defenses as he won the Heisman Trophy. Washington has completely rebuilt their leadership structure and turns to Daniels as they look to get off the mat in the NFC East. His running ability alone will make him a fantasy asset. If he continues to improve his passing game - as he did during his time at LSU - Daniels will be a fantasy superstar.
Pick 1.03 (3 Overall): Drake Maye, QB NE
The Patriots stand pat and land Maye, breathing new life into an offense which has become incredibly stagnant post-Tom Brady. Maye oozes upside yet may sit behind Brissett early as he cleans up some of the weaknesses which have some nervous about his NFL projection. Fortunately, Matt Patricia is no longer in charge of this offense. New England is not an ideal landing spot as is but we have to hope Jared Mayo has bigger offensive plans than late career Bill Belichick. In Superflex leagues, Maye is a likely Top 5 rookie selection and given the dynasty quarterback landscape he has immense value from day one.
