A first-round pick in the NFL draft can quite literally change the trajectory of a team that uses it wisely. On the other hand, having multiple first-round picks gives teams a distinct advantage of strengthening their roster in a special way.
There are three NFL teams with multiple first-round picks: the Chicago Bears, Arizona Cardinals, and Minnesota Vikings. Two teams are quarterback-needy, and one has a unique opportunity to trade down in the draft. However, what is the best scenario for each team with multiple first-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft?
The Perfect Scenario For Each Team With Multiple First-Round Picks
Chicago Bears (Picks 1 And 9)
Caleb Williams is likely a Chicago Bear. He is a no-brainer pick at one and is arguably one of the best quarterback prospects to come out of the draft this decade. Caleb’s ability to play in structure and make unbelievable plays speaks for itself. The Bears have been waiting for a savior at quarterback, and they might finally get one with Williams. There are no guarantees in the NFL, but Williams is coming into arguably the best situation for a rookie quarterback. With formidable weapons like D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, and D’Andre Swift, Williams is poised for a promising debut season in Chicago.
With their second pick in the first round, the Bears have options. With only four picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, many people believe the Bears should trade back from nine and acquire more draft capital. While it makes sense at first glance, the reality is the Bears have a ton of draft capital next year. If the Bears trade back from nine, they might lose out on having the ability to draft a blue-chip prospect.
Head Coach Matt Eberflus knows this and was asked what the Bears plan was with the ninth pick. He stated, “We’re gonna get a blue player there, for sure.” So, who is that blue-chip prospect Eberflus is talking about? Rome Odunze is a likely candidate. Odunze could become yet another offensive weapon for the Bears. His potential as an immediate impact player and the opportunity to learn from veterans like Moore and Allen make him an enticing prospect. Adding Odzune will give Chicago arguably the best wide receiver trio and another weapon for Caleb Williams to work with.
Arizona Cardinals (Picks 4 And 27)
The Cardinals are in a unique situation. They already have their franchise quarterback in Kyler Murray. So, the best-case scenario for the Cardinals might be trading down from pick four and continuing to add more draft capital to build around Murray. Several teams are trying to trade up to draft one of the top quarterbacks. Among them are the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, and the Minnesota Vikings, all potential candidates for the fourth pick. This would likely push the Cardinals down to the 11th to 13th pick range, where they could target one of the premier edge rushers in the draft. Laiatu Latu is the most polished pass-rusher from UCLA and will be a force to reckon with on defense. Having a dominant pass rusher will give the Cardinals opportunities to start with a favorable position on offense.
With their second first-round pick in the draft, the Cardinals will have options. With a significant need at wide receiver, that will be another area to attack during the draft. Adonai Mitchell, a wide receiver from Texas, would be a great addition to Arizona. His fast footwork and fluid route running will give cornerbacks a tough time, especially in the red zone. Coming out of the first round with arguably the best pass rusher and one of the top wideouts should make Cardinals fans happy.
Minnesota Vikings (Picks 11 And 23)
The Vikings recently gained a second first-round pick in a trade with the Houston Texans. That’s the signal to the league that the Vikings are looking to use their first-round picks to trade up and draft their quarterback of the future. J.J. McCarthy is one quarterback who fits Vikings Head Coach Kevin O’Connell’s offense. NFL Draft Analyst Daniel Jeremiah explored the reasons behind the connection between the Vikings and McCarthy, highlighting his ability to emulate aspects of Kirk Cousins’ play style by maintaining structure and bringing athleticism to enhance Minnesota’s offense. The Vikings can have McCarthy sit under Sam Darnold for a year, get him familiar with how the NFL works, and develop him into the quarterback of the future for the Vikings.
Vikings Receive: Pick 4
Cardinals Receive: Picks 11, 23, 2025 First-Round Pick
J.J. McCarthy
Vikings QB1 #SKOL pic.twitter.com/FyNzqSWDyd
— Kayden (@kaydenxcreative) March 21, 2024
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