Draft prospects are important to the NFL because they’re the talent that the league’s teams can incorporate into their rosters and make themselves more competitive. The amateur players of today could be the NFL stars of tomorrow, attracting fans to the team and the NFL.
The draft is an interesting time not just for sports fans, but also for sports betting fans, who’ll be checking out the NFL draft odds and wagering on events such as which team picks first and on which players teams will pick first. Below is a look at five of the best 2024 picks according to the Vegas odds NFL draft.
Caleb Williams
USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams is a single-season record holder for total offense (4,919 yards), most touchdowns scored rushing and passing (52), passing completions (333), passes attempted (500), highest passing efficiency rating (168.5) and more.
Not only is his throwing sharp but his running is good (but under-rated). Williams can also throw the ball from all angles and platforms, getting it out quickly, and he can evade pressure from defensive linesmen and shrug off challenges.
Teams should note Williams prefers deep throws, causing him to miss easy plays. It’s also risky as it means he spends longer on the ball than necessary and could lose possession.
Kool Aid McKinstry
University of Alabama cornerback Ga’Quincy “Kool Aid” McKinstry is one of US colleges’ top cornerbacks. In the 2023 season, he accumulated 86 yards from punt returns offensively, and defensively, he notched up 32 tackles (8 assisted and 24 unassisted).
McKinstry is a willing run defender and very physical. He can deliver big hits on ball carriers in space too. Despite not being the ideal length for his position, he can keep up with most receivers and has the strength not to get bullied at attacking point.
Any team who snaps up McKinstry will need him to work on turnovers and running defense. He tends to jog when there’s not a pressing need for pursuit. Teams will want more urgency from him and also more consistency.
Joe Alt
Notre Dame Fighting Irish offensive tackle Joe Alt has become a target for the Giants, and why not? The New Yorkers want to upgrade their offensive line this season, and Alt has played left tackle at college all his life. If Alt learns to play on both sides, he could add real flexibility. He’s also disciplined in his playing style, rarely giving away penalties, and has quick hands and good extension that can redirect pass rushes.
Despite his athleticism, lateral movement and quick feet, Alt’s height makes it harder for him to bend. He also allows rushers too much access to his chest, which disrupts his balance. In the run game, however, he is good at blocking.
Barret Carter
Clemson Tigers defensive linebacker Barrett Carter is another hot draft prospect. Carter has chalked up 62 tackles (37 solo, 25 assisted), 9.5 tackles for loss (TFLs) and 3.5 sacks in the 2023 season. Carter is a high-energy player, fast and athletic. He’s strong and physical against tight ends, can man up against these players and running backs and carry them downfield. Pattern matching is another strength of his, which teams could really use to their advantage.
They may, however, want him to work on his run defense. He often finds himself in poor positions to take on blocks and leaves the gap open. Carter also needs to build strength to handle blocks from offensive linesmen better.
Trey Benson
Trey Benson, running back for the Florida State Seminoles, is a man to watch. In 2023, in 13 games, he notched up 14 rushing touchdowns, 156 carries (5.8 yards per rushing attempt) and 906 rushing yards.
Benson has a sturdy frame and often doesn’t go down on the first contact. He shakes off arm tackles easily and requires two tacklers to shut him down.
His running is impressive. He cuts through the second level almost as if it wasn’t there, and when he gets into the third level, the opposing team can resign themselves to choking on his dust. The work he’s done to improve his game shows in a better understanding of angles and following of blocks properly.
NFL teams may appreciate his speed and toughness but will want him to work on his pass catching. Wheel routes and flats seem to be his main strengths, so they’ll need him to offer more options. Although his ball handling and ball security is reasonable, NFL teams may wish him to switch to wide receiver, but he won’t up to the level they need because of his pass reception.
The NFL draft is an exciting time for clubs and fans, who could get to see some real talent join their team and may be checking the NFL draft betting odds to see who might be likely to join. Other prospects to watch out for include Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr, North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye and Louisiana State University Tigers quarterback Jayden Daniels.