The 2024 NFL Draft has wrapped up, leaving fans and analysts buzzing about the futures of numerous young talents. Among the usual draft buzz, several teams managed to snag what could be the biggest steals of this year’s draft. These players, who slid down the draft board for various reasons, might just prove their worth much beyond their pick number. Here are the standout steals from the 2024 NFL Draft:
Dallas Turner – Edge, Minnesota Vikings (No. 17 Overall)
The Minnesota Vikings made a significant move by picking Dallas Turner, considered the top edge rusher in the draft, at No. 17. This Alabama product slipped unexpectedly, allowing the Vikings, with two first-round picks, to capitalize. Turner’s prowess at putting pressure on quarterbacks could make him a cornerstone of Minnesota’s defense.
Quinyon Mitchell – Cornerback, Philadelphia Eagles (No. 22 Overall)
The Philadelphia Eagles addressed a critical need in their secondary by selecting Quinyon Mitchell, who was the top cornerback in many pre-draft rankings. His dominant college performance and impressive pre-draft workouts hinted at his potential to start immediately. Mitchell’s selection at No. 22 could be seen as a major win for the Eagles, reinforcing their defensive backfield.
Terrion Arnold – Cornerback, Detroit Lions (No. 24 Overall)
Another secondary steal, Terrion Arnold from Alabama, went to the Detroit Lions at No. 24. With teams focusing on offensive talents early in the round, Arnold, a highly talented cornerback, fell into the Lions’ lap, potentially boosting their pass defense significantly in their quest for NFC contention.
Johnny Newton – Defensive Line, Washington Commanders (No. 36 Overall)
Despite having a robust defensive line featuring Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne, the Washington Commanders couldn’t overlook Johnny Newton. Selected No. 36 overall, Newton, one of the top interior linemen in the draft, promises to add depth and power to the Commanders’ defensive rotation under the leadership of new head coach Dan Quinn. Johnny Newton
Cooper Dejean – Defensive Back, Philadelphia Eagles (No. 40 Overall)
The Eagles made another strategic move in the secondary by picking Cooper Dejean early in the second round. From Iowa, Dejean’s versatility as a potential outside corner, slot, or safety, combined with his notable playmaking ability, promises significant contributions to the Eagles’ defensive schemes.
These draft steals represent not just value picks but strategic acquisitions that could transform these players into key contributors for their teams. As the 2024 NFL season approaches, it will be intriguing to watch these rookies integrate into their respective teams and begin to impact games. The early consensus suggests these franchises have done well, but as every seasoned NFL observer knows, time will truly tell the tale of these draft-day bargains.
