NFL Draft Rumors 2018: Tracking all the draft buzz
Tracking the latest on the rumor mill for the 2018 NFL Draft.
The 2018 NFL Draft is one of the most interesting drafts in recent memory. Usually, when we approach the draft, we pretty much know who is going in the first three picks. However, this year is completely different.
We know the Cleveland Browns are extremely likely to take a quarterback at number one, but which quarterback it ends up being is completely up in the air. The New York Giants are a complete wildcard at number two. They could take Eli Manning‘s eventual replacement at quarterback, an elite-level position player prospect like Saquon Barkley or even a trade down.
Which quarterback will the New York Jets take? How will the Browns use their pair of top four picks? Which direction will the Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts go? Will the Buffalo Bills be able to pull off the big trade up for a quarterback that they are obviously trying to make? Will we see the big four quarterbacks go with the first four picks?
We have so many questions to answer, and while the actual draft will take care them all, the rumor mill could easily get us that information sooner.
The rumor mill is certainly churning, but we have not had any solid information telling us who is going where. Make no mistake, Thursday night is going to be exciting. Let’s take a look at what’s being said:
Packers want Minkah
There have been rumors about the Packers wanting to trade up in the first round, and Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller says that’s the case with Minkah Fitzpatrick being the guy they covet.
#PAckers are definitely trying to move up and I've heard from multiple sources it's Minkah Fitzpatrick they want. #NFLDraft
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) April 26, 2018
Broncos moving to No. 2?
The Broncos, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport, are reportedly trying to trade up to the second-overall pick and they would take a quarterback if they’re able to do so.
he #Giants have been set on making the pick at No. 2. … Could they rethink it? I’m told the #Broncos are expected to explore trading up from No. 5 to No. 2. Possible early fireworks. QB would be the target.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 26, 2018
Vikings, Patriots, Eagles all getting calls
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, teams are calling the Vikings, Patriots and Eagles about their picks at the end of the first round, looking to trade for another Day 1 pick.
Teams already eyeing move into back of first round: Vikings have received calls today from six teams interested in potentially trading into back half of first round and No. 30 pick, per source. Calls coming for New England at 31 and Philadelphia at 32, too.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 26, 2018
Hot names and possible risers
NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport is reporting that a few players who could rise a bit are D.J. Moore (wide receiver, Maryland), Marcus Davenport (EDGE, UTSA) and Jaire Alexander (CB, Louisville).
A couple of players who seem set to be picked higher than expected: #Maryland WR DJ Moore, #UTSA pass-rusher Marcus Davenport, and #Louisville CB Jaire Alexander. … Hot names.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 26, 2018
Seahawks and Ravens want to move back
Jason La Canfora is reporting that teams are trying to move up into the 20s while the Seahawks and Ravens are both interested in trading back. More movement in the draft order.
Continue to hear a good number of teams expressing interest moving up from 20s to teens. BAL and SEA among teams who want to go back
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) April 26, 2018
Baker to the Browns?
All of the buzz on Thursday is that the Browns will take Baker Mayfield at No. 1 overall, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter and many others.
Browns continue to keep the decision on their No. 1 pick a secret, but there is a mounting belief from HCs and GMs around the league that Cleveland will take Baker Mayfield.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 26, 2018
However, NFL Network’s Ian Rapaport is hearing that may not be the case.
I did say this. The point was, even with clear buzz between the #Browns and Mayfield, other GMs are kinda like: 1. Yeah, we’ll see or 2. No way Dorsey takes him.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) April 26, 2018
3 hours to go. https://t.co/ka3RNzCcgS
The Browns at No. 4
Speaking of, former NFL front office member and current podcaster for The Ringer Michael Lombardi says the Browns will trade out at No. 4 — but will wait to do so as to not move down too far.
Hearing Browns will trade 4, but only when they are on the clock, not before the pick and they don't want to go down too far.
— Michael Lombardi (@mlombardiNFL) April 26, 2018
Some Jets QB questions
Bleacher Report’s Matt Miller says that the Jets coaches are pushing for Josh Allen.
Hearing there are #Jets coaches making a late push for Josh Allen. Buckle up, folks.
— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) April 26, 2018
However, Pro Football Talk is reporting that they will take Josh Rosen over Sam Darnold if both are on the board at No. 3.
Report: Jets will take Josh Rosen over Sam Darnold if both are on the board https://t.co/oAjYvczMHF
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) April 26, 2018
Giants moving back
Dianna Russini of ESPN is saying that the Giants will trade back because of their many needs.
Spoke to a Giants source. He said the feeling in this building today is the Giants are looking to trade down. When I asked why? He said “we have a ton of needs”
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) April 26, 2018
NYG contemplating all options.
Big Cowboys-Seahawks trade
There have been Earl Thomas trade rumors regarding the Dallas Cowboys for some time. However, they’re heating up now as ESPN’s Dan Graziano is reporting that talks have centered around the 50th overall pick (per Rotoworld).
Next: NFL Mock Draft 2018: Two rounds with massive trades
We all eat up NFL rumors all season long and the draft is no different. As today continues to move along, we are sure to hear plenty of noise about who will end up where. Even when the 2018 NFL Draft begins, expect activity around the league to pick up. Incoming rookies will obviously find their new homes, but do not be surprised to see a handful of veteran players to move as well.
As the rumor mill heats up, we will have it all here for you on NFL SpinZone. Stay tuned for the latest draft day buzz from around the league.