Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft has wrapped up and we saw a few surprises, like the Atlanta Falcons reaching for Ruke Orhorhoro, DL, Clemson, after selecting Michael Penix 8th overall. While the latter pick made sense to some degree, Orhorhoro was a head-scratcher. Speaking of surprises, the Tennessee Titans chose T'Vondre Sweat, DL, Texas, who was recently arrested for DUI. This felt a bit premature, but he's a run-stuffing nose tackle who could improve their defense.
Another puzzling choice came from the Miami Dolphins, who opted to draft backup developmental tackle Patrick Paul, OT, Houston, despite their pressing needs in the trenches on both sides of the ball. While those picks were questionable, some teams nailed Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft. The New York Giants barely missed the cut despite them having a solid second round with two defensive backs, safety Tyler Nubin and corner Andru Phillips. The Raiders were another team that missed the cut, but they did bolster their offensive line with a tone setter out of Oregon, Jackson Powers-Johnson.
5. New Orleans Saints
Last season was unimpressive, to say the least, so the New Orleans Saints needed to hit on every pick. And they totally nailed their only pick on Day 2 of the NFL Draft, scooping up Alabama’s star cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry. This dude was a freshman sensation and hasn't stopped impressing since, proving he’s not just any player but one with a seriously solid foundation to build on. Even with a sneaky Jones fracture, he blazed through a 4.47-second 40 at his pro day—talk about tough!
The Saints, spotting their chance, didn't sit back and wait. They hustled up a trade to grab McKinstry earlier in the second round, making sure they didn’t miss out on this gem. Joining the likes of Marshon Lattimore and Tyrann Mathieu, McKinstry’s set to make a splash in an already stacked defensive backfield. The former Crimson Tides defensive back is a total playmaker with the chops to shut down receivers and snag interceptions. It doesn’t hurt that he’s a solid punt returner either. This pick might just be the steal of the draft for the Saints, adding some serious swagger to a defense that was already swagged out. Who knows, they may surprise some and make the playoffs on the backs of their defense.
4. Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals kicked off Day 2 of the draft by adding a game-changer to their secondary, snagging Rutgers’ Max Melton. Known for his explosive athleticism and knack for shutting down receivers, Melton brings immediate upgrades with his versatility to play both inside and outside. His ability to read and jump routes thanks to his keen eye for the game transforms him into a sticky cover corner that any team would covet. While there are kinks to iron out in his run defense and lateral movements, Melton's standout performance at the combine, highlighted by his 4.39-second 40-yard dash, has Cards fans excited about their revamped secondary.
After taking Marvin Harrison Jr in round one, the Cards opted for offense again. Trey Benson, the speedy new addition from FSU, is set to electrify the Arizona Cardinals’ backfield alongside the thunderous James Conner. With his agility and knack for slipping through tight spaces, Benson offers a lightning-fast complement to Conner's powerful style. This duo promises dynamic versatility and explosive plays for the Cardinals. Isaiah Adams will likely be the guard for this duo given they selected him in the second round, giving them two lineman in the first 75 picks. They also added 6 '5 271-pound tight end, Tip Reiman, an ideal fit for a team looking to run 12-personnel, which seems the direction the Cards are going. Elijah Jones was the final pick, a long press corner who excels in zone.
3. Indianapolis Colts
The Indianapolis Colts may have missed their initial targets in the first round, but fortune smiled on them in the second. Adonai Mitchell, a standout from Texas, became a steal of a pick. What does he bring? The classic yet impressive blend of size and athleticism. He’s 6’2 203-pounds and ran a blazing 4.34-second 40-yard dash with a vertical leap of 39.5 inches. His knack for making spectacular catches and his ability to keep plays alive on the boundary make him an ideal target for young quarterback Anthony Richardson. Pairing him with Michael Pittman Jr. and others, the Colts have significantly upgraded their offensive firepower. Mitchell, who once dazzled in pivotal moments for Georgia, including a memorable National Championship game, brings not just talent but a proven track record of clutch plays.
Following up, the Colts went offense again, but this time in the trenches. Matt Goncalves, a 6’6 327-pound tackle with the versatility to shift inside if necessary. While Goncalves may not possess elite knee-bending ability, his considerable size and power make him a force in executing blocks, particularly useful for the Colts’ RPO-heavy offense. Although his mobility as a blocker is somewhat limited, his effectiveness in pass protection and his ability to handle bull rushes with his solid frame will be crucial. Goncalves's leadership as a team captain and his potential to play multiple positions along the line present him as a valuable asset with starter potential.
2. Buffalo Bills
The Bills bounced back from their first-round trade down debacle with the Kansas City Chiefs, who snagged the fastest man in NFL Combine history. While fans were stunned to see the Bills give the Super Bowl champs their top pick, Buffalo turned heads by selecting Keon Coleman. Despite a slower 40-yard dash, Coleman's outstanding play at Florida State showcased his phenomenal ball skills and ideal size as an X-receiver and red-zone target. At No. 33 overall, Coleman, known for making spectacular catches, offers value and fills a significant need at wide receiver for the Bills who traded away Stefon Diggs. This pick could just be the silver lining after a shaky start, giving Josh Allen an amazing target.
The Buffalo Bills snagged Cole Bishop, filling the void left by Jordan Poyer with a bang. Bishop, a rising star thanks to his instincts and athleticism, brings a 4.45 speed and a hard-hitting style that sets the tone on defense. His knack for navigating traffic and anticipating routes makes him ideal big slot and value pick in round two. In round three the Bills addressed a need at defensive line by drafting Dewayne Carter, a 6'2", 302-pound defensive end. Carter, reminiscent of Ed Oliver, brings relentless energy and dynamic pass-rushing skills. Together on third downs, Oliver and Carter could wreak havoc, effectively collapsing the pocket and disrupting opposing offenses.
1. Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles have a knack for getting lucky, and Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft was no exception. They snagged Cooper DeJean, a versatile 6’0”, 203-pound corner who seems tailor-made for Vic Fangio’s dynamic defense. Known for his excellent press zone coverage, DeJean's ability to adapt and excel both in space and on the boundary makes him a potential key player. His versatility will allow Fangio to use him in multiple roles—nickel, boundary, and even safety. This strategic pick could pay off big for an Eagles team that continues to win the draft every year.
Following up with a great pick the Eagles added a dynamic element to their defense in the third round, selecting a long edge rusher who was a former safety. With a frame that can still pack on muscle, this player excels in shooting upfield with impressive acceleration around the edge. His ability to bend and dip, coupled with a big-time closing burst, enables him to consistently pressure quarterbacks and disrupt plays, enhancing the Eagles' defensive agility and impact.