For NFL fans, the past few months have been bleak, devoid of the usual excitement and action that comes with the game. With no matches, no thrilling moments, and no opportunities to grumble about camera shots of Taylor Swift during Chiefs games, enthusiasts have found themselves in a period of darkness. However, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon as the NFL gears up for the 2024-2025 season with the much-anticipated 2024 NFL Draft set to begin.
Scheduled to kick off on Thursday night and continue through Saturday, April 27, the NFL Draft serves as the launchpad for college football stars to transition into the professional league. Among the potential draftees, one name shines brighter than the rest: Caleb Williams from USC, who is widely touted as the favorite for this year’s first overall pick.
While the draft process may resemble the hustle of the NYSE’s trading floor in some aspects, it remains a riveting spectacle for fans. Here’s everything you need to know to catch all the action.
When and Where
The 2024 NFL Draft is slated to commence on Thursday, April 25, and extend through Saturday, April 27. The first round of picks will be unveiled on Thursday, followed by subsequent rounds on Friday and Saturday.
Broadcast Details
Coverage of the draft will span multiple networks, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the action. Thursday’s first round will be aired on ABC, ESPN, and the NFL Network. On Friday, events will be broadcasted on ABC, ESPN2, and The NFL Network, while Saturday’s proceedings can be viewed on ABC, ESPN, and The NFL Network.
How to Watch
For fans without cable subscriptions, a reliable HD antenna provides the best option for tuning in to the draft on ABC. Additionally, streaming options are available through various platforms to cater to diverse preferences:
- Disney bundle: Combining Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+ for comprehensive coverage.
- Hulu with Live TV: Offering live TV streaming along with on-demand content.
- YouTubeTV: Providing access to live TV from major broadcast and cable networks.
- Sling TV: A cost-effective streaming option with different subscription tiers to choose from.
- DirecTV Stream: AT&T’s streaming service offering access to live TV channels.
- Fubo TV: A sports-centric streaming service with a free trial available for new users.
- NFL App: Enabling streaming access via the NFL Network for fans on the go.
What are my options for watching the NFL Draft for FREE?
The most convenient method to view non-cable exclusive broadcasts on a large screen is by using a high-quality HD antenna. As the NFL draft is being aired on ABC, you can watch it even if you don’t subscribe to cable. To ensure optimal signal reception, it’s advisable to test the antenna in various spots throughout your home.
What is the draft order for the 2024 NFL Draft?
Chicago retained its first-round pick this year, having traded it to the Carolina Panthers last year for the Panthers’ first-round pick this year. This marks the first time since 1947 that the team has had the first selection, and they also hold the No. 9 pick, which positions them for solid choices.
While the order of picks will vary by round, here’s how Round One is shaping up:
- Chicago Bears (From Carolina Panthers)
- Washington Commanders
- New England Patriots
- Arizona Cardinals
- Los Angeles Chargers
- New York Giants
- Tennessee Titans
- Atlanta Falcons
- Chicago Bears
- New York Jets
- Minnesota Vikings
- Denver Broncos
- Las Vegas Raiders
- New Orleans Saints
- Indianapolis Colts
- Seattle Seahawks
- Jacksonville Jaguars
- Cincinnati Bengals
- Los Angeles Rams
- Pittsburgh Steelers
- Miami Dolphins
- Philadelphia Eagles
- Minnesota Vikings
- Dallas Cowboys
- Green Bay Packers
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Arizona Cardinals
- Buffalo Bills
- Detroit Lions
- Baltimore Ravens
- San Francisco 49ers
- Kansas City Chiefs
Who are the top prospects for the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft?
Quarterbacks are expected to be highly sought after this year, with USC’s Caleb Williams projected to be the first pick. However, several other teams are also eyeing talented field generals. Other potential high-ranking picks include:
- Jayden Daniels, LSU: Daniels, a Heisman Trophy winner, threw for 40 touchdowns last season and is anticipated to be one of the most coveted picks in the draft.
- Drake Maye, UNC: Maye is another top contender, likely to be the second pick of the year. The Vikings may attempt to secure him early through trade maneuvers, given that Josh McCown was Maye’s high school coach.
- Marvin Harrison Jr, Ohio State: Stepping away momentarily from the quarterback prospects, Harrison is a standout wide receiver expected to swiftly find a place in the NFL. He was widely regarded as the best receiver in college football last season.
- J. McCarthy, Michigan: Following his leadership in securing a national championship for the Wolverines last year, McCarthy is poised to be an early selection.
Post-Draft
Following the draft, attention will shift to the release of the 2024-2025 season schedule in May, signaling the countdown to the upcoming season. Scheduled to kick off on Thursday, September 5, the season will culminate with Super Bowl LIX on February 9. Ticket sales will commence after the schedule announcement, allowing fans to secure their spots for the upcoming season’s action-packed games.
In conclusion, while the past few months may have been devoid of NFL excitement, the 2024 NFL Draft promises to reignite the passion and anticipation among fans as they eagerly await the next generation of football stars to make their mark on the professional stage.
