As fans wait in anticipation on the eve of the draft, NFL front offices are gearing up for what could be a monumental night on the trade front. Here are likely and unlikely trade scenarios that could take place during the 2024 NFL Draft.
Likely: Vikings trade up to take a quarterback
The Minnesota Vikings are in the market for a quarterback and have the No. 11 pick in the draft. While that may be high enough for them to select Bo Nix, the Vikings likely have J.J. McCarthy or Drake Maye in mind. Minnesota would need to trade up into the top five to ensure they get one of those two potential franchise QBs.
Unlikely: Bengals trade Tee Higgins
Cincinnati franchise-tagged Higgins before free agency with the intention that he would be on the team next season. Despite the recent news that the star receiver wants to be traded out of the organization, the Bengals will likely stay off the trading block and elect to keep Higgins in Cincinnati for one more season as they look to win a Super Bowl.
Likely: Chargers trade back to rebuild offense
Los Angeles lost Keenan Allen, Austin Ekeler and Mike Williams this offseason, leaving Justin Herbert with few offensive weapons. The Chargers, who hold the No. 5 pick, could rebuild the offense by trading back and getting more selections. Some potential suitors are the Vikings, Broncos or the Giants, who might be open to trading up for one of the top four quarterbacks in the draft.
Unlikely: Cardinals trade back, passing on generational talent
As the draft rumors heat up, Arizona has stayed quiet as the Cardinals look set to draft Marvin Harrison Jr. at the fourth spot. Even though the Cardinals’ draft pick holds high value on the trade market, they will likely elect to pair franchise QB Kylar Murray with the top receiver prospect in the draft.