NFL Draft 2024: Who Are the Best Players Available After Round 1?

As the dust settles on an exhilarating first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, attention swiftly turns to the talent that remains undrafted. The depth of this year’s draft class means that several high-caliber players are still on the board, offering teams an opportunity to secure top-tier talent in the subsequent rounds. Among those awaiting their names to be called are Jer’Zhan Newton, Adonai Mitchell, Jackson Powers-Johnson, Cooper DeJean, and Kool-Aid McKinstry. Each of these athletes brings a unique skill set that could significantly impact the fortunes of the NFL teams lucky enough to draft them. (HOW TO WATCH)

Jer’Zhan Newton – Defensive Tackle

Jer’Zhan Newton has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the defensive line, making him one of the most sought-after players still available. With a combination of power and agility, Newton has the ability to disrupt offensive lines and pressure quarterbacks, making him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their defense. His performance at the college level, characterized by explosive tackles and an innate ability to read the game, has scouts and analysts alike touting him as a potential game-changer at the professional level.

Adonai Mitchell – Wide Receiver

Several teams that will pick early in the 2nd round o fthe NFL Draft couple use a wide receiver. Adonai Mitchell is a name that has been on the lips of many draft enthusiasts and NFL scouts. As a wide receiver, Mitchell’s exceptional route-running ability, coupled with his hands and speed, makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. His knack for making big plays in crucial moments has been evident throughout his college career, showcasing his potential to be a reliable target in the NFL. Teams lacking a deep threat or looking to add depth to their receiving corps will find Mitchell an attractive option.

Jackson Powers-Johnson – Offensive Guard

NFL Draft 2024: Who Are the Best Players Available After Round 1?
Dec 1, 2023; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Jackson Powers-Johnson (58) and offensive lineman Steven Jones (74) celebrate in the second half against the Washington Huskies in the Pac-12 Championship game at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

The importance of a solid offensive line cannot be overstated in the NFL, making Jackson Powers-Johnson a valuable prospect. His strength and versatility allow him to excel in both pass protection and run blocking, offering a dual-threat capability that is highly coveted. Powers-Johnson’s football IQ and leadership qualities have also been highlighted, indicating his potential to anchor an offensive line for years to come.

Cooper DeJean – Defensive Back

In a league where the passing game continues to dominate, a player like Cooper DeJean could be the answer to many teams’ defensive woes. As a safety, DeJean possesses exceptional coverage skills, combined with a physicality that makes him effective against the run. His ball-hawking ability has made him a standout player, with a penchant for making big plays and turning games in his team’s favor. DeJean’s versatility also allows him to slot into various positions in the secondary, making him a valuable and flexible defensive option in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Kool-Aid McKinstry – Cornerback

NFL Draft 2024: Who Are the Best Players Available After Round 1?
Alabama defensive back Kool-Aid McKinstry gestures in celebration after Tennessee failed to convert on fourth down in the fourth quarter at Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Ala., on Saturday, Oct. 21, 2023.

Kool-Aid McKinstry brings an electrifying presence to the cornerback position, with agility and speed that allow him to keep up with the league’s best receivers. His ability to read quarterbacks and make decisive breaks on the ball has resulted in numerous turnovers, highlighting his playmaking ability. McKinstry’s confidence and competitiveness are traits that scouts believe will translate well to the NFL, making him a potential cornerstone for a team’s secondary.

Best Players Available in Round 2 of the NFL Draft

As teams prepare for the second day of the NFL Draft 2024, the availability of players like Jer’Zhan Newton, Adonai Mitchell, Jackson Powers-Johnson, Cooper DeJean, and Kool-Aid McKinstry provides a unique opportunity to secure impact players. Their diverse talents and potential to contribute at a high level make them some of the best players available after Round 1. As the draft continues, it will be intriguing to see where these talented individuals will land and how they will shape the future of the teams that select them in this year’s NFL Draft.

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Andy has been involved in sports betting on and off his entire adult life and has been creating content surrounding it for the past five years. While the NFL is his first love, he also bets hundreds of college basketball games every winter and loves sweating golf DFS during the football offseason.

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