The 2024 NFL Draft continues to see a seismic shift, with a record-breaking run on tight ends and a new wave of wide receivers reshaping depth charts across the league.
Day 2 Draft Overview
Round 2, Pick 33: San Francisco 49ers
De’Zhaun Stribling (WR) was selected as the first pick of the second round.
- Projection: X receiver.
- Role: Expected to rotate with Mike Evans initially.
- Combine Standouts: 4.36-second 40-yard dash, 10-foot-7 broad jump.
Tight End Frenzy
Seven tight ends were selected within the first 73 picks. This marks the highest concentration of tight ends taken in the first two-plus rounds in over 50 years.
- League-wide impact: This trend could lead to an increase in 12 and 13 personnel (multiple tight end sets) across the league, potentially reducing the availability of viable bye-week wide receivers.
Key Player Moves & Implications
Dallas Cowboys | Round 3 - Nickolas Douglas (WR)- Profile: 6'4", 4.39-second 40-yard dash.
- Role: Projects as an X receiver.
- Current Depth: The Cowboys lacked a clear X receiver, with Tutu Atwell, Jalen Tolbert, and Malik Washington fitting Z or slot roles.
- Contract: 3 years, $50 million extension with $20 million guaranteed.
- Context: Reed’s slot competition decreased after Dontayvion Wicks moved to the Eagles. Matthew Golden has also moved outside to replace Romeo Doubs.
- Pick: 39th overall.
- Profile: Projects as an X receiver.
- Depth Chart Impact: First-round pick KC Concepcion projects as a Z/slot. This may push Jerry Jeudy to third on the depth chart.
- Pick: Second Round.
- Ranking: Considered the second-best tight end in the draft.
- Implications:
- Dallas Goedert took a pay cut to remain with the team for one year.
- Critical stat: Goedert’s 11 touchdowns last season included eight from within 6 yards.
- Antonio Williams (Commanders)
- Malachi Fields (Giants)
- Germie Bernard (Team not specified)