2024 NFL draft: Best picks, top steals in every round - ESPN

The 2024 NFL draft is officially in the books. Six teams drafted a quarterback in Round 1, receivers flew off the board and there was an overarching focus on the trenches. We saw it all. And I was particularly impressed with what the Cardinals, Steelers and Commanders did to improve their rosters.

I've had a few days now to reflect on an incredible week in Detroit, and I wanted to take a closer look at the five picks that I liked the most in each of the seven rounds. These aren't necessarily the best players taken in each round — hey, I loved the Bears taking Caleb Williams at No. 1 and the Cardinals landing Marvin Harrison Jr. at No. 4 just as much as everyone else! — but rather the best picks. I factored in value, fit and what the player will bring to the team, among other things. I'll start with the other Bears selection in the first round.

Jump to round:
1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | UDFA

Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears (No. 9)

Coming out of the first round with the Williams-Odunze duo is a dream scenario for Chicago. Odunze was my sixth-ranked prospect, and I firmly believe that no matter how talented a young quarterback is — and Williams is plenty talented — a team should do everything in its power to surround him with the best possible supporting cast. The Bears furthered that effort with the addition of Odunze to a now-stacked receiver room. He's an exceptional route runner, and Williams will love his contested catch ability.

Laiatu Latu, EDGE, Indianapolis Colts (No. 15)

There was no debate for me throughout this process that Latu had the best tape of the defensive players in this class, and he was 12th in my rankings. Medical concerns were the only issue that had to be closely examined — he medically retired with