2024 NFL draft betting roundtable: picks, props and more - ESPN

The 2024 NFL draft has finally arrived, and this year features a number of interesting storylines that bettors can follow to gain an edge on the sportsbooks. Our betting analysts are here to help you make the smartest wagering decisions ahead of Thursday night. So let's dig into some of the most pressing questions about draft night and offer up some betting tips.

All odds courtesy of ESPN BET.

Mike Clay: Much like betting on games, betting on the draft is a numbers game. Comparing mocks, speculation and reports to team trends and needs to see what makes sense can help you see through the weeds and find value. As my other responses will show, I like to play out a few realistic, early-round scenarios and see if there are any glaring values that jump out.

Liz Loza: I focus on team needs rather than wants. It might be great for fantasy enthusiasts to see a particular offensive player land in a potential points-producing spot, but NFL franchises are operating from a more holistic point of view. Noting the depth (or lack thereof) at various positions is helpful in understanding a team's multiday approach and, therefore, adjusting expectations around buzzy players and projections. This approach helps in discovering value and, hopefully, winning on a less discussed/longer shot wager.

Daniel Dopp: I'm looking at the top of the draft. There are so many factors at play for each team and it's especially difficult to pinpoint what a team is going to do at the middle or end of the round based on teams reaching for prospects, players falling, draft day trades, etc. Too many variables for me. I like to focus on the first couple of picks, specifically choosing my spots where the board, talent and team needs align.

Clay: J.J. McCarthy to