2024 NFL mock draft: Tannenbaum makes GM picks for Round 1 - ESPN

Decision-makers for every NFL franchise are working around the clock to get ready for April's 2024 NFL draft. I remember the process well, with experience as a general manager and executive vice president with the Dolphins (2015-18) and Jets (2006-12). And for a fourth year in a row, I was feeling nostalgic and wanted to take a run at all 32 first-round picks — how I would make each selection.

What follows isn't a traditional mock draft. While draft analysts aim to project what they believe will happen based on what they're hearing — my colleague Mel Kiper Jr. just unveiled his newest set of predictions last week — I'm instead putting myself into the general manager chair for each team with a first-rounder and making my own picks. So it's not necessarily what I'm expecting to happen but rather how I'd personally approach each Day 1 selection. This is all based off my own evaluations, preferences, philosophies and rationale.

I have something new this year, too — I made one trade, which I justify because I would do it from both teams' perspectives. So let's jump in with my GM selections for the first 32 picks, starting with a no-brainer for Bears GM Ryan Poles at No. 1. And be sure to check out my «SportsCenter» special on these picks.

More on the NFL draft ():
All of our mock drafts | Position rankings

Caleb Williams, QB, USC

Williams has rare talent and playmaking ability, and the trade of Justin Fields to Pittsburgh clears the road for him to come to Chicago. With a supporting cast of Keenan Allen, Cole Kmet, DJ Moore, D'Andre Swift and Gerald Everett, Williams is set up for speedy development as a pro and quick success. The sacks (83 over three college seasons) and fumbles (16) are concerning, but I believe Williams'