With the 2024 draft complete, theScore's NFL editors hand out their initial grades for each team's incoming rookies.
NFC
EAST | NORTH | SOUTH | WEST
AFC
EAST | NORTH | SOUTH | WEST
Grade: B+
Harrison was the best non-quarterback in this class and our No. 2-ranked player. While trading down was certainly something to consider, staying put and taking such a rare receiver talent was the smartest move for this team. Arizona's draft haul has plenty of depth, too. Trade-maneuvering gave Monti Ossenfort a ridiculous number of picks in this draft, and he turned them into several important additions. Robinson brings some interior pass-rush upside with a relentless motor, Melton addresses the cornerback need with plus athleticism, and Benson offers an intriguing blend of speed and physicality at running back. Patience will be required for the young team, but the Cardinals are finally headed back in the right direction.
Grade: B+
The Rams created some lofty expectations after knocking last year's draft out of the park. It's early, and it'll be tough to match the value of a Pro Bowl receiver in the sixth round, but this group could be every bit as good. Verse was a nice value pick to upgrade the pass rush at No. 19, Corum is one of the top running backs in this draft, and Kinchens is a playmaker who was likely overlooked due to some overblown concerns about his athleticism. Fiske is another incredibly interesting pick, especially considering his profile as an explosive pass-rusher filling a spot vacated by Aaron Donald. The only real downside of this draft was the move to get him. Trading a 2025 second-rounder to move up 13 spots on Day 2 is an objectively bad process. The draft haul remains impressive, if not elite, but the overall value takes a bit of a hit when considering the puzzling trade.
Grade: B-
This probably seems like another strange draft class for the 49ers. There are indeed hints of the weirdness we've come to expect, like not resisting the urge to take yet another running back, but this group is different. Pearsall is a freaky athlete who should be a strong fit in Kyle Shanahan's offense with or without its current star receivers. Green addresses a major need at corner, and Puni is an underrated prospect who could play guard or tackle. That's three likely Day 1 starters, and don't sleep on Mustapha, either. Perhaps the best tackling safety in this draft, he could also push for a role early in his career. Overall, this group could go a long way toward helping the 49ers maintain their position among the NFL's few true contenders.
Grade: B-
Seattle took full advantage of the early run on offensive players by sitting tight at No. 16 and still getting one of the draft's best pass-rushers. The overall returns from this class are lessened after last season's Leonard Williams trade left the Seahawks without a second-round pick, but Haynes is a player worth watching. The UConn product is a stout guard with the talent to step in as a Day 1 starter, addressing a need to round out a young offensive line group.
