NFL Draft Strategy: Should NFL teams Trade out of their spot of Stay?

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, several teams find themselves in the top 10 picks without a pressing need for a quarterback. The Chargers, Jets, Falcons, Cardinals, and Titans all have high draft positions, but they’re not necessarily in the market for a signal-caller. The question on everyone’s mind: will these teams stick with their picks or explore trade options?

Fan sentiment often leans towards sticking with the pick and selecting a top-tier prospect. For instance, many argue that the Chargers, sitting at number 5, should grab one of the top wide receivers available. However, the perspective from NFL executives might offer a different viewpoint.

When consulting NFL insiders, a common recommendation is to consider trading down. While prospects like Marvin and Malik are highly rated, there’s a prevailing belief among general managers that the depth of talent at wide receiver on day 2 outweighs the benefits of selecting one early. On the other hand, the demand for top-tier tackles is expected to be high in the first round, leaving fewer options available later in the draft.

Trading down presents an opportunity for these teams to maximize their draft capital and build a stronger overall class. While they might miss out on top wide receiver talent, the depth available later in the draft could offer significant value.

Yesterday, after the Buffalo Bills traded Stefon Diggs they will likely be a team looking to move up in the draft. Could they end up trading with a team in the NFC North like the Chicago Bears who have two top ten picks? Their chances of winning the NFC continue to rise, and if they can keep picking up first round picks in the future it could work out extremely well for them. The Bears could be a trade partner for the Bears come draft night.

In essence, while the temptation to secure a top prospect at the current position is strong, the strategic move for these teams might be to explore trade options and leverage the depth of talent available in later rounds. Ultimately, the decision between sticking and trading will depend on each team’s individual assessment of their roster needs and draft board.