The beginning of the 2024 NFL draft is expected to focus mainly on offense. The first three picks are likely to be quarterbacks, followed by a surge of wide receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, and Rome Odunze. Offensive tackle Joe Alt is also highly rated.
But when will the first defensive player be chosen? It might take around eight or more picks before a defensive player is selected, but when it happens, it’s anticipated to be Alabama outside linebacker Dallas Turner.
Turner is heavily favored at -210 odds to be the first defensive player picked, ahead of Toledo cornerback Quinyon Mitchell at +400. Florida State pass rusher Jared Verse follows at +650.
Turner was recognized as the SEC’s co-defensive player of the year last season and possesses the skills needed to excel as an NFL pass rusher. Teams are eager to find players like him, and he might end up being the only defensive player chosen within the Top 10.
