The Riskiest Prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft: A Buyer-Beware List
As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, there is always a group of highly hyped prospects who end up being selected much earlier than they should be. This phenomenon happens every year, and it’s important for teams to be aware of the potential risks associated with these players. In this article, Kosport Magazine presents our “Buyer-Beware” list of the most risky prospects in the 2024 draft class.
Bo Nix, QB, Oregon
Why: Lacking standout trait(s)
Bo Nix may have been a successful quarterback at Oregon, but there are some concerns about his potential at the next level. While he had a high completion percentage, it’s important to note that he often threw to wide-open receivers in a gimmicky system. Additionally, his accuracy is not as impressive as his stats may suggest. Nix also lacks the athleticism to be a major running threat in the NFL. While he may be a solid game-manager, he may struggle with making challenging throws and lacks a standout trait that is necessary for a first-round quarterback.
Marshawn Kneeland, EDGE, Western Michigan
Why: Limited pass-rush move arsenal, high pad level, lacking collegiate production
Marshawn Kneeland has all the physical tools to be a dominant edge rusher, but there are some concerns about his technique and production. Despite his size and athleticism, Kneeland’s pad level is often too high, limiting his bull-rush ability. He also struggled to generate pressure in college and his hand work is average at best. While there is some buzz about him being an early second-round pick, his lack of production and technique make him a risky choice.
Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State
Why: Separation problems, inadequate in contested-catch scenarios, lacking speed
Keon Coleman may have impressed with his speed at the combine, but there are concerns about his ability to separate from defenders and make contested catches. While he may have some physicality and potential after the catch, he struggles to create separation and has a relatively low rate of contested catches. While he may have some potential, we believe he is being overhyped and should not be selected in the first round.
Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas
Why: Route-running ability, minimal yards after the catch, average athleticism
Ja’Tavion Sanders was a highly touted recruit, but there are concerns about his route-running and athleticism. While he may have shown some smoothness and balance at Texas, he lacks the suddenness and speed to consistently get open at the next level. His combine results confirmed these concerns, and his lack of production after the catch is also a red flag. While he may have potential, we believe there are better options at the tight end position in this draft class.
Summary:
As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, teams must be cautious of the potential risks associated with highly hyped prospects. Our “Buyer-Beware” list includes Bo Nix, Marshawn Kneeland, Keon Coleman, and Ja’Tavion Sanders, all of whom have concerns about their abilities to succeed at the next level. While they may have potential, we believe there are better options available and teams should proceed with caution when considering these players in the first round or early on Day 2.
