The Great QB Trade-Up of 2024: Who's Moving for a Top Pick?

April 24th, 2024

The 2024 NFL Draft is buzzing with excitement and unpredictability, especially with a strong group of quarterbacks making waves and stirring up the draft order. Teams like the Vikings, Broncos, Giants, and the Raiders are on the lookout, ready to make big moves if the right quarterback becomes available.

Meanwhile, a standout class of wide receivers is also drawing attention, with teams eager to snatch up these game-changing talents. Some teams are also thinking about trading down to stockpile more picks, hoping to bolster their rosters with skillful players.

This draft is shaping up to be a rollercoaster, full of surprises and strategic moves as teams jostle for the best young stars to join their ranks.

Vikings' Strategy for a Quarterback Upgrade

When you discuss teams that are serious about trading up for a quarterback, the first one that comes out of the mouth of most draft experts is the Minnesota Vikings. With the No. 11 and No. 23 picks, the Vikings can package something together to move up and find Kirk Cousins' successor.

Their picks could get them as high as No. 4 or No. 5, making talks with the Cardinals and Chargers interesting. Currently, the Vikings' QB options are Sam Darnold, Nick Mullens, and Jaren Hall, guys who have grown accustomed to playing backup roles over the last couple of years. Many believe a player like J.J. McCarthy could really lift the team and is a good fit in Minnesota. There is also Drake Maye who has connections with Vikings quarterback coach Josh McCown, who once coached the young star in high school.

With the Broncos and Raiders right behind them and also in a position to try and trade up for a quarterback, the Vikings may need to act fast if they are to secure a name like Jayden Daniels, Maye, or McCarthy. FanDuel Odds suggests that the Vikings’ strategy to secure a top quarterback is among the draft's most anticipated moves. Their choice could dramatically shift the betting lines, indicating high stakes and excitement in how their decision unfolds.

Broncos' Pursuit for a QB Breakthrough in 2024

The Broncos are in a tight spot with only Jarrett Stidham, Zach Wilson, and Ben DiNucci as their quarterbacks. They're eyeing a trade-up and are probably looking at the Cardinals or Chargers for a better draft position.

The Broncos own the 12th pick and don't have a second-round pick this year, thanks to trading it for Sean Payton. That means they need to use their 2025 picks to make an attractive offer. General Manager George Paton is feeling the heat to find a star quarterback after Russell Wilson didn't pan out.

Many believe the Broncos really want McCarthy, but if he's taken early, they'll set their sights on Bo Nix or Michael Penix Jr. They might not need to move up for Nix, but if quarterbacks start getting picked quickly, Denver might just trade up to ensure they get him.

What Will the Giants Do?

It might seem wild, but yes, the Giants are thinking about picking a quarterback early in the 2024 NFL Draft despite having Daniel Jones under a big contract. They've got a slew of issues that need addressing, such as bolstering their offensive line and wide receiver corps, but according to reports, there are some within the organization who are not sold on Jones and like McCarthy.

If the Giants are serious about McCarthy, they could move up to No. 4 or No. 5 to guarantee him, assuming Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, and Drake Maye go 1-2-3. This move is risky since McCarthy would face the same challenges that Jones did.

All that said, it could all be a smokescreen. While there is some temptation to go with a quarterback, it’s more likely the Giants will select a player like Malik Nabers, Marvin Harrison Jr., or Rome Odunze, giving Jones a much-needed game-changing weapon to throw to.

Who Else Could Move Up?

Despite saying all the right things regarding Aidan O’Connell and adding Gardner Minshew, to compete in the AFC West, the Raiders need an upgrade at quarterback. Many believe the Raiders will select a quarterback in the first round.

There have been some reports that the Raiders really want Jayden Daniels, who has a strong relationship with head coach Antonio Pierce. However, going from No. 13 to No. 2 will take something extravagant, including first-round picks in 2025 and 2026. The more likely option is the Raiders will either try to move in front of Minnesota and Denver to select either Nix or Penix Jr. or just roll the dice and hope one of those two falls into their lap at 13.

However, keep an eye on the Seattle Seahawks and Los Angeles Rams. While both teams have established quarterbacks, they could be looking toward the future. Geno Smith and Matthew Stafford have a history of injury issues and are in the latter stages of their careers. Additionally, Penix Jr. would be a great fit in Seattle with new head coach Mike Macdonald. Penix Jr. finished his college ball just a few miles from Seattle at the University of Washington, so there’s a comfort there.

The Takeaway

The 2024 NFL Draft is shaping up to be super exciting, with teams like the Vikings, Broncos, and Giants potentially making big moves to find their next star quarterbacks. Whether they're trading up for top picks or deciding to pick a player that fits their needs, every team has a strategy.

This draft could totally change how some teams perform in the future, showing how important it is to make smart choices. Fans everywhere are watching closely to see what happens next!