NFL World Shows Love to Netflix’s Hilarious Roast of Tom Brady: ‘Haven’t Laughed That Hard in a Minute’

Tony Catalina
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NFL World Shows Love to Netflix’s Hilarious Roast of Tom Brady: ‘Haven’t Laughed That Hard in a Minute’

Sunday night was a truly unique experience in the world of sports. Tom Brady, the unquestioned GOAT of the NFL, let his guard down and spent nearly three hours hearing his friends and cohorts roast him unmercifully.

The event turned out to be awesome, with some of the greatest comedians of our time and even former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick himself getting in on the action. Naturally, social media was ablaze during and after the big night.

Tom Brady’s Roast an Instant Classic Full of Reactions

Leading up to the roast, many had no idea what to expect. How far would the roasting go? Would they take it easy on their friend and colleague? Well, the internet had their fun with it and proved the night did not disappoint.

Eli and Peyton Manning were the butt of several of these jokes on Sunday night, and while Peyton was there in person, Eli was not. However, that didn’t stop him from getting a joke off on social media.

Former NFL quarterback Robert Griffin III called Sunday night’s roast “SPECTACULAR.”

Consider former NFL WR and big personality, Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson, a big fan of the night as well.

One surprise out of Monday night’s roast was how hilarious Belichick was. Not only did he display a great sense of humor, but he also delivered some really funny jokes of his own directed at others in attendance.

MORE: Best of The Tom Brady Roast: Hilarious and Shocking Moments

It’s something NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport was quick to point out, posting, “Bill Belichick crushed it. That was fantastic.”

Many comedians participated in last night’s roast, but perhaps none were more impressive than Nikki Glaser, who received a standing ovation for her performance. Former NFL players Will Blackmon and Devin McCourty were particularly complimentary of Glaser after last night’s event.

Alex Barth of 98.5 The Sports Hub in Boston — who has covered the Patriots for many years — shared his one gripe of the evening, and it was simply disappointment that he won’t be able to watch it for the first time, again.

“The only thing I don’t like about that roast is I’ll never get to experience it for the first time ever again.”

Jarrett Bailey of USA Today captured the night simply, but effectively.

“Haven’t laughed that hard in a minute.”

Overall, the reception of Brady’s roast was almost entirely positive, as it pretty much surpassed everyone’s expectations with how funny it was.

KEEP READING: After The Roast of Tom Brady, Which NFL Stars Should Be Next?

A lot of viewers didn’t know what to expect going in, but the jokes were extremely unhinged, leading to an evening filled with tons of laughs.

Tom Brady Roast: Is Robert Kraft-Bill Belichick Beef Over After Awkward Toast?

Dakota Randall
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Tom Brady Roast: Is Robert Kraft-Bill Belichick Beef Over After Awkward Toast?

Netflix’s roast of Tom Brady was an uncomfortable, hilarious watch. Everything was on the table — except Robert Kraft’s infamous day spa scandal — as a group of comedians and former New England Patriots players took turns bashing Brady and each other. You can click here to view our full roundup of the roast, which was R-rated — with a capital “R.”

A lot happened during the three-plus hour event in Los Angeles, some of which we’re still struggling to process. Our bingo card certainly didn’t include Brady ribbing Bill Belichick for being caught on a Ring camera after an apparent one-night stand. But, for this story, let’s focus on what was arguably the most awkward moment of the evening.

Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft Forced To Toast During Tom Brady Roast

Since the legendary head coach left the Patriots earlier this offseason, Belichick and Kraft have been embroiled in a not-so-subtle feud that has been a bad look for all involved. It’s probably fair to assume that, before Sunday night, they’d neither seen nor spoken to each other since Belichick’s farewell event in January.

But that changed during Brady’s roast — in a big way.

Midway through the event, Belichick took the stage and nervously read through a series of decent jokes. Belichick even took a shot at “The Dynasty” docuseries, which has drawn significant criticism for painting him in a negative light.

MORE: After the Roast of Tom Brady, Which NFL Stars Should Be Next?

Shortly after Belichick finished, host Kevin Hart called upon Kraft, who was seated in the audience throughout the event. Kraft spoke for roughly a minute, with one of his jokes seemingly alluding to the tension between the two. He finished with a message for Vladimir Putin, who still has one of his Super Bowl rings.

Hart then returned to the podium and urged Belichick and Kraft to share a toast. Neither man seemed interested, but Kraft eventually stood up and walked to the stage. After receiving a shot from Rob Gronkowski, Belichick stood and went to the podium to meet Kraft. The two shared a toast, with Kraft using the moment to praise his former head coach.

“I want to say this is the greatest coach in the history of the game, that did what no one else had done,” Kraft said. “And having Tom Brady and him was the greatest honor the good Lord gave me.”

You can watch the moment in the NSFW videos below:

Some will say that moment provided the closure that Kraft, Belichick, and Patriots fans needed. That it was organic and indicative of the two NFL legends letting bygones be bygones.

We’re not buying it.

Belichick was all smiles for much of the evening, even as roasters ridiculed him for not having a job, not being married, and not succeeding without Brady. He actually seemed to have a great time.

But Belichick hardly managed a grin during the toast with Kraft. And if you looked closely while Hart proposed the toast, Belichick sat expressionless, seemingly waiting for Kraft to make the first move. Given Belichick’s indifference toward awkward tension during press conferences, he probably would’ve been fine silently punting on the whole thing.

Maybe we’re being too cynical. Maybe Belichick genuinely enjoyed the moment but just did a poor job of hiding his nervousness.

Regardless, the toast, necessary as it might have been, felt forced and was an uncomfortable watch.

Where Do Things Stand in Belichick-Kraft Feud?

Remember: We’re only a few weeks removed from a lengthy ESPN report that detailed the depths of the bitterness between Belichick and Kraft.

The report accused Kraft of condemning Belichick during an early January conversation with Atlanta Falcons owner Arthur Blank, a report the Patriots strongly denied. Belichick reportedly believes Kraft is partly responsible for his not landing a job during this offseason’s hiring cycle.

ESPN also reported that Belichick thought he would’ve been “sticking it” to the Kraft family by joining the Dallas Cowboys this offseason. Belichick and his inner circle also believe he was smeared in “The Dynasty,” which Kraft greenlit but recently distanced himself from.

As for Kraft, ESPN’s report claimed he “lost trust” in Belichick, found him “very arrogant,” and “felt betrayed” by how he ran the Patriots since Brady left New England in 2020.

And that’s just the ESPN report. Numerous reports in recent years paint a detailed picture of the dysfunction that eroded the Belichick-Kraft relationship before January’s split.

Is a sip of alcohol really all it takes for those kinds of egos to bury the hatchet? No shot.

With all that said, the Brady roast was a resounding, unforeseen success. Initially dismissed as a lame and probably unfunny publicity stunt, the roast was an offensive, raunchy, and belligerent delight — if you’re into that sort of stuff. It also served as the Patriots reunion that nobody knew they needed.

KEEP READING: Former Tom Brady Teammate Has Hot Take on GOAT Debate

Best of the Roast of Tom Brady: Most Hilarious Moments Including Bill Belichick Calling Out Apple TV for ‘The Dynasty’

Anthony DiBona
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Best of the Roast of Tom Brady: Most Hilarious Moments Including Bill Belichick Calling Out Apple TV for ‘The Dynasty’

After torturing opposing fans on Sundays for over two decades, former New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady was finally on the receiving end of some torture on Sunday night. Brady was the target of Netflix’s live special, ‘The Greatest Roast of All Time.’

The night started off with a hilarious moment, as former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick informed Drew Bledsoe that it wasn’t his night, since he was essentially being benched for Brady once again. That kicked off what would turn out to be an R-rated night, as there was arguably as much profanity thrown about as there were jokes.

However, Brady might have immediately regretted his decision to volunteer as the target of Netflix’s live roast.

Hilarious Moments From The Roast of Tom Brady

Brady was roasted by several comedians, former teammates, and other famous celebrities. Will Ferrell turned back the clocks and appeared as Ron Burgundy from ‘Anchorman’ to remind Brady that he lost twice to former New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning.

Even Kim Kardashian made an appearance for Brady’s roast. Kardashian hurled several jokes at Brady, and most notable was her refusal to defend Brady from the other’s jokes.

Kardashian hilariously cited her own family’s history of defending former football players, in a call back to her father Robert Kardashian’s defense of O.J. Simpson.

One of Brady’s biggest rivals during his playing career was former Indianapolis Colts quarterback Peyton Manning. While they traded touchdowns on the field, the legendary quarterback rivals traded jokes on Sunday night.

Manning took the stage to once again remind Brady how he lost twice in the Super Bowl to Peyton’s brother, Eli. Peyton threw several jabs at Brady, including a hilarious reference to what his own children now call their trips to the bathroom.

Peyton finished his segment by introducing Brady to the stage, announcing him as a “three-time Super Bowl loser.”

Bill Belichick Steals the Show

Before Brady took the stage to close out the event, his former head coach stole the show. Despite being notably stoic during press conferences, Belichick let loose while roasting Brady and several of his former players in New England.

Belichick seemed to focus more on other former Patriots players, most notably legendary tight end Rob Gronkowski. The greatest head coach in the history of the NFL was relentless with his jokes targeting Gronkowski.

He mentioned how he has watched Gronkowski on ‘Fox NFL Sunday’ and hilariously begged him to “stop doing your job.” That naturally goes directly against Belichick’s famous team slogan of “do your job” in New England.

Patriots owner Robert Kraft also held the microphone on Sunday night, cracking a few jokes and eventually praising Brady. It was refreshing to see Brady, Belichick, and Kraft all together on Sunday night, considering the amount of chaos surrounding the franchise since the trio went their separate ways.

Once Kraft wrapped up his speech, he was asked by host Kevin Hart to share a toast with Belichick. At first, it seemed like the moment wasn’t going to actually happen. Yet Kraft and Belichick put their reported differences aside and cheered together on stage.

It was a shocking moment to witness, given reports that Kraft potentially blocked Belichick from landing another head coaching job in the NFL this offseason. While we may never know what truly happened, Kraft and Belichick may have stolen the show on Sunday night.

Yet Brady wasn’t going to go down without a fight. In typical fashion, he didn’t let the opposition win, seemingly mounting a late-game comeback with a hilarious barrage of his own jokes and firing back at all of his critics to close out the show.

Brady Pulls Off Another Comeback, ‘Admits’ to Deflategate

Brady quickly recovered once he finally took the stage. He fired back at nearly everyone who roasted him throughout the event, including Peyton, who he quickly reminded will always live in Brady’s shadow.

“I know sometimes you live in Denver, and sometimes you live in Louisiana,” Brady said. “But you will always live in my shadow.”

After hitting Peyton with a few more jokes, Brady shifted topics and asked where NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell was. Brady was bashed several times during the roast about his controversial involvement in the ‘Deflategate’ controversy.

Yet Brady joked about the NFL‘s costly investigation, even stating that they could have paid him $20 million and he would have admitted to deflating footballs.

While we’ll never likely know how serious Brady was about admitting to these allegations, it was a hilarious response. After being on the receiving end of several jokes throughout the night, Brady bounced back in the typical fashion that we’ve all become far too familiar with over the last two decades.

It wouldn’t be an event involving Brady if it didn’t include an impressive comeback. While Brady took most of the jokes on Sunday night in stride, he did seem to take offense to a shot from comedian Jeff Ross.

Despite all of that, Brady stole back the show with his final words. Netflix’s live special was an overall success filled with memorable moments.

However, after seeing the jokes that Brady was targeted with, it will be interesting to see who volunteers for this torture next.

KEEP READING: How did sixth-round pick Tom Brady get his first opportunity in the NFL? Pro Football Network revisits Drew Bledsoe’s gruesome injury that kicked off Brady’s legendary career.

Philadelphia Eagles News, May 6: Nick Sirianni’s First Impression of Quinyon Mitchell, Bill Belichick Jokes About Philadelphia, and More

Anthony DiBona
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Philadelphia Eagles News, May 6: Nick Sirianni’s First Impression of Quinyon Mitchell, Bill Belichick Jokes About Philadelphia, and More

Following a heavily praised performance in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles hosted their rookie minicamp over the weekend.

It was the first chance for Philadelphia’s coaching staff to work with the players that they added in this year’s draft, along with several other players invited to the minicamp.

Philadelphia Eagles News Today

Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni was excited about working with Philadelphia’s rookie class during the team’s minicamp. Sirianni specifically talked about how one of the team’s draft picks showcased exactly what the franchise saw on film.

Another one of Philadelphia’s rookies connected with an Eagles legend. All of that and more in today’s Eagles news!

NFL Offense Rankings (Updated 2024): Eagles Land Outside the Top 5

While the Eagles are receiving plenty of hype after an impressive offseason, their offense is still being doubted. Pro Football Network’s Dallas Robinson ranked the NFL’s offenses in 2024, and Philadelphia didn’t even make the top five.

Robinson has the Eagles as sixth in his rankings, despite the addition of star running back Saquon Barkley and new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.

READ MORE: NFL Offense Rankings 2024

Keff Ciardello’s 2025 NFL Mock Draft: Eagles Select Another Georgia Bulldog

Although the Eagles didn’t select any former Georgia Bulldogs in the 2024 NFL Draft, they did add one following the event. Philadelphia signed running back Kendall Milton as an undrafted free agent.

Pro Football Network’s Keff Ciardello released a 2025 NFL Mock Draft and has the Eagles adding another former Bulldog to address the team’s secondary.

CONTINUE READING: 2025 NFL Mock Draft

Eagles Rookie Meets Legend for the First Time

When the Eagles selected center Dylan McMahon in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, many jokingly crowned him as the next Jason Kelce. McMahon is another athletic, undersized center that Philadelphia hopes to coach into stardom.

Yet, McMahon got a head start on the process when he recently met Kelce and got his phone number at the team’s facility.

KEEP READING: Jason Kelce Agrees to ESPN Deal

Nick Sirianni Praises Quinyon Mitchell After First Practice

Sirianni was finally able to get a chance to work with Philadelphia’s rookie class during the team’s minicamp this past weekend. While Quinyon Mitchell was a popular decision for the Eagles at No. 22 overall, Sirianni was happy to see him on the practice field. Sirianni praised Mitchell for being able to do exactly what the team saw him do on film.

RELATED: Is James Bradberry in Danger After Philly Double-Dips at Corner?

Bill Belichick Jokes About Philadelphia

Former New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick took the stage at Netflix’s “The Greatest Roast of All Time: Tom Brady.” He immediately started his speech by asking well-known Eagles fan Kevin Hart for help receiving cheers in Philadelphia.

While there seems to be some confusion about whether Belichick said “cheers” or “chair,” he was asking Hart for help in Philadelphia regardless. That’s certainly notable, given Belichick’s reported potential interest in becoming the head coach of the franchise.

KEEP READING: Best Moments From Tom Brady’s Roast

Cleveland Browns Depth Chart and Fantasy Preview: Is Amari Cooper an Undervalued Fantasy WR in 2024?

Derek Tate
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Cleveland Browns Depth Chart and Fantasy Preview: Is Amari Cooper an Undervalued Fantasy WR in 2024?

Despite losing both their starting quarterback and running back last season, the Cleveland Browns still managed to produce multiple fantasy producers in 2023.

After making a handful of additions to the offensive side of the football this offseason, what can fantasy football managers expect from the Browns’ offense in 2024?

Cleveland Browns Fantasy Depth Chart

QB
Deshaun Watson, Jameis Winston, Tyler Huntley

RB
Nick Chubb, Jerome Ford, D’Onta Foreman

WR1
Amari Cooper, Cedric Tillman, Michael Woods

WR2
Jerry Jeudy, Jamari Thrash, Jaelon Darden

WR3
Elijah Moore, David Bell

TE
David Njoku, Jordan Akins, Giovanni Ricci

Deshaun Watson’s Fantasy Outlook

The Browns haven’t gotten the level of production they expected when they traded a boatload of draft assets and signed quarterback Deshaun Watson to a lucrative contract extension back in 2022.

After having a full offseason to prepare with his new team and his lengthy suspension from the NFL in the rearview mirror, Watson averaged just 15.2 fantasy points per game (PPG) — which ranked 27th on per per-game basis at the quarterback position in 2023.

Sure, it is worth mentioning he was battling a shoulder injury throughout the season that would eventually cost him the majority of the season, but his lack of production while on the field last year should certainly concern fantasy managers that we will never see the dominant fantasy production we became accustomed to when Watson was under center for the Houston Texans.

Watson averaged just 186 passing yards per game and never topped 50 yards rushing in any game during the 2023 campaign. Again, the context of a shoulder injury certainly could’ve played a factor in these disappointing stat totals, but projecting Watson for a return to fantasy glory feels more hopeful than logical at this moment.

What is particularly puzzling is the incredible run of production the team got from veteran backup quarterback Joe Flacco for a five-game stretch from Weeks 13-17, where he was the QB2 overall in fantasy football with 1,616 yards and 13 TDs during that span.

Flacco threw for over 250 in all five games, which is a mark Watson hit only once during his six appearances in 2023. The fact that Flacco — who signed with the team during the middle of the season — vastly outproduced Watson on the field is a little concerning.

Watson will turn 29 years old this season and still has all of the physical tools that made him such a fantasy force back in Houston, which does give him some upside in relation to where you’ll be able to get him on draft day. Yet, I can’t help but feel that Watson is on a bit of a make-or-break year in Cleveland if his middling play from last year continues in 2024.

Nick Chubb’s Fantasy Outlook

Nick Chubb’s 2023 season got off to a great start with 127 total yards in the 2023 season opener against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Unfortunately, tragedy struck the very next week when he tore his ACL, MCL, and meniscus in a devastating injury sustained against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2, which abruptly brought his season to a close and even put his status for the start of the upcoming year in jeopardy.

For those of you who remember Chubb’s college career at Georgia, he suffered a similar catastrophic knee injury when he tore his MCL, LCL, and PCL while dislocating in a gruesome hit he took against the Tennessee Volunteers back in 2015.

I don’t bring this up to revisit violent memories of the past, but a running back rehabbing from a second career-threatening knee injury who is set to turn 29 years old later this year makes it far from a certainty he will return to the level of excellence we have seen from him during his NFL career.

If all goes perfectly and Chubb makes a full recovery, he is in the RB1 conversation. Excluding last season, Chubb finished as a top-20 fantasy back for five consecutive years with a minimum of 996 yards and eight TDs.

What is more impressive about his production in Cleveland’s offense is that Chubb was a great fantasy producer while ceding a significant amount of work to Kareem Hunt during his prime years.

Hunt may no longer be in the picture, but the team did add D’Onta Foreman in free agency and saw some encouraging things from Jerome Ford in 2023 after Chubb was unavailable due to injury.

If Chubb is ready by the start of the 2024 season, it is a possibility he’ll work alongside another back in this offense, which puts him more in the RB2 range with some legitimate risk coming off of a major knee injury for an older running back.

Amari Cooper’s Fantasy Outlook

Amari Cooper has felt like the poster boy for the safe, yet kind of boring, fantasy receiver over the last three years of his career. He is a reliable veteran option who produces solid numbers every year of his career but has never truly produced an elite fantasy campaign.

Need proof? Cooper has never finished outside of the top 35 at the WR position in any of his first nine years in the NFL, but has never finished as a top nine WR in any season either.

His production profile is remarkably consistent, too, never catching fewer than five touchdowns in a season but never hitting the double-digit threshold in a single campaign either. In addition, Cooper has caught a minimum of 68 passes for six straight years but has never topped 92 in a season.

The point I’m trying to make is Cooper falls perfectly into the boring, veteran WR selection in your fantasy draft. At his draft price, that is completely fine.

During his two seasons in Cleveland, Cooper has produced a pair of high-quality seasons, especially when you take into consideration how unstable his quarterback play has been during his tenure with the Browns.

2023: WR20 (128 targets, 72 receptions, 1,250 yards, and 5 TDs)
2022: WR10 (132 targets, 78 receptions, 1,160 yards, and 9 TDs)

These numbers aren’t exactly earth-shattering, but when you add the context of Watson’s suspension in 2022, and his injury-riddled 2023 campaign while acknowledging the bulk of Cooper’s production came from backup caliber quarterback play, he has been great as a leading receiver in Cleveland.

Speaking of Watson, one encouraging sign of Cooper’s fantasy upside in 2024 is how productive he was when his starting quarterback was on the field in 2023.

Cooper’s production when Watson played more than 90% of the offensive snaps in 2023:

  • Averaged five receptions, 96 yards, and scored two TDs through five games

Cooper is set to turn 30 years old this offseason and is essentially a lock for another WR2 fantasy season with some potential upside to sneak inside the top 10 if Watson continues to heavily target Cooper in this offense and manages to play at the level we previously saw from him in Houston.

Unfortunately, I don’t feel confident projecting a full season from Watson, which means Cooper will likely produce another season where he finishes between WR10-20 in 2024.

David Njoku’s Fantasy Outlook

The real question for many managers regarding this Browns’ offense heading into the 2024 NFL season is what to do with the breakout season from David Njoku.

Quite frankly, Njoku got off to a really slow start over the first six weeks of the 2023 season. He was the TE22 with just 19 receptions for 162 yards and no scores. His involvement in the passing game was fairly limited, his production was disappointing, and the struggles of the passing game were still concerning with Watson struggling.

Yet, when head coach Kevin Stefanski was forced to turn to backup quarterbacks again, again, and again in 2023, we started to see Njoku’s role in the offense expand exponentially.

KEEP READING: Dynasty Consensus Rankings

From Week 7 through the rest of the season, Njoku was the TE1 in PPR formats with 62 receptions for 720 yards and six scores on 101 targets. It goes without saying that that is outstanding production for the TE position.

Njoku’s career year — 81 receptions for 882 yards and six TDs in 2023 — helped him finish as the TE6 overall, which becomes even more impressive when you recall he produced the bulk of his production with Flacco, P.J. Walker, and Dorian Thompson-Robinson under center.

Yet, can we definitively say he is in store for the same type of role in 2024?

On the flip side of Cooper’s rise in production when Watson was on the field last year, Njoku’s breakout didn’t come until Watson was off the football field.

Njoku’s production when Watson played more than 90% of the offensive snaps in 2023:

  • Averaged five targets, four receptions, 35 receiving yards, and 8.32 fantasy points over a five-game sample size.

Now, do these numbers suggest Njoku will revert back to a streaming option at tight end if Watson plays the whole season just because of this sample size? No, absolutely not.

Njoku was great to finish the year and is likely to get more looks schemed up from Stefanski because of his exceptional play, but it is worth noting that the production was considerably lower for Njoku when Watson was under center last season.

He is still a top-10 fantasy TE heading into the 2024 NFL and has top-five potential if the Browns continue to utilize him in a similar fashion to how they did over the back of last season.

Browns Fantasy Sleepers

Cleveland’s offense certainly has some sleepers to keep on your fantasy radar heading into the 2024 season, with the injury to Chubb clouding his status for the start of the year.

Ford is likely first in line to see an expanded role if Chubb is unable to go for the season opener, and he potentially carries some stand-alone value after seeing 15 carries in the one full game he played with Chubb last season. Ford finished the year as the fantasy RB16 with 1,132 total yards and nine TDs and showcased plenty of big-play ability in 2023.

Another back to keep an eye on is Forreman, who the team brought in via free agency this offseason. Foreman has managed to make a small fantasy impact with three different teams when the opportunity for an expanded role presented itself. He has 11 games of 80+ rushing yards over the last three seasons.

The receiver room is another place to keep an eye on for a potential fantasy producer to emerge alongside Cooper and Njoku in 2024. The team acquired Jerry Jeudy from the Denver Broncos this offseason via trade. Jeudy has mostly been a fantasy disappointment in the NFL, logging just one finish inside the top 24 at the position in 2022.

Speaking of fantasy disappointments, Elijah Moore turned 104 targets last season into just 59 receptions for 640 yards and two scores, which produced just a WR54 finish.

Moore is a versatile and explosive receiver who flashes real playmaking ability and separation skills, but wasn’t able to produce a fantasy-relevant season and now has more competition for targets with Jeudy’s arrival. He is worth a dart throw, but it is hard to picture Moore as much more than top 35 upside at the position.

As we look ahead to the 2024 fantasy football season, why not start preparing for your rookie drafts with our dynasty rookie rankings? Additionally, as you look to improve your team heading into 2024, our dynasty trade calculator can help you find the perfect deal to boost your championship chances.

2024 NFL Trade Ideas: James Conner to Cowboys, Michael Mayer to Colts, and More Post-Draft Moves

Dallas Robinson
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2024 NFL Trade Ideas: James Conner to Cowboys, Michael Mayer to Colts, and More Post-Draft Moves

The 2024 NFL Draft gave every team in the league the chance to upgrade their roster, but the three-day event could also have ramifications for several NFL veterans.

NFL clubs with positional surpluses might be willing to talk trade before training camps get underway later this summer. Which players could be the move? Let’s run through 10 potential NFL trades that could make sense in the coming weeks.

2024 Post-Draft NFL Trade Proposals

Cowboys Land James Conner From Cardinals

  • Cowboys acquire: RB James Conner
  • Cardinals acquire: 2025 sixth-round pick

Dallas failed to select a running back in the draft, instead reuniting with veteran Ezekiel Elliott on a one-year deal. Elliott can no longer handle a full-time workload, while the rest of the Cowboys’ RB options — Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn, Royce Freman, and others — are uninspiring.

Conner is a three-down back who could become Dallas’ 1A, and the Cardinals might be willing to trade him after selecting Florida State RB Trey Benson in the third round. While Conner almost always misses time with injuries, Elliott, Dowdle, et al., could fill in for a few games if needed. Arizona already paid Conner’s March roster bonus, so he’d cost the Cowboys roughly $4.5 million in 2024.

Ravens Add Receiving Help for Lamar Jackson

  • Ravens acquire: WR Jauan Jennings
  • 49ers acquire: 2025 fifth-round pick

While the 49ers used a second-round restricted free-agent tender on Jennings in March, their WR depth chart is getting crowded. San Francisco hung onto trade candidates Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel during the draft while adding Florida wideout Ricky Pearsall in Round 1 and Arizona’s Jacob Cowing in Round 4.

The Ravens also used a fourth-round pick on pass catcher (North Carolina’s Devontez Walker), but they could stand to add another option alongside Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Nelson Agholor. Jennings, one of the NFL’s best blocking receivers, might be a perfect fit if Baltimore leans back into the run in 2025.

Raiders Send Michael Mayer to Colts

  • Colts acquire: TE Michael Mayer, 2025 sixth-round pick
  • Raiders acquire: 2025 second-round pick

Las Vegas doesn’t necessarily have to trade Mayer after using the 13th overall pick on fellow TE Brock Bowers, who can play as an oversized slot receiver. New Raiders OC Luke Getsy ran 12 personnel (two tight ends) at the NFL’s seventh-highest rate (23.5%) in 2023.

However, first-year Raiders GM Tom Telesco had no role in drafting Mayer in 2023. He might be willing to move the talented tight end, especially if Vegas can recoup the second-round choice it used to select Mayer.

The Colts were heavily linked to Bowers throughout the pre-draft process but watched Las Vegas select the Georgia TE two picks ahead of them. Indy added Texas WR Adonai Mitchell in Round 2 but might still be interested in finding another middle-of-the-field weapon like Mayer.

Titans Grab Surplus OL From Chargers

  • Titans acquire: OT Trey Pipkins III
  • Chargers acquire: 2025 fifth-round pick

While the Titans might’ve been hoping to draft Joe Alt with the seventh overall pick, the Chargers picked the Notre Dame left tackle at No. 5. Alt will play right tackle in Los Angeles, which could create a buying opportunity for Tennessee.

Chargers right tackle Trey Pipkins III isn’t a world-beater, but he’s a starting-caliber offensive lineman who would cost his next team just $13 million over the next two seasons. Pipkins would be the favorite to become Tennessee’s starting right tackle. He’d also be an emergency option on the left side if No. 7 pick JC Latham — a RT/RG at Alabama — can’t handle LT.

Commanders Find a Temporary Left Tackle Solution

  • Commanders acquire: OT Dan Moore Jr.
  • Steelers acquire: Conditional 2025 sixth-round pick (downgraded to 2025 seventh-round pick if Moore plays less than 40% of Washington’s offensive snaps)

While the Commanders will give 67th overall pick Brandon Coleman a chance to start at left tackle, they may want to bring in more depth, especially with a rookie quarterback in Jayden Daniels under center.

Washington could contact the Steelers, who are overflowing with offensive line options after using three picks on OL in 2024. With Troy Fautanu and Broderick Jones — Pittsburgh’s last two first-rounders — poised to start at tackle, Moore could be on the move as he enters the final season of his rookie contract.

Dolphins Bolster Interior Offensive Line

  • Dolphins acquire: OL Robert Hainsey
  • Buccaneers acquire: 2025 seventh-round pick

The Buccaneers intend to use first-round rookie Graham Barton at center, which means Hainsey will need to compete for playing time at left guard. Hainsey only has one year remaining on his deal, so Tampa Bay could try to get something for him now while rolling with Ben Bredeson or Sua Opeta at LG.

Patrick Paul, Miami’s only OL selection, is a long-term tackle. Hainsey would be an upgrade over the group scheduled to compete for guard snaps — Isaish Wynn, Robert Jones, Jack Driscoll, and others — and could offer insurance at center if anything happens to free-agent addition Aaron Brewer.

DT Jonathan Allen Joins the Cardinals

  • Cardinals acquire: DT Jonathan Allen
  • Commanders acquire: 2025 fourth-round pick, 2026 fifth-round pick

The Commanders landed one of the steals of the draft when Illinois DT Johnny Newton fell to the top of Round 2. Washington gave fellow interior defender Daron Payne a four-year, $90 million contract in March 2023 and former second-rounder Phidarian Mathis remains on the roster.

With that DT depth in place, could the Commanders’ new regime move on from Allen? The two-time Pro Bowler has played at least 700 snaps and posted 40+ pressures in each of the last four years. Allen’s new team would be on the hook for $32.5 million over the next two seasons, a relative bargain that the top of the DT market has surpassed $30 million annually.

Arizona still has $30 million in remaining cap space this season and projects to have over $110 million in 2025. While the Cardinals signed interior players like Justin Jones and Bilal Nichols this offseason, Allen’s impact is a few tiers above those options.

Lions Acquire Another Pass Rusher

  • Lions acquire: DL Dre’Mont Jones
  • Seahawks acquire: Conditional 2025 fifth-round pick (could be upgraded to 2025 fourth based on Jones’ performance)

Although the Seahawks just signed Jones to a three-year, $51 million contract in 2023, they’ve since acquired and extended DT Leonard Williams before using the No. 16 pick on Texas DT Byron Murphy II. With GM John Schneider calling the personnel shots instead of Pete Carroll and first-year head coach Mike Macdonald implementing a new scheme, Jones stands out as a potential trade candidate.

The Lions signed DT DJ Reader and EDGE Marcus Davenport this offseason but surprisingly failed to draft a front-seven defender until adding sixth-round DT Mekhi Wingo. Jones, who moved to EDGE after Seattle’s Uchenna Nwosu went down in October, would give Detroit DC Aaron Glenn valuable alignment versatility alongside Aidan Hutchinson.

Bears Fill EDGE Void with Baron Browning

  • Bears acquire: EDGE Baron Browning
  • Broncs acquire: 2025 fifth-round pick, OT Larry Borom

The Bears are still looking for a pass rusher to complement Montez Sweat, and GM Ryan Poles should reach out to the Broncos about Browning. Denver used a 2024 third-rounder on Utah EDGE Jonah Elliss. Sean Payton and Co. already have Nik Bonitto and Jonathon Cooper at outside linebacker, while 2023 third-round choice Drew Sanders is moving to the edge.

Browning has never played over 600 snaps in a season, but he’s always flashed when not battling injury concerns. In 2023, Browning managed 35 pressures on just 246 pass-rushing snaps, ranking 25th in PFF‘s pass-rushing productivity metric. He’s going into the final year of his rookie contract, so the Bears could consider signing him to a cheap extension.

Saints Dump Marshon Lattimore’s Contract

  • Raiders acquire: CB Marshon Lattimore
  • Saints acquire: Conditional 2025 fifth-round pick (could be upgraded to 2025 fourth based on Lattimore’s playing time)

The Saints traded up to grab Alabama CB Kool-Aid McKinstry in Round 2, adding him to a secondary that already includes Paulson Adebo, Alontae Taylor, and, of course, Lattimore.

Drafting a second-round cornerback might not have signaled a potential Lattimore trade on its own. However, as Jason Fitzgerald of Over the Cap wrote in March, New Orleans restructured Lattimore’s contract this offseason to allow for a post-June 1 trade.

Las Vegas desperately needs cornerback help but didn’t select a CB until Day 3 (Mississippi State’s Decamerion Richardson). Depending on whether they pick up his option, the Raiders could have Lattimore under contract in 2024 with a cap charge below $4 million.

Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Profile | Colorado, QB Scouting Report

Ian Cummings
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Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Profile | Colorado, QB Scouting Report

Perhaps one of the most recognizable stars underneath the college football spotlight, where does Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders rank in the 2025 NFL Draft class with his scouting report?

Let’s take a closer look.

Shedeur Sanders’ Draft Profile and Measurements

  • Height: 6’2″
  • Weight: 215 pounds
  • Position: Quarterback
  • School: Colorado
  • Current Year: Senior

Being the son of a Hall of Famer, on the surface, could imbue an unfair expectation on a player. But the younger Sanders has never seemed to struggle with playing under the shadow of his father, Deion Sanders. He’s thrived at forging his own path since high school.

At Trinity Christian High School in Dallas, Shedeur was a four-year varsity player who went 47-5 across his career. As a senior, he led his team to the TCAL National Championship while throwing for 3,702 yards and 43 touchdowns.

Out of high school, Shedeur originally committed to Florida Atlantic as a four-star recruit. But when his father signed on to become head coach of the Jackson State Tigers, the younger Sanders followed and became the starting quarterback as a true freshman.

MORE: Top QBs in the 2025 NFL Draft

Right away, the Sanders duo helped Jackson State enjoy one of its most successful two-year stretches in recent memory. The younger Sanders completed 613 of 896 attempts for 6,963 yards, 70 TDs, and just 14 interceptions across that stretch to go along with a 21-3 record.

After two years at Jackson State, Deion left to become head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes. And again, the younger Shedeur joined him. Colorado’s strong start and underwhelming finish were heavily documented in 2023, but amid the struggles of a losing season, the man under center was a bright spot.

In 11 games started in 2023, Shedeur completed 298 of 430 passes (69.3%) for 3,230 yards, 27 touchdown passes, and just three INTs.

The Buffaloes’ QB1 is now one of the faces of the 2025 NFL Draft cycle. He’s won and he’s produced, but can he join the Round 1 ranks?

Sanders’ Scouting Report

Strengths

  • Has a decent overall size and frame density for the QB position.
  • Has the arm strength to sustain velocity outside the numbers into the deep third.
  • Can dice up defenses on seam and crossing patterns with high-velocity lasers.
  • Quick-twitch pocket navigator who can generate instant torque and velocity on release.
  • Has shown he can plant his front foot accurately and cleanly execute quick game passes.
  • Has good pre-snap autonomy and command, calling out blitzes and adjusting protection.
  • Can recognize single-high safeties pre-snap and freeze them at midfield with his eyes.
  • Able to process coverage modulations and identify leverage advantages post-snap.
  • Able to work through his progressions quickly left to right and land on his checkdown.
  • Flashes the ability to anticipate windows over the middle and hit WRs on sit routes.
  • Shows glimpses of solid pocket navigation, sidestepping exterior rushers with eyes up.
  • Has shown he can keep his shoulders level while navigating and staying in phase.
  • Has good general accuracy in spite of flawed footwork, consistently hitting the torso.
  • Flashes high-level accuracy and situational precision on vertical bucket throws.
  • Measured decision maker and game manager who rarely puts the ball in harm’s way.

Weaknesses

  • Composite arm talent, while very good, falls short of the quantifiably elite mark.
  • Doesn’t have elite speed, change of direction, or flexibility in the creation phase.
  • At times, can be a tick late to process and trigger on route breaks.
  • May need time to recalibrate after playing with heavy WR-option routes in 2023.
  • Needs to quicken his internal clock and avoid taking unnecessary sacks.
  • Can experience lapses in middle-of-field vision, inducing hesitation and inviting pressure.
  • Too often locks out his front foot and hips on release, causing shoulder misalignment.
  • Flat-footed nature and tall mechanics sometimes inhibit rotational drive in his base.
  • At times, unnecessarily pedals with dropback footwork, forcing extra motion to correct.
  • Can be more disciplined at depth on his dropback in order to avoid drifting too far back.
  • Can improve his ball carriage to attain a more efficient energy load on his releases.
  • Release point can be a bit inconsistent on short rhythm throws, affecting placement.
  • Occasionally attempts to force ill-advised throws when he feels backside pressure.
  • Doesn’t have great play strength against contact or when attempting to withstand sacks.
  • Will be a 23-year-old rookie at the start of his first NFL season.

Current Draft Projection and Summary

Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft cycle, Sanders grades out as a fringe top-100 talent on my board. He could end up rising into the Round 1 conversation, but he still has work to do before he reaches that point.

Arm strength and accuracy are two of the most distinct selling points on Sanders’ tape. The 6’2″, 215-pound passer generates easy velocity and can do some from multiple platforms. And while his mechanics are imperfect, he at times finds uncanny ways to hit his targets with good placement and touch.

Going further, Sanders’ processing — a trait honed across years of starting experience at the collegiate level — also appears to be a strength. Sanders can operate pre-snap, recognize defensive looks, adjust protections, and progress through reads post-snap — and he’s a measured decision-maker who protects the ball as well.

MORE: 2025 NFL Draft Big Board

Having said all this, Sanders’ game still has room for refinement. His lower-body mechanics and dropback footwork can be startlingly inconsistent, which can contribute to bouts of imprecision, as well as issues navigating the pocket and managing space. And while Sanders is a solid athlete, he’s visibly non-elite as a creative threat.

Additionally, beyond the football side of evaluations, there have been concerns about Sanders’ maturity and ability as a leader — concerns that were exacerbated by a social media saga involving Sanders and his father.

From the outside, any evaluation of Sanders’ character is unfortunately incomplete. But we can say this: If NFL teams and evaluators do their research and find reason to be concerned about Sanders’ character, Sanders isn’t a good enough prospect on the field yet to counteract those concerns.

Entering 2024, Sanders is a 2025 NFL Draft prospect with undeniable potential, but also a non-elite talent profile that only magnifies his imperfections and off-field questions. The climb to Round 1 will be a steep uphill venture — but one he might be able to pull off.

Rome Odunze’s Dynasty Rookie Profile | Chicago Bears WR Fantasy Football Outlook

Derek Tate
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Rome Odunze’s Dynasty Rookie Profile | Chicago Bears WR Fantasy Football Outlook

The Chicago Bears‘ multitude of big-name acquisitions this offseason on the offensive side of the football has drastically changed the fantasy outlook for the team heading into 2024.

The selection of Rome Odunze at No. 9 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft certainly is exciting for rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, but it does make it tough to pinpoint exactly what to expect from the former Washington Husky in his rookie season.

What kind of fantasy football production should dynasty managers expect from Odunze during his first season in the NFL?

Should You Draft Rome Odunze in Dynasty Fantasy Football?

Odunze has widely been considered a consensus top-three WR prospect throughout this entire draft prospect. He was an elite two-year producer at Washington with all the physical tools to project him as an alpha target earner for an NFL offense.

However, his landing spot with the Bears feels a bit bittersweet for his dynasty fantasy outlook.

On one hand, if Williams turns out to be the next great quarterback to enter the NFL ranks, then Odunze is set up to be catching passes from a gifted passer for the foreseeable future, and the duo could grow into one of the best QB-WR pairings in the league in very short order.

On the other hand, Odunze is set to have a lot of high-quality competition for targets in his rookie year, which could lead to a fairly slow fantasy start to his NFL career.

DJ Moore finished last year as the WR6 overall with 96 receptions for 1,364 yards and eight TDs, which is excellent by any standard.

The Bears also added Keenan Allen to the receiver room by acquiring him via trade from the Los Angeles Chargers before the 2024 NFL Draft. Despite missing four games last year, Allen finished the year as the WR8 overall with 108 receptions for 1,243 yards and seven TDs.

If that wasn’t enough competition already, Cole Kmet finished the year as the TE8 overall with 73 receptions. The team also signed explosive RB D’Andre Swift, who is an excellent pass-catching back, this offseason.

All of these capable pass catchers are set to compete with Odunze for targets from a rookie quarterback this season.

Odunze is a very well-rounded prospect who doesn’t have any glaring weaknesses, but I do have some concerns about his ability to consistently create separation off the line of scrimmage, specifically against physical corners who like to play press coverage.

MORE: 2024 Dynasty WR Rankings

These areas of potential improvement, a rookie quarterback, and some of the toughest competition for targets in the league make Odunze’s immediate fantasy outlook a bit similar to that of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who had two very capable veteran receivers in front of him in his rookie season.

Ultimately, Odunze’s dynasty outlook is great because there’s no guarantee Allen — who is 32 years old — is going to be around for very long.

Additionally, the fact Odunze will be catching passes from Williams projects as a potentially big plus for the receiver’s long-term upside, but dynasty managers will need to temper their expectations in 2024 before he can be a truly dominant fantasy force in your lineup.

Who Is Odunze?

Background

Odunze was put on the football map by his success at Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas. He was widely regarded as a four-star prospect because of his production on the field — which helped him win the Gatorade Player of the Year award in Nevada back in 2019 — and his exceptional athleticism.

He stands at 6’3″ and 215 pounds, which is more than enough size to be able to win while lined up on the outside against smaller NFL DBs.

College Production

Odunze’s collegiate production may have started a bit slow with just 47 receptions for 487 yards and four scores through his first two years, but his production has shot through the roof over the last two seasons.

His sophomore year saw him produce his first big season in the form of 75 passes for 1,145 yards and eight total TDs. His outstanding 2022 campaign helped him secure All-American third-team recognition.

His improvement across the board in 2022 only helped him reach new heights in 2023, when he was named a finalist for the Biletnikoff Award with 87 receptions for 1,553 receiving yards and 14 total TDs heading into the National Championship game against the Michigan Wolverines.

Injury History

Odunze suffered a broken rib and punctured lung against the Arizona Wildcats back in late September 2023. He did not miss any time on the field due to these injuries.

Odunze’s Strengths & Weaknesses

Strengths

  • Great athlete with ideal size and speed to operate on the outside.
  • Consistent hands with a wide catch radius due to above-average body control for a bigger receiver; saw a dramatic jump in his contested-catch rate in 2023.
  • Was used all over the formation and proved capable of winning on the outside, in the slot, or when in motion at the snap.
  • Fluid hips with above-average change-of-direction and start/stop ability for a receiver his size.
  • Nice feel for finding open space against zone coverage; would regularly find open real estate when running underneath-to-intermediate crossing routes.
  • Great field awareness on sideline receptions.
  • Flashed some playmaking ability after the catch on multiple reps to generate yards on designed screens or underneath routes.
  • Great ball-tracking skills with a consistent ability to high-point the ball with catches away from his frame.
  • Smooth operator when running routes, making it difficult for defenders to get a tell on what he is running; sinks his hips quite well for a bigger receiver and has nice instincts for timing his break correctly to bait DBs to flipping their hips when threatening a vertical route.
  • Showcases some high-level patience and timing on certain routes; can change gears quickly, attack leverage, and adjust routes while reading coverage.
  • Tough competitor who played through a broken rib and punctured lung in 2023.
  • Showcased a willingness to run block and even had some moments where he would take DBs and place them on the bench when he decided to finish reps.

Weaknesses

  • Inconsistent winner against press coverage; often relies on finesse releases instead of using his size and strength to win at the line of scrimmage (LOS).
  • Can be a bit vulnerable to physical corners who can connect with their jab, which can allow DBs to control and disrupt his path.
  • Despite having plenty of speed in his bag, he doesn’t do a great job of consistently stacking DBs on vertical routes.
  • Can struggle to shed DBs who get their hands on him at the LOS, and corners can stay glued to his hip pocket in low-shoulder techniques if he can’t get a clean release.
  • Inconsistent effort on some run-blocking reps and pass plays when he isn’t the primary read.
  • Despite being a very good athlete, he doesn’t generate a ton of broken tackles consistently after the catch.

As we look ahead to the 2024 fantasy football season, why not start preparing for your rookie drafts with our dynasty rookie rankings? Additionally, as you look to improve your team heading into 2024, our dynasty trade calculator can help you find the perfect deal to boost your championship chances.

Troy Franklin’s Dynasty Rookie Profile | Denver Broncos WR Fantasy Football Outlook

Derek Tate
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Troy Franklin’s Dynasty Rookie Profile | Denver Broncos WR Fantasy Football Outlook

One would think that a top receiver prospect linking up with his college quarterback in their rookie season could produce an exciting fantasy football outlook entering the NFL. Yet, Troy Franklin appears to be sliding down dynasty rookie draft boards in a similar fashion to his drop to Day 3 of the 2024 NFL Draft.

What can dynasty managers expect from Franklin heading into his rookie year and beyond?

Should You Draft Troy Franklin in Dynasty Fantasy Football?

One could make a compelling argument that the biggest definitive loser from the pre-draft process was Franklin after plummeting from a potential late first-round pick all the way to the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft.

The NFL Combine was where Franklin’s downward trend started and never really got back on course.

Franklin tested slower than expected (4.41-second 40-yard dash), measured both shorter (6’2”) and lighter (176 pounds) than expected, and generally looked uncomfortable during many of the drills.

Yet, Franklin being paired up with his college quarterback — Bo Nix — with the Denver Broncos certainly provides crucial familiarity and opportunity for Franklin to make the type of fantasy impact most were projecting when he was in the discussion for a Day 1 pick.

Franklin’s tape still suggests he could absolutely fly as a vertical threat. He flashes exceptional footwork running the vertical plane as a route runner with a production profile that suggests he simply kept getting better and better as his collegiate career progressed.

Regardless of the disappointing 40-time, Franklin remains among the best vertical threats in this class with his on-field GPS speeds — hitting 22.3 MPH against USC in 2023 — suggesting he has plenty of functional football speed.

The target competition in Denver also isn’t elite. Courtland Sutton is all that really stands in his way from being an alpha target earner in this offense. Sure, Marvin Mims Jr., Tim Patrick, or Josh Reynolds may have something to say about that, but the path is certainly there for Franklin to carve out a sizeable role in this offense.

Franklin is still a quality WR prospect to acquire in the second round of your upcoming dynasty rookie draft.

Who Is Franklin?

Background

Franklin is a long, vertical threat who stands at 6’2” and 176 pounds and was a highly touted four-star prospect coming out of California.

Franklin was a standout performer during his prep days at Menlo-Atherton High School, with 102 receptions for 1,790 receiving yards and 34 total TDs, which earned him an invitation to the 2021 All-American Bowl.

College Production

Franklin did contribute to the Oregon offense in his true freshman season with 18 receptions for 209 yards and a pair of scores in 2021, but he didn’t truly take off until Nix arrived in Eugene ahead of the 2022 campaign.

Franklin enjoyed a breakout sophomore year with 61 receptions for 891 yards and nine scores in a vastly improved Ducks passing attack in 2022.

MORE: Fantasy News Tracker

His development as an elite receiver continued into his junior year, once again seeing another jump in production across the board in 2023 with 81 receptions for 1,383 yards and 14 TDs, which led the Pac-12.

Franklin declared for the 2024 NFL Draft after his junior season.

Injury History

Franklin played through a shoulder injury towards the end of his junior year, which could give some context to his four-catch for 34 receiving yards (season-low) performance against the Washington Huskies in the Pac-12 Championship.

Franklin’s Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

  • Vertical speed that can take the top off of any defense.
  • Surprising ability to fire his feet quickly at the line of scrimmage (LOS) for a player his size.
  • Has some of the physical traits to operate on the outside at the NFL level, but proved to be an effective slot player during his days at Oregon, which gives him plenty of formation versatility entering the NFL.
  • Good tempo and timing on comeback routes; can eat up cushion in a hurry against off coverage and gear down once getting into a DBs blind spot.
  • Adequate feel for attacking leverage and carving out more space on in-breaking routes at the top of his stem.
  • Suddenness, twitch, acceleration, and elusiveness flash after the catch; plus-level feel for catching the ball and getting upfield in a hurry; destroys the angle of undisciplined DBs who underestimate his speed.
  • Some impressive reps of winning with a stellar release and immediately stacking a DB on vertical routes while getting back on his line to win for his QB.

Weaknesses

  • Drops were an issue in 2023; 10% drop rate in his junior year; tendency to look upfield before securing the football.
  • Thinner frame could present some issues against physical corners in the NFL; his play strength at the catch point and at the LOS lacks consistency.
  • Doesn’t consistently stay in his drive phase off the LOS against off coverage; shoulders don’t stay over his toes, which could tip off DBs at the next level that he is about to break off his route.
  • Route running lacks consistency; would love to see him drive out of his breaks more consistently and work back down the stem on hitch routes.
  • Impact as a run blocker was a bit limited and inconsistent.

As we look ahead to the 2024 fantasy football season, why not start preparing for your rookie drafts with our dynasty rookie rankings? Additionally, as you look to improve your team heading into 2024, our dynasty trade calculator can help you find the perfect deal to boost your championship chances.

Brian Thomas Jr.’s Dynasty Rookie Profile | Jacksonville Jaguars WR Fantasy Football Outlook

Derek Tate
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Brian Thomas Jr.’s Dynasty Rookie Profile | Jacksonville Jaguars WR Fantasy Football Outlook

After months of vastly different opinions on who the fourth wide receiver selected in the 2024 NFL Draft would be, Brian Thomas Jr. ultimately landed in a great spot with the Jacksonville Jaguars trading back and landing the talented LSU prospect at No. 23 overall.

How should dynasty fantasy football managers value Thomas heading into 2024 rookie drafts?

Should You Draft Brian Thomas Jr. in Dynasty Fantasy Football?

From a bird’s-eye view, Thomas doesn’t exactly have the best resume of collegiate production in direct comparison to his fellow prospects at the position in this draft class. He had one year of outstanding production in college, but it does raise questions as to why a player with his physical set of tolls didn’t dominate until his final year at LSU.

He has exceptional size (6’3”, 209 pounds), elite speed (4.33-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine), and explosive athleticism (38.5” vertical jump) that project him as a potentially dominant force as an outside receiver. Yet, questions remain about his lack of overall production in college.

Now, he joins forces with quarterback Trevor Lawrence in Jacksonville, who has flashed some of the superstar potential many projected for him entering the NFL but still hasn’t quite arrived as an elite quarterback in the league through his first three years under center.

The reason for that may be his lack of an elite vertical weapon on the outside. Sure, Calvin Ridley had a nice season in 2023, especially when you consider he didn’t play professional football for more than an entire calendar year. But most would likely agree Ridley was a bit underwhelming with 76 receptions for 1,016 yards and eight TDs over his 136 targets last year.

MORE: Updated Dynasty WR Rankings

Ridley is now a member of the Tennessee Titans, which means Thomas’ competition for targets in 2024 is Christian Kirk, Evan Engram, Gabe Davis, and Zay Jones. No disrespect to the players just mentioned, but Thomas has the highest ceiling and most physical ability of all the players just mentioned.

The argument could be made that Thomas may be able to unlock Lawrence’s true potential because of his exceptional ability to win down the field as a vertical threat.

The route tree Thomas ran at LSU wasn’t incredibly diverse, but some of that may have to do with how the Tigers were choosing to utilize him next to Malik Nabers.

Ultimately, his prototypical build for an outside receiver and ideal landing spot certainly puts him in the range of a late first-round pick when rookie drafts start later this year.

Who Is Thomas?

Background

Thomas was a two-sport star at Walker High School in Louisiana, excelling on both the gridiron and hardwood during his prep days.

The dynamic athlete was touted as a four-star prospect by multiple recruiting databases, in large part due to his exceptional production during a junior year when he compiled 75 receptions for 1,272 yards and 17 touchdowns.

College Production

Thomas’ collegiate career at LSU got off to a bit of a slow start with a combined 59 receptions, 720 receiving yards, and seven scores through his freshman and sophomore campaigns.

MORE: Fantasy News Tracker

After modest production through his first two seasons, Thomas exploded with 68 receptions for 1,177 yards and 17 touchdowns in his junior year. His significant jump in production helped QB Jayden Daniels win the 2023 Heisman Trophy.

Injury History

Thomas suffered a concussion during his sophomore season, which caused him to be unavailable against the Arkansas Razorbacks in 2022.

Thomas’ Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

  • Excellent release package against press coverage; foot quickness and lateral agility are impressive for a player his size; speed and single/double moves against press; makes himself a smaller target by dropping his shoulder to avoid DBs first jab.
  • Plus-level acceleration which helps him stack DBs on vertical routes after winning at the line of scrimmage (LOS); acceleration also helps create separation consistently when attacking a defender’s leverage before bursting out of a break.
  • Very fluid athlete with pliable hips for a prospect his size.
  • Above-average body control allows for ball-tracking adjustments on the fly; wide catch radius with height and lengthy frame.
  • Explosiveness, twitch, and suddenness all translate when he has the ball in his hands; plus-level yards after the catch producer with a natural feel as a ball carrier.
  • Functional top speed to threaten defenders vertically.
  • Some flashes of very effective run-blocking ability.

Weaknesses

  • Tends to body catch a bit too often, which can negate some of the length and height advantages he has against shorter DBs.
  • Can get knocked off of his spot at the top of the stem by physical corners.
  • Despite reps on film showcasing some route-running nuance, I wouldn’t say he’s a complete product as a route runner; wasn’t asked to run a full route tree at LSU.
  • Formation versatility was a bit limited despite spending some time in the slot in 2023.
  • Effort level can be a bit inconsistent on some run-blocking snaps and on plays where he may not be the primary read.

As we look ahead to the 2024 fantasy football season, why not start preparing for your rookie drafts with our dynasty rookie rankings? Additionally, as you look to improve your team heading into 2024, our dynasty trade calculator can help you find the perfect deal to boost your championship chances.

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