The 2024 NFL Draft has come and gone, leaving fans and analysts alike buzzing about the potential impact of the league’s newest crop of talent. While the top picks often garner the most attention, it’s the steals throughout the draft that can truly make or break a team’s future. 

In this article, we’ll dive into the nine biggest steals of the 2024 NFL Draft, highlighting the players who fell further than expected but have the potential to make a significant impact on their new teams.

1. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Eagles: 22nd

In the draft, the Philadelphia Eagles’ first two picks sought to fill their most pressing need: cornerback. However, it was their choice of Quinyon Mitchell at No. 22 that truly caught attention. Mitchell was ranked as the No. 11 player on the consensus board and was widely considered the top cornerback prospect in the class. He dominated the Senior Bowl practices and ran a blistering 4.3-second 40-yard dash at the combine. 

With his impressive tools and traits, Mitchell has the potential to become a true shutdown corner in the NFL, especially playing behind the Eagles’ formidable pass rush.

2. Terrion Arnold, CB, Lions: 24th

The Detroit Lions also found tremendous value at the cornerback position, trading up to snag Terrion Arnold at pick No. 24. Arnold, who was ranked as the No. 12 overall player on the consensus board, is a versatile defensive back with experience playing both outside and in the slot. He started 21 games at Alabama and was a two-time All-American selection. While his combine performance may have been average, his on-field production and skill set make him a perfect fit for the Lions’ defense. In addressing their most pressing need, Detroit acquired a player with top-15 pick potential.

3. Rome Odunze, WR, Bears: 9th

Unexpectedly, the Chicago Bears secured wide receiver Rome Odunze with the 9th overall selection in the draft. Odunze was one of the cleanest prospects in the class, boasting outstanding tape, production, size, and athleticism. He was ranked sixth on the consensus board and was the highest-rated non-quarterback, excluding three others. In most drafts, Odunze would have been a lock for the top five and the first receiver off the board. However, an unprecedented quarterback run and the inclusion of two other extremely talented wide receivers allowed him to fall to the Bears, giving quarterback Caleb Williams a true No. 1 target to grow with.

4. Zach Frazier, C, Steelers: 51st

The Pittsburgh Steelers found their center of the future in Zach Frazier, who many considered the best pure center in the class. Frazier started 46 games in the ACC and was a two-time All-ACC first-team selection. Despite recovering from a broken leg, his tape and work ethic are highly regarded. Had he been able to participate in the Senior Bowl and combine, Frazier likely would have been a first-round pick. Instead, the Steelers landed a player who should quickly become a top-10 center in the NFL and a perfect fit for new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith’s scheme.

5. Cooper Beebe, OL, Cowboys: 73rd

The Dallas Cowboys bolstered their offensive line with the selection of versatile lineman Cooper Beebe at No. 73. Beebe, who racked up 48 career starts at Kansas State playing left tackle, right tackle, and left guard, was a three-time first-team All-Big 12 selection and a two-time All-American. Although his 31½” arms made him a low draft pick, he should be a ready-to-play center or guard for the Cowboys. Beebe finished as the No. 46 player on the consensus board, making him a tremendous value for Dallas 27 picks later.

Honorable Mentions

  • Jaden Hicks, S, Kansas City Chiefs (133rd): A rangy safety with the potential to be a steal on Day 3.
  • Kingsley Suamataia, OT, Kansas City Chiefs (63rd): A formidable right tackle prospect, combining impressive athleticism with brute power, capable of making an immediate impact as a starter for the Chiefs in his rookie season
  • Brock Bowers, TE, Las Vegas Raiders (13th): A dynamic weapon who can be used all over the field, Bowers was a top-10 talent who fell to the Raiders at No. 13.
  • Jaylen Wright, RB, Miami Dolphins (120th): A speedy, explosive back who fits perfectly in the Dolphins’ scheme.

As we look ahead to the 2024 NFL season, keep an eye on these nine players. While they may not have been the biggest names on draft night, they have the potential to become the biggest steals of the 2024 NFL Draft. And who knows, maybe one of these players will help you cash in on some favorable NFL odds on FanDuel as the season progresses.

The 2024 NFL Draft may be in the books, but the real excitement is just beginning. As these talented rookies take the field and begin to make their mark on the league, we’ll see just how much of an impact these draft steals can have on their respective teams. One thing is for certain: the future of the NFL looks bright, and these nine players are poised to play a significant role in shaping it.