Offense is clearly at a premium based on how the beginning of the 2024 NFL Draft unfolded.
On Thursday, three quarterbacks were selected over the first three picks. While that in and of itself is a rare occurrence in NFL draft history, the next 11 picks also followed a specific trend.
The first 14 picks were all offensive players. The wild result doubled the previous record set during the 2021 NFL Draft, which started with seven straight offensive players selected.
The record of most offensive players to open a draft was seven in 2021.
And now the record has been doubled: first 14 picks have all been offensive players. https://t.co/Z59IDfzl7l
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 26, 2024
The Indianapolis Colts ended the offensive streak when they selected UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu with the 15th overall pick.
The first 14 picks were comprised of six quarterbacks, four offensive tackles, three wide receivers, and one tight end.
The only other instance of six QBs ever going in the first round was during the famed 1983 NFL Draft, which included John Elway, Jim Kelly, and Dan Marino.
1983 Draft 🤝 2024 Draft
Only times SIX QBs were selected in the first round 🤯 pic.twitter.com/8n4dq6scDh
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) April 26, 2024
Day 1 of the 2024 NFL Draft included several surprises. But perhaps none were bigger than what the Atlanta Falcons did with their 8th overall selection.