In the 2024 NFL Draft, a historic record was tied as six quarterbacks were selected in the first round, matching the record set back in 1983. The quarterbacks taken in 1983 went on to have successful careers, with three of them eventually being inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame and a combined 10 appearances in the Super Bowl. This year, the six quarterbacks selected were Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears), Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders), Drake Maye (New England Patriots), Michael Penix Jr. (Atlanta Falcons), J.J. McCarthy (Minnesota Vikings), and Bo Nix (Denver Broncos).
This draft marked the second time in the common draft era that six quarterbacks were taken in the first round, tying the record for the most quarterbacks selected in the first round. It was also the first time in history that six quarterbacks were taken within the first 12 picks of the draft. Additionally, for the first time ever, four quarterbacks were selected within the first eight picks, and five quarterbacks were taken within the top ten picks. This draft also saw the first three overall picks being quarterbacks, marking the fourth time in the common draft era.
With Caleb Williams being taken first overall, USC now holds the record for the most first overall picks of any school all-time with six, surpassing Georgia, Notre Dame, and Oklahoma. The draft was dominated by offensive players, with the first 14 picks all being offensive players – the most consecutive offensive picks to start a draft in the common draft era. The first round concluded with 23 offensive players being selected, marking a new record for the most offensive players taken in a single draft in the common draft era.
The draft also saw seven wide receivers being selected in the first round, tying the record for the most wide receivers taken in a single draft in the common draft era, previously set in 2004. This historic draft showcased the depth and talent of this year’s quarterback class, with six highly touted prospects being selected in the first round, setting records and making history along the way. It will be interesting to see how these quarterbacks will perform in the NFL and whether they will be able to have successful careers like their predecessors from the 1983 draft class.
