LSU fans are well aware that quarterbacks can greatly benefit from choosing to delay entering the NFL Draft and instead returning to college for a final season. Recent decisions of this nature have proven successful for Tigers quarterbacks, resulting in two Heisman Trophies and a national title in the last five years with Joe Burrow and Jayden Daniels.
Daniels, in particular, had garnered attention from scouts after just one year at Baton Rouge. Despite this, he opted to continue his development in college and complete his final year of eligibility. It’s evident that his time at LSU has honed his skills, and now he has his sights set on the 2024 NFL Draft.
The big question on everyone’s mind is: where will he be selected? Let’s delve into what the oddsmakers are saying to find some answers.
FanDuel Sportsbook offers a wide range of NFL Draft odds, including predictions for the first three picks and potential player destinations. Although Daniels isn’t specifically listed for the latter, he leads the odds for the former. The versatile LSU quarterback is anticipated to be among the Top 3 selections, according to the sportsbooks’ projections.
The top pick appears to be a well-known secret, with USC quarterback Caleb Williams heavily favored (-1600) to be chosen first overall by the Chicago Bears. North Carolina’s Drake Maye (+1100), Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. (+2500), and Daniels (+2500) are the only other players with odds shorter than 100/1 to be selected first by Commissioner Roger Goodell.
The second pick, held by the Washington Commanders, presents an intriguing situation.
Maye and Daniels are in close competition here. The final decision for Washington likely won’t be made until after the NFL Combine and pro days. However, current odds favor Maye slightly, with the former Tar Heels star having -125 odds to be selected second. Daniels follows closely as the second-favorite at +135, meaning a $10 wager would return $13.50.
The third pick is where the competition heats up. The New England Patriots, eager to move on from their current quarterbacks, seem poised to select whichever signal caller Washington passes on. Daniels and Maye are tied as favorites at +170. Harrison Jr. (+270) and J.J. McCarthy (+850) are the only other players with odds shorter than 30/1 to be chosen by New England.
Regardless of his destination, it’s widely agreed that Daniels has demonstrated enough in his senior season to solidify his status as a first-round pick. Current odds suggest it’s improbable he falls outside the Top 3, but more clarity on this evolving situation will emerge in the weeks ahead.
