2024 NFL Draft Depth: Defense Edition

The latest newsletter from KCSN Sports Data Scientist, Joseph Hefner

Last week, we talked about positional depth in the 2024 NFL draft for the offense. We found that both the top end talent and the depth of the wide receivers in this draft is very good, perhaps the best overall since 2019. Offensive tackle was another position with very good depth. Interior offensive line and running backs were lacking both high end players and any real depth. Tight end has one high end prospect, but no depth, while quarterback is very top-heavy.

This week, we are going to look at positions on defense, and see what positions are loaded for this draft class. We might also see where players might be a bit over-drafted due to the lack of depth at their position. When a player is the only player of that position expected to be drafted within a 30+ pick range, it’s easy to see a team deciding to grab them, knowing their the last of that tier of player, and that they will not be available in the next round.