NFL Draft Odds: Betting Prices Shift For No. 1 Pick Following Combine And Free Agency

Odds tighten on Michigan defensive lineman Aidan Hutchinson going No. 1 in the NFL Draft (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

With significant free agency signings already complete, the needs of several teams have become more apparent, and sportsbooks have shifted NFL Draft odds in several markets — including the No. 1 overall selection. While the betting market favors Aidan Hutchinson to be selected by the Jaguars with the first pick on April 28 in Las Vegas, odds on who will go Nos. 2 and 3 are murkier.

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However, while the experts may think they know what Jacksonville will do with the No. 1 pick, that does not mean they’re right, especially with four weeks to go before the draft commences.

Jags Tag Robinson, Hutchinson’s Odds To Go No. 1 Shorten

Last year, it was easy to figure out who the Jags would take with the No. 1 pick. They were in desperate need of a quarterback, and Trevor Lawrence was widely considered the best player in the draft. This year, they have many roster holes that need to be addressed.

Post-combine odds and mock drafts focused on the Jags getting Lawrence some much-needed protection. But along with protecting the quarterback, improving its own pass rush is a priority for Jacksonville.

After the Jags tagged left tackle Cam Robinson, odds shifted back in favor of Hutchinson. While Hutchinson has been at the forefront of No. 1 pick conversations, Travon Walker has been getting a lot of attention after excellent Combine and Pro Day performances.

NFL Draft Odds: Who’s Going No. 2?

Like the Jaguars, the Detroit Lions have a lot of holes they could potentially fill with the No. 2 pick. Jared Goff did not impress anyone in his first season in Detroit, and whoever plays quarterback could use some more help. They are also in desperate need of playmakers on defense. Improving the offensive line is never a bad idea, but the Lions have more pressing needs.

The Lions will look for someone ready to contribute right away, which takes QB Malik Willis out of the conversation. Kyle Hamilton (safety) has been getting a lot of attention, and Walker has flown up oddsboards this month.

While he has not gotten the press Hutchinson or Walker have during the offseason, it would be foolish to overlook Kayvon Thibodeaux.

Texans Have Options At No. 3

The Texans have two picks inside the upper half of the first round (No. 3 and No. 13). With a need for improvement at just about every position, the Texans can go in almost any direction at No. 3.

Either Evan Neal or Ikem Ekwonu would make a big difference on an offensive line that finished the 2021 season ranked 29th by PFF.  They both figure to be available at No. 3. But defensive-minded head coach Lovie Smith might opt for a defensive playmaker. Should that be the case, the rumor mill is pointing to Hamilton and Thibodeaux as potential options.

However, with the numerous improvements the Texans need to make, Houston could trade down for more draft picks. If that happens, who goes No. 3 depends on who trades up.