The NFL Draft was marked by a significant shift in power, as CAA Sports emerged victorious with 12 first-round picks. This surpassed their previous record set in 2018 and ended Athletes First’s four-year reign. The success of CAA Sports was highlighted by North Carolina QB Drake Maye being picked third overall by the Patriots, as well as Ohio State WR Marvin Harrison Jr., son of Football HOFer Marvin Harrison, being selected in the top five.
WME Sports and Athletes First each had four first-round picks, while Excel Football and Wasserman had two each. CAA also had the most top-five picks, including Notre Dame OT Joe Alt going to the Chargers at number five. There were 11 agencies involved in the first round, with CAA agent Patrick Collins representing five players, the most of any agent.
The draft showcased a diverse range of schools, with LSU, Alabama, and Washington each having three picks in the first round. QBs took the top three spots, with USC QB Caleb Williams being picked first overall by the Colts, LSU’s Jayden Daniels going second to Washington and Maye picking third to New England. The representation of different agencies and schools added excitement to the draft and highlighted a new wave of talent entering the NFL.
This year’s draft was reminiscent of Athletes First’s triumph in 2020 after CAA had led for four years prior. It also marked a unique trend of parental representation with top prospects like Ohio State WR Marvin Harrison Jr., son of Football HOFer Marvin Harrison, being selected in the top five.
In summary, this year’s NFL Draft saw a significant shift in power as CAA Sports emerged victorious with 12 first-round picks surpassing their own previous record set in 2018. The success of different agencies and schools was highlighted throughout the draft showcasing a diverse range of talent entering the NFL.