NFL mock draft live: 32 team reporters make their first-round picks

Los Angeles, California September 2, 2023-USC quarterback Caleb Williams celebrates a touchdown against Nevada in the second quarter at the Coliseum Saturday. (Wally Skalij/Los Angles Times) (Wally Skalij/Los Angeles Times)

Down… set… mock!

It’s time for the annual Los Angeles Times beat-writer mock draft, in which we consult the seasoned reporters who cover their particular NFL team on a daily basis.

There are no trades allowed in this mock, even though there’s sure to be some swapping when the first round of the NFL draft rolls around on Thursday night.

Watch for quarterbacks to disappear off the board quickly — and for runs on wide receivers and offensive tackles.

The Arizona Cardinals are on the clock.

1. Chicago Bears — Caleb Williams (QB) | USC

USC quarterback Caleb Williams smiles during USC Pro Day. — All signs point to USC quarterback Caleb Williams being drafted by the Chicago Bears with the first pick. (Wally Skalij / Los Angeles Times)

“It’s a shot to get a franchise quarterback, a player that changes the trajectory of a team that has gone nearly 20 seasons without consecutive winning seasons.” (Brad Biggs, Chicago Tribune)

LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels kisses the Heisman Trophy during a news conference after winning the college football award. — The Washington Commanders seem interested in LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels, who won the Heisman Trophy last season. (Eduardo Munoz Alvarez / Associated Press)

“The Commanders have cycled through 22 starting quarterbacks over the last two decades and only two of those have started full consecutive seasons. With new GM Adam Peters and coach Dan Quinn now pulling the strings, Washington hopes Daniels can finally bring some stability — and wins. His accuracy, knack for big plays and dangerous running ability give Washington a dual threat and natural playmaker at the position, maybe, a star for not just this year, but years to come.” (Nicki Jhabvala, Washington Post)

North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye (10) sets to throw. — North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye might be wearing Patriots colors soon. (Jacob Kupferman / Associated Press)

“Maye has the size, arm strength and athleticism needed to play in the inclement weather of Foxborough. He has some areas to fix, and it may be tempting to trade down with the Bears or Vikings, but the Pats need a franchise QB, no need to overthink it.” (Ben Volin, Boston Globe)

4. Arizona Cardinals

5. Los Angeles Chargers

6. New York Giants

7. Tennessee Titans

8. Atlanta Falcons

9. Chicago Bears

10. New York Jets

11. Minnesota Vikings

12. Denver Broncos

13. Las Vegas Raiders

14. New Orleans Saints

15. Indianapolis Colts