Image courtesy of JMU Athletics Communications

By Bennett Conlin

The 2024 NFL Draft begins Thursday, and while no JMU players are likely to hear their names called in Round 1, it’s possible a Duke is drafted before the seven-round event concludes.

If a player is drafted, they’ll be the first JMU player drafted since Ben DiNucci’s 2020 selection by the Dallas Cowboys. A pair of defensive Dukes have the best chance of being picked.

Jamree Kromah, DL

Kromah, a Rutgers transfer, played an important role on JMU’s defensive line in 2023. He finished the season with 60 tackles, including 20.5 tackles for loss and 11 sacks. If it wasn’t for Jalen Green’s 15-sack season, Kromah may have earned more attention for his play.

Still, at 6’4” and 275 lbs, Kromah figures to garner plenty of NFL looks. Playing in the East-West Shrine Game only boosted his draft chances, with scouts having a close look at his game earlier this year.

Kromah’s athletic profile makes me believe he’ll be selected this week. His Relative Athletic Score is a 9.67, one of the better marks of any defensive tackle in the draft. With NFL GMs seemingly becoming more and more aware of the benefit of drafting highly athletic developmental players, Kromah should fall near the late-round draft board for multiple teams.

Jalen Green, Edge

If Green didn’t suffer a season-ending injury, he’s a lock to be drafted. Since he’s recovering from a knee injury, however, some teams could be concerned about his health in both the short and long term.

When healthy, there’s no questioning Green’s upside. He led the entire FBS with 15.5 sacks in 2023, despite playing just nine games. He’s undersized at 6’1 and 245 lbs, but the edge rusher has an array of moves. He’s dynamic rushing the passer and capable against the run.

If Green isn’t drafted, an NFL team will likely sign him to an undrafted free agent deal.

Other names to monitor

Reggie Brown, WR – Brown caught 53 passes for 1,054 yards and nine touchdowns in 2023. While his name hasn’t popped up on most NFL mock drafts and prospect lists, he has good speed and was productive at JMU. He’s a possible undrafted free agent.

Phoenix Sproles, WR – Similar to Brown, you won’t hear Sproles’ name a ton when reading mock drafts or prospect lists, but he’s a reliable receiving option. Sproles has NFL connections through his family, and it’s likely he at least earns an offseason tryout with a team or two.

Que Reid, DB – A hard-hitting safety, Reid has been a contributor in the JMU secondary for several seasons. He’s not likely to be drafted, but his playing experience and special teams potential gives him a chance at competing for a professional roster spot.

Chris Chukwuneke, DB – Similar to Reid, Chukwuneke is a sure tackler and a physical defensive back. He played meaningful snaps for several seasons in Harrisonburg and should attract some interest at the professional level.

Jarius Reimonenq, DB – He did some of his best work at Arkansas State, but he played meaningful snaps for JMU the last two seasons after transferring. He has several seasons of FBS experience, and he’s capable in coverage. He could earn an NFL look.