The WWE Draft for 2024 has concluded, but the rosters will only be finalized after Backlash France this weekend. Bianca Belair emerged as the top pick on Night One, while Imperium took the top spot on Night Two.
Notably, several big names were absent from the draft, including Roman Reigns, who withdrew himself this year after being the number one pick for 939 days. Seth Rollins, despite undergoing surgery, was still drafted, highlighting WWE’s anticipation for his return. Let’s go into five significant names RAW or SmackDown overlooked in this year’s draft.
#1 Roman Reigns (withdrew from the 2024 WWE Draft)
Roman Reigns, after losing his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship to Cody Rhodes at WrestleMania XL, hasn’t been seen on television.
Despite being initially listed as eligible, Reigns withdrew from the draft. His return remains uncertain, but both RAW and SmackDown eagerly await the comeback of the former Universal Champion.
#2 Rhea Ripley (injured on WWE RAW)
Rhea Ripley, though not drafted, remains affiliated with The Judgment Day on RAW. Injured after WrestleMania XL, Ripley’s return could bolster RAW’s women’s division, especially with Becky Lynch now holding the title and Liv Morgan eyeing it.
#3 Jimmy Uso (injured)
Following WrestleMania XL, Jimmy Uso was sidelined due to injury, leaving The Bloodline on SmackDown. With his brother Jey on RAW and The Bloodline’s allegiance to SmackDown, Jimmy’s return could spark interesting dynamics within the faction.
#4 Charlotte Flair (injured on WWE SmackDown)
Charlotte Flair’s recovery from injury wasn’t included in the draft, but her husband Andrade’s selection by SmackDown hints at her potential return to the blue brand, where real-life couples often share the screen.
#5 Alexa Bliss
Alexa Bliss’s absence from the draft fuels speculation about her return, potentially alongside Uncle Howdy in a rumored faction paying tribute to Bray Wyatt. With anticipation building on both RAW and SmackDown, Bliss’s comeback promises intrigue and excitement for WWE fans.
