As we reflect on the 2024 NFL season, it’s time to recognize the outstanding performances of this year’s rookie class.
From game-changing offensive weapons to dominant defensive players, these first-year pros have made significant impacts on their teams. Here’s a countdown of the top 15 rookies from the 2024 NFL season:
15. Calen Bullock, S, Houston Texans
Bullock was a ball hawk in the Texans’ secondary, leading all rookies with 5 interceptions. His range and instincts have helped solidify Houston’s defense and contributed to the team’s improved performance.
14. Michael Hall Jr., DT, Cleveland Browns
After a slow start to the season, Hall came on strong in the latter half, showcasing his disruptive ability in the interior of the Browns’ defensive line. His potential for growth makes him an exciting prospect for Cleveland’s future.
13. Andru Phillips, CB, New York Giants
Phillips was a pleasant surprise for the Giants’ secondary, displaying excellent coverage skills and a knack for making plays on the ball. His development has been a bright spot in what was an otherwise challenging season for New York.
12. Chop Robinson, EDGE, Miami Dolphins
Robinson showed flashes of brilliance as a pass rusher, recording a number of sacks and providing consistent pressure off the edge. His explosive first step and bend around the corner have made him a nightmare for opposing tackles.
11. Cooper DeJean, DB, Philadelphia Eagles
DeJean’s versatility was a major asset for the Eagles’ secondary and his pick-six on Patrick Mahomes in Super Bowl LIX showed his skills. His ability to play multiple positions and contribute in both coverage and run support has made him an invaluable piece of Philadelphia’s defense.
10. Brian Thomas, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Thomas emerged as a reliable target for the Jaguars, finishing second among rookies in receiving yards and scoring 10 touchdowns. His big-play ability has added a new dimension to Jacksonville’s offense.
9. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Philadelphia Eagles
Mitchell played like a seasoned veteran in his rookie season, showcasing excellent man coverage skills and ball-hawking ability. His contributions have been crucial to the Eagles’ defensive success.
8. Joe Alt, OT, Los Angeles Chargers
Alt became a stabilizing force on the Chargers’ offensive line, excelling in both pass protection and run blocking. His versatility and technical prowess have made him one of the top rookie linemen in recent years.
7. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Arizona Cardinals
Despite playing in a struggling offense, Harrison Jr. still managed to impress with 885 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns. His route-running precision and ability to make contested catches have drawn comparisons to his Hall of Fame father.
6. Jared Verse, EDGE, Los Angeles Rams
Verse was a force on the Rams’ defensive line, recording 4.5 sacks and 66 total tackles. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and set the edge against the run has made him one of the most impactful defensive rookies of the season.
5. Bo Nix, QB, Denver Broncos
Nix showed remarkable poise and accuracy in his rookie season. His ability to extend plays and make throws on the run helped the Broncos stay competitive in a tough AFC West division and led them to their first playoff appearance in a decade.
4. Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants
Despite playing with inconsistent quarterback play, Nabers still managed to rack up 1,204 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns on 109 receptions. His ability to create separation and make plays after the catch gave the Giants’ offense a much-needed boost.
3. Brock Bowers, TE, Las Vegas Raiders
Bowers rewrote the record books for rookie tight ends, amassing over 1,100 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns. His 112 receptions set a new NFL record for rookies at any position, showcasing his exceptional route-running and sure hands.
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2. Bucky Irving, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The fourth-round pick out of Oregon has been a revelation for the Buccaneers. Irving rushed for over a thousand yards this season, showcasing his potential. His ability to break tackles and create yards after contact made him one of the most dynamic running backs in the league.
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1. Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders
Daniels was nothing short of spectacular in his rookie campaign. He not only led the Commanders to a 12-5 record, but he took them all the way to the NFC Championship game. His dual-threat ability and impressive decision-making have earned him a Pro Bowl selection and Offensive Rookie of the Year.
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