Preseason Performance of 2024 NFL Rookies: Who Impressed and Who Needs Work
Introduction:
The preseason may not be a crystal ball for determining NFL success, but it does provide valuable insights into which rookies are ready to make an impact and which ones still have some growing to do. This article will examine the performances of the 2024 first-round draft picks and evaluate their readiness for the upcoming season.
Preseason Winners:
1. Caleb Williams, QB, Chicago Bears (No. 1 overall): Williams showcased his talent and potential during the preseason, displaying effortless mechanics and a strong arm. He led all rookie quarterbacks in downfield passing and showed promise, although his decisiveness on the move needs improvement.
2. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Arizona Cardinals (No. 4): Harrison proved he was ready for the NFL with his impressive performance in joint practices with the Indianapolis Colts. He is expected to have an impact right away for the Cardinals.
3. Joe Alt, OT, Los Angeles Chargers (No. 5): Alt’s smooth playing style and exceptional recovery skills were on display during the preseason. He showed great promise in both pass protection and run blocking, making him a valuable asset for the Chargers.
4. Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants (No. 6): Nabers demonstrated his potential with some electrifying plays during preseason practices. Although he didn’t have as much success in the actual games, his acrobatic catches and ability to get open will make him a valuable asset for the Giants.
5. Bo Nix, QB, Denver Broncos (No. 12): Nix’s improvement throughout the preseason earned him the starting quarterback position for the Broncos. He showed composure in the pocket, accurate throws, and the ability to make plays on the move. If supported with a strong offensive line and running game, Nix could have a successful season.
6. Laiatu Latu, Edge, Indianapolis Colts (No. 15): Latu’s effort and advanced moves impressed during preseason games. While he may give up some yards against the run, his relentless effort and impact on third down make him a valuable addition to the Colts’ defense.
7. Byron Murphy II, DT, Seattle Seahawks (No. 16): Murphy’s strong performance in the preseason game against the Tennessee Titans showcased his potential as a pass rusher. With further development, he has the tools to become a consistent presence against the run as well.
8. Jared Verse, Edge, Los Angeles Rams (No. 19): Although Verse didn’t play in the preseason, his impressive spring and joint practice performances have caught the attention of Rams coach Sean McVay. His length, quickness, and explosion make him a high-floor player who will be ready to contribute.
9. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Philadelphia Eagles (No. 22): Mitchell’s standout performance in preseason games suggests he could earn a starting spot in Philadelphia’s talented secondary. His strong coverage skills and minimal yards allowed make him a promising addition to the Eagles’ defense.
10. Brian Thomas Jr., WR, Jacksonville Jaguars (No. 23): Thomas has shown his big-play ability during the preseason, averaging an impressive 31.0 yards per catch. He has also developed a strong rapport with quarterback Trevor Lawrence, making him a valuable target for the Jaguars.
11. Graham Barton, OL, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (No. 26): Despite being named the starting center for the Buccaneers, Barton remains humble and focused on improvement. While he may face some challenges, he has the potential to become a reliable and impactful player by the end of the season.
12. Xavier Worthy, WR, Kansas City Chiefs (No. 28): Worthy’s preseason performances showcased his ability to get open through motion. While he may struggle against press coverage, his situational fit within the Chiefs’ offense is promising.
13. Tyler Guyton, OT, Dallas Cowboys (No. 29): Guyton has demonstrated his physicality and potential as a starting tackle during the preseason. He allowed only one pressure, even facing off against talented defenders like Maxx Crosby.
14. Nate Wiggins, CB, Baltimore Ravens (No. 30): Wiggins’ impressive speed and performance during preseason practices earned him a place in the Ravens’ talented secondary. He has the potential to make a significant impact, especially with his strong pass breakups.
Ready to Start:
1. Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders (No. 2): Daniels displayed accuracy and composure during the preseason, but he still needs to work on speeding up his decision-making process. His ability to consistently work the middle of the field remains a concern.
2. Drake Maye, QB, New England Patriots (No. 3): Maye’s athleticism and arm talent were evident during the preseason, making him a strong contender for the starting position. If given the opportunity, he has the potential to thrive.
3. JC Latham, OT, Tennessee Titans (No. 7): Latham’s power and athleticism have translated well to the NFL. He is expected to start at left tackle and play alongside a healthy Peter Skoronski, creating a formidable offensive line for the Titans.
4. Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears (No. 9): Odunze’s ability to get open vertically and be a downfield threat makes him an exciting prospect for the Bears. He needs to improve his blocking and consistency against press coverage to reach his full potential.
5. Taliese Fuaga, OT, New Orleans Saints (No. 14): Fuaga’s power and movement in the run game have translated well to the NFL. Although his pass sets and timing caused some issues, his overall potential is promising.
6. Dallas Turner, Edge, Minnesota Vikings (No. 17): Turner’s pass-rush disruption and coverage range make him an intriguing prospect. While he may need some time to fully adjust to the Vikings’ system, his potential impact is worth watching.
7. Terrion Arnold, CB, Detroit Lions (No. 24): Arnold’s versatility and fit within Aaron Glenn’s defense make him an ideal candidate for playing time. While his injury status remains uncertain, his impact in the secondary will be significant.
We’ll See:
1. Olu Fashanu, OT, New York Jets (No. 11): Fashanu’s pass protection and run-blocking skills have been impressive during the preseason. While he may not start immediately, his potential as a swing tackle and insurance policy is valuable.
2. Brock Bowers, TE, Las Vegas Raiders (No. 13): Bowers’ foot injury has limited his playing time, but his overall talent and versatility make him an exciting prospect. The Raiders are hopeful he will be ready for the regular season.
3. Chop Robinson, Edge, Miami Dolphins (No. 21): Robinson’s pass-rushing skills and explosiveness have been evident, but his ability to defend against the run and finish against more powerful tackles remains a question mark.
4. Jordan Morgan, G, Green Bay Packers (No. 25): Morgan’s missed preseason games have hindered his chances of starting at guard. However, his long-term potential and fit with the Packers’ offensive line make him a valuable addition.
5. Xavier Legette, WR, Carolina Panthers (No. 32): Legette’s foot injury has limited his playing time, and he is currently playing catchup in the depth chart. However, his potential as a downfield threat and his return to practice offer hope for his early contribution.
Backup Role:
1. Michael Penix Jr., QB, Atlanta Falcons (No. 8): Penix’s preseason performance showed both promise and room for improvement. While he may not start immediately, he is expected to sit for at least one season and develop his skills.
Injured:
1. J.J. McCarthy, QB, Minnesota Vikings (No. 10): McCarthy’s knee injury will sideline him for the season. However, his aggression and arm talent during the preseason showcased his potential.
2. Amarius Mims, OT, Cincinnati Bengals (No. 18): Mims’ pec injury has kept him out of action since mid-August. His return date remains uncertain, but his athleticism and potential make him an exciting prospect for the Bengals.
3. Troy Fautanu, OT, Pittsburgh Steelers (No. 20): Fautanu’s knee injury in the preseason opener has delayed his return. While his recovery progress is unknown, his potential impact on the field remains promising.
4. Darius Robinson, Edge, Arizona Cardinals (No. 27): Robinson’s calf injury has sidelined him for an indefinite period. Despite his absence, his potential as a starting player on the Cardinals’ defense remains intact.
5. Ricky Pearsall, WR, San Francisco 49ers (No. 31): Pearsall’s shoulder injury kept him out of all preseason games. However, the 49ers remain hopeful that he can contribute early in the season.
Conclusion:
The preseason has provided a glimpse into the potential of the 2024 first-round draft picks. While some rookies have already shown their readiness to make an impact, others still have areas to improve upon. The regular season will be the true test of their abilities, and fans can look forward to seeing how these rookies develop and contribute to their respective teams.