Rookie Breakout Potential in the 2024 NFL Season
The annual trend of rookies quickly making their mark in the NFL continues to rise. The 2023 rookie class notably includes standout players like Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, edge rusher Will Anderson Jr., Detroit Lions tight end Sam LaPorta, running back Jahmyr Gibbs, Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson, and Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua. This group of talented newcomers has already made a significant impact, yet there are still many young players awaiting their time to shine in the upcoming season.
With the 2024 season on the horizon, let’s highlight several second-year players who may be primed for breakout performances, provided they stay healthy.
Quarterback
Will Levis, Tennessee Titans (Round 2, No. 33)
While there are several candidates for breakout quarterback, such as Aidan O’Connell, who is competing with Gardner Minshew II for the starting position in Las Vegas, the standout choice is Levis. His evaluation coming out of Kentucky was complicated by a toe injury in 2022, but his downfield accuracy and confidence were much more apparent in his 2021 performance. During his nine games as a starter for the Titans, he demonstrated impressive numbers, with 21.5% of his completions exceeding 20 yards—slightly surpassing Stroud’s season average of 20.5%. With consistent and healthy reps, Levis is set to improve his accuracy across the field.
Running Back
Tyjae Spears, Tennessee Titans (Round 3, No. 81)
While Gibbs, Robinson, and De’Von Achane enjoyed stellar rookie seasons, Tyjae Spears is another name to watch. He rushed for 453 yards on 100 attempts and tied with Gibbs for second among rookies with 52 receptions for 385 yards and another touchdown. With the Titans in search of a new star to fill Derrick Henry’s shoes, Spears could emerge as a key player. Keep an eye on Chicago’s Roschon Johnson and Seattle’s Zach Charbonnet as well.
Wide Receiver
Tank Dell, Houston Texans (Round 3, No. 69)
Jayden Reed, Green Bay Packers (Round 2, No. 50)
Josh Downs, Indianapolis Colts (Round 3, No. 79)
A broken fibula limited Tank Dell to just 11 games last season, making it intriguing to include him in this list. Despite his small stature (5-foot-8, 165 pounds), Dell excelled with 2.22 yards per route, ranking third among rookies behind only Puka Nacua and Rashee Rice. His ability to perform well underneath and in contested situations (six contested catches last year) makes him a valuable asset.
Meanwhile, Jayden Reed contributed significantly to Jordan Love’s success with 64 catches for 793 yards and eight touchdowns. Josh Downs, another dynamic receiver, was a favorite target for quarterback Anthony Richardson before his injury. These players, along with Jaxon Smith-Njigba from Seattle, who missed significant time in college, are poised to make an impact this season.
Tight End
Luke Musgrave, Green Bay Packers (Round 2, No. 42)
Tucker Kraft, Green Bay Packers (Round 3, No. 78)
The tight end class of 2023 was anticipated to be historic, with standout performances from players like Sam LaPorta, who set a rookie receptions record. Both Musgrave and Kraft, teammates on the Packers, are expected to shine in 2024. Musgrave had 34 catches for 352 yards and a touchdown in an injury-shortened season, while Kraft had similar production, showcasing the potential for both players to thrive in the upcoming season.
Offensive Line
Sidy Sow, New England Patriots (Round 4, No. 117)
Darnell Wright, Chicago Bears (Round 1, No. 10)
Joe Tippmann, New York Jets (Round 2, No. 43)
Matthew Bergeron, Atlanta Falcons (Round 2, No. 38)
Peter Skoronski, Tennessee Titans (Round 1, No. 11)
Sidy Sow emerged as a versatile and athletic option along the offensive line for the Patriots after a solid rookie campaign with 13 starts. Darnell Wright and Joe Tippmann showed promise, especially in the run game, while Bergeron gained valuable experience in his first season. Peter Skoronski, a well-regarded college tackle, is expected to bounce back and contribute effectively to the Titans’ improved offensive line.
Defensive Line
Tuli Tuipulotu, Los Angeles Chargers (Round 2, No. 54)
Keeanu Benton, Pittsburgh Steelers (Round 2, No. 49)
Calijah Kancey, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Round 1, No. 19)
Karl Brooks, Green Bay Packers (Round 6, No. 179)
Tuli Tuipulotu had an impressive rookie season, and with the Chargers’ coaching staff looking to expand his role, he could become a significant player in their defense. Keeanu Benton has slimmed down and is expected to play a larger part after a productive rookie year. If Calijah Kancey can maintain his health and improve his run discipline, he could anchor the Buccaneers’ defensive line. Lastly, Karl Brooks showcased his abilities in a rotational role and could become a standout player for the Packers.
Linebacker
Jack Campbell, Detroit Lions (Round 1, No. 18)
SirVocea Dennis, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Round 5, No. 153)
Otis Reese IV, Tennessee Titans (UDFA)
Jack Campbell’s rookie season took an unexpected turn when he was asked to transition to an edge role temporarily. However, his strong performance in the latter part of the season highlighted his capabilities. SirVocea Dennis is set for increased playing time following Devin White’s departure, and Otis Reese, an impressive undrafted free agent, is also a player to watch as he looks to secure a significant role in Tennessee.
Defensive Back
Christian Gonzalez, New England Patriots (Round 1, No. 17)
Brian Branch, Detroit Lions (Round 2, No. 45)
Jordan Battle, Cincinnati Bengals (Round 3, No. 95)
Tyrique Stevenson, Chicago Bears (Round 2, No. 56)
Christian Gonzalez made a strong impression early in his rookie season before suffering a shoulder injury. His impressive athleticism positions him as a potential star in the Patriots’ defense. Brian Branch is expected to expand his role significantly in 2024, with the Lions optimistic about his future. Jordan Battle’s potential has also caught the attention of the Bengals, while Tyrique Stevenson displayed flashes of brilliance in his first season and aims to build on that success.
(Top photos of Will Levis, left, and Keeanu Benton: Matthew Maxey, Mark Alberti / Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
