As the 2024 NFL preseason draws to a close, the league's first-round rookies have provided early insights into their potential impact on the season ahead. With every snap, throw, and catch, these young talents have given fans and coaches a taste of what they could bring to their respective teams.
Quarterback Performances Under the Microscope
Among the quarterbacks, Caleb Williams showed promise, completing 50% of his throws and averaging 8.5 yards per attempt over 42 snaps. Though his completion percentage leaves room for improvement, his yards per attempt suggest he can stretch the field effectively.
Jayden Daniels arguably had the most efficient outing among the rookie quarterbacks, completing 12 of his 15 attempts for 123 yards without any turnovers. This level of precision and ball security is exactly what teams look for in a young quarterback.
Drake Maye's preseason concluded on a high note. After a slow start throwing for just 66 yards on 8 of 14 passing in the initial games, he finished strong with a 13 of 20 passing performance for 126 yards and a touchdown against the Commanders. This late surge could prove beneficial as he prepares for the regular season.
Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix mirrored each other’s performances, both completing 9 of 16 passes for 104 yards. While these numbers may not leap off the page, they provide a solid foundation to build upon.
Receivers Making Their Mark
In the wide receiver camp, Malik Nabers showcased his capabilities with four catches for 54 yards in his second preseason game. His performance indicates he could be a reliable target as the season progresses.
Rome Odunze made a notable impression with a 45-yard catch. While it was his only reception, it highlighted his potential as a deep threat.
Brian Thomas Jr. showed consistency, compiling three catches for a total of 93 yards across the preseason games. This steady performance might earn him more looks from his quarterback.
Xavier Worthy's preseason was a mixed bag; while he did score a touchdown, he also had a fumble. Coaches will hope to see more of the former and less of the latter as the season unfolds.
O-line Assessments
On the offensive line, Joe Alt displayed significant improvement in his pass protection during his second preseason game. For a rookie, such progress is a promising sign for his development.
Olu Fashanu had a rocky start, allowing pressure on his first professional pass-pro set but redeemed himself by showing effectiveness in run blocking. Balancing both aspects will be key for his growth.
J.C. Latham impressed with his balance and power in the run game, coupled with his suddenness in pass protection. His dual-threat capability is a valuable asset for any offensive line.
Graham Barton also drew attention with his effective run blocking, which will be crucial in helping his team establish a solid ground game.
Tyler Guyton contributed on special teams across two preseason matchups, displaying versatility and commitment, qualities that coaches highly value.
Defensive Standouts
On the defensive side, Laiatu Latu recorded a sack in just 13 pass-rushing snaps during Indianapolis's third game. That efficiency could make him one to watch as he gets more opportunities.
Byron Murphy and Dallas Turner each generated two pressures on 20 pass-rushing snaps, indicating they can disrupt opposing quarterbacks — a vital skill in today's pass-heavy NFL.
Conversely, Chop Robinson recorded no pressures across two games, highlighting an area needing improvement if he is to make an impact.
In the secondary, Quinyon Mitchell allowed only two catches for a mere eight yards, showcasing his shutdown capability. His ability to neutralize receivers will be a huge benefit to his defense.
Nate Wiggins delivered an eye-catching performance with three pass breakups in one drive, allowing no receptions on two targets in the final game. This lockdown performance could boost his stock moving forward.
Overall, the 2024 NFL preseason has provided a wealth of insights into the league's newest players. While some have immediately set themselves apart, others have shown areas for growth. As the regular season kicks off, these rookies will look to build on their preseason performances and leave a lasting impact on their teams and the league.