The 2024 NFL regular season has come to a close, and the rookie class has truly impressed, delivering standout performances week after week. From game-changing plays to consistent contributions, these newcomers have quickly made their presence felt across the league.
Washington Commanders' No. 2 pick, quarterback Jayden Daniels, enjoyed a stellar rookie season, finishing with 3,568 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. Daniels guided the Commanders to their first playoff win since 2025, leading them to a thrilling 23-20 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFC Wild Card round.
Jayden Daniels made history as the first rookie quarterback in NFL history to finish three games with zero turnovers and zero punts. Known as "Mister Make It Happen," Daniels has earned a reputation for delivering clutch victories in the final 30 seconds, often with the clock winding down. The game that truly turned the Commanders' season around was Daniels' incredible Hail Mary against the Bears on November 10, 2024, a moment that ignited the team's momentum and reshaped their path to the playoffs.
Jayden Daniels is poised to win Offensive Rookie of the Year (OROY) this season, and he's certainly earned it. With a remarkable 3,568 passing yards and 891 rushing yards, Daniels has proven why he's the front-runner for the award, showcasing his dynamic playmaking ability and leadership throughout the regular season.
Bo Nix had an outstanding rookie season for the Denver Broncos, leading all first-year quarterbacks in completions, passing yards, touchdown passes, and total touchdowns. He threw 29 touchdown passes, the second most by a rookie in NFL history, and became the only rookie quarterback to ever have multiple games with at least 300 passing yards, four touchdown passes, and a passer rating of at least 140. Nix also earned Player of the Week honors multiple times, joining an elite group of just four rookie quarterbacks to achieve this feat. His overall performance, which included completing 66.3% of his passes for 3,775 yards and 29 touchdowns, showcased his immense talent and poise.
In addition to his impressive passing stats, Nix proved to be a dual-threat quarterback, running the ball 92 times for 430 yards and four touchdowns, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. His 93.3 passer rating was a solid mark for a rookie, and only Peyton Manning has thrown more touchdown passes in a season in Broncos history. Nix’s remarkable debut season solidified him as one of the top young quarterbacks in the league, setting a high bar for future seasons with the Broncos.
The Raiders' 2024 first-round pick had an exceptional rookie season, establishing himself as one of the most dynamic tight ends in the league. He led all tight ends with 112 receptions, 1,194 receiving yards, and 596 yards after catch. His ability to make plays after the catch set him apart, showcasing his combination of speed, strength, and vision in the open field. These impressive numbers made him a standout performer for the Raiders offense, quickly becoming a reliable target in their passing game.
In addition to his standout season, he made history by recording the most receptions in a single season by a rookie in NFL history. He also became the first rookie tight end to reach over 1,000 receiving yards, setting the all-time record for receiving yards by a rookie tight end. His record-breaking performance solidified his place in NFL history and made him one of the most exciting young players to watch in the years to come.
As the 2024 NFL season concludes, the rookie class has undeniably showcased its immense talent, making an immediate impact on the league. From the clutch performances of Jayden Daniels to the record-breaking feats of Bo Nix and the dynamic play of the Raiders' first-round tight end, these newcomers have proven they belong at the highest level. Their impressive debuts signal a bright future for the NFL, with these young stars poised to shape the league for years to come. As the offseason begins, fans and analysts alike will be eagerly anticipating what these rising talents will achieve next.
Edited by: Naiya Dalce
Comentarios