Four rookies who have made an impression in their first NFL season
As the NFL regular season hurtles towards its conclusion, the league’s latest crop of rookies has already delivered plenty of moments to savor.
Each year, the arrival of fresh talent breathes new life into the competition, with young players showcasing their skills on the grandest stage.
From electrifying performances on offence to game-changing defensive contributions, these first-year standouts have proven they belong in the NFL.
In this piece, we highlight four rookies who have made an unforgettable impact during their debut season, capturing the attention of fans and pundits alike.
Whether they’re breaking records or simply exceeding expectations with those who regularly place an NFL bet, these players have cemented their status as ones to watch for years to come.
Jayden Daniels – Washington Commanders
Washington Commanders selected Jayden Daniels as the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, and their decision to side with the LSU quarterback has paid off drastically.
The 23-year-old, who won the 2023 Heisman Trophy, has had an incredible first season in the NFL—throwing over 3,000 yards for 17 passing touchdowns.
Daniels has helped turn around their fortunes massively from their 4-13 campaign last year, with a current record of 9-5, and they could reach the playoffs for the first time since 2020.
Bo Nix – Denver Broncos
Oregon quarterback Bo Nix went to the Denver Broncos as the 12th overall draft pick, and he has helped revitalise the Colorado franchise somewhat after things went pretty stalewith Russell Wilson under center for a couple of seasons.
At the time of writing, the 24-year-old has thrown over 2,900 yards for 20 touchdowns, including four in a single game against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 11, helping the Broncos to a 9-5 record.
Currently second in the AFC West with three straight wins, Nix could guide Denver back to the playoffs for the first time since 2015.
Brock Bowers – Las Vegas Raiders
From the Broncos to their AFC West rivals, the Las Vegas Raiders missed out on their quarterback targets in the 2024 draft and, instead, opted to bolster their offensive line with tight end Brock Bowers.
The 13th overall pick out of Georgia, the 22-year-old has been one of the best performers in his position across the entire NFL, with over 900 yards for 87 receptions and four touchdowns despite the Raiders being arguably the worst team in the sport this season.
With Las Vegas likely to get one of the lucrative early picks in 2025, as they’re currently projected for No.1, the Sin City franchise will be eager to recruit a quarterback that can build a relationship with Bowers similar to Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski or Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.
Brian Thomas Jr. – Jacksonville Jaguars
Another side that has been disappointing this season, the Jacksonville Jaguars, are in contention with the Raiders for that No.1 draft pick with a dismal record of 3-11 at the time of writing.
However, rookie wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr., who was selected 23rd by Jacksonville from LSU in the draft, has been a signing light for the Florida franchise this season.
Thomas’ two touchdowns in the Jags’ recent win over the New York Jets saw him break the franchise’s record for TD catches with eight, while he’s travelled over 950 yards for 64 receptions.
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