The 2024 NFL draft brought an infusion of young talent, but not all rookie classes are created equal. While some teams struck gold with instant-impact stars, others are still waiting to reap the rewards of their picks. After an exciting debut campaign, it’s time to evaluate how each team’s first-year players stacked up.
Ranking Methodology
To rank the rookie classes, we started with Sports Info Solutions’ total points metric, which uses detailed game charting to evaluate each player’s contributions. Key factors included games started, snap counts, and statistical production. We then adjusted the rankings to account for positional value and performance in advanced metrics like ESPN’s tracking data and FTN Network’s DVOA ratings.
The Elite: Teams #1-10
Leading the pack are the Rams and Commanders, whose rookies made massive impacts on both sides of the ball. The Rams unearthed multiple defensive gems, including DROY candidate Jared Verse, while the Commanders struck gold with QB Jayden Daniels. The Chargers, Bucs, Giants, and 49ers also got stellar production from their high picks.
The Solid Starters: Teams #11-20
In the middle of the pack, we find teams like the Broncos and Patriots who landed franchise QBs in Bo Nix and Drake Maye. The Eagles and Cowboys bolstered already talented rosters with impact defenders, while the Bills and Bengals had several role players emerge.
Room for Improvement: Teams #21-32
Bringing up the rear are teams whose rookies showed promise but didn’t quite live up to the hype. The Cardinals and Saints got solid but unspectacular play from their first-rounders, while injuries hampered early returns for the Packers and Jets. The Vikings come in last after losing top QB pick J.J. McCarthy to injury in preseason.
“It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. These rankings could look very different a year or two from now as these young players develop.”
NFL analyst Aaron Schatz on the long-term trajectory of the 2024 rookie class
While this year’s rookie crop had no shortage of instant stars, true judgment will come with time. Development isn’t always linear, and one lackluster season doesn’t necessarily spell doom. Still, it’s clear some teams are already reaping major rewards from their 2024 haul, while others will have to hope for more year-two growth. The future of the NFL is bright, and this class will help shape the league for years to come.
