NFL Rookie Report 2024: Which First-Year Players Are Dominating Early?

The NFL Rookie Report 2024 season has introduced an electrifying class of rookies who are already making seismic impacts on their teams. While every draft class brings hope, this year’s group is shattering expectations at an unprecedented rate. In this 1,800+ word deep dive, we analyze the standout rookie performances through Week 4, examine why they’re succeeding, and project their long-term fantasy and real-life value.

The Historic 2024 Rookie Class: By the Numbers

Before we highlight individual standouts, let’s examine why this class is special:

This data shows the 2024 class isn’t just good—it’s historically productive early.

Offensive Rookie Standouts

1. Caleb Williams (QB, Chicago Bears)

Stats Through Week 4:

• 1,203 passing yards (7th in NFL)

• 9 TDs/2 INTs (102.1 passer rating)

• 184 rushing yards, 2 TDs

Why He’s Dominating:
Williams’ transition to the NFL has been seamless thanks to:

• Elite pocket mobility (only 5 sacks taken)

• Veteran-like pre-snap adjustments

• Perfect chemistry with DJ Moore (3 TDs together)

 For more Bears coverage, visit NFL Newsz

2. Malik Nabers (WR, New York Giants)

Stats Through Week 4:

• 32 receptions (3rd in NFL)

• 412 yards (5th in NFL)

• 3 TDs

Breakdown:
Despite Daniel Jones’ struggles, Nabers is thriving:

• 87% catch rate on contested targets

• Running 68% of routes from the slot (mismatch creator)

• On pace for 136 catches (would smash rookie record)

Defensive Rookie Phenoms

1. Dallas Turner (EDGE, Minnesota Vikings)

Stats Through Week 4:

• 5.5 sacks (T-2nd in NFL)

• 11 QB hits (1st among rookies)

• 2 forced fumbles

Scouting Report:
Turner’s explosive first step reminds scouts of:

• Young Von Miller’s bend

• Micah Parsons’ closing speed

• Already drawing double teams in Week 4

2. Cooper DeJean (CB, Philadelphia Eagles)

Stats Through Week 4:

• 3 INTs (leads NFL)

• 6 pass breakups

• 91.3 coverage grade (PFF)

Why He’s Special:
The Iowa product is:

• Allowing just 48% completion when targeted

• Playing 92% of defensive snaps

• Returning punts (14.8 avg yard return)

 Get more NFL rookie analysis at NFL Newsz

Biggest Surprises (Late-Round Gems)

1. Braelon Allen (RB, New York Jets – 4th Round)

Stats:

• 312 rushing yards (5.1 YPC)

• 3 total TDs

• 87% snap share since Week 2

Why He’s Outperforming:

• 6’2″, 245lb frame wearing down defenses

• Excellent pass protector (0 sacks allowed)

• Stole goal-line work from veteran RBs

2. Javon Baker (WR, New England Patriots – 5th Round)

Stats:

• 18 catches, 284 yards

• 2 TDs (including 57-yard bomb)

• 15.8 yards per reception

Scouting Notes:

• Elite body control on sideline catches

• Already the Pats’ WR1 over veteran additions

• Drake Maye’s most trusted target

Disappointments (Early-Round Struggles)

1. J.J. McCarthy (QB, Minnesota Vikings)

Stats:

• 54% completion percentage

• 3 TDs/5 INTs

• 68.3 passer rating

What’s Wrong:

• Struggling with NFL speed (2.8 second time to throw)

• Forced into action after Darnold injury

• Missing easy throws (9% off-target rate)

2. Troy Franklin (WR, Denver Broncos)

Stats:

• 11 catches, 127 yards

• 0 TDs

• 53% snap share

Concerns:

• Struggling vs press coverage

• Drops (3 already)

• Falling behind undrafted free agents

Fantasy Football Impact

Must-Start Rookies (Rest of Season)

1. Caleb Williams (QB1)

2. Malik Nabers (WR1)

3. Brock Bowers (TE1)

4. Braelon Allen (RB2)

5. Jonathon Brooks (Flex)

6. Keon Coleman (WR3 with upside)

Sell-High Candidates

• Jayden Daniels (TD regression coming)

• Xavier Worthy (target share decreasing)

• Trey Benson (James Conner returning soon)

Historical Comparison: Best Rookie Classes

How 2024 compares to legendary groups:

*Career Approximate Value (Pro Football Reference metric)

Read More: Thursday Night Football 2024: Ratings, Reactions & Key Takeaways Through Week 5

Final Verdict: A Generation-Defining Class

The NFL Rookie Report 2024 aren’t just contributing—they’re carrying franchises. From Caleb Williams’ MVP-caliber start to Cooper DeJean’s defensive dominance, this class has:

• 5 future Pro Bowlers (minimum)

• 2-3 Hall of Fame trajectories

• The deepest WR group in a decade

 Follow the rookie race at NFL Newsz