NFL Rookie Race Heats Up: Jayden Daniels vs. Malik Nabers – Who’s the REAL No. 1 Star of 2024?

2024 NFL Draft: Early Rookie Rankings Reveal Potential Game-Changers

The 2024 NFL Draft is already making waves, hinting at a generation of players who could leave a lasting mark on the league. Though celebrated for its record-setting six quarterbacks taken in the first dozen picks, it’s the wide receivers who are quickly proving to be just as influential, with a remarkable 16 selected within the first 100 slots. After some standout performances in Week 3, here’s a look at the top rookies shaking things up:

1. WR Malik Nabers, New York Giants
Nabers has stormed onto the scene, becoming the youngest player ever to catch two touchdown passes in a game. His 23 receptions for 271 yards lead all rookies, and his three touchdown grabs are tied for most in the league. Defenses are struggling to contain him, even though he’s the Giants’ only consistent offensive weapon. Nabers is living up to the pre-draft hype, drawing comparisons to former Giants star Odell Beckham Jr.

2. QB Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders
Daniels is turning heads with his incredible 80.3% completion rate, the highest in the league. He’s led the Commanders to a two-game win streak and looks like the franchise quarterback Washington has been searching for. With 664 passing yards, 171 rushing yards, and five total touchdowns, Daniels is outshining his fellow rookie quarterbacks and providing hope for a long-suffering fanbase.

3. WR Marvin Harrison Jr., Arizona Cardinals
Harrison is already making a case for the best wide receiver in this draft class. His three touchdown catches tie him with Nabers, and his 19.8 yards per reception lead the league among players with at least 10 catches. As the Cardinals begin to utilize him more, expect Harrison to rise even higher in these rankings.

4. OT Taliese Fuaga, New Orleans Saints
Fuaga has seamlessly transitioned to the NFL, anchoring the Saints’ offensive line at left tackle. He hasn’t allowed a single hit on quarterback Derek Carr, helping to solidify a line that was previously a weak spot.

5. TE Brock Bowers, Las Vegas Raiders
Bowers has been a bright spot for a struggling Raiders offense, showing why he was considered a top talent despite sliding to the 13th pick. With 18 catches for 197 yards, he’s quickly becoming a go-to target alongside veteran Davante Adams.

6. RB Braelon Allen, New York Jets
Allen’s versatility is shining through, even as a backup to Breece Hall. His 5.6 yards per touch are a testament to his potential as a future star in the Jets’ backfield.

7. CB Dru Phillips, New York Giants
While Nabers steals the spotlight, Phillips has been quietly excelling on defense. His 17 tackles and knack for making big plays are making him a key piece in the Giants’ secondary.

8. RB Bucky Irving, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Irving is making a strong case to overtake Rachaad White as the Bucs’ lead back. His explosive 6.1 yards per touch have given the offense a much-needed spark.

9. OT Joe Alt, Los Angeles Chargers
Alt was off to a strong start before a sprained MCL sidelined him. His solid play at right tackle helped the Chargers’ offense flourish in the early weeks.

10. WR Brian Thomas Jr., Jacksonville Jaguars
Despite the Jaguars’ struggles, Thomas has been a standout, leading the team in receptions and yards. He’ll be a crucial part of the offense as Jacksonville tries to turn its season around.

11. OLB Jared Verse, Los Angeles Rams
Verse is making an impact on a revamped Rams defense. His ability to set the edge and create pressure has been a bright spot for a team in transition.

12. K Will Reichard, Minnesota Vikings
Reichard has been perfect in his debut season, providing stability for the Vikings’ special teams. His 58-yard field goal is one of the highlights of his impressive start.

As the season unfolds, these rookies are set to play pivotal roles in their teams’ fortunes and, potentially, in reshaping the league for years to come.