The anticipation surrounding the NFL Draft is palpable every year, as football enthusiasts eagerly await the arrival of new talent that could shape the future of their favorite teams. For dynasty fantasy football managers, the draft is a pivotal moment, as it offers an opportunity to secure promising rookies who can become cornerstone pieces of their rosters for years to come. In this article, we delve into 24 of the top rookies in this year’s class and analyze their potential fantasy impact. Whether you're participating in a SuperFlex league or a traditional dynasty format, these rankings aim to guide your rookie draft strategies and help you build a competitive and sustainable dynasty roster.
2024 NFL Ranks (Post Draft)
#1 - Caleb Williams, QB, USC
Pre-Draft: Caleb Williams is undeniably the premier quarterback choice in most rookie drafts, standing out with his elite passing skills that encompass precision, velocity, and decision-making prowess. His ability to read defenses, make quick and accurate throws, and command the offense sets him apart as a potential franchise quarterback who could lead a team to sustained success for years to come. In both 1QB leagues and SuperFlex, Williams projects as the top QB in this year’s class.
Post-Draft: The Bears' selection of Williams marks a bold move for a quarterback with a strong arm and elite playmaking abilities reminiscent of Patrick Mahomes. With the potential to reach Mahomes' level given the right coaching and support, Williams steps into a promising situation with an outstanding receiving corps in Chicago. This pick, solidified by the trade of Justin Fields, positions Williams as the clear 1.01 choice in Superflex Dynasty drafts and a top consideration in Single QB formats, setting him up as an immediate starter with high dynasty value and low-end QB1 potential.
#2 - Malik Nabers, WR, LSU
Pre-Draft: Malik Nabers, the LSU wide receiver, boasts polished route-running skills, exceptional hands, and a penchant for big plays, making him a highly sought-after prospect in rookie drafts. Moreover, certain dynasty draft analysts consider him to be a superior player compared to fellow wideout Marvin Harrison Jr., citing Nabers' versatility, physicality, and ability to create separation as key factors that set him apart. Either way, Nabers will and should be one of the top WR’s taken in both the NFL draft and Rookie drafts. He has potential to be the next superstar.
Post-Draft: The Giants made a significant move by drafting LSU standout Malik Nabers at No. 6 overall, providing a much-needed boost to their skill positions. Nabers, known for his explosiveness and production at LSU, brings elite athleticism with sub-4.4 speed, a 42-inch vertical, and impressive strength. His versatility as a dynamic playmaker, capable of lining up outside or in the slot, makes him a potential game-changer for the Giants' offense. Nabers' skill set, reminiscent of a true No. 1 receiver, fills a void in their lineup and presents a strong case for being the top pass-catching option for Daniel Jones. This selection not only bolsters their receiving corps but also positions Nabers as a top-three pick in dynasty rookie drafts, showcasing the Giants' commitment to adding impact players to their roster.
#3 - Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
Pre-Draft: Standing tall at 6-3 and weighing 212 pounds, Rome Odunze, the Washington receiver, was an absolute force in college. He showcased his dominance with an impressive stat line of 92 receptions for 1,640 yards and 13 touchdowns during his senior year, establishing himself as one of the top players in the nation throughout the season. With his exceptional performance, Odunze is a strong contender for a top-ten selection in the upcoming NFL Draft and is poised to be one of the top receivers off the board in dynasty drafts.
Post-Draft: Odunze's landing in Chicago raised eyebrows among Dynasty managers hoping for a more target-rich environment. However, joining a stacked Bears receiving corps alongside D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, and Cole Kmet presents a challenge for targets. Despite the competition, Odunze's talent, size, and track record as a fantasy point leader make him a valuable asset, especially paired with rising star Caleb Williams. Comparisons to CeeDee Lamb's situation in Dallas highlight the potential for Odunze to emerge as a top receiver despite initial challenges. While target competition may cause hesitation, passing up on a talent like Odunze would be a mistake, given his draft capital and potential to become a WR1. The Bears' revamped passing offense, led by coordinator Shane Waldron, sets the stage for Odunze's development, making him a top-five rookie pick and a promising dynasty asset despite early uncertainties.
#4 - Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Ohio State
Pre-Draft: Marvin Harrison Jr. stands out as a bit of a divisive wide receiver prospect in this draft class. With his impressive attributes, talent, and football pedigree, he possesses the potential to become a WR1 in dynasty leagues sooner rather than later. However, despite the lofty expectations and his impressive college performance, some critics argue that he may be slightly overrated, with a few other players potentially edging him out in terms of overall talent. That said, Harrison still projects to be a top WR taken in this year’s NFL Draft, and is a consensus top-3 pick in rookie drafts at the WR position.
Post-Draft: Harrison Jr.'s selection by the Arizona Cardinals marks a significant milestone as the highest-drafted WR since Amari Cooper in 2015. With his longstanding reputation as a "can't miss" prospect from Ohio State, Harrison Jr. lands in an ideal situation with an offense ripe for his talents. Paired with Kyler Murray at QB and joining rising star TE Trey McBride, Harrison Jr. steps into a dynamic offense capable of providing ample opportunities, including a potential 140+ targets and a high volume in the red zone. The precedent set by DeAndre Hopkins' WR4 finish in 2020 highlights the potential for Harrison Jr. to make an immediate impact, with the ability to rival past rookie sensations like Justin Jefferson and Ja'Marr Chase. His combination of size, speed, and skill set positions him as a dominant force and a top target in dynasty rookie drafts, making him a strong contender for WR1 overall in fantasy football.
#5 - Brock Bowers, TE, Georgia
Pre-Draft: Brock Bowers has the potential to be a game-changer in dynasty leagues, drawing comparisons to elite tight ends like Travis Kelce and TJ Hockenson. He is widely regarded as the top tight end prospect in this class and is even already considered by some as one of the best tight ends of all time. Nevertheless, the accuracy of these projections hinges on his landing spot, which will heavily influence his value in dynasty formats.
Post-Draft: Bowers' selection in the top 15 isn't unfounded given his exceptional athletic abilities as a mismatch-creating tight end, although the Raiders' choice may seem indulgent with existing talents like Michael Mayer and Harrison Bryant. While Tom Telesco prioritized the best available player, the Raiders' offensive line and secondary needs may have made Bowers less crucial to their immediate plans. Despite slipping slightly in the draft due to quarterback selections, he landed with the Raiders at 13th overall, presenting an intriguing opportunity despite competition in the tight end position. While a clearer path to TE1 status might have boosted his draft stock, Bowers remains an immensely talented prospect and a valuable asset in round one of rookie drafts.
#6 - Xavier Worthy, WR: Texas
Pre-Draft: Xavier Worthy's game is all about speed. Widely considered a fringe first-round prospect, his impressive combine performance only solidified his standing. With minimal flaws in his game, NFL teams are eager to secure a speedster who can consistently stretch the field. While he has the potential to emerge as a sleeper at the wide receiver position, there's also the risk of him not meeting expectations. Most experts view him as a mid to late 1st round dynasty rookie draft selection.
Post-Draft: Xavier Worthy's landing with the Kansas City Chiefs is considered the perfect scenario for any player in this draft class. As the fastest player in NFL Combine history, Worthy now teams up with Patrick Mahomes, creating a dynamic pairing reminiscent of Mahomes' connection with Tyreek Hill. This combination is viewed as a dream come true in fantasy football circles. Despite Rashee Rice's off-field issues potentially leading to Worthy shouldering a heavier workload early on, his dynamic abilities showcased at Texas, where he ranked among the top performers in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns, hint at immense potential. While there's no guarantee of stardom, the chance of success rises significantly with this landing spot. The Chiefs' aggressive moves, including signing Marquise "Hollywood" Brown, indicate their commitment to upgrading their deep-ball threats. Worthy's exceptional speed and playmaking skills make him a lottery ticket in fantasy, although his draft position may be slightly inflated given the Chiefs' evolving offensive dynamics.Worthy remains a solid mid to late 1st round pick in traditional formats and a late 1st rounder in SuperFlex.
#7 - Brian Thomas, WR, LSU
Pre-Draft: Although LSU teammate Malik Nabers has garnered more attention, LSU receiver Brian Thomas still stands out with his potential. Projected to be a first-round pick in the NFL draft, Thomas holds promise for immediate impact, especially if he lands with a team boasting a seasoned quarterback and a demand for playmaking ability. Consequently, many consider him a reliable choice for a late first-round selection in rookie drafts, offering a blend of talent and safety for fantasy managers.
Post-Draft: The Jaguars secured Brian Thomas Jr. despite trading back in the draft, solidifying their wide receiver corps. With additions like Gabriel Davis in free agency, Jacksonville has bolstered Trevor Lawrence's supporting cast significantly. Thomas Jr., who led the nation in TD receptions last season at LSU, brings size, speed, and athleticism, although some critique his route diversity. However, he showcased immense potential at the NFL Combine with impressive physical attributes and YAC ability. Thomas Jr. steps into a potential red zone target role, previously held by Ridley, alongside Christian Kirk, Davis, and Evan Engram. While this landing spot may cap his target ceiling slightly, it remains a massive win for his Dynasty value, positioning him as a potential first-round pick in rookie drafts. His addition greatly benefits Lawrence, providing a much-needed perimeter replacement for Ridley and enhancing Lawrence's offensive arsenal as he aims to rebound from a subpar season. Thomas Jr. has a promising outlook and should be a top consideration in rookie drafts, solidifying his place among the top prospects in this year's class.
#8 - Adonai Mitchell, WR, Texas
Pre-Draft: At this year's NFL combine, Texas receiver Adonai Mitchell showcased his impressive athleticism with a blazing 40-yard dash time of 4.34 seconds. Coupled with a remarkable 39.5-inch vertical leap and an 11-foot-4 broad jump, Mitchell's performance caught the attention of scouts and analysts alike. Notably, he joined an exclusive group of wide receivers standing at 6-2 or taller who have run a 4.34-second 40-yard dash or better, a feat achieved by only five players since 2003. With such remarkable physical attributes, Mitchell is poised to be a compelling option for dynasty managers, likely garnering attention towards the end of the first round in rookie drafts. Of course, his fantasy value will be further amplified by landing in a favorable situation with ample opportunities to showcase his talents on the field.
Post-Draft: Mitchell, expected to go earlier, landed with the Colts at 52nd overall, joining a target competition behind Michael Pittman alongside players like Josh Downs and Alec Pierce. His value in dynasty leagues will depend on the progress of quarterback Anthony Richardson and his role in the offense. Likely slipping to round two in rookie drafts, Mitchell fills a need for the Colts as a downfield threat to complement Pittman and provide a reliable target over time.
#9 - Ladd McConkey, WR, Georgia
Pre-Draft: After an impressive showing at the NFL Scouting Combine, Georgia wide receiver Ladd McConkey has been drawing comparisons to Puka Nacua, igniting excitement and speculation among analysts and fans alike. McConkey's blazing speed was evident as he clocked a 4.39 in the 40-yard dash and showcased impressive skills across various drills, significantly enhancing his draft prospects. McConkey is projected to be an early 2nd round or possibly late 1st round rookie draft pick, depending on league format.
Post-Draft: The Chargers fill a significant void in their receiving corps following the departures of Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. They acquire a receiver reminiscent of Jim Harbaugh's style - an adept route-runner and blocker, much like Allen. McConkey's selection early in the second round by the receiver-thirsty Chargers positions him as a key target for Justin Herbert. With precise routes and quickness, McConkey is poised for early and frequent involvement in the offense. His impressive rise post-NFL Draft Combine and favorable landing spot suggest he'll be a valuable asset, likely falling around the first-to-second round turn in rookie drafts.
#10 - Troy Franklin, WR, Oregon
Pre-Draft: Despite a solid performance at the NFL Draft Combine, where he ranked sixth among wide receivers based on NFL Next Gen Stats, Oregon wideout Troy Franklin faced scrutiny regarding his short-area burst, a concern that lingered prior to the event. Unfortunately, his 1.61-second 10-yard split was the slowest among receivers, potentially shedding light on the previously raised questions. While this development may be exaggerated, it remains a significant drawback for Franklin. Previously in contention as the fourth receiver to be selected, it appears that others may have surpassed him in the rankings. As it stands, Franklin is now projected as a second-round pick in rookie drafts.
Post-Draft: After selecting his college QB at Oregon in Bo Nix, the Denver Broncos made a trade to move up in Round 4 to select Franklin. While Franklin’s selection in Round 4 of the NFL draft isn’t necessarily a death sentence to his fantasy value (Amon Ra St. Brown was drafted in Round 4), his stock diminishes significantly and he faces an uphill battle to fantasy relevancy. The one potential caveat to this that could make him a bit of a sleeper with upside is the fact that he will probably be the WR#3 in Denver heading into his rookie year and already has a solid connection with his college QB in Nix, who will probably start sooner rather than later. With all of this in mind, Franklin can be considered as a late 2nd round pick in Super Flex drafts and a mid to late 2nd in traditional leagues.
#11 - Trey Benson, RB, Florida State
Pre-Draft: Trey Benson showcased a strong overall performance at the NFL Scouting Combine, leaving a positive impression on scouts and analysts alike. With no clear-cut standout running back in this year's draft class, Benson has emerged as a top contender to be the first running back selected in the NFL Draft. While comprehensive evaluations are still underway, Benson's blend of talent and potential positions him as a formidable prospect, deserving of consideration alongside the elite receivers in the first round of rookie drafts, depending on league format.
Post-Draft: Benson was selected 66th overall, finding a solid landing spot with the Cardinals. Initially, he'll likely complement James Conner in the backfield, but Conner's injury history and age suggest Benson could secure a starting role sooner than expected. While his full potential may take a year or two to materialize, Benson presents as a strong pick around the first-to-second round turn in all rookie drafts. Despite the Cardinals' need for a change of pace, Benson's powerful running style, though lacking consistent explosiveness, fills a crucial role in their backfield setup.
#12 - Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
Pre-Draft: Following his impressive season where he won the Heisman Trophy and showcased his dominance in the SEC, LSU QB Jayden Daniels is expected to rapidly ascend in draft rankings. While there are valid concerns about his passing versus running abilities (with many favoring his skills as a runner), there's no denying his dynamic talent. In upcoming 2QB/Superflex drafts, he's likely to be a strong contender for an early pick and a probable late first or early second rounder in other formats as well. Considered a high-risk, high-reward prospect, Daniels will draw comparisons to Anthony Richardson and face heightened expectations as he enters the league.
Post-Draft: The Commanders opted for Jayden Daniels over Drake Maye, valuing Daniels' dual-threat potential akin to Lamar Jackson's style, which aligns with their new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury's strengths. With a high athletic ceiling like fellow Heisman winner Caleb Williams, Daniels became the face of Washington's franchise with the second overall pick, banking on his impressive performance at LSU. While his small frame raises concerns, his sky-high potential could lead to him becoming a top pick in Superflex rookie drafts and an early second-rounder in conventional drafts. The comparisons to Lamar Jackson set a high bar, with Daniels being the first Heisman Trophy winner to join Washington since Robert Griffin III, sparking hopes for a similar impact in revitalizing the team's fortunes.
#13 - Jonathan Brooks, RB, Texas
Pre-Draft: Jonathan Brooks, the Texas running back, put on an impressive display at the NFL Combine. If not for a significant knee injury towards the end of the season, Brooks would likely have been considered a lock for the second round of the NFL draft. His proficiency across all facets of the game sets him apart, making him potentially the standout in this running back class. As a result, he could be viewed as a sleeper pick in the second round of most dynasty rookie drafts.
Post-Draft: The Panthers' decision to draft Brooks early in the second round is raising eyebrows given their other pressing needs and Brooks' recent ACL injury. While Brooks represents an upgrade over Miles Sanders and Chuba Hubbard, trading up for him seems unnecessary. Nonetheless, it's a promising landing spot for Brooks, showcasing his potential as a top-tier NFL running back once he recovers. Dynasty managers will need patience as he rehabilitates, likely becoming a late first-round rookie pick with the Panthers signaling their intention to feature him prominently in their running game, potentially impacting the roles of both Sanders and Hubbard.
#14 - Keon Coleman, WR, Florida State
Pre-Draft: At this year's NFL Draft Scouting Combine, Florida State wide receiver Keon Coleman posted a 4.61-second 40-yard dash time. Coleman boasts favorable attributes such as good height and a track record of production, indicating his potential as a solid prospect. Despite not possessing elite speed, Coleman's ability to contribute should not be underestimated. He is projected to be selected in the late first round or early second round of the NFL Draft and will likely garner early consideration in rookie formats as well.
Post-Draft: Coleman, a physically imposing receiver with solid technique but room to grow in his deep threat and playmaking abilities, has found an ideal fit with the Buffalo Bills as their new outside No. 1 target for Josh Allen following the departure of Stefon Diggs. Despite missing out on a first-round selection, Coleman's landing with the Bills at the start of the second round is a perfect outcome, given Allen's prowess and the team's need for offensive firepower. While Coleman still needs development, his draft position ensures he'll be a first-round pick in most rookie drafts due to his promising situation with the Bills.
#15 - Drake Maye, QB: UNC
Pre-Draft: QB Drake Maye is poised to be a quarterback generating significant speculation. Despite not replicating the same level of college dominance as last season, Maye is viewed as one of the safer picks in the upcoming NFL draft due to his perceived high floor. If a team is convinced of his considerable potential, he could easily be a top-3 selection. To that end, while it may require some convincing to place him in the top-3 of a Super-flex draft, it remains within the realm of possibilities.
Post-Draft: The Patriots, amid various pre-draft rumors, ultimately went as expected by selecting Maye, providing New England with optimism akin to Tom Brady's era. Despite not having elite skill position players around him, Maye's rushing ability adds to his fantasy value. Similar to Josh Allen, Maye has areas to improve upon but boasts impressive physical tools, setting him up as a potential immediate starter post-Belichick era. However, challenges loom with a roster lacking top-tier talent, potentially exposing Maye to early adversity. Despite this, he remains a solid early 1st round pick in Superflex and a late 1st in conventional formats.
#16 - Jaylen Wright, RB, Tennessee
Pre-Draft: Jaylen Wright delivered a strong showing at this year's NFL Draft Combine, as he showcased his explosive athleticism with an impressive 11-foot-2 broad jump and a 38-inch vertical leap, followed by a lightning-fast 4.38-second 40-yard dash. After leading the nation in yards per carry, Wright substantiated his on-field prowess with a standout performance at the combine. Despite concerns about his size, Wright appears to be a dynamic playmaker with the ability to break big plays. His landing spot in the NFL Draft will be closely monitored, and his impressive combine display could elevate his draft stock.If it does, it elevates his dynasty draft capital as well.
Post-Draft: Dynasty managers had high hopes for Wright to land in a starting role, possibly in Dallas, but he ended up with Miami in the fourth round. While Miami favors athletic players like Wright, he's currently set to be a gadget player behind Raheem Mostert and De'Von Achane. Despite his explosive potential, Wright's immediate prospects are dim due to the crowded depth chart. This situation likely drops his rookie draft stock to the late second or early third round. With Miami prioritizing speed in their offense, Wright's addition also may spell trouble for Mostert, potentially pushing him further down the depth chart and reducing his workload.
#17 - Ricky Pearsall, WR, Florida
Pre-Draft: Ricky Pearsall is steadily climbing up the ranks in terms of rookie draft stock. Standing at 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 189 pounds, Pearsall impressed with a remarkable 42-inch vertical leap and a swift 4.41-second 40-yard dash, catching the attention of scouts and analysts. Despite a solid performance last year with 65 receptions for 965 yards and 4 touchdowns, Pearsall's impressive metrics hint at untapped potential at the next level. Following a commendable showing at the Senior Bowl and an outstanding performance at the combine, Pearsall is making significant strides in most rookie rankings. Ensure he's on your radar for potential mid-round selections in upcoming rookie drafts.
Post-Draft: Pearsall, a standout performer during the NFL Combine with impressive athleticism including a 42-inch vertical leap and a 4.41 40-yard dash, has seen a rise in his draft stock this offseason. Despite initial projections placing him in the second round, he lands with the San Francisco 49ers, known for drafting highly athletic wide receivers like Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. With rumors swirling about potential trades involving those two, Pearsall's role in the offense remains uncertain but promising, especially considering his natural route-running skills and big-play ability. Although the 49ers' decision to select Pearsall in the late first round may seem puzzling given the available talent, it indicates a positive trajectory for him, particularly if he steps into a more prominent role due to potential roster moves. Overall, Pearsall's selection marks a significant rise in his draft stock, likely elevating him to consideration in the early to mid second round of all rookie drafts.
#18 - Xavier Legette, WR: South Carolina
Pre-Draft: Xavier Legette showcased a strong performance at the combine, potentially putting him in contention for first-round NFL draft consideration. Not only did he impress NFL scouts, but also delivered a standout senior season at South Carolina, recording 71 receptions for 1,255 yards and 7 touchdowns. Despite this, some concerns linger regarding his status as a one-year wonder, raising questions about whether he's a late bloomer or a temporary standout. To that end, he currently ranks as my 18th overall rookie and a projected second-rounder in most rookie drafts.
Post-Draft: The Panthers made a trade-up move to secure Legette, a promising outside deep threat that could complement Bryce Young but needs to improve his consistency in catching and route-running. Carolina has sought a dominant receiver like Legette, who brings impressive physical attributes with a 4.39 40-yard dash, 40-inch vertical, and 10-6 broad jump, and this move indicates Carolina's commitment to supporting Young's development. Despite this, Legette's fantasy impact might be uncertain given the quarterback's situation. While Legette's potential is high, he could be considered a boom or bust pick, likely going in the second round of rookie drafts.
#19 - Braelon Allen, RB, Wisconsin
Pre-Draft: Many regard Wisconsin running back Braelon Allen as the premier RB in this year's draft class, signaling his potential to thrive at the professional level. While he isn't currently projected as a first-round pick, there's a genuine chance he could be selected on day two of the draft. If this materializes, it would cement his status as a strong second-round pick in most dynasty drafts. It's advisable for astute managers to closely monitor his draft stock and adjust their draft strategy accordingly.
Post-Draft: Dynasty managers had high hopes for Allen to secure a starting opportunity, but he's now positioned as a backup for Breece Hall. While injuries could alter his role, this situation diminishes his value significantly. As the tenth running back selected in the draft and a late fourth-round pick, Allen's rookie draft stock is expected to drop, making him a mid-round pick at best under these circumstances.
#20 - Blake Corum, RB, Michigan
Pre-Draft: Following an exceptional season where he played a pivotal role in Michigan's National Championship win, amassing 1,245 rushing yards and an impressive 27 touchdowns on the ground, Michigan RB Blake Corum's draft stock is currently at its peak. Considering that players like TreVeyon Henderson have decided to return to school, Corum's decision to enter the draft at this juncture appears well-timed. While he is currently projected as a second-round rookie pick, his draft position could still fluctuate. Nonetheless, Corum is poised to be a highly sought-after rookie based on his name recognition alone, and should be considered a solid 2nd rounder in most dynasty drafts.
Post-Draft: The Rams added Corum as a backup for Kyren Williams, aiming for a change-of-pace runner with developing receiving skills. Drafted in the third round, Corum's selection by Sean McVay reflects the team's willingness to invest in productive talents. However, Corum's fantasy value is uncertain due to Williams' presence at the top of the depth chart; he could become valuable with opportunity or stay sidelined behind Williams. Expect Corum to be a late second or early third-round pick in rookie drafts, potentially causing frustration for Williams' managers.
#21 - J.J. McCarthy, QB, Michigan
Pre-Draft: In many mock drafts, Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy was selected with the 16th overall pick by the Seattle Seahawks. While this may seem like a stretch, it's not entirely implausible. Seattle recently brought in Mike Macdonald as their new Head Coach to bolster their defense. However, their offense also requires attention, especially considering Geno Smith's temporary stability over the past two seasons doesn't provide a long-term solution and neither does Sam Howell, whom Seattle recently acquired via trade. Given that the Seahawks may not have access to top quarterbacks like Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, or Drake Maye, McCarthy could serve as a viable backup plan. While McCarthy may not possess elite athleticism, he appears to have a solid floor in terms of performance. In Super-flex drafts, he could be considered towards the end of the first round, and in traditional formats, he's likely to be a late second-round pick.
Post-Draft: The Vikings joined the top quarterback picks by trading up slightly to secure McCarthy as their preferred consistent QB. With the Penix situation in Atlanta, McCarthy landed in a Rams-influenced offense under Kevin O’Connell, providing him a setting where he can showcase his arm, toughness, and intangibles alongside talented weapons like Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, and T.J. Hockenson. Positioned well for the Offensive Rookie of the Year (OROY) race, McCarthy fell slightly to the tenth pick, offering Minnesota a promising future. While a competition with Sam Darnold looms, McCarthy appears to be the franchise's future, boasting a safer but less dynamic profile in dynasty leagues and projecting as a late second or early third-round pick in traditional rookie drafts and a mid to late 1st in Super-Flex formats.
#22 - Malachi Corley, WR, Western Kentucky
Pre-Draft: Malachi Corley turned some heads at his Pro Day. Scouts showed up to check out the 5-11, 210-pound athlete who reportedly ran a 4.45-second 40-yard dash, and reminded a lot of people of San Francisco’s Deebo Samuel. Despite this, Corley’s value has remained relatively stagnant over the past month and has even experienced a slight decline. Initially projected to go in the middle to end of the second round in early mock drafts, recent trends suggest he may be sliding closer to a third-round selection. Depending on his landing spot in the NFL Draft and the draft capital invested in him, his rise or fall will most likely be impacted in a dramatic way. A favorable landing spot may propel him back into second-round consideration, but a poor one could easily see Corley slip to the fourth round of rookie drafts.
Post-Draft: The Jets secure Corley as a Randall Cobb-esque slot receiver, ideal for Aaron Rodgers' style. With savvy route-running and big-play potential after catches, Corley complements Garrett Wilson well. Positioned behind Wilson and Mike Williams, he's expected to develop gradually despite being a bit of a project with a promising ceiling. While Aaron Rodgers can be demanding with rookies, patience could yield results, making Corley a solid late second or early third-round pick in rookie drafts despite his small school background, potentially a hidden gem.
#23 - Ja’Lynn Polk, WR: Washington
Pre-Draft: Ja’Lynn Polk may have played second fiddle at times to teammate Rome Odunze, but he shouldn't be overlooked. With excellent size, athleticism, and possibly the best hands in the 2024 class, Polk is a versatile threat on all levels of the field, adept at creating separation and excelling in contested catches. His ability to line up both in the slot and out wide makes him valuable to quarterbacks, projecting him as a strong No. 2 wide receiver in the NFL with potential for a top-50 draft pick. In dynasty leagues, he's a high-floor option and a safe bet in the second round of rookie drafts.
Post-Draft: The Patriots addressed their receiver need by selecting Polk, although it's a questionable choice given the depth of better No.1-type receivers available. Polk offers physical route-running skills, but doubts linger about his big-play potential outside of his college system. Drafted in the middle of a receiver-heavy round, Polk joins the Patriots' messy receiver depth chart, indicating a need for growth alongside Drake Maye. Despite the uncertainties, he appears to be a solid pick in the second round of rookie drafts.
#24 - Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE, Texas
Pre-Draft: Arguably the 2nd best TE in this class after Brock Bowers, Texas TE Ja’Tavion Sanders is an interesting prospect. He presents as somewhat of an enigma and value proposition, as his landing spot may boost his value in 1QB leagues, with the impact not being as significant in superflex formats. Depending on his draft capital, there's potential upside here with Sanders as he adapts to his role, particularly exploiting short-area quickness against linebackers but facing challenges in in-line blocking against bigger defenders. Drafting him as a round-two stash could pay off with patience considering his speed and potential for route flexibility, though expecting immediate production may be unrealistic given his current size and combine performance.
Post-Draft: The Panthers added TE Ja'Tavion Sanders in the fourth round after drafting WR Xavier Legette in the first, providing QB Bryce Young with another athletic receiving option. With a focus on enhancing Young's supporting cast, the Panthers are aiming for a turnaround under new head coach Dave Canales. Despite additional veteran additions, the pass-catching group remains a work in progress, but upgrades from previous players give Young a more optimistic outlook. Sanders, with his impressive athletic profile, seems poised for a starting role given the underwhelming options ahead of him. While his production at Texas wasn't remarkable, his potential upside makes him a favorable pick around the end of round two or beginning of round three in rookie drafts.
While most of these players should make an immediate impact in both the NFL and in dynasty based on draft capital, naturally there is a chance that some of them will not pan out as expected. Despite that possibility, this list shows most of the top fantasy-relevant players taken in the 2024 NFL draft and hopefully provides you with a bit of a guide to help navigate your rookie drafts with confidence. As previously mentioned, continue to keep an eye on potential risers and fallers based on draft capital and opportunities within their respective teams, as these factors historically play a significant role in determining the fantasy relevancy of a specific player. As we know, situations and circumstances change in the blink of an eye in the NFL, and today’s bench player could be tomorrow’s starter.
Happy drafting, and may your rookie selections pave the way for dynasty greatness and fantasy football excellence!
