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The NFL rookie class of 2024 has been nothing short of electrifying. They have captivated fans with a dazzling display of talent and tenacity. As the season heads into its home stretch, the debate over the league’s most impactful newcomer has reached a fever pitch. We have seen quarterbacks demonstrating poise beyond their years and defensive stalwarts turning games on their heads. For sure, this year’s rookies have reshaped the narratives of their respective teams. One name, however, is rapidly ascending the ranks: Quinyon Mitchell. His rise is just one of the many fascinating stories in what has become a memorable race for the NFL Rookie of the Year.
The 2024 NFL Season So Far
The race for the end-of-season rookie honors has been quite close, with the contenders for Offensive NFL Rookie of the Year and Defensive NFL Rookie of the Year separated by increasingly narrow margins each week. Week 15 brought its own drama, marked by the return of a key player from injury and an unexpectedly off day from a quarterback steering a playoff-bound team. With just three weeks left in the NFL regular season, some rookies who burst onto the scene early have maintained their momentum. On the flip side, others have taken time to adjust to the league's speed or seized opportunities born from injuries. As Week 15 unfolded, several first-year players delivered standout performances worthy of a spot in this week's rankings.
Here we'll look at the 2024 NFL Rookie of the Year Power Rankings, including the recent rise of Quinyon Mitchell.
1. Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders
Jayden Daniels remains firmly in the driver’s seat in the Offensive NFL Rookie of the Year race. After snapping a three-game losing streak in Week 13, the Commanders, coming off a bye in Week 14, have now won two consecutive games. During those victories, Daniels has been stellar, throwing for 432 yards, five touchdowns, and just one interception while completing a remarkable 82 percent of his passes. Daniels’ consistent excellence has transformed Washington’s season. He has elevated a team that struggled mightily last year. His poise in the pocket has been a revelation. He can maneuver under pressure while keeping his eyes locked downfield.
In his previous game against the Saints, Daniels showcased his pinpoint accuracy, threading tight-window throws and making deep passes look effortless. He completed 25 of 31 passes for 226 yards and two touchdowns while adding 66 rushing yards. However, a season-high eight sacks in the nail-biting win over New Orleans was a glaring issue, highlighting a need for better protection. Still, Daniels’ back-to-back game of 80 percent or higher completion rates bode well as Washington faces a pivotal NFC East showdown with the Eagles.
2. Jared Verse, Los Angeles Rams
Jared Verse has made a compelling case for Defensive Rookie of the Year, not with flashy tackle totals but through relentless pressure stats that have elevated the Rams' defense. His 64 total pressures rank third among EDGE rushers. In addition, he’s fourth in hits (14) and third in hurries (44). Verse’s explosive burst and off-the-ball instincts have made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. His consistent pressure on quarterbacks has anchored the Rams’ defense, and his presence ensures that Los Angeles remains competitive in a crowded NFC playoff picture. Against division rival San Francisco, Verse had a relatively modest two tackles but shone with five pressures and five hurries. His ability to disrupt plays has been pivotal in the Rams’ 7-2 stretch over their last nine games.
3. Brock Bowers, Las Vegas Raiders
After an impressive run as one of the league’s top tight ends, Brock Bowers endured a rare quiet game in Week 15. The Atlanta Falcons held him to just three receptions on six targets for 35 yards. That was his lowest output since Week 4. Even more surprising was his lack of involvement in the second half. He had no targets after halftime and five of his six targets came in the second quarter. As the Raiders play out the season with little on the line but pride, finding ways to get Bowers more involved is critical for their offensive success. His unique ability to create mismatches has been a bright spot for Las Vegas. Regaining that spark could help close the season on a high note.
4. Quinyon Mitchell, Philadelphia Eagles
Quinyon Mitchell has been nothing short of sensational in his rookie campaign. He has earned a place among the league’s elite defensive players. As sucy, he remains a standout in the race for Defensive NFL Rookie of the Year. Remember that he showcased a streak of 10 straight games allowing fewer than 30 receiving yards. Against the Steelers, Mitchell’s stat line was quiet, though. However, he locked down his assignments, allowing just two catches for 25 yards on three targets. Mitchell’s ability to shut down top receivers week after week has made him an invaluable asset to the Eagles’ defense. His combination of speed, anticipation, and technique has frustrated quarterbacks. He has certainly elevated Philadelphia’s secondary into one of the most formidable units in the league.
5. Bo Nix, Denver Broncos
Bo Nix experienced a rare stumble in Week 15. He dropped significantly in the rankings following an inconsistent outing against the Indianapolis Colts. Despite Denver pulling out a win, Nix had his lowest completion rate in three games at 60.6 percent. He threw for just 130 yards. That was his second-lowest total of the season. Sure, he managed three touchdown passes. However, they were offset by three costly interceptions that nearly derailed the game.
Nix has been a key reason for Denver’s surprising resurgence this season, but performances like this could jeopardize the team’s playoff hopes. This is especially true with a Wild Card spot on the line. The Broncos need Nix to regain his composure quickly as they prepare for the high stakes of postseason football. His leadership and decision-making will be critical in ensuring Denver’s playoff bid remains alive.
Final Thoughts
These rookies have made an undeniable impact on their teams and the league at large. As such, the race for NFL Rookie of the Year remains razor-thin. With just three weeks left in the regular season, their ability to perform under pressure could determine not only individual accolades but also their teams’ postseason fortunes.
