The NFL Rookie of the Year race is always a thrill, and the 2024 season promises to be no different. With fresh talent ready to take the league by storm, the competition is heating up. Last season, C.J. Stroud and Will Anderson walked away with the coveted awards. This year, the stakes are even higher, and a new batch of rookies is poised to make their mark.
Offensive Rookie of the Year Candidates
1. Caleb Williams, QB, Chicago Bears
Caleb Williams, the first overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, is already making waves. The former USC quarterback brings a dynamic blend of arm talent and mobility to the Chicago Bears, who are banking on him to be their franchise savior. Surrounded by playmakers like D.J. Moore and Keenan Allen, Williams is in an ideal situation to shine right out of the gate. His preseason performances have been electric, showcasing why he’s the top choice for Offensive Rookie of the Year. If Williams can maintain this level of play, the sky's the limit for both him and the Bears.
2. Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders
The reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Jayden Daniels, steps into a Washington Commanders team in need of a spark. With Kliff Kingsbury calling the shots as the new offensive coordinator, Daniels has the perfect mentor to guide his transition to the NFL. Add in a talented supporting cast, including star receiver Terry McLaurin, and Daniels is set up for success. The question is whether he can quickly adapt to the pro game, but all signs point to a strong rookie season from the former LSU standout.
3. Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants
Malik Nabers, another LSU product, finds himself as the go-to receiver for the New York Giants. After a sensational college career, Nabers brings speed, agility, and playmaking ability to a Giants offense looking to rebound. While Daniel Jones' consistency at quarterback remains a question, Nabers’ talent is undeniable. His potential to follow in the footsteps of other elite LSU receivers like Ja'Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson makes him a strong candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
4. Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Arizona Cardinals
Marvin Harrison Jr. enters the NFL with massive expectations after dominating at Ohio State. Now, he’s the top target for Kyler Murray in Arizona, a team undergoing a transformation. Harrison Jr. is stepping into a role vacated by Marquise Brown and Rondale Moore, and his polished route-running and elite hands make him a prime candidate for a breakout season. If Murray can stay healthy and consistent, Harrison Jr. could easily eclipse the 1,000-yard mark as a rookie.
5. Bo Nix, QB, Denver Broncos
Rounding out the top five is Bo Nix, who has quietly impressed during the preseason. The Denver Broncos have been searching for stability at quarterback, and Nix could be the answer. With experience from Auburn and Oregon under his belt, Nix has shown he can handle the pressures of the NFL. If he continues to outplay veterans like Jarrett Stidham and Zach Wilson, Nix could be leading the Broncos' offense when Week 1 rolls around. His maturity and poise make him a dark horse in the Rookie of the Year race.
Defensive Rookie of the Year Candidates
1. Dallas Turner, EDGE, Minnesota Vikings
On the defensive side, Dallas Turner is the name to watch. The Minnesota Vikings made a savvy move by trading up to grab Turner with the 17th pick in the draft. A former Alabama standout, Turner is a natural pass rusher with a relentless motor. With Danielle Hunter now in Houston, Turner will have every opportunity to become the Vikings' top defensive threat. His combination of speed and power makes him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks, positioning him as the favorite for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
2. Laiatu Latu, EDGE, Indianapolis Colts
Laiatu Latu’s story is one of resilience and triumph. After nearly seeing his football career end due to a neck injury, Latu bounced back at UCLA and became one of the most feared pass rushers in college football. Now with the Indianapolis Colts, Latu is expected to make an immediate impact on a defense in need of playmakers. If he can replicate his college success, Latu will be a force to be reckoned with in the NFL.
3. Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Philadelphia Eagles
Quinyon Mitchell is stepping into a pivotal role with the Philadelphia Eagles. With veteran corners Darius Slay and James Bradberry aging, Mitchell has a chance to establish himself as the future of the Eagles' secondary. His ability to shut down top receivers in college has translated well to the NFL, and he’s already showing flashes of brilliance in training camp. If Mitchell can continue this trajectory, he’ll be a strong contender for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
4. Jared Verse, EDGE, Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams are in transition, and Jared Verse is at the center of their defensive rebuild. With the retirement of Aaron Donald, Verse has big shoes to fill, but he’s up to the task. His impressive college stats at Florida State, where he tallied 29.5 tackles for loss and 18 sacks over two seasons, indicate he’s ready to make an impact. The Rams are counting on Verse to bring back the ferocity to their pass rush.
5. Terrion Arnold, CB, Detroit Lions
Finally, Terrion Arnold rounds out the defensive top five. The Detroit Lions have been searching for answers in their secondary, and Arnold could be the solution. Already penciled in as a starter, Arnold’s ability to defend against elite-level competition at Alabama makes him a prime candidate to excel in the NFL. If he can lock down the Lions' back end, Arnold could emerge as a top contender for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
As the 2024 season unfolds, these rookies are set to take center stage. Keep an eye on them as they make their mark on the NFL, chasing the coveted Rookie of the Year honors on both sides of the ball.
