The 2024 NFL Draft class has shown plenty of promise as we hit the midway point of their rookie seasons. From explosive performances to moments of adjustment, the players selected in picks 17-32 have had a diverse range of experiences. Let’s break down the impact these rookies have made so far and give them a grade based on their early performances.

 

 

17. Jacksonville Jaguars – OT Josh Lugg (Notre Dame)

Grade: B
Lugg, taken to help solidify the Jaguars’ offensive line, has been solid as a rotational player. He’s shown flashes of his potential but has struggled in high-pressure situations. Still, he has the tools to become a reliable starter in the near future.

 

18. Tennessee Titans – LB Jalen Graham (Purdue)

Grade: C+
Graham’s role on the Titans has been limited, as he hasn’t seen much time on the field due to the strong linebacker play ahead of him. However, when called upon, he’s demonstrated decent coverage skills and an ability to learn quickly. A solid developmental piece for the Titans moving forward.

 

19. Minnesota Vikings – WR Jordan Addison (USC)

Grade: A
Addison has immediately made an impact in the Vikings’ receiving corps. As a complement to Justin Jefferson, he’s already proving to be a reliable target. His crisp route-running and strong hands have made him a favorite of Kirk Cousins, and he’s quickly becoming one of the top rookies of the class.

 

 

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – DB Christian Gonzalez (Oregon)

Grade: A-
Gonzalez has been everything the Buccaneers could hope for in a cornerback, showing excellent ball skills and coverage instincts. He’s already become a starter and is gaining recognition for his consistency against top-tier competition. The future looks bright for this rookie.

 

21. Buffalo Bills – WR Zay Flowers (Boston College)

Grade: B+
Flowers has been an explosive option for the Bills, providing a dynamic skill set to the offense. Though he hasn’t fully mastered the nuances of the NFL game, he’s flashed his ability to make big plays and seems poised to develop into an even bigger role in the offense. His speed and separation ability have been his strengths so far.

 

22. New York Giants – DT Jalen Carter (Georgia)

Grade: A+
Jalen Carter has been an absolute force along the defensive line for the Giants. His combination of strength, explosiveness, and football IQ has allowed him to dominate in the trenches. His impact on the defensive front has been significant, making him one of the standout rookies of the draft.

 

 

23. Baltimore Ravens – RB Bijan Robinson (Texas)

Grade: A-
Robinson’s dual-threat ability as a running back and receiver has been evident early on. He’s adjusted well to the physicality of the NFL, though the Ravens have been cautious with his usage. His potential to be a game-changer is already clear.

 

24. Dallas Cowboys – S Brian Branch (Alabama)

Grade: B
Branch has been reliable in the secondary, showing versatility and intelligence in his rookie season. Though he’s not yet a standout performer, his understanding of the game and ability to adapt have made him a consistent contributor to the Cowboys’ defense.

 

25. Miami Dolphins – OL Tyler Steen (Alabama)

Grade: C
Steen has had an up-and-down start to his career with the Dolphins. While he’s shown moments of promise, particularly in pass protection, he’s also had some rookie mistakes that have led to pressure on the quarterback. His development will be key for the Dolphins’ offensive line moving forward.

 

 

26. Kansas City Chiefs – CB Devon Witherspoon (Illinois)

Grade: B+
Witherspoon has been solid in his role as a cornerback for the Chiefs. He’s shown his ability to compete at a high level and contribute in key moments. With time, he should only get better, but he’s already a crucial part of the Chiefs’ secondary.

 

27. Arizona Cardinals – OL Darnell Wright (Tennessee)

Grade: A-
Wright has been a very reliable presence on the Cardinals’ offensive line, showing impressive power and technique in both the run and pass game. His play has been one of the highlights of the team’s rebuilding process and provides hope for a more stable line in the future.

 

28. Seattle Seahawks – DT Calijah Kancey (Pittsburgh)

Grade: B-
Kancey has struggled to make a major impact early on, but he has shown flashes of being disruptive on the defensive line. His smaller frame for a defensive tackle has posed some challenges, but his quickness and burst suggest he could find a role as a pass rusher in the future.

 

 

29. Detroit Lions – LB Drew Sanders (Arkansas)

Grade: C
Sanders has seen limited action so far but has been impressive in the opportunities he’s had. His versatility could allow him to play multiple linebacker positions, though he needs to improve his consistency to solidify his role in the Lions’ defense.

 

30. Atlanta Falcons – WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Ohio State)

Grade: B+
Smith-Njigba has had some injury concerns early on but has shown flashes of his potential as a high-level receiver. He’s still acclimating to the speed of the NFL, but his route running and ball skills have been evident when on the field. Expect his role to grow as the season progresses.

 

31. New England Patriots – TE Michael Mayer (Notre Dame)

Grade: B
Mayer has been a steady contributor for the Patriots, providing a solid target in the passing game. His blocking skills have also been a pleasant surprise, giving him versatility to stay on the field for all downs. Mayer has the potential to develop into a key player for New England’s offense.

 

 

32. San Francisco 49ers – DE Nolan Smith (Georgia)

Grade: A
Smith has quickly adapted to the speed of the NFL and already looks like a top-tier pass rusher. His relentless motor and ability to disrupt plays have made him one of the more exciting rookies of the draft. The 49ers’ defense is even more dangerous with Smith on the field.

 

Conclusion
As we approach the halfway point of their rookie seasons, the 2024 draft class is showing promise with several standout performances. Players like Jordan Addison, Jalen Carter, and Nolan Smith have already exceeded expectations, while others are still finding their footing. With the second half of the season ahead, these rookies will continue to develop and shape the future of the NFL.