The new generation of rookies in professional football does not seem to be waiting too long for their breakout seasons. A number of them, including QB C.J. Stroud for Houston Texans, made a strong mark in the 2023 rookie class. With that in mind, this article focuses on some names from the second-year players that could have breakout seasons in 2024, provided they stay healthy.
In the quarterback field, the name of Will Levis from Tennessee Titans seems to stand out. He was a tough evaluation coming out of Kentucky due to a toe injury he suffered in 2022, however, he proved his worth in season 2023. His downfield accuracy and confidence were noticed, and he consistently hit impressive numbers throughout the season.
In the case of running backs, Tyjae Spears of Tennessee Titans is someone to keep an eye on. He was on the fringe in the previous season, performing impressively despite suffering a major ACL injury. Spears rushed for 453 yards on 100 attempts and even tied with teammates Gibbs for the number of catches. Observers predict him to be a new star by the end of the season.
The wide receiver field is expected to present a strong performance with names like Tank Dell, Jayden Reed, and Josh Downs making headlines. Despite a limited season due to a broken fibula, Dell ended up with impressive stats. Reed had notable contributions toward Jordan Love’s breakout season, and Downs in Indianapolis was a favorite target before he had an injury.
Tightend players like Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft from Green Bay Packers also raised expectations. Despite being an injury-prone player, Musgrave put up impressive numbers in the previous season. The top two breakout contenders for 2024, they are both hailed for their stellar athleticism, especially Musgrave who has shown great speed.
Moving on to the offensive line, certain players who are expected to shine include Sidy Sow from New England Patriots, Darnell Wright from Chicago Bears, Joe Tippmann from New York Jets, Matthew Bergeron from Atlanta Falcons, and Peter Skoronski from Tennessee Titans. Each of them has shown their potential in the run game in the past season and is expected to improve on it.
In the defensive line, the list includes Tuli Tuipulotu from Los Angeles Chargers, Keeanu Benton from Pittsburgh Steelers, Calijah Kancey from Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Karl Brooks from Green Bay Packers. Each of these players had promising and efficient rookie years and are expected to bring their strengths to the table and make impressive plays in the upcoming season.
Lastly, in the linebacker and defensive back space, players like Jack Campbell from Detroit Lions, SirVocea Dennis from Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Otis Reese IV from Tennessee Titans, Christian Gonzalez from New England Patriots, Brian Branch from Detroit Lions, Jordan Battle from Cincinnati Bengals, and Tyrique Stevenson from Chicago Bears are expected to make a strong mark in the 2024 season. Each of them has shown promising performances and is expected to take on an expanded role in the upcoming season.
