The 2024 NFL rookies are finally in place with their new teams following the 2024 NFL Draft last week. With so many talented players starting their NFL journey, there are a few that already stand out above the rest. Obviously, the top picks such as Caleb Williams and Marvin Harrison Jr. are expected to make a big impact. But which players could be some sneaky, under-the-radar stars, that landed in the perfect situation? After all, a huge part of a rookie’s development is the situation he lands in. So, which prospects could be making headlines in 2024?
Favorite 2024 Rookie Landing Spots
Terrion Arnold: Detroit Lions
Starting the list off strong, we have Alabama corner Terrion Arnold. Arnold is an elite playmaker on the defensive side of the ball. The 2024 Draft was very focused on offense which caused Arnold to fall all the way to pick 24. The Alabama star could’ve easily been a top-ten pick, and he landed in an ideal situation in Detroit.
The Lions are already a great team with high hopes for the future, and they just secured their number one, lockdown corner. Arnold is also a very passionate football player. He loves to talk some trash and, is able to back it up with his play on the field, which is exactly what the Lions love.
Nate Wiggins: Baltimore Ravens
Next on the list is Clemson corner Nate Wiggins. Wiggins is a great athlete with unmatched speed and has the ability to keep up with just about any receiver that comes his way. Some might even say Wiggins was in contention for being the best corner in the entire draft.
By falling all the way to the Baltimore Ravens, Wiggins has the chance to prove to quite a few teams why he should’ve been taken much earlier. The Ravens are another team that are in the conversation for a Super Bowl, and by adding Wiggins, they add another star playmaker to their already-stacked roster. Wiggins could end up becoming the home run of the first round.
Javon Baker: New England Patriots
Another rookie that could have an immediate impact on his new team, is UCF wide receiver, Javon Baker. Baker was an absolute steal for the New England Patriots who are in desperate need of offensive help. Baker is a big, strong “X” receiver, with great route running. His size and speed allow him to dominate opposing corners and also make him deadly in the red zone.
By pairing Baker with Ja’Lynn Polk, the Patriots’ second-round pick, they have done a great job at supporting their rookie quarterback Drake Maye. Getting Baker to grow and develop with Maye and Polk, might be a story the NFL world is talking about for quite a while if it works out.
Which of these rookies could have the biggest impact in 2024?
All three of these rookies have the potential to be NFL stars, but which one of them will break out first? Obviously, Arnold and Wiggins, being first-round picks, should have an advantage over Javon Baker. But Baker’s opportunity in New England is going to be massive. The Patriots don’t have a big “X” receiver that can dictate coverage and win on the outside. At least, they didn’t until they selected Baker, and he will have the opportunity to play right away in a rebuilding offense. Baker could be the breakout player for the 2024 Patriots and could show the world why he deserved to be drafted much higher than he was.