The NFL rookie landscape is constantly evolving, with new talent emerging every year. The 2024 draft class was no exception, as several players have already made a significant impact on their teams. While some rookies took time to adjust to the professional level, others wasted no time in establishing themselves as key players. As we approach the 2025 NFL Draft, FOX Sports recently took a look back at last year’s draft and listed the top 10 picks who have made the biggest impact so far.
1. Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars
It’s no surprise that Trevor Lawrence tops the list. The first overall pick in the 2024 draft, Lawrence has been the face of the Jacksonville Jaguars since day one. Despite a rocky start to his rookie season, Lawrence has shown flashes of brilliance and has the potential to be a franchise quarterback for years to come.
2. Kyle Pitts, TE, Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons made a bold move by selecting Kyle Pitts with the fourth overall pick in the 2024 draft. And so far, it’s paying off. Pitts has quickly become a favorite target for quarterback Matt Ryan and has already established himself as one of the top tight ends in the league.
3. Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals hit the jackpot with Ja’Marr Chase, who was selected fifth overall in the 2024 draft. Chase has been a reliable target for quarterback Joe Burrow and has quickly become one of the top receivers in the league. He’s on pace to break several rookie receiving records and has a bright future ahead of him.
4. Micah Parsons, LB, Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys struck gold with Micah Parsons, who was selected 12th overall in the 2024 draft. Parsons has been a force on defense, leading the team in tackles and making game-changing plays. He’s quickly become a leader on the field and has solidified himself as one of the top linebackers in the league.
5. Rashawn Slater, OT, Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers made a smart move by selecting Rashawn Slater with the 13th overall pick in the 2024 draft. Slater has been a key piece on the offensive line, protecting quarterback Justin Herbert and opening up holes for the running game. He’s quickly become one of the top offensive tackles in the league and has a bright future ahead of him.
6. Jaylen Waddle, WR, Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins made a splash by selecting Jaylen Waddle with the sixth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Waddle has been a dynamic playmaker for the Dolphins, showcasing his speed and agility on the field. He’s quickly become a favorite target for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and has the potential to be a top receiver in the league.
7. Patrick Surtain II, CB, Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos made a wise choice by selecting Patrick Surtain II with the ninth overall pick in the 2024 draft. Surtain has been a lockdown corner for the Broncos, shutting down some of the top receivers in the league. He’s quickly become a leader on defense and has a bright future ahead of him.
8. Jaelan Phillips, DE, Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins made another great pick with Jaelan Phillips, who was selected 18th overall in the 2024 draft. Phillips has been a dominant force on the defensive line, recording sacks and disrupting opposing offenses. He’s quickly become a key piece of the Dolphins’ defense and has a bright future ahead of him.
9. Najee Harris, RB, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers made a smart move by selecting Najee Harris with the 24th overall pick in the 2024 draft. Harris has been a workhorse for the Steelers, carrying the ball and catching passes out of the backfield. He’s quickly become a fan favorite and has the potential to be one of the top running backs in the league.
10. Zaven Collins, LB, Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals made a great pick with Zaven Collins, who was selected 16th overall in the 2024 draft. Collins has been a versatile player for the Cardinals, making plays on defense and special teams. He’s quickly become a key piece of the Cardinals’ defense and has a bright future ahead of him.
Overall, the 2024 draft class has been a
