The NFL is always a breeding ground for young talent and each year we see more and more rookies making a significant impact right from the start. As we reflect on the impressive 2023 rookie class, it’s time to shift our focus to the second-year players who could have breakout seasons in 2024.

Quarterback

Will Levis, Tennessee Titans (Round 2, No. 33)

While there are several promising quarterbacks in their second year, Will Levis stands out as a breakout candidate. Known for his downfield accuracy, Levis showed glimpses of brilliance during his nine-game stint as the Titans’ starter last season. If he can stay healthy and improve his consistency, he has the potential to shine in 2024.

Running back

Tyjae Spears, Tennessee Titans (Round 3, No. 81)

Replacing a player like Derrick Henry is no easy task, but Tyjae Spears has the talent and skill to be a standout performer for the Titans this season. With a solid rookie campaign under his belt, Spears is poised to make a name for himself in Nashville.

Wide receiver

Tank Dell, Houston Texans (Round 3, No. 69)

Jayden Reed, Green Bay Packers (Round 2, No. 50)

Josh Downs, Indianapolis Colts (Round 3, No. 79)

With talented receivers like Tank Dell, Jayden Reed, and Josh Downs ready to break out this season, the NFL is in for an exciting year of explosive plays and dynamic performances.

Tight end

Luke Musgrave, Green Bay Packers (Round 2, No. 42)

Tucker Kraft, Green Bay Packers (Round 3, No. 78)

Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft, both from the Green Bay Packers, are poised to take the league by storm with their athleticism and skill at the tight end position. Keep an eye on these two rising stars in 2024.

Offensive line

Sidy Sow, New England Patriots (Round 4, No. 117)

Darnell Wright, Chicago Bears (Round 1, No. 10)

Joe Tippmann, New York Jets (Round 2, No. 43)

Matthew Bergeron, Atlanta Falcons (Round 2, No. 38)

Peter Skoronski, Tennessee Titans (Round 1, No. 11)

With a group of talented offensive linemen ready to make their mark in 2024, teams across the league will have solid protection for their quarterbacks and open up running lanes for their backs.

Defensive line

Tuli Tuipulotu, Los Angeles Chargers (Round 2, No. 54)

Keeanu Benton, Pittsburgh Steelers (Round 2, No. 49)

Calijah Kancey, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Round 1, No. 19)

Karl Brooks, Green Bay Packers (Round 6, No. 179)

With a mix of seasoned veterans and up-and-coming stars on the defensive line, expect some fierce battles in the trenches and disruptive plays from these standout players.

Linebacker

Jack Campbell, Detroit Lions (Round 1, No. 18)

SirVocea Dennis, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (Round 5, No. 153)

Otis Reese IV, Tennessee Titans (UDFA)

Linebackers like Jack Campbell, SirVocea Dennis, and Otis Reese IV are ready to lead their defenses with tenacity and skill, making impactful plays all over the field in 2024.

Defensive back

Christian Gonzalez, New England Patriots (Round 1, No. 17)

Brian Branch, Detroit Lions (Round 2, No. 45)

Jordan Battle, Cincinnati Bengals (Round 3, No. 95)

Tyrique Stevenson, Chicago Bears (Round 2, No. 56)

With top defensive backs like Christian Gonzalez, Brian Branch, Jordan Battle, and Tyrique Stevenson locking down receivers and making game-changing plays, the secondary will be a force to be reckoned with in the 2024 NFL season.