The 2024 NFL Draft class has generated significant excitement, with many top 10 selections poised to make an immediate impact as starters in Week 1 of the upcoming season. As pre-season approaches, many of these elite rookies are projected to begin their professional careers as key contributors to their teams right from the start.
By analyzing team strategies and evaluating rookie readiness, we can understand why most top 10 picks are expected to transition seamlessly into starting roles. In contrast, others may experience a delayed debut until they are fully prepared for the demands of the NFL.
1. Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears
Starting: Yes
If Caleb Williams isn’t the Bears QB1, this would come close to the biggest shock in NFL history.
2. Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders
Starting: Yes
Although Jayden Daniels has not been officially named the starter yet, both his readiness and the team’s strategy indicate he will dominate on the field from the start of the season.
3. Drake Maye, New England Patriots
Starting: No
While the Patriots have high expectations for Drake Maye as their future franchise quarterback, it appears they plan to ease him into the role. The current strategy suggests that he will begin the season on the bench to develop further, with the possibility of becoming the starter later in the season depending on his progress and the team’s performance.
4. Marvin Harrison Jr., Arizona Cardinals
Starting: Yes
Marvin Harrison Jr. was the first wide receiver chosen from this particularly talented WR draft class. The Cardinals have high expectations for Harrison Jr., who is definitely seen as a potential No. 1 receiver for quarterback Kyler Murray.
5. Joe Alt, Los Angeles Chargers
Starting: Yes
The former Notre Dame standout will assist in executing the offensive strategy desired by Jim Harbaugh. The question is not whether Joe Alt will start, but where he plays. Expect him to shift to right tackle.
6. Malik Nabers, New York Giants
Starting: Yes
The Giants have recently struggled with inconsistent receiving options, lacking a 1,000-yard receiver since 2018. However, Malik Nabers has the potential to become a top-tier receiver, so it’s only inevitable for the Giants to overcome their WR struggles.
7. JC Latham, Tennessee Titans
Starting: Yes
JC Latham, originally a right tackle at Alabama, will slide over and start at left tackle for the Titans this fall.
8. Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta Falcons
Starting: No
The biggest shock of the 2024 Draft was the Falcons’ drafting of Michael Penix Jr., as they had recently signed veteran QB Kirk Cousins to a four-year, $180 million contract before draft day. Penix Jr. will learn and grow under Cousins, hoping to become a future franchise player for the Falcons.
9. Rome Odunze, Chicago Bears
Starting: Yes
D.J. Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze will make for a powerful WR trio for Chicago under the arm of QB1 Williams.
10. J.J. McCarthy, Minnesota Vikings
Starting: No
This is the biggest question mark of the top 10. The Vikings are in a good position with Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy competing for the QB1. I don’t believe the franchise needs to or should rush McCarthy in right away, but you can easily foresee McCarthy starting in Week 1.
