Yet the 2024 football season is almost here. A new generation of upstart players have captured the imagination of fans and analysts alike. Similar to last year’s class, each athlete enters with a different caliber of skill and potential that make them stand out in their respective positions. Mims, McCloud, Corum, Davis, Wright, Tillman, Sinnott, Benson and Pierce could easily emerge as stars this fall. See them light up the field with their blazing speed!
Mims came onto the scene in a big way down the stretch of last season. He averaged 5.3 touches and an impressive 15.5 FP over those final eight contests. Due to the success he achieved in such a short time, all eyes are on how he could further his development in the coming season. At the same time, McCloud enjoyed a breakout season of sorts, catching 62 passes on 86 targets for 686 yards receiving. His steadiness and knack for key-chain moving snags will be a godsend for his next squad going forward.
Considering Corum’s collegiate resume, we would be remiss to neglect his accomplishments. He’s proven himself to be the go-to insurance-policy running back this season. NFL teams are looking forward to seeing how he’ll be able to translate all his college success into professional production. His unparalleled record of accomplishment is what gives them hope.
Players Making Their Mark
Davis was able to put his skills on display in last week’s game against Houston, where he scored 55 receiving yards on three completions. He’s a guy who delivers time and again in key moments. Follow along as he works to earn his way onto the roster!
Wright’s versatility could be a game-changer for Mike McDaniel’s offense. His likely use as a deployable offensive playmaker further complicates where he fits into the team’s plans. Last year, he released his signature darting speed and nimble footwork. On 68 carries, he busted out a gain of ten yards or more on 11.8% of his rush attempts. Coaches will undoubtedly want to help him reach his full potential, and they’ll work hard this offseason to do so.
Since then Tillman has developed into one of the game’s top young talents. His rare mix of size and skill gives him a super high floor as a player. As he only keeps getting bigger and badder, people have high expectations for what he can do.
Rookie Experiences and Expectations
Sinnott’s rookie season in Washington was much quieter, as he caught just five passes for 28 yards and a touchdown. Still, his remarkable success at Kansas State in the most recent cycle can’t be ignored. He tallied up 80 catches during his last two years of collegiate football. On top of that, he recorded ten touchdowns, further proving his ability to be a trustworthy target.
Benson’s rookie campaign got off to a rough start, but he hit his stride from Weeks 9-15 with an impressive average of 5.4 yards per carry. This late-season surge has invigorated and excited fans when looking at his ability during the upcoming season as he continues to grow off of his surge in success.
Either way, Davis is in a good spot to step into the RB2 tier if Cook were to miss any time with injury. With his recent performances, he has shown that he can step up and take over when called upon, giving the running back position an added depth piece.
The Fantasy Landscape
Pierce makes for a compelling argument, as he had three games last year in which he tallied 21 or more fantasy points. His propensity for production when the chips are down makes him a must-start fantasy player. He’s an invaluable competitive advantage to his team.
Walking into any NFL locker room and taking the field, Higgins would stand out not just for his play, but his size. At 6-foot-4 with an 80-inch wingspan, he’s a load to defend against for opposing bases. Last year, Higgins put up double-digit fantasy points in six contests, proving he is capable of being a consistent difference maker.
Like all athletes, these players as they begin this new season will find that the mixture of talent, circumstance, desire and fortune will determine how far they go. Coaches and fans alike will closely monitor their progress as they aim to carve out their places in the competitive landscape of professional football.
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