NFL free agency presents teams with opportunities to address roster needs, patch holes, or acquire star players. As the 2024 season unfolds, several players stand out for their performances and potential impact on team strategies. This article examines the contributions of key players like Wharton, Darnold, Cooper, Adebo, Harris, and Jones and how their statistics shape their prospects in free agency.
Wharton saw increased playtime in 2024 compared to his previous four seasons, showing promising results. He managed to secure 8.5 combined sacks between the regular season and playoffs. However, his 7% pass rush win rate at defensive tackle ranked him 34th out of 47 qualifiers, highlighting room for improvement. In contrast, Jones boasted a 16% pass rush win rate, more than double that of Wharton, positioning himself as a more formidable option in the defensive tackle role.
Darnold faced challenges despite having one of the league's top wide receivers, Jefferson, as a teammate. During his stint with Buffalo, Darnold caught only 20 passes for 297 yards and two touchdowns in eight regular-season games. These numbers reflect potential but also underscore the need for greater consistency.
Cooper's performance has seen a decline since 2020, as evidenced by his dropping open scores in ESPN's receiver ratings. In 2024, his average of 1.6 yards per route run marked a significant downturn. With 547 receiving yards and four touchdowns on 44 receptions, Cooper's output has not met the expectations set by his previous seasons.
Adebo has delivered impressive statistics over his four NFL seasons. In 2024, he was targeted more frequently than any other outside corner with at least 200 coverage snaps. His remarkable minus-49 expected points added when targeted as the nearest defender showcases his defensive prowess, though his above-average target rate indicates that opponents are willing to challenge him.
Harris has been a consistent presence on the field, starting and playing every regular-season game of his career. Despite this durability, his overall performance remains near replacement level. His career average of 3.9 yards per carry ranks him 30th among running backs with at least 1,000 carries over the past decade, suggesting that while reliable, he may not be a standout performer.
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