The 2024 NFL season delivered thrilling performances and standout statistics that highlighted the talents of key players across the league. Among these, Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen made an impressive impact, responsible for 30% of the team’s third- and fourth-down conversions via his running plays, second only to the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite a low play-action rate of 21%, Allen maintained a remarkable third position in QBR and ranked second in EPA per play. Meanwhile, Baltimore's Lamar Jackson faced the challenge of eight-man boxes on dropbacks more frequently than any other quarterback, with an occurrence rate of 11%.
On the defensive side, Denver Broncos' Pat Surtain faced challenges, being flagged 12 times this season, making him the second most penalized defensive back. However, the Dallas Cowboys demonstrated defensive prowess, showing a 0.1 EPA improvement allowed per dropback and a 9% better pass rush win rate with Micah Parsons on the field. Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens improved their EPA per running back carry rankings from fifth and 12th in 2023 to fourth and first in 2024, respectively.
Cincinnati Bengals' wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase achieved an extraordinary season, securing the NFL's receiving triple crown with 1,708 receiving yards, 17 touchdowns, and 127 catches. The Bengals also led the league with the highest pass rate over expectation at plus-6%. Meanwhile, Derwin James stood out in run defense with a run stop win rate of 45%, ranking second among defensive backs.
Kansas City Chiefs' Patrick Mahomes maintained efficiency despite being held back for a significant portion of the year, while San Francisco 49ers' Sam Darnold showcased improved accuracy with a plus-3% completion percentage over expectation. Darnold also recorded a 14% off-target rate. Additionally, Puka Nacua was heavily targeted, receiving passes on 40% of routes—an unprecedented rate since 2007.
The offensive line saw exceptional performances too, as Creed Humphrey of the Kansas City Chiefs ranked third and first in pass block win rate (96%) and run block win rate (73%) among centers. Arizona Cardinals' Kyler Murray began the season with a stellar performance, recording the second-highest QBR of any quarterback in Week 2 against the Los Angeles Rams.
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