Jayden Daniels stands out as the highlight of the midseason All-Rookie Team, showcasing the exceptional talent emerging from the 2024 NFL draft class. As the season progresses, the spotlight shines brightly on the Los Angeles Rams, who boast the most impressive rookie roster this year.
The Rams have made headlines with a remarkable total of 16 rookies currently on their 53-man roster, a testament to their commitment to youth and development. General manager Les Snead has transformed his approach, moving from a “f— them picks” mentality to one that emphasizes nurturing and maximizing the potential of these young players.
Leading the charge is first-round pick Jared Verse, an edge rusher from Florida State, who is a strong contender for the Defensive Rookie of the Year title. With 3.5 sacks and nine tackles for loss, he has made a significant impact. Close behind is fellow Seminole and second-round selection Braden Fiske, who has contributed three sacks to the Rams’ defensive efforts. Additionally, sixth-round pick Beaux Limmer from Arkansas has stepped into a starting role at guard, while two rookie defensive backs have combined for six interceptions, with undrafted safety Jaylen McCollough leading all rookies with four.
Now, let’s dive into the midseason All-Rookie Team.
QUARTERBACK: Jayden Daniels, Commanders
Jayden Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick, has emerged as a dynamic playmaker, mirroring the success of last year’s top rookie, C.J. Stroud. With a fifth-highest passer rating in the league and 459 rushing yards alongside four touchdowns, Daniels has propelled his team to an unexpected strong start.
Runner-up: Bo Nix, Broncos
RUNNING BACK: Bucky Irving, Bucs
Bucky Irving has made a significant impact for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, amassing 419 rushing yards and three touchdowns, while also contributing 23 receptions. As a fourth-round pick from Oregon, he has revitalized a struggling running game.
Runner-up: Tyrone Tracy Jr., Giants
WIDE RECEIVERS: Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars; Marvin Harrison Jr., Cardinals; Malik Nabers, Giants
This trio of first-round draft picks has made an immediate impact. Brian Thomas Jr., selected 23rd overall, and Marvin Harrison Jr., the fourth overall pick, both share the lead in the rookie class with five touchdown receptions. Malik Nabers, picked sixth overall, leads all rookie receivers with 55 catches.
Runners-up: Ladd McConkey, Chargers; Keon Coleman, Bills; Xavier Worthy, Chiefs
TIGHT END: Brock Bowers, Raiders
Brock Bowers is on track to have one of the best rookie seasons ever for a tight end, with projections exceeding 1,000 receiving yards and 100 catches. Despite challenges at quarterback, he remains a primary target for the Raiders.
Runner-up: AJ Barner, Seahawks
OFFENSIVE LINE: LT Taliese Fuaga, Saints; LG Jackson Powers-Johnson, Raiders; C Graham Barton, Bucs; RG Dominick Puni, 49ers; RT Joe Alt, Chargers
A total of 14 rookies have stepped up as starters on offensive lines this season. Taliese Fuaga and Joe Alt lead this impressive group, which includes four rookie starters at center, showcasing the depth and talent available in this year’s draft.
Runners-up: LT JC Latham, Titans; LG Jordan Morgan, Packers; C Zach Frazier, Steelers; RG Mason McCormick, Steelers; RT Roger Rosengarten, Ravens
EDGE RUSHERS: Jared Verse, Rams; Laiatu Latu, Colts
Jared Verse continues to shine as the standout edge rusher of this rookie class, with 2.5 sacks in recent games. Laiatu Latu, selected 15th overall, has also made his mark with two sacks and solid performance metrics.
Runners-up: Jonah Elliss, Broncos; Chop Robinson, Dolphins
INTERIOR LINEMEN: Braden Fiske, Rams; T’Vondre Sweat, Titans
Fiske has formed a powerful duo with Verse, while Sweat has been effective for Tennessee, recording 23 tackles and two tackles for loss. Making an impact in the interior line can be challenging for rookies, but both have risen to the occasion.
Runners-up: Byron Murphy, Seahawks; Johnny Newton, Commanders
LINEBACKERS: Edgerrin Cooper, Packers; Trevin Wallace, Panthers
Edgerrin Cooper, a second-round pick from Texas A&M, has made an immediate impact with 44 tackles and 2.5 sacks for Green Bay. Trevin Wallace, a third-round pick from Kentucky, has also contributed with 43 tackles and two forced fumbles.
Runners-up: Payton Wilson, Steelers; Tyrice Knight, Seahawks
CORNERBACKS: Quinyon Mitchell, Eagles; Kamari Lassiter, Texans
Quinyon Mitchell has stepped into a revamped Eagles secondary without allowing a touchdown, while Kamari Lassiter has contributed with an interception, demonstrating reliability as a rookie starter.
Runners-up: Tarheeb Still, Chargers; Nate Wiggins, Ravens
SAFETIES: Javon Bullard, Packers; Malik Mustapha, 49ers
Javon Bullard has been a key player for Green Bay, on pace for 96 tackles, while Malik Mustapha has stepped up for San Francisco, proving valuable in a larger role.
Runners-up: Calen Bullock, Texans; Tyler Nubin, Giants
NICKEL: Tykee Smith, Bucs
Tykee Smith has made a significant impact for the Buccaneers with three forced fumbles and an interception, showcasing his skills as a nickelback. Undrafted rookie Beanie Bishop Jr. has also made waves with three interceptions.
Runner-up: Bishop
KICKER: Will Reichard, Vikings
Will Reichard, a sixth-round pick from Alabama, has been reliable, converting 14 of 16 field goals and remaining perfect on extra points. Despite a quadriceps injury, he remains a standout in his position.
Runner-up: Cam Little, Jaguars
PUNTER: Ryan Rehkow, Bengals
Ryan Rehkow, an undrafted player, has excelled in his role as a punter, ranking fifth overall and third in net punting despite being previously cut by the Chiefs.
Runner-up: Tory Taylor, Bears
RETURNER: Brandon Codrington, Bills
Brandon Codrington has made a name for himself in both punt and kickoff returns, ranking among the league leaders in return average after his trade from the Jets.
Runners-up: Cooper DeJean, Eagles; Bucky Irving, Bucs
Greg Auman is an NFL Reporter for FOX Sports. He previously spent a decade covering the Buccaneers for the Tampa Bay Times and The Athletic. You can follow him on Twitter at @gregauman.
