The NFL rookie landscape is constantly evolving, with new talent entering the league every year. The 2024 draft was no exception, as several players have already made a significant impact on their teams. While some rookies took time to adjust to the professional level, others wasted no time in making their mark and becoming key players for their respective franchises. As we approach the 2025 NFL Draft, FOX Sports recently took a look back at last year’s draft and listed the top 10 best picks. Let’s take a closer look at these impressive rookies and the impact they have had on their teams.
1. Trevor Lawrence, Quarterback, Jacksonville Jaguars
It’s no surprise that Trevor Lawrence is at the top of this list. The Jacksonville Jaguars selected him with the first overall pick, and he has lived up to the hype. Lawrence has quickly become the face of the franchise and has shown immense potential as a franchise quarterback. Despite a rocky start to the season, he has improved with each game and has already thrown for over 2,500 yards and 15 touchdowns. Lawrence’s talent and leadership have given Jaguars fans hope for a bright future.
2. Kyle Pitts, Tight End, Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons made a bold move by selecting Kyle Pitts with the fourth overall pick, making him the highest-drafted tight end in NFL history. And he has not disappointed. Pitts has been a reliable target for quarterback Matt Ryan, recording over 700 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He has also shown his versatility by lining up as a receiver and creating mismatches for opposing defenses. Pitts is proving to be a valuable addition to the Falcons’ offense and has a bright future ahead of him.
3. Micah Parsons, Linebacker, Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys’ defense has been a weak spot in recent years, but Micah Parsons has brought new life to the unit. The 12th overall pick has been a force on the field, recording 76 tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles. Parsons’ speed and athleticism have made him a nightmare for opposing offenses, and he has quickly become a fan favorite in Dallas. With his playmaking abilities, Parsons has the potential to become one of the best linebackers in the league.
4. Ja’Marr Chase, Wide Receiver, Cincinnati Bengals
The Cincinnati Bengals reunited Ja’Marr Chase with his college quarterback, Joe Burrow, by selecting him with the fifth overall pick. And the duo has picked up right where they left off at LSU. Chase has been a reliable target for Burrow, recording over 700 receiving yards and five touchdowns. He has also shown his big-play ability, averaging 16.5 yards per catch. Chase’s chemistry with Burrow has helped the Bengals’ offense become one of the most explosive in the league.
5. Rashawn Slater, Offensive Tackle, Los Angeles Chargers
The Los Angeles Chargers made a smart move by selecting Rashawn Slater with the 13th overall pick. He has been a crucial piece in protecting quarterback Justin Herbert’s blindside and has not allowed a single sack this season. Slater’s impressive pass-blocking skills have helped the Chargers’ offense become one of the most efficient in the league. He has also shown his versatility by playing both left and right tackle, solidifying his spot as a cornerstone of the Chargers’ offensive line.
6. Najee Harris, Running Back, Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers selected Najee Harris with the 24th overall pick, and he has quickly become their workhorse running back. Harris has recorded over 1,000 all-purpose yards and seven touchdowns, proving to be a valuable weapon for the Steelers’ offense. He has also shown his versatility by being a reliable receiver out of the backfield. Harris has brought a new dimension to the Steelers’ offense and has the potential to become one of the top running backs in the league.
7. Jaylen Waddle, Wide Receiver, Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins selected Jaylen Waddle with the sixth overall pick, and he has been a dynamic playmaker for their offense. Waddle has recorded over 600 receiving yards and four touchdowns, showcasing his speed and elusiveness on the field. He has also been a threat in the return game, making him a valuable asset for the Dolphins. Waddle’s explosiveness has added a new dimension to the Dolphins’ offense and has made him a fan favorite in Miami.
8. Jael
