As we approach the 2024 NFL season, several players are poised to rebound from disappointing campaigns. Let’s dive into the prospects of three key players who could make significant impacts for their teams this year.
A.J. Terrell, CB, Atlanta FalconsA.J. Terrell burst onto the scene in 2021, establishing himself as one of the premier cornerbacks in the NFL. His exceptional coverage skills and ability to shut down opposing receivers made him a building block of the Falcons’ defense. However, his performance has dipped over the past two seasons, leading some to question if he can return to his elite form. Enter Raheem Morris, the Falcons’ new head coach and one of the most respected defensive minds in the league. Morris has a proven track record of improving secondaries, and his arrival in Atlanta bodes well for Terrell. With Morris’s guidance, Terrell should benefit from a new defensive scheme and coaching that plays to his strengths. Expect Terrell to reclaim his status as a top-tier cornerback in 2024, revitalizing the Falcons’ defense. Jaire Alexander, CB, Green Bay PackersJaire Alexander’s 2023 season was marred by injuries, limiting him to just seven games — the fewest of his career. Despite these setbacks, Alexander remains one of the NFL’s most talented cornerbacks. At 27 years old, he’s still in the prime of his career and is set up for a significant bounce back. The Packers have bolstered their secondary by adding safety Xavier McKinney in free agency, which should allow Alexander to play more aggressively. With McKinney providing support over the top, Alexander can focus on his strengths in coverage and playmaking. After his first season without an interception, Alexander is due for a resurgence, and his return to form will be a critical factor for the Packers’ defense in 2024. Rhamondre Stevenson, RB, New England PatriotsRhamondre Stevenson had an impressive start to his NFL career, averaging 4.6 and 5 yards per carry in his first two seasons. However, his production dipped to 4 yards per carry last year as he dealt with injuries and instability at the quarterback position. The Patriots’ offensive struggles allowed defenses to key in on Stevenson, limiting his effectiveness. The addition of rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who brings a dual-threat capability, along with two young wide receivers and improvements on the offensive line, should provide Stevenson with more opportunities to thrive. With defenses now having to account for multiple threats, Stevenson is well-positioned to bounce back in 2024. Look for him to return to his dynamic form, offering the Patriots a potent weapon in their backfield. As the 2024 NFL season approaches, these three players have the potential to be game-changers for their respective teams. A.J. Terrell, Jaire Alexander, and Rhamondre Stevenson are all primed for bounce-back seasons, driven by improved health, coaching, and supporting casts. Keep an eye on these players as they aim to make significant impacts this fall. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football
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As the 2024 college football season approaches, fans are buzzing with anticipation. From coaching changes to conference realignments, this season promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Here are the top five storylines to keep an eye on:
1. Deion Sanders’ Year Two at Colorado Deion Sanders took over a struggling Colorado program and led them to a 4-8 record last season. Despite the modest win total, the hype around Sanders' tenure remains strong, evidenced by the Buffaloes selling out their season tickets for the second straight year. Key players like quarterback Shedeur Sanders and receiver/defensive back Travis Hunter, both with first-round NFL draft potential, will be pivotal. Sanders' brother, Shilo, also returns as a safety after a standout season. While the team faced significant losses via the transfer portal, the influx of new talent suggests that Colorado could double their win total in a softer Big 12 conference and surprise many. 2. Michigan vs. Ohio State: A New Chapter The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry, one of the most storied in college football, enters a new era in 2024. Michigan has dominated the rivalry recently, but with Jim Harbaugh gone and Sherrone Moore stepping in as head coach, the Wolverines face uncertainty. Ohio State, on the other hand, is under immense pressure. Head coach Ryan Day has struggled against Michigan, and with a roster stacked with stars like Emeka Egbuka, TreVeyon Henderson, and JT Tuimoloau, and key transfers like quarterback Will Howard, the Buckeyes are in a "now-or-never" situation. This season could redefine the dynamics of this historic rivalry. 3. The New Power 2: SEC and Big Ten Realignments The 2024 season marks a significant shift in college football's landscape with Texas and Oklahoma joining the SEC, and Oregon, Washington, USC, and UCLA moving to the Big Ten. These realignments will introduce mouthwatering matchups like Oregon vs. Ohio State, Georgia vs. Texas, USC vs. Michigan, and Oklahoma vs. Alabama. This new era promises more high-stakes games during the regular season, enhancing the sport's overall appeal and excitement. 4. Alabama Post-Nick Saban Alabama enters the 2024 season under new leadership with Kalen DeBoer at the helm after Nick Saban's legendary tenure. DeBoer, who led Washington to a National Championship appearance last season, is known for his offensive acumen. However, he will need to elevate his recruiting efforts in the highly competitive SEC. The expectations remain sky-high for the Crimson Tide, and DeBoer faces the daunting task of maintaining Alabama's storied legacy of success. 5. The Expanded Playoffs This year, college football will debut its expanded 12-team playoff format. The top five conference champions and the next seven highest-ranked teams will compete for the national championship. This expansion aims to address the controversies of previous seasons where many deserving teams were left out. The inclusion of first-round games at home stadiums promises electric atmospheres and a thrilling postseason. With debates over rankings and potential dominance by the SEC and Big Ten, the expanded playoffs are set to be a major talking point throughout the season. The 2024 college football season is shaping up to be a landmark year with transformative changes and high-stakes drama. Fans should buckle up for an exhilarating ride as these storylines unfold on Saturdays this fall. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football The Dallas Cowboys have had a challenging offseason, arguably one of the toughest in the NFL. After a relatively quiet free agency period, significant roster changes, and a draft that left many analysts questioning their choices, the Cowboys' prospects for the upcoming season seem uncertain at best. Here’s why the Cowboys' offseason decisions may hinder their short-term success and potentially set them back in their pursuit of a championship.
Minimal Free Agency MovesThe Cowboys were notably inactive during free agency, with the only significant addition being linebacker Eric Kendricks, who was brought in to fill the void left by Leighton Vander Esch’s retirement. This inactivity in the free agency market is concerning, especially given the departures of key players like offensive tackle Tyron Smith, center Tyler Biadasz, and running back Tony Pollard. The defensive line, in particular, looks vulnerable after losing depth players like Dorance Armstrong and Johnathan Hankins. These losses create substantial gaps in both the offensive and defensive lines. Questionable Draft ChoicesDallas' draft strategy raised several eyebrows. Their first-round pick, Oklahoma tackle Tyler Guyton, is seen as a major project. Originally a defensive end, Guyton’s development at offensive tackle is filled with uncertainty. This pick has been criticized, especially considering the immediate need for a more NFL-ready talent to replace Tyron Smith. Their second-round selection, EDGE Marshawn Kneeland, and third-round pick, guard Cooper Beebe, offer promise but may require time to develop. In the fifth round, the Cowboys picked cornerback Caelen Carson, another player with potential but unlikely to make an immediate impact. Overall, Dallas received a B- draft grade from us, indicating a solid but unspectacular haul of new talent. Running Back Situation and Financial ConstraintsOne of the most perplexing moves was the re-signing of Ezekiel Elliott after his brief stint with the New England Patriots. This decision underscores the dire situation in the Cowboys’ running back room, especially after failing to draft a running back. Elliott, while a familiar face, has shown signs of decline, making this move more like a stopgap than a solution. Financially, the Cowboys were dead last in offseason spending, with just $20.7 million spent. This figure is $46 million less than the next lowest team, the New Orleans Saints. Such frugality is surprising for a team with playoff ambitions and highlights a potentially worrying lack of investment in upgrading the roster. Dak Prescott’s Contract UncertaintyAdding to the turmoil is the unresolved contract situation of quarterback Dak Prescott. The uncertainty surrounding his extension is a cloud hanging over the team. Prescott's contract situation and the changing QB market may trigger a high-stakes negotiation, impacting the Cowboys' salary cap and future roster planning. Wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and linebacker Micah Parsons are poised for lucrative contracts that could set new standards in the market. However, allocating funds to Dak Prescott's contract might impede the Cowboys' capacity to retain these pivotal players. Challenges AheadWith significant roster holes, a questionable draft, and minimal free agency activity, it's hard to argue that the Cowboys have improved this offseason. Instead, they appear poised to start multiple rookies in key positions, a risky proposition for a team aiming to remain in championship contention. The Cowboys still harbor legitimate playoff aspirations, but the path to improving on last year's performance looks steep. Relying heavily on young, unproven talent in critical roles is far from ideal for a team seeking to keep its championship window open. As the season approaches, the Cowboys must hope that their gambles pay off and that their young players can quickly adapt to the NFL. Otherwise, they may find themselves taking a step back in 2024. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football As we continue our 2024 NFL Draft preview, the spotlight shifts to another set of five underrated talents emerging to make their mark in the NFL. Join us as we uncover these playmakers ready to surprise fans and analysts alike in Part 2 of our series on NFL Draft Sleepers for the 2024 season.
Max Melton, CB, Rutgers Max Melton emerges with versatility at the cornerback position. He’s a high motor player with an insatiable competitive spirit, Melton leaves it all on the field, showcasing an uncanny ability to diagnose plays with quick precision. His knack for disrupting passing lanes, coupled with NFL size and speed, sets him up to be a dynamic defensive back. He showed he was capable of slowing down some of the Big Ten’s top receivers. Keep a close eye on Melton as he looks to carve out his place in the NFL. Mohamed Kamara, EDGE, Colorado State Mohamed Kamara was a defensive force who wreaked havoc on opposing offenses while at Colorado State. With an NFL-ready frame and a lightning-quick first step, Kamara possesses all the tools necessary to dominate in the trenches. His relentless pursuit of the quarterback, combined with a diverse array of pass rush moves, makes him a nightmare for offensive linemen tasked with containing his ferocity. Kamara is capable of being a game-changer at the next level. Xavier Weaver, WR, Colorado In a deep wide receiver class, Xavier Weaver emerges as a dynamic playmaker with the ability to change the outcome of a game in an instant. Weaver’s explosive acceleration and exceptional route-running make him a threat to score every time he touches the ball. Whether lining up on the outside or in the slot, his high football IQ and innate understanding of the game set him apart from most prospects. Keep an eye on Weaver as he looks to make his mark on the NFL stage. Mason Pline, TE, Furman Mason Pline, a tight end with a rare blend of size, athleticism, and playmaking ability. As a former college basketball player, Pline brings a unique skill set to the game, highlighted by his soft hands and impeccable ball skills. His ability to high point and secure catches in traffic, coupled with his ability to gain yards after the catch, makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses to contain. Mason Pline possesses the athleticism and potential to become a high level NFL tight end. Kimani Vidal, RB, Troy Rounding out our list is Kimani Vidal, a stout running back with the ability to impose his will on opposing defenses. Armed with a short but muscular frame and a relentless running style, Vidal has the rare combination of power and agility that NFL teams covet. Whether running through defenders or making them miss in the open field, his versatility as a ball-carrier sets him apart as a true game-changer. In a running back class that is viewed as weak by most analysts, Vidal could be a late round steal. The NFL Draft is a showcase of young talent, where the best of the best vie for a spot in the league. But beyond the obvious stars, hidden gems are waiting to be discovered. These additional five NFL Draft Sleepers have proven themselves on the field, displaying a rare combination of skill, versatility, and athleticism. They are ready to take on the challenge of the next level, and to make an impact on their future teams. Don’t sleep on these players, because they are about to wake up the league in 2024. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) As we enter into the heart of the 2024 NFL draft season, it's time for the unveiling of Brad Fowler's first mock draft. It aims to strategically address team needs and bolster rosters across the league with all 32 first-round picks, following the initial frenzy of free agency. While notable free agents still linger, the dust has settled on the major signings, allowing us to focus squarely on the draft landscape. This mock draft refrains from projecting any trades, providing a clear snapshot of each team's potential selections.
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) In NFL the running back position still remains crucial for many teams’ offensive strategies. As we continue to break down the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, the spotlight shifts to five exceptional players poised to make a significant impact at the next level. Let’s explore the top five running back prospects, each bringing their unique blend of skills and potential.
1. Jonathon Brooks — Texas Leading this year’s class is Jonathon Brooks from Texas. Regarded by many as the cream of the crop in this year’s running back class, Brooks combines agility, vision, and NFL-caliber burst. His standout quality lies in his patience, allowing blocks to form before exploiting openings with remarkable field awareness. As a first-time starter in 2023, Brooks showcased his explosive potential by amassing 1,425 yards and 11 touchdowns in just 11 games, cementing his status as a game-changer. 2. Jaylen Wright — Tennessee Hailing from Tennessee, Jaylen Wright emerges as a formidable prospect with explosive athleticism and breakaway speed. Wright’s versatility shines through as he exhibits a keen eye for open space, complemented by his adeptness in pass protection against blitzing defenders. With a quick jump-cut and the ability to power through tackles, Wright poses a dual-threat capability, capable of altering the course of a game with his dynamic playmaking skills. 3. Trey Benson — Florida State Florida State’s Trey Benson embodies the epitome of a tough, relentless runner who thrives on contact. His sheer power and acceleration make him a nightmare for defenders to bring down on initial contact, often dragging them for additional yards. Benson’s playmaking extends to the passing game, where his natural catching abilities and willingness to sacrifice his body add another dimension to his skill set, making him a coveted prospect for NFL franchises. 4. MarShawn Lloyd — USC USC’s MarShawn Lloyd distinguishes himself with his patience and astute decision-making on the field. A smooth athlete with quick footwork, Lloyd excels in allowing plays to develop, but shows a sense of urgency when needed. Despite running behind a subpar offensive line, Lloyd consistently generated dynamic plays, highlighting his toughness and overall ability as a playmaker in adverse conditions. He accumulated 816 rushing yards on 115 carries, boasting an exceptional 7.1 yards per carry average. 5. Bucky Irving — Oregon Rounding up our list is Oregon’s Bucky Irving, whose skills in the passing game set him apart. Exceptional foot quickness and agility in change of direction. He’s Capable of halting abruptly and redirecting smoothly. With excellent contact balance and leg drive, Irving has the ability to make defenders miss but also power through tackles. His knack for making defenders miss, coupled with an impressive yards-after-contact average, underscores his value as a creative runner capable of turning any play into a big gain. As the 2024 NFL Draft draws near, these five running back prospects have the skills to shine in the NFL this fall. Each with their unique skill sets and unwavering determination, they are set to make an instant impact on the league, captivating fans and shaping the future of the running back position. Keep an eye on these young playmakers as they transition from college stardom to the NFL. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football The 2024 NFL Combine was a showcase of young talent, with some of the brightest prospects all vying for spots on an NFL roster this fall. Among the many aspiring players, these five prospects showed why they could be climbing draft boards after strong showings at the NFL combine. Let's jump into the stellar performances of these rising draft prospects who have illuminated their path to the 2024 NFL Draft.
Braden Fiske, DT, Florida StateBraden Fiske, the powerhouse from Florida State, stormed onto the Combine stage, leaving a lasting impression on scouts and analysts. Weighing in at 292 pounds, Fiske's agility and speed were impressive for his size, earning him accolades as one of the standout performers of the event. Fiske's Relative Athletic Score (RAS) ranked as the 14th-best score out of 1620 defensive tackle prospects since 1987, underscoring his elite athleticism and potential impact at the next level. Add his stellar showing at the Senior Bowl and it has further bolstered his rising stock, catapulting him up the draft boards with serious momentum. Troy Fautanu, OT, WashingtonTroy Fautanu, hailing from Washington, emerged as a titan among offensive tackles at the Combine. With NFL prototypical size and explosive athleticism, Fautanu dazzled scouts with his quick feet and fluid movements, reaffirming his versatility to play both tackle and guard positions. His impressive physical metrics, including a 1.71-second 10-yard split and a 5.01-second 40-yard dash, showcased his ability and potential to anchor NFL offensive lines. Fautanu's stellar performance solidifies his standing as a coveted prospect, who could be a day-one impact player in the NFL. Ladd McConkey, WR, GeorgiaLadd McConkey, the speedster from Georgia, captivated audiences with his electrifying performance at the Combine. Clocking a blazing 4.39-second 40-yard dash, McConkey's speed, agility, and measurables mirrored that of former New York Jets' 2022 first-round pick Garrett Wilson, cementing his status as a polished prospect destined for success. His flawless execution during positional drills underscored his versatility and playmaking ability. McConkey's meteoric rise from an underrated prospect to a potential late first-round selection epitomizes the transformative power of the NFL Combine. Jaylen Wright, RB, TennesseeJaylen Wright, the explosive playmaker from Tennessee, left a lasting impression with his standout performance at the NFL Combine. With a staggering Relative Athletic Score (RAS) and remarkable physical attributes, Wright emerged as one of the most intriguing running back prospects in the 2024 draft class. Recording the second-fastest 40-yard dash time and showcasing unparalleled acceleration, Wright's dynamic skills set him apart from his peers. His NFL Combine performance catapults him into the upper echelons of the running back conversation, poised to make a profound impact at the pro level. Mike Sainristil, CB, MichiganMike Sainristil, the dynamic cornerback from Michigan, shattered expectations with his stellar showing at the NFL Combine. Despite concerns about his size, Sainristil's exceptional performance in key drills and his impressive production at Michigan have thrust him into the spotlight as a top prospect among nickel cornerbacks. His transition from wide receiver to cornerback shows up on tape and in drills because of his great ball skills and playmaking ability. Sainristil's standout performance at the Combine raises his position as a coveted prospect, who can be an impact defender in the NFL. The 2024 NFL Combine unveiled a group of rising talent, with Braden Fiske, Troy Fautanu, Ladd McConkey, Jaylen Wright, and Mike Sainristil all showing the athleticism and measurables of players who can excel in the NFL. As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on these rising prospects as they embark on their journey to the NFL. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football The NFL offseason is always rife with speculation, and this year, the focus is on the talented young quarterback, Justin Fields of the Chicago Bears. As rumors swirl about his potential departure, let's dive into three compelling landing spots that could redefine the trajectory of Fields' career.
Atlanta Falcons: Revitalizing the Offense with Fields' Explosiveness The Atlanta Falcons find themselves at a crossroads, and the quarterback position is undeniably a weak link in their chain. Desmond Ridder's struggles to prove himself as a capable NFL starter have left the franchise yearning for a dynamic playmaker. Enter Justin Fields. Fields brings to the table a skill set that transcends conventional quarterbacking. His ability to create and extend plays with his legs adds an explosive dimension to an offense already brimming with versatile, young talent. In the hands of Fields, players like Kyle Pitts, Drake London and Bijan Robinson could flourish, providing the Falcons with a much-needed spark. General manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Arthur Smith find themselves on the hot seat, and to secure their future, they must make a bold move. Fields represents not just a quarterback upgrade but a potential game-changer for the entire franchise. Pittsburgh Steelers: Time for a Quarterback Revolution In the Steel City, the quarterback situation is ripe for a revolution. The uninspiring options of Kenny Pickett, Mitch Trubisky, and Mason Rudolph do little to inspire confidence in the offensive strategy. Mike Tomlin has legitimate concerns about the direction of his offense, and the time is now for a drastic change. Acquiring Justin Fields could be the catalyst for this change. Fields' dynamic playmaking abilities and versatility could inject life into a stagnant quarterback room. The Steelers more than likely won’t have a high enough draft pick in April to acquire one of the top signal callers so trading some later draft picks and taking a chance on Fields could be worth the risk. The Steelers can ill-afford to stick with the status quo. Pursuing Fields represents not just a move for today but an investment in the future of the franchise. New Orleans Saints: A Strategic Move for Future Success The New Orleans Saints, find themselves at a crossroads with their quarterback situation. While other teams might make a splash in the draft, the Saints could have an alternative route in mind: Justin Fields. Securing Fields would serve as a reasonable alternative if the Saints decide against another draft trade-up. The roster, potentially depleted in the coming seasons, might not justify sacrificing additional picks for marquee names. However, Fields presents a unique opportunity to build for the future. With the chance to learn from Derek Carr and eventually take the reins, Fields could seamlessly integrate into the backfield alongside Alvin Kamara. This move not only provides a strategic succession plan but also ensures the team remains competitive in the face of uncertainty. As the Justin Fields saga unfolds, these three potential landing spots offer not only a change of scenery for the talented quarterback but also the promise of a brighter future for the franchises willing to make a bold move. Stay tuned for the next chapter in the NFL offseason drama. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football As the NFL is set to play its final game of the season, we take a look back at the 2023 NFL Draft and reflect on the selections and the impact these rookies made on the field. Despite uncertainties and speculation, some draft classes have defied our expectations, while others delivered what we expected with each propelling their franchises toward a brighter future. Let's dive into the top five NFL draft classes of 2023, highlighting the standout picks and their contributions to their respective teams' success.
5. Pittsburgh Steelers Original Grade: A- | New Grade: A- Best Pick: Joey Porter Jr. The Pittsburgh Steelers' rookie class showcased remarkable talent, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. First-round pick Broderick Jones became the starting right tackle, not the starting left tackle they hoped for and was up and down his rookie year with some trouble in pass protection. Second-round pick Joey Porter Jr. emerged as a formidable cornerback, poised to anchor the secondary for years to come. Notable defensive standouts include Keeanu Benton and Nick Herbig. Darnell Washington, wasn’t a big contributor catching the ball but made an impact as a blocker. Each made significant contributions in their rookie campaign. The Steelers' draft class has a bright future for Steel City football. 4. Los Angeles Rams Original Grade: D | New Grade: A- Best Pick: Puka Nacua Despite initial skepticism, the Los Angeles Rams unearthed hidden gems in the 2023 NFL Draft. Led by the steal of the entire draft fifth-round pick Puka Nacua, who broke all-time rookie NFL records for both receptions and receiving yards. The Rams' draft class exceeded expectations. Offensive lineman Steve Avila was a key contributor and a full-time starter. Defensive standouts Byron Young and Kobie Turner (who earned All-Rookie Team honors) showcased their immediate impact, solidifying the Rams' defensive foundation. With a blend of talent on both sides of the ball, the Rams' 2023 class was one of the biggest surprises this season and it lays the groundwork for sustained success in Los Angeles. 3. Detroit Lions Original Grade: D+ | New Grade: A Best Pick: Sam LaPorta The Detroit Lions defied expectations with their 2023 draft class, turning perceived reaches into key contributors. Dynamic running back Jahmyr Gibbs and linebacker Jack Campbell proved their worth with standout rookie seasons, helping to propel the Lions to newfound heights. Sam LaPorta, arguably had the greatest rookie season by a tight end in NFL history, tallying 86 receptions, 889 receiving yards, and 10 touchdowns. Second-round pick Brian Branch became the best player in the Lions’ secondary and underscored the Lions' ability to continue to build a competitive roster. With a resurgence in the NFC North, the Lions' draft class symbolizes a new era of Detroit football. 2. Green Bay Packers Original Grade: A | New Grade: A Best Pick: Jayden Reed The Green Bay Packers' 2023 draft class signifies a bright future, anchored by breakout star Jayden Reed. With a blend of offensive and defensive talent, including Lukas Van Ness, Carrington Valentine, and Dontayvion Wicks, the Packers cultivated a roster poised for success. Sixth-round nose tackle Karl Brooks was an impactful rotational player on the defensive line all season. Luke Musgrave and Tucker Kraft both improved the TE position. Special teams standout kicker Anders Carlson and defensive contributor Colby Wooden highlight the depth and versatility of Green Bay's draft selections. As the Packers move forward, their 2023 class added a multitude of depth to a roster with championship aspirations. 1. Houston Texans Original Grade: B+ | New Grade: A Best Pick: C.J. Stroud The Houston Texans orchestrated a draft masterclass in 2023, reshaping the franchise's trajectory with strategic selections. Led by quarterback C.J. Stroud and edge rusher Will Anderson Jr., the Texans solidified their foundation for future success. The Texans found great value with players like Tank Dell a third-rounder, designated as the team's big-play specialist, and Juice Scruggs who finished the year as a starter. Houston's offense and defense boast massive potential. Henry To'oto'o was a steal in the fifth-round wreaking havoc on opposing offenses. The Texans' draft class embodies the type of tough and talented players head coach DeMeco Ryans wanted to reshape this franchise with and ushers in a new era of dominance in the AFC South. The 2023 NFL Draft unveiled a crop of talent poised to leave a lasting mark on the league. From defensive dynamos to offensive juggernauts, these draft classes embody the essence of gridiron greatness. As the NFL landscape evolves, the legacy of these rookies will endure, shaping the future of the NFL for years to come. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football As we get closer to the 2024 NFL Draft, the spotlight shines not only on the marquee names but also, on underrated talents emerging ready to make their mark in the NFL. Here, we take a look into the depths of talent, uncovering five NFL Draft Sleepers poised to surprise fans in the fall.
Blake Watson, RB, Memphis Blake Watson is an electrifying player, with a sudden burst and impeccable lateral quickness, Watson maneuvers the field with the grace of a seasoned pro. Transitioning from wide receiver to running back, his versatility makes him an instant impact player. As an inside or outside runner, Watson boasts remarkable field vision, effortlessly finding open spaces. Dynamic and multifaceted, he's a playmaker who’s equally comfortable lining up in the slot as a wide receiver. Ainias Smith, WR, Texas A&M Texas A&M's Ainias Smith is a name to keep an eye on. Smith's polished route running paired with exceptional speed makes him a difficult assignment for corners. His versatility is his hallmark, seamlessly transitioning between wide receiver, running back, and punt returner. He should add value to any team as a playmaker on offense and special teams. He is an explosive and tenacious athlete who fearlessly traverses the middle of the field, leaving defenders in his wake. Kiran Amegadjie, OT, Yale Kiran Amegadjie, is a stalwart presence on the offensive line. With two-and-a-half years of starting experience at both guard and tackle under his belt, Amegadjie displayed dominance. His aggressive play style, coupled with impeccable quickness, sets him apart. Possessing remarkable balance and a strong base, Amegadjie drives defenders backward with ease. A true athlete, his long arms help fend off rushers in pass protection. AJ Hampton Jr., CB, Tulane AJ Hampton Jr. brings speed and talent to the cornerback position. A transfer from Northwestern, Hampton Jr. boasts exceptional ball skills and a keen football IQ. He can play man-to-man but excels in zone coverage. With a quick burst and outstanding closing speed, he can cover quick slot wide receivers in space. Hampton Jr. is a fluid athlete who separates the ball from defenders and could be a steal in the 2024 NFL Draft. Luke McCaffrey, WR, Rice A former QB at Nebraska, the brother of Christian McCaffrey and the son of Ed McCaffrey, Rice's Luke McCaffrey epitomizes versatility. Luke McCaffrey exudes talent and toughness. His performance at the 2024 Reese's Senior Bowl turned heads, showcasing his ability as a natural pass catcher who can separate from defenders. With a high football IQ and short-area quickness, McCaffrey thrives in the slot, making tough catches look effortless. The NFL Draft is a showcase of young talent, where the best of the best vie for a spot in the league. But beyond the obvious stars, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These five NFL Draft Sleepers have proven themselves on the field, displaying a rare combination of skill, versatility, and athleticism. They are ready to take on the challenge of the next level, and to make an impact on their future teams. Don’t sleep on these players, because they are about to wake up the league in 2024. -Brad Fowler, Pint Glass Football |