The 2024 NFL Draft class is making waves not just on the field but also in fantasy football leagues across the country. With several rookies showing promise, fantasy managers are eager to see who might become the next big thing in fantasy football. Here’s a look at the top fantasy-worthy rookies from the 2024 NFL Draft and why they’re worth considering for your fantasy roster.
1. Caleb Williams – Quarterback, Chicago Bears
Why He’s Fantasy-Worthy: Caleb Williams, the first overall pick, brings a high ceiling for fantasy production. Known for his dynamic playmaking ability, Williams can contribute through both the air and on the ground. His mobility allows him to escape pressure and add rushing yards and touchdowns, which are crucial for fantasy quarterbacks. With the Bears’ offense expected to rely heavily on him, Williams is poised to be a high-volume player, making him a valuable fantasy asset, especially in leagues that reward dual-threat quarterbacks.
Fantasy Outlook: Williams has the potential to be a top-10 fantasy quarterback if he continues his strong early performances. His ability to generate points with both passing and rushing touchdowns makes him a high-upside pick, especially in leagues where rushing yards and touchdowns are heavily valued.
2. Marvin Harrison Jr. – Wide Receiver, New England Patriots
Why He’s Fantasy-Worthy: Marvin Harrison Jr. is one of the most highly touted receiver prospects in recent years, and he’s living up to the hype. His exceptional route-running, hands, and ability to make big plays make him an attractive option in fantasy leagues. As the primary target in the Patriots’ passing game, Harrison Jr. is set to see a significant number of targets, which should translate into plenty of fantasy points.
Fantasy Outlook: Harrison Jr. has the potential to be a WR1 or WR2 in fantasy leagues. His high target volume and playmaking ability make him a strong candidate for consistent points and potential breakout performances throughout the season.
3. Bucky Irving – Running Back, New York Giants
Why He’s Fantasy-Worthy: Bucky Irving’s blend of speed and versatility makes him an intriguing fantasy option. As a rookie in a Giants backfield that could benefit from a dynamic playmaker, Irving’s ability to contribute both as a runner and a receiver out of the backfield adds to his fantasy value. His potential role as a three-down back could lead to substantial touches and scoring opportunities.
Fantasy Outlook: Irving’s versatility and role as a potential lead back make him a high-upside fantasy pick. If he secures a significant workload, he could emerge as a solid RB2 or even an RB1 in some leagues, particularly in PPR formats where his receiving skills enhance his value.
4. Joe Alt – Offensive Tackle, Miami Dolphins
Why He’s Fantasy-Worthy: While offensive tackles don’t directly score fantasy points, Joe Alt’s impact on the Dolphins’ offense is worth noting. A solid offensive line helps protect the quarterback and creates running lanes, which can elevate the fantasy value of players like Tua Tagovailoa and running backs like Raheem Mostert. If Alt helps stabilize the Dolphins’ line, it could lead to improved fantasy production from the team’s offensive stars.
Fantasy Outlook: While Alt himself isn’t a fantasy option, his positive effect on the offensive line could boost the value of the Dolphins’ skill players. Keep an eye on how the improved protection translates into better performances from Miami’s fantasy assets.
5. Kool-Aid McKinstry – Cornerback, San Francisco 49ers
Why He’s Fantasy-Worthy: Like Alt, Kool-Aid McKinstry is not a fantasy player himself, but his impact on the 49ers’ defense can be significant. As a top cornerback, McKinstry’s ability to shut down opposing receivers can lead to fewer passing yards and touchdowns against the 49ers, which might indirectly benefit fantasy managers by lowering the scoring potential of opposing teams’ key offensive players.
Fantasy Outlook: While not directly contributing fantasy points, McKinstry’s performance could influence the fantasy value of players going against the 49ers’ defense. A strong cornerback can make opposing wide receivers less appealing in fantasy matchups.
6. Jared Verse – Edge Rusher, Dallas Cowboys
Why He’s Fantasy-Worthy: Jared Verse, with his pass-rushing prowess, can contribute significantly to fantasy defenses. In leagues that include defensive players (IDP formats), Verse’s ability to generate sacks and pressure the quarterback can provide a steady stream of fantasy points. His potential to disrupt games and accumulate tackles for loss and sacks makes him a valuable defensive asset.
Fantasy Outlook: For IDP leagues, Verse is a rookie to watch. His ability to impact the game through sacks and tackles can make him a strong defensive end or linebacker option, especially if he continues to be a key part of the Cowboys’ pass rush.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 NFL Draft class brings several exciting fantasy prospects, with rookies like Caleb Williams and Marvin Harrison Jr. leading the charge. As the season unfolds, these players have the potential to make significant impacts in fantasy leagues, whether through high-scoring performances or boosting the value of other players. Keep an eye on their development and adjust your fantasy strategies accordingly to capitalize on their potential.
