NFL rookie rankings at midseason: Jayden Daniels holds the throne, but Brock Bowers flies up the board

Update As we hit the midseason point of the 2024 NFL campaign, rookie players are beginning to establish themselves, offering a glimpse of the future for their respective teams. While many rookies have already made an impact, a select few are proving to be game-changers. At the top of the list sits LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels, while Georgia tight end Brock Bowers is making an incredible leap up the rankings.

### 1. **Jayden Daniels, QB, New Orleans Saints**
Jayden Daniels is the clear frontrunner for NFL Rookie of the Year honors at the season’s midpoint. The dual-threat quarterback has made an immediate impact in New Orleans, blending his passing accuracy with his dynamic rushing ability. Through seven games, Daniels has thrown for over 2,000 yards and accounted for 18 touchdowns (12 passing, 6 rushing). His ability to extend plays with his legs while keeping his eyes downfield has made him a nightmare for defenses, and his rapid maturation as a leader is evident. In a division as unpredictable as the NFC South, Daniels’ play has been a stabilizing force for the Saints, who are currently in playoff contention. He’s not just meeting expectations—he’s exceeding them.

### 2. **Brock Bowers, TE, Atlanta Falcons**
While Daniels sits atop the rookie rankings, Brock Bowers is quickly making his case for a top spot as well. The former Georgia star was selected in the first round, and while many expected him to be a top-tier talent, few anticipated the immediate impact he’s had. Bowers has emerged as one of the most dynamic and reliable weapons in the NFL, not just for a rookie but for any player at his position. Through the first half of the season, he has posted over 600 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns, all while displaying exceptional route running, hands, and the ability to create after the catch. His chemistry with Falcons quarterback Desmond Ridder has grown each week, and Bowers is a matchup nightmare for defenders due to his rare combination of size (6’4″, 245 lbs) and athleticism. At this rate, Bowers could be on track to not only be named Rookie of the Year but also make an early case for a Pro Bowl selection.

### 3. **Caleb Williams, QB, Carolina Panthers**
Caleb Williams, the Heisman Trophy winner out of USC, entered the NFL as one of the most hyped quarterbacks in recent memory. Although the Panthers have struggled as a team, Williams’ individual performance has been impressive. Despite dealing with some growing pains, including a lack of offensive support, Williams has flashed elite arm talent and poise in the pocket. He’s been a bit inconsistent, but his potential is undeniable. By midseason, Williams has thrown for just under 1,800 yards with 11 touchdowns, although his interception count (7) is a concern. As Carolina looks to build around him in the coming years, Williams’ ceiling remains incredibly high.

### 4. **Jalen Carter, DT, Philadelphia Eagles**
Defensively, Jalen Carter has been a force for the Philadelphia Eagles. The former Georgia standout is showing exactly why he was considered one of the most pro-ready players in the 2024 draft. His combination of strength, quickness, and football IQ has made him a disruptive force in the Eagles’ defense. Carter has already accumulated 5 sacks and has been a key part of a defensive front that has wreaked havoc on opposing quarterbacks. With a championship-contending team surrounding him, Carter has the opportunity to grow into one of the NFL’s top defensive linemen for years to come.

### 5. **Bijan Robinson, RB, Atlanta Falcons**
A rare talent in the backfield, Bijan Robinson is making his mark in a crowded NFC South. The former Texas star has flashed his immense skill set, including vision, agility, and power, in his first season. Although he’s been sharing carries with veteran back Tyler Allgeier, Robinson has still managed to put up nearly 700 yards and 6 touchdowns. His versatility as both a rusher and receiver out of the backfield makes him a true weapon for the Falcons’ offense, and he’s already establishing himself as one of the league’s premier young running backs.

### Honorable Mentions
Other rookies worth noting include **Marvin Harrison Jr.**, the dynamic wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts, who has proven to be a top target for quarterback Anthony Richardson, and **Will Anderson Jr.**, the Houston Texans’ edge rusher, who has displayed relentless energy on defense.

As we look ahead to the second half of the season, it’s clear that the 2024 rookie class is filled with future stars. Jayden Daniels might sit at the top for now, but players like Brock Bowers, Caleb Williams, and Jalen Carter are rapidly climbing, and the race for Rookie of the Year is still wide open.