The 2024 NFL Draft class is loaded with talented players, including quite a few prospects who could make an immediate impact in the NFL.
We recently broke down which rookies could have the biggest impact on their NFL teams during the 2024 regular season. Let’s examine the rookies to watch on each NFC South team.
1 Rookie That Could Have a Big Impact on Each NFC South Team
Atlanta Falcons: Brandon Dorlus, DL
Atlanta is unique in that its first-round pick — Michael Penix Jr. — shouldn’t make an impact early if things go according to plan with Kirk Cousins. If we’re talking about rookie year impact, then the Falcons’ three rookie defensive linemen factor in first.
In the early and middle rounds, Atlanta added Ruke Orhorhoro, Brandon Dorlus, and Bralen Trice, all of whom could have significant roles early on. But Dorlus — with his power element and versatility from 3-tech to 7-tech — might have the most utility on Day 1.
Runner-Ups: Ruke Orhorhoro, DT; Bralen Trice, EDGE
Carolina Panthers: Xavier Legette, WR
The Carolina Panthers’ decision to trade up for Xavier Legette signified their confidence in the former South Carolina standout. The trade for Diontae Johnson — a capable X receiver in Dave Canales’ scheme — will alleviate some pressure, but Legette still has an important role.
With his size and speed, Legette may be relied upon to be a dynamic vertical and RAC threat for Bryce Young — and he also has the contortion ability and hand strength to convert on tough passes over the middle. He’ll be a part of the offense on Day 1.
Runner-Ups: Ja’Tavion Sanders, TE; Trevin Wallace, LB
New Orleans Saints: Taliese Fuaga, OT
The New Orleans Saints’ offensive line was in dire straits leading into the 2024 NFL Draft. Trevor Penning’s development hasn’t panned out, and long-term injury concerns could plague Ryan Ramczyk. Taliese Fuaga needs to make an impact to hedge for those concerns.
Whether it’s at left or right tackle, Fuaga — in an ideal world — has the athleticism, low center of gravity, power, and mauler mentality to be an impact player. And while there are lapses in hand precision, his synergy as a pass protector is promising.
Runner-Ups: Kool-Aid McKinstry, CB; Khristian Boyd, DT
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Graham Barton, C
This one is fairly simple for Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers needed a new fulcrum man to keep Baker Mayfield clean after the QB’s resurgent 2023 campaign. With his football IQ, athleticism, flexibility, and driving power, Graham Barton qualifies as that fulcrum player.
The wild card to watch in Tampa Bay’s 2024 NFL Draft class is Jalen McMillan. He could leapfrog Trey Palmer early on for the WR3 role, and he has the vertical speed, route-running chops, and positional instincts to thrive alongside Mike Evans and Chris Godwin
