The 2024 NFL free agency signing period is set to begin, but several significant deals involving some of the most notable names in the market have already been revealed.
Although these star players are expected to have a substantial influence on their new teams, their moves could also create opportunities for emerging talents or elevate the performance of their new teammates.
Five players appear ready to emerge as breakout stars following the recent signings and trades that have marked the beginning of the new league year.
RB Chase Brown, Cincinnati Bengals
Chase Brown had a quiet rookie season in 2022, with just 179 yards on 44 carries in 12 games. However, he showed promise, especially towards the end of the 2023 season, gaining 61 yards on nine carries in Week 13 and finishing with 43 yards on 11 rushes in Week 18.
As a receiver, Chris Brown caught 14 of 15 targets for 156 yards in 2023. His best game was in Week 14 when he had 80 yards on three catches and scored his only NFL touchdown.
Despite only having a 12 percent snap share as a rookie, Brown is expected to see more playing time in 2024. Standing at 5’9″ and 215 pounds, he has the size and power to handle more carries, possibly exceeding 10 per game.
Additionally, he could be more involved in passing plays, potentially getting more targets than Moss, who is not known for his receiving skills. Brown is anticipated to improve in his second NFL season and could become the Bengals’ primary ball carrier over Moss.
WR Drake London, Atlanta Falcons
One player who will benefit greatly from the recent signings is Drake London, the wide receiver Atlanta drafted with the eighth overall pick two years ago. While London hasn’t had a disappointing start to his career, he has yet to produce the impressive stats the Falcons hoped for when they selected him as the first wide receiver in the deep 2022 draft class.
Despite a decent rookie season with 72 receptions for 866 yards and four touchdowns, he did not significantly improve in his second year, catching only 69 passes for 905 yards and two touchdowns.
With Cousins on board, it would be surprising if London does not surpass the 1,000-yard mark and score more touchdowns in 2024. If all goes well, London could finish the 2024 season as a top-10 receiver, possibly even ranking among the best in the league at his position.
As these players prepare for breakout seasons, fantasy football fans are already scouting the best DFS sites to optimize their lineups. With the potential for these emerging stars to deliver big performances, fantasy managers are eager to capitalize on their success.
WR George Pickens, Pittsburgh Steelers
George Pickens was considered a potential breakout star before the Pittsburgh Steelers offense struggled last season. Despite the team’s issues, Pickens had a strong performance, recording 1,140 yards and five touchdowns on 63 receptions. However, with a more competent quarterback and a better offensive system, he could have been a top-10 receiver.
The Steelers ranked No. 25 in total offense and No. 28 in scoring in 2023, the lowest among playoff teams. With Arthur Smith and Russell Wilson joining in 2024, improvements are expected. Even if Smith focuses on the run, Pickens should have a chance at a Pro Bowl with strong numbers.
Pickens’ success hinges on Wilson’s performance. Despite his age, Wilson is expected to perform well. With Pickens as his main target, he should have many opportunities, making Pickens one to watch for a breakout year.
EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux, New York Giants
Kayvon Thibodeaux has shown great potential in his first two seasons with the New York Giants, notably finishing with 11.5 sacks last year. With the addition of Brian Burns in a trade with the Carolina Panthers, Thibodeaux is expected to continue his upward trajectory in 2024.
Burns, a two-time Pro Bowler, is known for his ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks, which should benefit Thibodeaux by drawing attention away from him. Thibodeaux, the No. 5 overall pick in 2022, has the opportunity to further develop his game in his third year and improve on his impressive sack numbers. The Giants’ defense, particularly their pass rush, looks set to be a formidable force in 2024, with Burns and Thibodeaux leading the way.
RB Zamir White, Las Vegas Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders have decided not to extend Josh Jacobs’ contract after franchise-tagging him last year, signaling a change at running back. Zamir White, who stepped in for Jacobs in the final four games of 2023, made a strong impression with nearly 400 yards and a touchdown on 84 carries.
This breakout was unexpected, as White had only 37 carries for 124 yards in his first 26 NFL games. While White’s pass-catching numbers are lower than Jacobs’, he is poised to take over as the Raiders’ lead back.
At six feet tall and 215 pounds, White’s hard-nosed running style aligns with the team’s vision under new head coach Antonio Pierce. Even if the Raiders add another back, White’s performance suggests he’s ready for a larger role.
Final Thoughts
The 2024 NFL season is poised to showcase several breakout players who have the potential to make a significant impact. With the recent signings and trades that have reshaped rosters, emerging talents like Chase Brown, Drake London, George Pickens, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Zamir White have a prime opportunity to shine. These players have shown glimpses of greatness and now have the chance to take their game to the next level.
