Week 1 of the NFL preseason has come and gone. Let's take a look at how each of the top 10 picks in the 2024 NFL Draft is performing after the start of the preseason.
Caleb Williams, QB, Chicago Bears
The No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft made a strong impression during his preseason debut, leading the Chicago Bears to a 33-6 win over the Buffalo Bills. Caleb Williams played the first two series, completing 4-of-7 passes for 95 yards and a 101.8 passer rating. His performance included two scoring drives that resulted in field goals, giving the Bears an early 6-0 lead.
Head coach Matt Eberflus praised Williams’ performance, highlighting his accuracy and composure under pressure. Williams executed a key 12-yard pass to D.J. Moore and a 42-yard screen pass to D'Andre Swift in the first possession, showcasing his ability to make plays both in the pocket and on the move.
Williams’ debut performance ranked him as the most effective quarterback of the preseason. With plans to play a few more snaps in future preseason games, Williams looks set to continue impressing as the Bears approach the regular season.
Jayden Daniels, QB, Washington Commanders
In his preseason debut, Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels impressed with a strong performance in a 20-17 loss to the New York Jets. Daniels completed 2-of-3 passes for 45 yards and connected on a 42-yard pass to Dyami Brown.
Despite missing key offensive linemen, Daniels showcased his skill and poise. On a crucial third down, he delivered a precise throw down the sideline to Brown. He also demonstrated his versatility with a three-yard touchdown run.
His performance, though limited to one drive, set a positive tone for his future with the Commanders. As Daniels continues to develop, he is expected to see increased playing time in the remaining preseason games and is anticipated to be a key player in Week 1.
Drake Maye, QB, New England Patriots
In his first preseason game with the New England Patriots, rookie quarterback Drake Maye saw limited action, playing just seven snaps in a loss to the Carolina Panthers. Despite this brief appearance, Maye’s performance underscored his progress.
Maye’s night included three handoffs and three pass attempts. Although he didn’t have the chance to display his mobility or stretch the field, his work under center was particularly notable. His most significant play came on a 3rd-and-11 situation, where he successfully executed a check-down pass to Kevin Harris, demonstrating his ability to make decisions under pressure.
The disparity in playing time between Maye and other high-profile rookies has sparked some debate. However, early signs suggest he is making strides and is expected to get more opportunities to play with the starters during the Patriots’ remaining preseason games.
Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Arizona Cardinals
Arizona Cardinals fans were eager to see rookie wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., the fourth overall pick, make his preseason debut. However, his time on the field was limited to just three snaps in the game against the New Orleans Saints.
In those few plays, the Cardinals focused on the run and faced a sack, leaving Harrison Jr. with no opportunities to showcase his skills. Despite being the only offensive starter to see action, Harrison Jr. didn’t get a chance to make an impact.
Harrison Jr. had expressed his eagerness to gain preseason experience, yet, the brief stint on the field left fans and observers disappointed, as the Cardinals struggled offensively, going three-and-out on all their drives.
With Harrison Jr.’s debut cut short, fans will have to wait to see more of him.
Joe Alt, OT, Los Angeles Chargers
In the Chargers’ preseason loss to the Seattle Seahawks, rookie offensive tackle Joe Alt made his debut. Playing 21 snaps, Alt demonstrated solid performance, allowing only one quarterback pressure. He effectively showcased his finesse in pass protection and his ability to create space in the run game.
While Alt’s debut was promising, it was not without its challenges. He faced early pressure that revealed a potential area for improvement, as anchoring power was a noted concern during his college career at Notre Dame. Additionally, there were moments where he struggled with consistency in run blocking. Nevertheless, his agility and movement, especially given his size, were standout attributes.
Overall, Alt’s performance provided a glimpse of his potential, with room for growth as he adjusts to the NFL level.
Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants
The Giants’ top draft pick, Malik Nabers, faced early challenges getting the ball in his first preseason game. Nabers was not targeted during his 12 offensive snaps in a 14-3 win over the Detroit Lions.
The rookie receiver, who had a standout training camp and demonstrated his skills during joint practices, was left without a catch in his debut. This lack of involvement came even though he was often open. Light rain and tough conditions at MetLife Stadium contributed to a difficult game for both teams, particularly impacting passing plays.
As the Giants aim to fill the void left by Odell Beckham Jr., Nabers’ performance will be crucial. His past success at LSU suggests high-end potential. The team and fans will need to see how Nabers adapts and integrates into the Giants’ offense in the coming games, with hopes that his talent will soon translate into significant contributions on the field.
JC Latham, OT, Tennessee Titans
In his first NFL game, rookie JC Latham displayed a strong performance during his 14 snaps against the San Francisco 49ers. Towering on the field, Latham demonstrated impressive balance and power. He executed quick pass sets effectively and contributed solidly to the run game, marking a promising start to his professional career.
Despite his solid debut, Latham rated his own performance as a C, attributing this to areas needing improvement. He gave the overall offensive line a B, acknowledging that while there were good moments, there is still room for refinement.
Latham’s self-assessment might be harsher than necessary, as his debut showcased considerable potential. The Titans should be encouraged by his performance and expect him to continue to demonstrate his abilities throughout the preseason.
Michael Penix Jr., QB, Atlanta Falcons
Michael Penix Jr., making his NFL debut for the Atlanta Falcons, left a positive impression despite the team’s 20-13 loss to the Miami Dolphins. The No. 8 overall pick from the 2024 NFL Draft completed 9-of-16 passes for 104 yards.
While Penix Jr. didn’t record any touchdowns and had a few misses, his ability to make quick reads and remain composed under pressure stood out. Penix Jr., who started the game and played through the first five drives, showed confidence and a good understanding of the game. Although he missed some throws, his performance suggested that he is adjusting well to the NFL.
With Kirk Cousins set as the starter, Penix Jr.’s role is to develop while being a reliable backup. The Falcons plan to give him more preseason action to further assess his readiness. Nonetheless, Penix Jr.’s debut indicates he has the potential to become a key player for Atlanta in the future.
Rome Odunze, WR, Chicago Bears
In his preseason debut, Rome Odunze was held without a catch in a 33-6 win over the Bills. The rookie receiver, who was targeted once by Williams, saw his lone end-zone pass fall incomplete. Misses like these should turn into touchdowns as the two rookies gain more experience together.
Odunze’s lack of production wasn’t surprising given the limited opportunities. The Bears’ starters only played two drives, and we expect Odunze to be more involved in the upcoming preseason games as the Bears continue to integrate him into the offense.
J.J. McCarthy, QB, Minnesota Vikings
[Editor’s Note: McCarthy was placed on season-ending IR after publish]
J.J. McCarthy made a notable impression in his NFL preseason debut, leading the Vikings to a 24-23 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. The rookie quarterback showcased his potential by completing 11-of-17 passes for 188 yards and two touchdowns, despite an early interception.
McCarthy’s preseason performance suggested he is close to being NFL-ready. McCarthy’s recovery will be closely watched.
