The NFL offseason is nearly upon us. While others (and myself in the coming weeks) focus on 2024 way-too-early fantasy football rankings, 2024 free agency, and NFL team needs, let’s take a look ahead to the 2024 NFL draft and what it has to offer in terms of dynasty fantasy football talent. Here are all of the top dynasty rookie draft wide receivers to know. Below we dive into a few notable names.
- Erickson’s Fantasy Football Forecast: Recap & Takeaways for 2024
- Erickson’s Early Fantasy Football Rankings, Tiers & Notes: QB | WR
- 2024 Dynasty Fantasy Football Draft Kit
- 2024 NFL Draft Guide
Dynasty Rookie Draft Advice
Troy Franklin (WR – Oregon)
Troy Franklin quickly made an impact at the University of Oregon, showcasing his talent right from his freshman year.
His breakout sophomore year solidified his position as a key player in Oregon’s offense, with a significant leap en route to a 27% dominator rating with 9 TDs and 891 receiving yards at 19 years of age.
By his junior season in 2023, Troy Franklin had established himself as a premier college football receiver, amassing nearly 1,400 yards and 14 touchdowns, demonstrating not just his ability to find the end zone but also his consistency as a receiver with a final season dominator rating of 29% – 17th-highest mark in the 2024 class.
Franklin’s strengths lie in his elite speed, with a 40-yard dash time of 4.35 seconds, making him a formidable deep threat with 14 catches of 20-plus air yards and the third-highest yards per route run (3.32) in the 2024 draft class.
His precise route-running and versatility allow him to excel both outside and in the slot, consistently delivering explosive plays. His height and speed create a desirable size-speed combination that is highly valued in the NFL. However, his relatively light, tall, and lanky frame at 6-foot-3 and 183 lbs could pose challenges against physical cornerbacks and in contested catch situations.
Overall, Franklin is seen as a downfield burner with elite speed and nuanced route-running, making him a legitimate deep threat in the NFL. His ability to create separation and make plays sets him apart, although his slender frame presents some challenges. After a standout 2023 season, his draft stock has risen significantly, with expectations of him solidifying a spot in the 1-2 round range if his 2024 NFL Scouting Combine numbers match his on-field speed.
Former speed receivers that remind me of Franklin include Jalin Hyatt, Tyquan Thornton, and DJ Chark Jr. on the lower end. Admittedly, I was more impressed with his game AFTER watching him. I went in thinking I’d get a one-trick pony, but I felt he offered more than that. And maybe it was the green 11 he was wearing, but I felt like I was watching just a lighter, faster version of A.J. Brown. I’ve also seen comparisons to a faster, more explosive Calvin Ridley.
Adonai Mitchell (WR – Texas)
After transferring from Georgia to Texas, Adonai Mitchell made a significant impact in his junior year, showcasing his talents as a more featured piece in his team’s offense. As a Longhorn, Mitchell posted a breakout season en route to a 32 percent dominator rating with 11 TD scores on 55 receptions. His ability to consistently create separation and his prowess in high-pressure situations were notable.
His final year playing at Georgia in 2022 was capped off by a second national championship, but his production was limited due to a high ankle sprain. The ankle injury likely prevented him from achieving a “true” sophomore season breakout.
Standing at 6’4″ with a lanky frame at 196 pounds, Mitchell offers an ideal build for an outside receiver. Mitchell reminded me a lot of a lighter Michael Pittman Jr. while watching him on film.
Ja’Lynn Polk (WR – Washington)
Ja’Lynn Polk, the talented No. 2 wide receiver from Washington, made a notable mark in college football with his performances, particularly shining in his junior year. With a height of 6’2″ and weighing in at 204 lbs, Polk has the ideal build for a versatile receiver capable of playing both on the outside and in the slot.
In his time at Washington, Polk demonstrated significant growth, culminating in a senior year after suffering an injury as a sophomore. He recorded impressive stats with 69 receptions for 1,159 yards and nine touchdowns, boasting an average of 16.8 yards per catch. He also started the 2023 season on absolute fire, scoring eight TDs in the first 10 weeks of the season alongside a teammate and fellow 2024 draft-eligible WR, Rome Odunze.
Polk’s blend of speed, agility, and size makes him a compelling prospect. His quickness off the line and ability to gain separation through precise route running is complemented by his strong hands and body control, enabling him to make challenging catches in traffic. He’s extremely well-rounded.
Reminded me of Mohamed Sanu and Tyler Boyd.
Check out all of Erickson’s Top Dynasty Rookie Wide Receivers
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