The 2024 NFL season has been a gem for rookie talent, and the pass-catchers have been stealing the show. Whether it’s making highlight-reel grabs or breaking records, these first-year players are already reshaping their teams’ futures. Some are thriving in high-powered offenses, while others are shining despite chaotic situations.
Let’s rank the best pass-catchers, exploring the stats and stories that make them stand out.
Big Names Who Just Missed The Cut
Before we get to the top five, let’s address two notable rookies who didn’t make this list: Marvin Harrison Jr. and Rome Odunze.
Harrison, the No. 4 overall pick by the Cardinals, entered the season with sky-high expectations. He’s put up respectable numbers-726 yards and seven touchdowns-but hasn’t dominated as Arizona hoped. His inconsistency, particularly in critical games, kept him off this list.
Odunze, drafted No. 9 by the Bears, has been solid but unspectacular with 701 yards and three touchdowns. A couple of costly fumbles and drops have hurt his impact. Both players have immense potential, but this year, others stole the spotlight.
5. Xavier Worthy, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Stats:
Click on ‘Follow Us’ and get notified of the most viral NFL stories via Google! Follow Us
- Targets: 89
- Receptions: 51
- Yards: 559
- Touchdowns: 5
- Rushing Yards/TDs: 94/3
Worthy has been a key contributor for Kansas City in his rookie year. Known for his blazing speed, the Texas product has scored five receiving touchdowns and tied an NFL rookie record with three rushing touchdowns. He’s stepped up as the Chiefs’ top wideout after Rashee Rice’s departure, becoming a reliable target for Patrick Mahomes.
The Xavier Worthy breakout is happening ‼️
— Domenic Padula (@Domenic_Padula) December 26, 2024
Averages in B2B wins over Texans & Steelers:
10.0 targets 🎯
7.5 receptions 🫴
72.0 receiving yards 🎯
10.0 rushing yards 🌬️
He also scored in both games and has hit 4+ receptions and 40+ receiving yards in seven straight games. 📈 pic.twitter.com/DwLqtgjmR6
In recent weeks, Worthy’s involvement has surged, with 11 targets in back-to-back games. His versatility in Andy Reid’s offense has helped stabilize Kansas City’s attack, making him an integral part of their playoff push.
4. Ladd McConkey, WR, Los Angeles Chargers
Stats:
- Targets: 94
- Receptions: 69
- Yards: 960
- Touchdowns: 5
McConkey has quietly been one of the most consistent rookies in the league. The former Georgia Bulldog ranks fourth among rookies in receiving yards and has become a vital slot weapon for the Chargers. Over the past eight games, he’s recorded at least 50 yards in each-a streak few rookies have matched since 1970.
His importance to the Chargers is hard to overstate. McConkey’s 960 yards rank 16th in the league, while no other Chargers receiver has more than 543. He’s already proving to be a key piece in Justin Herbert’s offense.
Also Read: Ranking 5 Best And Worst Moments In The NFL 2024 Season
3. Malik Nabers, WR, New York Giants
Stats:
- Targets: 154
- Receptions: 97
- Yards: 969
- Touchdowns: 4
Nabers has been one of the few bright spots for the struggling Giants. Despite playing with an unstable quarterback situation, he’s on the verge of breaking Puka Nacua’s rookie receptions record. His 97 catches and 969 yards rank third among rookies, and his reliability makes him a cornerstone for the Giants’ future.
The LSU product has shown superstar potential, even in tough circumstances. If the Giants upgrade their quarterback in the offseason, expect Nabers to explode in his sophomore campaign.
2. Brian Thomas Jr., WR, Jacksonville Jaguars
Stats:
- Targets: 112
- Receptions: 73
- Yards: 1,088
- Touchdowns: 9
Thomas has been nothing short of phenomenal for the Jaguars. The rookie from LSU has already set franchise records for receptions, yards, and touchdowns by a first-year player. With 1,088 yards and nine touchdowns, he’s been a top-10 receiver league-wide in both categories.
Thomas’ recent performances have been historic. He’s one of only four rookies in NFL history to record 75+ receiving yards in five straight games. His chemistry with Mac Jones has elevated Jacksonville’s offense, making him one of the most dangerous young wideouts in the game.
1. Brock Bowers, TE, Las Vegas Raiders
Stats:
- Targets: 137
- Receptions: 101
- Yards: 1,067
- Touchdowns: 4
Bowers is the clear-cut No. 1 rookie pass-catcher this season. The Raiders tight end has been a record-breaking machine, on the verge of setting rookie marks for receptions, tight end receiving yards, and Raiders single-season catches. His 101 receptions and 1,067 yards are remarkable, especially given the turmoil in Las Vegas with a new head coach and a backup quarterback.
Compared to legends like Travis Kelce, Bowers has lived up to the hype. He’s become a reliable safety valve and a big-play threat, showing why he was a first-round pick.
Also Read: Is Saquon Barkley On Track To Match Eric Dickerson’s Record?
