The NFL isn’t just a veteran’s game; the 2024 season will be defined by a mix of seasoned stars and emerging young talent. While experienced players like Aaron Rodgers continue to make headlines, the league’s future is in the hands of its young stars. From rookie standouts to proven young players like Micah Parsons, the NFL’s youth movement is in full swing.
Here’s a look at the top 25 NFL players who are 25 or younger as we head into the 2024 season:
25. Jahmyr Gibbs, RB, Detroit Lions, Age: 22
The surprise first-round pick dazzled with 1,200 scrimmage yards and 11 touchdowns in his rookie season, providing a dynamic dual-threat option for the Lions.
24. Sam LaPorta, TE, Detroit Lions, Age: 23
LaPorta had one of the best rookie seasons for a tight end, becoming a reliable target and excelling as both a blocker and receiver.
23. Christian Darrisaw, OT, Minnesota Vikings, Age: 25
Despite injury setbacks, Darrisaw has been a top-tier pass blocker, crucial to the Vikings’ offensive success.
22. Aidan Hutchinson, DE, Detroit Lions, Age: 24
Hutchinson doubled his QB hits in his sophomore season, solidifying his role as a defensive leader with 21 sacks in two years.
21. Tristan Wirfs, OT, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Age: 25
Wirfs transitioned seamlessly to left tackle, playing a key role in the Bucs’ offensive line and Baker Mayfield’s resurgence.
20. Puka Nacua, WR, Los Angeles Rams, Age: 23
Nacua made an immediate impact with 105 catches for 1,486 yards, becoming a reliable target for Matthew Stafford.
19. Trent McDuffie, CB, Kansas City Chiefs, Age: 23
McDuffie emerged as a key defensive player, contributing significantly to the Chiefs’ success with his versatile play.
18. Garrett Wilson, WR, New York Jets, Age: 24
Despite inconsistent quarterback play, Wilson has delivered Pro Bowl-level performances and remains a top target for the Jets.
17. Chris Olave, WR, New Orleans Saints, Age: 24
Olave has proven to be a reliable downfield threat, producing two 1,000-yard seasons despite quarterback instability.
16. Antoine Winfield Jr., S, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Age: 25
Winfield has grown into a vital defensive leader, known for his versatility and playmaking ability.
15. DeVonta Smith, WR, Philadelphia Eagles, Age: 25
Smith’s consistency and reliability have made him a key figure in the Eagles’ offense, accumulating impressive stats in three years.
14. Kyle Hamilton, S, Baltimore Ravens, Age: 23
Hamilton’s impact is felt across all levels of the defense, making him a cornerstone of the Ravens’ secondary.
13. Patrick Surtain II, CB, Denver Broncos, Age: 24
Surtain continues to excel as a top cornerback, consistently breaking up passes and anchoring the Broncos’ secondary.
12. Creed Humphrey, C, Kansas City Chiefs, Age: 25
Humphrey has been a rock-solid presence on the Chiefs’ offensive line, providing elite protection for Patrick Mahomes.
11. Jordan Love, QB, Green Bay Packers, Age: 25
Love’s emergence as a starter has been a key factor in the Packers’ playoff push, showcasing his arm talent and leadership.
10. Brock Purdy, QB, San Francisco 49ers, Age: 24
Purdy’s impressive record and ability to thrive in the 49ers’ system make him a rising star at quarterback.
9. C.J. Stroud, QB, Houston Texans, Age: 22
Stroud’s efficient and explosive play as a rookie has set the stage for a bright future, with MVP potential.
8. Amon-Ra St. Brown, WR, Detroit Lions, Age: 24
St. Brown’s breakout 2023 season solidified his status as a top receiver, providing reliability and big-play potential for the Lions.
7. Jaylen Waddle, WR, Miami Dolphins, Age: 25
Waddle’s speed and versatility make him a dynamic weapon in the Dolphins’ offense, excelling in multiple roles.
6. CeeDee Lamb, WR, Dallas Cowboys, Age: 25
Lamb’s progression into one of the league’s most uncoverable receivers has been marked by increasing yardage and catch rates.
5. Sauce Gardner, CB, New York Jets, Age: 24
Gardner’s elite physicality and coverage skills have made him one of the NFL’s top cornerbacks, even as he seeks more turnovers.
4. Penei Sewell, OT, Detroit Lions, Age: 23
Sewell’s dominant play at right tackle has been a key factor in the Lions’ offensive success and Goff’s performance.
3. Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals, Age: 24
Chase’s game-breaking speed and ability have made him one of the league’s most exciting receivers, despite injuries and QB issues.
2. Micah Parsons, DE/OLB, Dallas Cowboys, Age: 25
Parsons’ relentless pass-rushing and leadership have made him a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ defense, with 40.5 career sacks already.
1. Justin Jefferson, WR, Minnesota Vikings, Age: 25
Jefferson’s explosive play and consistency have solidified his status as one of the toughest receivers to cover, already on a Hall of Fame trajectory.
