The NFL Draft can be a humbling experience for the seasoned football fan. It’s one thing to take in college football, but it’s another when the recent teenagers become pros, experiencing the dream of playing in the NFL.
Not everyone in the NCAA immediately elects to go pro as quickly as they can. At times, there are players still playing collegiately that are older than others making a name for themselves at the highest level of football. However, there are plenty on the other end of the spectrum, as teams have their eyes on 20 and 21-year-olds looking to build up their future.
The ages of the top prospects are about the same each season, but if you want to feel old, here’s a fun fact for you: There’s a player eligible to be selected at the 2024 NFL Draft that was born in 2004. Yes, you read that right.
So, who else are among the most youthful prospects waiting to hear their names called on draft day? Here’s a look at the youngest players available in the 2024 NFL Draft.
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There are a few 20-year-olds in the 2024 NFL Draft class, but only one has the honor of being born in 2004 — Braelon Allen. The Wisconsin running back does not look anything like his age, as he comes in listed at 6-2, 240 pounds. He has all the elements of a true power runner and could find a role in the NFL as an early-down runner.
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Staying on the theme of power backs, Audris Estime out of Notre Dame is another well-built running back who plays on the nasty side. The Fighting Irish RB has a bit more quickness to his game than Allen, and he has a knack for finding and bursting through holes behind the offensive line.
Marvin Harrison Jr. has long been touted as the top non-quarterback in the 2024 draft class. While there is a strong argument for the Ohio State product, Malik Nabers has a strong case to be considered for that honor. The LSU receiver is as smooth of a route runner as they come and his quickness allows him to pick up extra yards after the catch.
MORE: How Nabers compares to LSU greats Ja’Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson
The running back class in 2024 is not overly impressive, but one of the first RBs who could be taken off the board is Jonathan Brooks. The Texas running back may not be the best pure runner, but he has the ability to make an impact in the passing game. He’s dangerous in the open field with his quickness and speed, and he could be a great complementary back as a pro.
Keon Coleman is one of the youngest players in the draft class, yet his build is already at an NFL level. At 6-3, 213 pounds, he has the size to translate from college to the pros, and an exceptional skill set, as well. The Florida State product is as technical as they come and is always a threat to make the big play. Don’t be surprised if Coleman becomes a WR1 in the NFL.
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If there’s one word to describe Xavier Worthy, it’s fast. The Texas wide receiver broke John Ross’ NFL Combine record in the 40-yard dash, blazing his way to an eye-popping 4.21 seconds. Worthy has always had excellent acceleration in his arsenal, but he’s a complete wide receiver who could find himself taken on Day 1.
Watch out for Jaylen Wright when he hits the open field. The Tennessee running back is explosive when he bursts through a hole, as his straight-line speed is one of his best assets. Wright also can be used in the passing game, so his versatility should make him an intriguing Day 2 option.
Brock Bowers is the clear-cut top tight end entering the 2024 NFL Draft, but Ja’Tavion Sanders could be the next-best option. The Longhorns TE is an athletic receiver who has a proven ability to make a difference in the passing game. He may not be as strong on the blocking side, but if a team needs an athletic red-zone weapon, expect Sanders to be one of the targets.
Another wide receiver in this year’s loaded class is Troy Franklin. The Oregon standout carries a tantalizing package of size, speed, and agility, making him an enticing option as an open-field threat in the passing game. There’s a chance he sneaks into the first round, but if not, a team could be getting a steal with a Day 2 selection.
MORE: Experts explain J.J. McCarthy’s meteoric rise up draft boards
There may be no polarizing QB prospect this year than J.J. McCarthy. He was originally considered a borderline first-round candidate, but then he impressed at the NFL Scouting Combine and Michigan Pro Day, and now could hear his name go in the top 10. The Wolverines QB is an incredibly athletic playmaker who throws well out of the pocket and shows great speed on all of his passes. The accuracy needs work, but there is the potential for McCarthy to excel in the NFL.
