The 2024 NFL season is in full swing, and we’re already at Week 7! This season has been filled with excitement: standout rookies, unexpected injuries and jaw-dropping plays. While there’s still a lot of football left to be played and many unknowns ahead, here’s a quick recap of what’s happened so far and what to look forward to.
With the first overall pick in last year’s draft, the Chicago Bears selected quarterback Caleb Williams from the University of Southern California. While some analysts touted him as one of the best prospects in years, he has struggled to meet those lofty expectations. Despite showcasing his high energy and explosive presence in the pocket, his throwing accuracy has been inconsistent. However, he has recently improved his performance, leading the Bears to a three-game winning streak.
While the first overall pick has struggled, the second overall pick, Jayden Daniels, is having one of the best rookie quarterback seasons in NFL history. He currently has the third-highest odds of winning the MVP award, an impressive feat for a rookie. The Commanders sit at 4-2 and lead the NFC East, with Daniels being a key factor in their success. He boasts the highest completion percentage in the league at 75.3% and ranks fourth in yards per attempt at 8.5. Overall, Jayden Daniels is already showing signs of superstardom and could make the Washington Commanders a formidable force for years to come.
This season has brought an exciting surprise with the Minnesota Vikings’ impressive 5-0 start. Quarterback Sam Darnold, often written off in the past, has found new life in Minnesota, showcasing significant improvement since taking on the starting role. His developing connection with All-Pro wide receiver Justin Jefferson is already evident, and with T.J. Hockenson set to return soon, the Vikings look poised to maintain their dominance in the NFC as the season progresses.
While the Vikings have surprised many with their impressive 5-0 start, the Kansas City Chiefs have continued to meet expectations with their own flawless record. The Chiefs’ performance has been dominant after their second straight Super Bowl victory. Despite facing a diminishing pool of receiving options, Star quarterback Patrick Mahomes consistently proves his elite status through exceptional playmaking and leadership. His ability to adapt and connect with both established players and emerging talents has been crucial to the team’s success. With their sights set on making history as the first NFL team to win three consecutive Super Bowls, the Chiefs remain a powerful contender this season.
In the AFC East, it looks like the rumors were true! Wide receiver Davante Adams has reunited with his former quarterback, Aaron Rodgers, on the New York Jets. During their time in Green Bay, this duo consistently ranked among the best in the league, and their partnership could spark a turnaround for the Jets as they seek to improve their below-average start to the season. The Jets aren’t the only team in the division making moves, as the Buffalo Bills recently acquired Amari Cooper in a trade with the Browns. Quarterback Josh Allen has been struggling since losing Stefon Diggs, but this new addition may provide the boost he needs to get back on track.
As we reach the midpoint of the 2024 NFL season, it’s clear that both rookies and veterans are making significant impacts across the league. With standout performances from players like Jayden Daniels and Sam Darnold, as well as the ongoing excellence of teams like the Chiefs and Vikings, fans are in for an exhilarating second half. As trades shake up the AFC East and teams strive for playoff positioning, the excitement is just starting. Keep an eye on how these storylines unfold as the battle for supremacy intensifies in the coming weeks!