As the college football season approaches, the excitement for the 2024 NFL Draft is starting to build. While many top college players are already on the radar of draft analysts, there are always some unexpected names that emerge as breakout stars. In this article, we will be covering 17 players who should be watched closely as we head towards the 2024 NFL Draft.
One player to watch is Chris Braswell, a former five-star athlete with the Crimson Tide, who had the misfortune of playing the same position as Will Anderson Jr. Despite never having started a game at Alabama, Braswell has still managed to showcase his impressive skills, with several sacks, quarterback hurries and a forced fumble last year. With Anderson now in the NFL, this year could be Braswell’s time to shine.
Another player to keep an eye on is Landon Jackson, a transfer from LSU who has joined Arkansas as a junior. Although he suffered an ACL injury in 2021, Jackson has worked hard to make a recovery and has shown impressive form throughout the Spring of 2023. With his 6-foot-6, 274-pound frame, Jackson is set to wreak havoc on opposing offenses this season.
Simote Pepa, a defensive tackle from Utah, is also a player to watch this season. Despite being only a Redshirt Sophomore, Pepa has already made a name for himself with his impressive stats. He’s slimmed down from 345 pounds this off-season and has continued to perform at a high level, earning AP first-team All Pac-12 and second-team All Pac-12 with Pro Football Focus last year. With another standout season, Pepa could easily declare for the 2024 NFL Draft.
These are just three of the 17 breakout players to watch this season, who are not currently included in any of the major preseason lists. With the college football season just around the corner, it’s a thrilling time for football fans as we prepare to discover the next generation of NFL stars. Keep an eye out for these players, and many more, as the season unfolds and the 2024 NFL Draft draws closer.
