The Denver Broncos‘ impressive 8-5 record through the first 13 games can be traced directly back to the team’s 2024 rookie class. How have the rookies looked up to the team’s bye week? We take a look at the rookies going into Week 14.
QB Bo Nix (Rd. 1, 12th overall): A+
Nix has been the biggest revelation for the Broncos in 2024. He’s brought hope and stability to a position that has long been in flux for Denver. Nix has made an extremely strong case for Offensive Rookie of the Year, passing for 17 touchdowns, 2,842 yards and eight interceptions. Nix has also caught a touchdown in 2024 (against the Baltimore Ravens), and rushed for four touchdowns. His presence and leadership in the pocket has been a welcome addition to this developing (and surging) Broncos team.
OLB Jonah Elliss (Rd. 3, Pick 76): B+
Elliss has been a good addition to the Broncos’ defensive unit, which has been one of the best in the NFL this year. Elliss has produced five sacks, and 29 total tackles (18 combined, 11 solo) as a rotational pass rusher in 13 games played.
WR Troy Franklin (Rd. 4, Pick 102): C
Franklin, a former teammate of Nix, has had targets in all of Denver’s games this year, and receptions in 12 of them. Franklin has tallied 21 receptions for 218 yards and two touchdowns through 13 games, but he’s struggled to connect with Nix on deep throws.
CB Kris Abrams-Draine (Rd. 5, Pick 145): C
To be fair, Abrams-Draine has only seen action in one game this season, against the Cleveland Browns. Abrams-Draine came in relief of cornerback Levi Wallace, who had himself a rough game against Browns receiver Jerry Jeudy. Abrams-Draine tallied one tackle in the game. He may see more action if cornerback Riley Moss misses more time.
RB Audric Estime (Rd. 5, Pick 147): B-
Estime had a bit of a fumbling issue to start the year, which hampered his play early in the season. Estime has played in nine games thus far, rushing 41 times for 191 yards and two fumbles thus far. He seems to have fixed his fumble issues (knock on wood) and become the third head of the Broncos’ backfield behind Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin.
WR Devaughn Vele (Rd. 7, Pick 235): A
Vele has been a huge asset for quarterback Bo Nix, as he is third in targets (45), receptions (33) and second on the team in receiving yards (377). Vele is another big-bodied, fleet-footed target for Nix in the Denver offense.
OL Nick Gargiulo (Rd. 7, Pick 256): N/A
Gargiulo has not played in 2024 yet this season, so we cannot evaluate his performance this year. He’s one for the future.
