Welcome to Week 8 of the 2024 NFL Season!
We’re heading into Week 8, and there’s plenty to talk about! The Kansas City Chiefs are standing tall as the only undefeated team, while the Minnesota Vikings took their first loss of the season, courtesy of the Detroit Lions. At the other end of the standings, the New England Patriots, Carolina Panthers, and Cleveland Browns all dropped to 1-6 after tough losses. On a brighter note, the Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles both came away with big wins.
As we look ahead, we’ve refreshed the rankings and asked NFL Nation reporters to spotlight a young player on the rise for each team. Our criteria? Players under 25 who haven’t yet made a name for themselves as top stars but are definitely catching attention this season. Here’s a look at 32 young risers making waves as we approach the halfway point:
Advertisement
Latest Press Conference
We’re on Social Media
1. Kansas City Chiefs (6-0)
Week 7 Recap: Beat the 49ers, 28-18
Previous Rank: 1
Young Riser: DB Chamarri Conner
Chamarri Conner has been making plays all over the field! The 24-year-old has stepped up as a versatile defender, switching seamlessly between slot corner, safety, and linebacker. In a tight victory against the Bengals, Conner’s game-changing fumble recovery for a touchdown and a late-game sack on Joe Burrow helped secure the win. He’s proving to be a key piece in the Chiefs’ defensive puzzle.
2. Detroit Lions (5-1)
Week 7 Recap: Took down the Vikings, 31-29
Previous Rank: 3
Young Riser: S Brian Branch
Brian Branch is building on his rookie year success and taking it to another level. The 23-year-old playmaker, who switched from cornerback to safety, is thriving in his new role. Branch has already snagged four interceptions and defended 11 passes in just five games. After a big win over the Vikings, Branch credited defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn for putting him in “positions to make plays.”
3. Buffalo Bills (5-2)
Week 7 Recap: Dominated the Titans, 34-10
Previous Rank: 6
Young Riser: CB Christian Benford
Christian Benford is proving his worth as a reliable long-term starter. At just 24, he’s been locking down receivers and limiting big plays, giving up just 3.7 yards per target. Fellow corner Rasul Douglas praised Benford’s work ethic and dedication, calling him “focused and locked in.” His efforts are paying off, as he’s quickly becoming one of the top young defenders to watch.
4. Baltimore Ravens (5-2)
Week 7 Recap: Outscored the Bucs, 41-31
Previous Rank: 5
Young Riser: OT Roger Rosengarten
The Ravens’ offensive line has found a spark in 22-year-old Roger Rosengarten. Drafted in the second round, he’s the first rookie since 2012 to secure a starting spot this early in the season. Since stepping in as the right tackle, the Ravens’ offense has surged, with Rosengarten paving the way for running back Derrick Henry and helping the team climb into the top five in total yards.
5. Green Bay Packers (5-2)
Week 7 Recap: Narrow victory over the Texans, 24-22
Previous Rank: 8
Young Riser: TE Tucker Kraft
On a roster full of young talent, Tucker Kraft stands out. The 23-year-old tight end has caught fire lately, hauling in four touchdowns in the past four games. He’s also racked up 21 receptions and 264 yards, becoming a key target in the Packers’ passing attack. With his play steadily improving, Kraft is one to keep an eye on as the season unfolds.
6. Minnesota Vikings (5-1)
Week 7 Recap: Tough loss to the Lions, 31-29
Previous Rank: 2
Young Riser: PK Will Reichard
The Vikings’ rookie kicker has been nothing short of perfect this season, going 30-for-30 on all his attempts. Will Reichard’s 12-for-12 mark on field goals includes four long-range bombs from 53 yards out or further. Coach Kevin O’Connell even considered sending him out for a 68-yard game-winner before a penalty pushed it out of range. The 23-year-old is making a name for himself as one of the league’s most reliable kickers.
7. Houston Texans (5-2)
Week 7 Recap: Fell to the Packers, 24-22
Previous Rank: 4
Young Riser: S Calen Bullock
Calen Bullock is quickly turning heads in his rookie season. The 21-year-old safety leads the team in interceptions and has been a solid performer in coverage. Though there have been a few rookie mistakes, Bullock’s high ball-hawk rate and aggressive style are promising signs for Houston’s defense.
8. Pittsburgh Steelers (5-2)
Week 7 Recap: Crushed the Jets, 37-15
Previous Rank: 11
Young Riser: CB Beanie Bishop Jr.
Beanie Bishop Jr. is making the most of his opportunity with the Steelers. The undrafted rookie made a statement with two interceptions against Aaron Rodgers, bouncing back after a tough outing versus Dak Prescott. With Cameron Sutton suspended, Bishop is stepping up to the challenge and proving why he earned first-team reps early in camp.
9. Washington Commanders (5-2)
Week 7 Recap: Routed the Panthers, 40-7
Previous Rank: 9
Young Riser: CB Mike Sainristil
Mike Sainristil is a rookie to watch. The 24-year-old nickel corner stepped into a starting role right away and has shown his versatility by shifting to the outside when needed. His competitive spirit and leadership have been recognized by coaches, and he’s playing beyond his years on a defense that’s showing signs of improvement.
Let’s keep rolling with the rest of the teams and their young risers:
10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4-3)
Week 7 Recap: Fell to the Ravens, 41-31
Previous Rank: 7
Young Riser: CB Tykee Smith
Tykee Smith has been turning heads as a rookie. The 23-year-old nickelback recently forced fumbles in back-to-back games and grabbed his first career interception against the Saints. He’s also making his presence felt with tackles for loss and quarterback hits, showing his knack for being in the right place at the right time.
11. Philadelphia Eagles (4-2)
Week 7 Recap: Rolled over the Giants, 28-3
Previous Rank: 13
Young Riser: DB Cooper DeJean
Cooper DeJean is making a big impact since becoming the starting nickel corner in Week 6. The 21-year-old has brought energy to the Eagles’ defense, racking up tackles and even half a sack in the past two games. He’s also taken on punt return duties, where he’s averaging a solid 11 yards per return, adding versatility to his game.
12. Seattle Seahawks (4-3)
Week 7 Recap: Defeated the Falcons, 34-14
Previous Rank: 14
Young Riser: OLB Derick Hall
Derick Hall is showing why he’s a rising star in Seattle’s defense. The 24-year-old has already racked up 5.0 sacks this season, a big leap from last year. His breakout performance included a 64-yard scoop-and-score touchdown, and he’s been a reliable presence in a defensive front dealing with multiple injuries. Hall is proving to be a key playmaker for the Seahawks.
13. San Francisco 49ers (3-4)
Week 7 Recap: Lost to the Chiefs, 28-18
Previous Rank: 10
Young Riser: OL Dominick Puni
Dominick Puni is making his mark on the 49ers’ offensive line. The 24-year-old claimed the starting right guard job and has shown promise, especially in pass protection, where he has a 94.5% win rate. There’s still room for improvement, but Puni’s early performance suggests he could be a long-term solution for a position that has often been a challenge for the Niners.
14. Chicago Bears (4-2)
Week 7 Recap: Bye week
Previous Rank: 16
Young Riser: DT Gervon Dexter Sr.
Gervon Dexter Sr. is emerging as a key player for the Bears’ defense. At 23, he’s stepped up as a full-time starter at the 3-technique and is thriving, with five sacks to his name. His improved play has bolstered the Bears’ pass rush, and his dedication to refining his game has made him a standout on the defensive line.
15. Dallas Cowboys (3-3)
Week 7 Recap: Bye week
Previous Rank: 15
Young Riser: LB DeMarvion Overshown
DeMarvion Overshown has bounced back strong after missing his rookie season with a knee injury. The 24-year-old started the year in a limited role but has since become an every-down linebacker for Dallas, showcasing his speed and playmaking ability. While he’s still working on consistency, his potential is undeniable.
16. Atlanta Falcons (4-3)
Week 7 Recap: Lost to the Seahawks, 34-14
Previous Rank: 12
Young Riser: LG Matthew Bergeron
Matthew Bergeron is finding his rhythm on the Falcons’ offensive line. The 24-year-old has improved his pass-blocking significantly, allowing pressures on just 7.8% of passing snaps, which ranks among the top left guards in the league. His steady development is a promising sign for Atlanta’s offensive line.
17. Denver Broncos (4-3)
Week 7 Recap: Cruised past the Saints, 33-10
Previous Rank: 21
Young Riser: DB Riley Moss
Riley Moss is making an impression across from star corner Pat Surtain II. At 24, he’s been busy in coverage as quarterbacks often throw away from Surtain, and Moss has answered the call with 45 tackles and an interception this season. His aggressive style and resilience have made him a valuable asset in Denver’s secondary.
18. Los Angeles Chargers (3-3)
Week 7 Recap: Narrow loss to the Cardinals, 17-15
Previous Rank: 17
Young Riser: FB/DT Scott Matlock
Scott Matlock is making an unexpected impact on the Chargers’ offense. Initially a defensive tackle, the 24-year-old has transitioned to fullback, becoming a key blocker in one of the league’s top rushing attacks. He still contributes on defense and special teams, showing his versatility and proving to be a secret weapon for L.A.
19. Cincinnati Bengals (3-4)
- Week 7 Result: Beat the Browns 21-14
- Week 7 Ranking: 23
- Young Riser: TE Erick All Jr.
- The 24-year-old rookie Erick All Jr., a fourth-round pick, has made an impressive comeback from an ACL injury in his final year at Iowa. Now, he’s emerged as one of Cincinnati’s go-to options at tight end, logging the second-most offensive snaps at the position behind Drew Sample. Unlike Sample, whose main strength lies in blocking, All offers a balanced skill set that the team has capitalized on, with 16 receptions already this season.
20. Indianapolis Colts (4-3)
- Week 7 Result: Beat the Dolphins 16-10
- Week 7 Ranking: 19
- Young Riser: CB Jaylon Jones
- Jaylon Jones, 22, has been thrust into a crucial role due to injuries in the Colts’ secondary. Originally drafted as a depth player, the seventh-rounder from 2023 now leads the team in passes defensed with eight, which ranks fifth in the league. His coverage skills are evident as he has created “tight windows” on 33% of throws when targeted, a promising sign for a player who was considered a long shot to make an immediate impact.
21. Arizona Cardinals (3-4)
- Week 7 Result: Beat the Chargers 17-15
- Week 7 Ranking: 20
- Young Riser: TE Trey McBride
- Trey McBride has continued his upward trajectory after a breakout season in which he led the team with 825 receiving yards. This year, the 24-year-old tight end ranks among the top in the league at his position, with 33 receptions (third-most), 45 targets (second-most), and 322 yards (fourth-most).
22. New Orleans Saints (2-5)
- Week 7 Result: Lost to the Broncos 33-10
- Week 7 Ranking: 18
- Young Riser: CB Kool-Aid McKinstry
- Kool-Aid McKinstry, 22, stepped in as a starter during Marshon Lattimore’s absence in Week 2 and has since been a regular in nickel and dime packages. With Paulson Adebo out for the season, McKinstry is poised for a larger role, giving the Saints a glimpse of their future secondary as Adebo’s contract is set to expire in 2025.
23. Los Angeles Rams (2-4)
- Week 7 Result: Beat the Raiders 20-15
- Week 7 Ranking: 18
- Young Riser: S Jaylen McCollough
- Jaylen McCollough has emerged as a ballhawk in the Rams’ secondary, snagging three interceptions over the past two games. The 24-year-old undrafted rookie saw limited playing time before Week 5 but has since stepped up, recording 33 defensive snaps and showcasing his playmaking abilities.
24. New York Jets (2-5)
- Week 7 Result: Lost to the Steelers 37-15
- Week 7 Ranking: 22
- Young Riser: LB Jamien Sherwood
- At 24, Jamien Sherwood has taken over a starting linebacker role, even with C.J. Mosley back healthy. The former college safety has brought speed and coverage ability to the position and leads the team with 58 tackles. With his contract expiring, Sherwood has made a strong case for a new deal if he keeps up his current level of play.
25. Miami Dolphins (2-4)
- Week 7 Result: Lost to the Colts 16-10
- Week 7 Ranking: 24
- Young Riser: RB Jaylen Wright
- Fourth-round pick Jaylen Wright showed his value early on, with a standout 86-yard performance in Week 5 against the Patriots. While he’s not expected to replicate the success of De’Von Achane’s rookie season, the 24-year-old running back has the potential to form a powerful duo with Achane in the future.
26. New York Giants (2-5)
- Week 7 Result: Lost to the Eagles 28-3
- Week 7 Ranking: 25
- Young Riser: CB Dru Phillips
- Dru Phillips, a third-round pick from Kentucky, has quickly made a name for himself as a reliable nickel cornerback. The 22-year-old has allowed only 50 receiving yards on 12 targets and is tied for second on the team with six tackles for loss, demonstrating the physical style of play that drew the Giants to him.
27. Jacksonville Jaguars (2-5)
- Week 7 Result: Beat the Patriots 32-16
- Week 7 Ranking: 31
- Young Riser: RB Tank Bigsby
- Tank Bigsby leads the Jaguars with 415 rushing yards and is second in the NFL with 6.2 yards per carry. The rookie took full advantage of Travis Etienne Jr.’s absence in Week 7, posting a career-high 118 rushing yards on 26 carries. Though Etienne remains the starter, Bigsby has solidified a larger role in the rotation.
28. Las Vegas Raiders (2-5)
- Week 7 Result: Lost to the Rams 20-15
- Week 7 Ranking: 27
- Young Riser: LG Jackson Powers-Johnson
- Jackson Powers-Johnson, 21, has made his presence felt on the Raiders’ offensive line since becoming a starter in Week 4. The second-round rookie has drawn praise for his technique and attitude, showing flashes of being a future foundational piece despite missing time early in the season due to injury.
29. Tennessee Titans (1-5)
- Week 7 Result: Lost to the Bills 34-10
- Week 7 Ranking: 28
- Young Riser: CB Jarvis Brownlee Jr.
- Jarvis Brownlee Jr., a rookie cornerback, stepped up as a starter in Week 4 due to a groin injury to Chidobe Awuzie. The 23-year-old has proven to be a versatile defender, contributing against both the pass and run. His aggressive play style has been further sharpened by the mentorship of veteran L’Jarius Sneed.
30. Cleveland Browns (1-6)
- Week 7 Result: Lost to the Bengals 21-14
- Week 7 Ranking: 29
- Young Riser: WR Cedric Tillman
- Cedric Tillman saw increased opportunities in his first game after the trade of Amari Cooper, leading to career highs in targets (12), receptions (eight), and yards (81). The 24-year-old’s role in the Browns’ offense is expected to grow, offering a glimpse of what he can bring to the team going forward.
31. New England Patriots (1-6)
- Week 7 Result: Lost to the Jaguars 32-16
- Week 7 Ranking: 32
- Young Riser: CB Christian Gonzalez
- Christian Gonzalez, 22, is already the Patriots’ top cornerback, having shown his promise in 2023 by earning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month honors for September. After recovering from a dislocated shoulder, he’s taken on the task of covering opposing teams’ top receivers, showcasing versatility by playing both inside and outside.
32. Carolina Panthers (1-6)
- Week 7 Result: Lost to the Commanders 40-7
- Week 7 Ranking: 30
- Young Riser: ILB Trevin Wallace
- Trevin Wallace, 21, has seized the opportunity to start in the Panthers’ defense after injuries to Shaq Thompson and Josey Jewell. In just three games, he’s made 34 tackles, ranking third on the team, and has shown a knack for disrupting plays, tying for first in tackles for loss.
