In the world of college football recruiting, the Class of 2024 has been a hot topic, with analysts and fans alike eagerly awaiting the progress of these top prospects. Two years after signing day, the landscape has shifted, and some players have exceeded expectations, while others are still finding their footing. Here's a deep dive into the journey of these 32 five-star recruits, examining their performances and the factors shaping their paths.
Exceeding Expectations
Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State
Personally, I think Jeremiah Smith has been one of the most impressive wide receivers in college football this season. His immediate impact at Ohio State is nothing short of remarkable. After back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving campaigns, Smith has become a dominant force, showcasing his generational talent. What makes this particularly fascinating is how he's managed to live up to the lofty expectations that came with being the No. 1 overall prospect. His ability to dominate the field and become a foundational piece for the Buckeyes is a testament to his skill and determination.
Dylan Stewart, EDGE, South Carolina
From my perspective, Dylan Stewart has been a standout performer. His first-step explosiveness and relentless activity off the edge make him one of the most dynamic defenders in the country. Stewart's ability to win with speed and quickness, coupled with his rare bend and flexibility, sets him apart. What many people don't realize is that his production might not show up in the stats, but his impact on the field is undeniable. Stewart has the potential to be the first defender off the board in the 2027 NFL Draft, and his tenacious presence is a game-changer.
Meeting Expectations
Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia
In my opinion, Ellis Robinson IV has been a solid contributor for Georgia. As the No. 1 overall defensive prospect, he aims to solidify himself as one of the premier corners in the country. His development over the past year suggests he could be a first-round NFL Draft pick. Robinson's traits are easily apparent, and his ability to build on last year's foundation is promising.
Sammy Brown, LB, Clemson
One thing that immediately stands out is Sammy Brown's athletic profile. He continues to develop into one of the best linebackers in the country. His ability to play sideline to sideline and his processing power suggest a significant leap in his second full season as a starter. Brown's versatility and quickness make him a force to be reckoned with.
Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State
What this really suggests is that Julian Sayin has been a game manager for Ohio State, but his football intelligence and decisiveness make him a perfect complement to the Buckeyes' talented roster. His effectiveness and accuracy from the pocket are impressive, and he's on the radar of NFL scouts. Don't be surprised if he becomes highly thought of in the NFL.
In Question
DJ Lagway, QB, Baylor
If you take a step back and think about it, DJ Lagway's journey has been a challenging one. After leading the Gators to a 6-1 record as a true freshman, he encountered injuries that derailed his offseason. Now, back in Texas, Lagway faces a make-or-break year leading Baylor. His struggles to find his rhythm and the SEC's high expectations make his future uncertain.
LJ McCray, DL, Florida
A detail that I find especially interesting is LJ McCray's injury-plagued freshman season. Despite appearing in 13 games, a knee injury and a broken foot sidelined him for significant portions of the season. Now with a clean bill of health, the Gators are hopeful he can contribute to their front seven. McCray's trajectory and potential are worth watching.
Cam Coleman, WR, Texas
What many people don't realize is that Cam Coleman's flashes of brilliance at Auburn led many to believe he would become a 1,000-yard receiver. Although he fell short, his potential as a dynamic playmaker and Top-10 NFL Draft choice is undeniable. His unique athletic specimen and size make him a fascinating prospect.
Williams Nwaneri, DL, Nebraska
A former Missouri signee, Williams Nwaneri transferred to Nebraska and made an immediate impact. His size and athleticism off the edge are impressive, and he started nine games, recording 2.5 sacks and 27 tackles. Nwaneri's trajectory and potential make him a player to watch.
Dylan Raiola, QB, Oregon
This raises a deeper question: Will Dylan Raiola capitalize on his year to learn a new scheme at Oregon? After a successful career at Nebraska, he transferred to Oregon and will likely redshirt. His route less traveled and the opportunity to learn from Dante Moore make this a pivotal year for Raiola.
Jordan Ross, EDGE, LSU
A former basketball player, Jordan Ross has added weight and shown flashes of potential. Although his production has been lacking, his lofty recruiting ranking suggests he can live up to the hype. Ross' journey from basketball to football adds an intriguing layer to his story.
Justin Williams, LB, Georgia
Although the sample size is limited, Justin Williams has shown promise as a key part of Georgia's defense. His 6-foot-2 frame and athletic ability make him a versatile second-level player. Don't be surprised if he makes the most of his opportunities and becomes a household name.
Meeting Expectations
Justin Scott, DL, Miami
Justin Scott has been a key cog in Miami's defensive front, appearing in all 15 games and registering over 500 snaps. His nimble mover at 6-foot-4 and 300-plus pounds, Scott's versatility, quickness, and power make him one of the more intriguing young defenders in college football.
Jaylen Mbakwe, CB, Georgia Tech
After a bumpy ride, Jaylen Mbakwe returns to the defensive backfield under Brent Key. His change of scenery and homecoming should serve as a reset. Mbakwe's unique playmaking abilities and skilled athleticism make him a player to watch.
Jordan Seaton, OT, LSU
Jordan Seaton's steady pass-blocking prowess and vast starting experience make him one of the top offensive line prospects in the 2027 NFL Draft. His transition to SEC competition will be a test, but his potential is undeniable.
T.J. Moore, WR, Clemson
T.J. Moore improved on his freshman campaign, showcasing efficiency and explosiveness. His size and run-after-catch ability make him a dependable presence in Clemson's passing game. Moore's potential as a first-round NFL Draft pick is worth noting.
Zabien Brown, CB, Alabama
Zabien Brown's polished and mature playing style, forged in the throes of his time at Mater Dei, has made him a college-ready defensive back. His instinctive presence and length make him a key staple of Alabama's defense.
Chris Cole, LB, Georgia
Chris Cole's versatility and athleticism make him a defender who could blossom in his third season. His length and three-down ability to run, cover, and hold his own between the tackles are impressive. Cole appears on track to become one of the most intriguing defensive prospects in the country.
Meeting Expectations
Ryan Williams, WR, Alabama
Despite a dip in production as a sophomore, Ryan Williams remains a legitimate Day 1 NFL talent. His game-breaking ability and versatility in Alabama's passing game are anchors. Williams' potential as an NFL prospect is undeniable.
Micah Hudson, WR, Texas Tech
Micah Hudson's journey has been a challenging one, but his high-rated signee status and potential as a dynamic playmaker are worth noting. His struggles to find his footing and the need for continuity make his third season pivotal.
Elijah Rushing, EDGE, Oregon
Elijah Rushing's physical tools and potential are undeniable, but the clock is ticking for him to turn his potential into production. Developing behind Oregon's talented front seven, he must add weight and adjust to the urgency required to compete at a high level.
Gatlin Bair, WR, Oregon
Gatlin Bair's elite speed and game-breaking ability make him a player to watch. After returning from a two-year LDS mission, he will resume his college career with the Ducks. Bair's potential impact is worth noting.
Colin Simmons, EDGE, Texas
Colin Simmons' career is off to a blazing start, with 21 sacks and nearly 30 tackles for loss. His first-step quickness, explosiveness, power, and closing speed make him nearly impossible to block off the edge. Simmons is a premier NFL Draft prospect.
Luke Reynolds, TE, Virginia Tech
Luke Reynolds has the potential to develop into one of the nation's most complete tight ends. His flashes of talent and versatile skills make him a player to watch in NFL Draft conversations. Reynolds' potential as a versatile, every-down tight end is worth noting.
In Question
Terry Bussey, WR, Texas A&M
Terry Bussey's transition to the receiver position has been choppy, with drops and a talented receiver room remaining obstacles. With the departure of KC Concepcion, Bussey has the opportunity to become the offensive playmaker the Aggies are hoping for.
Dominick McKinley, DL, LSU
Dominick McKinley's trajectory suggests he could develop into an impact-level starter. With a new defensive line coach, the Tigers are hopeful he can take a step closer to reaching his ceiling in 2026.
Zavier Mincey, S, Alabama
Zavier Mincey's transition to safety has shown positive signs, and his size and length make him a valuable asset. Although the jury is still out on his long-term projection, his coverage ability and versatility are worth noting.
Ryan Wingo, WR, Texas
Ryan Wingo's combination of size, speed, and run-after-catch ability gives him the physical tools to develop into a potential first-round NFL Draft pick. His versatility and potential as a dynamic playmaker make him a beneficiary of Texas' revamped passing attack.
