Eric Moody from ESPN brings you the latest updates on the NFL's rookie class and more. With a former manager's perspective, he dives deep into the performances and prospects of various players.

Uncover the Hidden Gems in Fantasy Football

Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Jalen McMillan

In the thrilling win over the Las Vegas Raiders, Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan truly shined. He amassed an impressive 21.9 fantasy points, marking a breakout game for this 2024 third-rounder from Washington. His career high of 63 receiving yards was a significant leap from his previous best, which was 28 yards less. This performance showcases his potential and indicates that he could be a force to be reckoned with in the future. However, it's important to note that he hasn't been consistent as a first-year pro. In the five games prior to Sunday, he scored under 10 fantasy points in a row. And while he saw seven or more targets in just two of those games, for now, he's best suited as a flex option in deeper leagues. Looking ahead to 2025, with Chris Godwin potentially leaving in free agency, McMillan could step into a much larger role. Sunday's game against the Raiders clearly showed that he's worth keeping a close eye on.

Malik Nabers and the Giants

Malik Nabers had an eventful game against the Saints. He finished with 10 targets and 14.9 fantasy points, playing an astonishing 93.2% of the snaps and running a route on 90% of the Giants' 51 pass plays. This shows his importance within the team and his ability to make an impact on the field. His performance adds to the excitement around the Giants' offense and gives fans something to look forward to.

Other Rookie Notes from Week 14

For the Falcons (6-7), it was another loss, and Kirk Cousins is facing some challenges. In the last four games, he has eight interceptions and just 27.0 fantasy points. This could potentially lead to a change, with first-rounder Michael Penix Jr. waiting in the wings. Brian Thomas Jr. leads all rookies in games with at least 75 receiving yards, with 7 such games. In the last two games with Mac Jones at quarterback, he's had 10+ targets and scored 16.0 or more fantasy points in consecutive games, solidifying his position as a key rookie. Jonathan Brooks suffered a non-contact knee injury on the same knee he rehabbed for 12 months. Combined with Chuba Hubbard's extended absence, this clouds Brooks' dynasty value moving forward. Isaac Guerendo, on the other hand, had a great game against the Bears, finishing with 17 touches and 26.8 fantasy points. He's the second rookie to record multiple rushing touchdowns in a game this season.

Rookie Dynasty Rankings

In the quarterback rankings, Jayden Daniels from the Washington Commanders takes the top spot, followed by Caleb Williams from the Chicago Bears, Bo Nix from the Denver Broncos, Drake Maye from the New England Patriots, Michael Penix Jr. from the Atlanta Falcons, and J.J. McCarthy from the Minnesota Vikings.For running backs, Bucky Irving from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers leads the pack, with Isaac Guerendo from the San Francisco 49ers moving up 9 spots from last week. Tyrone Tracy Jr. from the New York Giants is down 1, while Ray Davis from the Buffalo Bills, Trey Benson from the Arizona Cardinals, Braelon Allen from the New York Jets (up 1), Isaiah Davis from the New York Jets, Blake Corum from the Los Angeles Rams (down 2), Jaylen Wright from the Miami Dolphins (down 1), Kimani Vidal from the Los Angeles Chargers (down 1), Audric Estime from the Denver Broncos (down 1), and Jonathon Brooks from the Carolina Panthers (down 8) also make the list.Among wide receivers, Malik Nabers from the New York Giants is at the top, followed by Brian Thomas Jr. from the Jacksonville Jaguars, Rome Odunze from the Chicago Bears (up 1), Marvin Harrison Jr. from the Arizona Cardinals (down 2), Ladd McConkey from the Los Angeles Chargers (up 1), Jalen McMillan from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (up 4), Xavier Legette from the Carolina Panthers, Xavier Worthy from the Kansas City Chiefs (down 3), Keon Coleman from the Buffalo Bills, Ricky Pearsall from the San Francisco 49ers (down 2), Ja’Lynn Polk from the New England Patriots, Devaughn Vele from the Denver Broncos, and Adonai Mitchell from the Indianapolis Colts.In the tight end category, Brock Bowers from the Las Vegas Raiders leads, followed by Ben Sinnott from the Washington Commanders, Theo Johnson from the New York Giants, and Ja’Tavion Sanders from the Carolina Panthers.