![Top 5 NFL Players to Watch Going into the 2024 Season](http://media.assettype.com/bettorsinsider%2F2024-06%2F1ff7deb6-d854-4511-adb7-33e0bfb4dee0%2FTop_5_NFL_Players_to_Watch_Going_into_the_2024_Season.png?w=480&auto=format%2Ccompress&fit=max)
As we gear up for the 2024 NFL season, there are a few players who stand out not only for their exceptional skills but also for their potential impact on prop bets. These are the players that consistently deliver week after week, so betting on them is almost always a sure shot.
Trent Williams continues to defy the odds as he enters his 14th NFL season. Despite turning 36 in July, Williams remains one of the most dominant offensive linemen in the league, which says a lot considering the average age of OTs in the NFL is 26. Throughout the 2023 season, he has not allowed a single sack throughout his 809 snaps played.
Williams' ability to protect the quarterback and open up running lanes makes him a critical asset for the 49ers. Prop bets involving San Francisco's rushing yards or quarterback protection stats often hinge on Williams' performance. His track record suggests he's more than capable of delivering, making any over-bets on rushing yards or under-bets on sacks allowed by the 49ers a good idea. Keep a close eye on this big fella.
Strength and Agility. Williams combines massive power with surprising agility (considering he’s 6’5” and 320lbs), allowing him to dominate both in pass protection and run blocking.
Experience. His years in the league have honed his technique to near perfection. You don’t play until you’re 36 years old without dominating in experience.
Leadership. As a well-seasoned veteran, Williams' presence on the line boosts the overall performance of his teammates, making the entire offensive line unit more reliable. He’s able to read a defense better than most QBs.
Tyreek Hill has been a revelation since joining the Miami Dolphins. Known for his eye-watering speed and big-play ability, Hill's nearly 1,800 receiving yards in 2023 underscores his value. Turning 30 in March, Hill still possesses the physical traits of a young buck but has the experience of a veteran that makes him a nightmare for defenses.
Hill's propensity for explosive plays makes him a favorite for a slew of prop bets. Whether it's total receiving yards, receptions, or touchdowns, Hill's knack for breaking off long gains can turn the tide. Betting on the over for his receiving yards and touchdowns can be a smart move, especially given his close connection with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa.
Speed. Hill's speed is one of the best in the game. It allows him to take the top off defenses and turn short passes into long gains. First downs, touchdowns, it doesn’t matter.
Route Running. Tyreek’s ability to change direction at full speed makes him a threat in both deep and short passing games. Catch him if you can.
Chemistry with Tua. This is possibly the best thing about him. The growing rapport with Tagovailoa is crucial, as a confident quarterback-receiver duo can elevate both players' stats.
Chris Jones is the cornerstone of the Kansas City Chiefs' defense — yes, the same defense that dominated the San Francisco offense in the 2023 Super Bowl. With a rare combination of size, speed, and strength, Jones constantly disrupts opposing offenses. He’s an absolute nightmare for the other teams’ o-line.
Jones' impact on the game can be seen in his ability to rack up sacks, tackles for loss, and even passes deflected. Bets on Jones' sack totals or the Chiefs' overall defensive performance can be profitable, especially in matchups against weaker offensive lines. Take a close look at the point spread bets as Jones can single-handedly stifle an offense.
Versatility. Jones can play multiple positions along the defensive line, whether in a 4-3 or a 5-2 defense, making him a versatile weapon in different defensive schemes.
Pass-Rushing Prowess. His quick first step and powerful hands allow him to penetrate the backfield consistently. QBs absolutely hate Chris Jones.
Run-Stopping Ability. Beyond pass rushing, which he’s one of the best, Jones excels at clogging running lanes and making tackles behind the line of scrimmage. He’s a threat everywhere on the field.
George Kittle has established himself as one of the premier tight ends in the NFL. He’s one of the few TEs that have become a household name. With another 1,000+ yard season in 2023, Kittle's combination of receiving and blocking skills makes him a unique asset. Despite competing for targets in a loaded 49ers offense, Kittle continues to put up impressive numbers year after year and we’re sure 2024 will be no different.
Kittle's dual-threat capability means he can affect the game in multiple ways. Prop bets on his receiving yards, receptions, and touchdowns are always in play. Additionally, his ability to block can influence rushing props for other players on the 49ers' offense. There’s no shortage of ways you can leverage Kittle for your Sunday afternoon bets.
Catching Ability. Kittle has reliable hands and excels in making contested catches. Is he a blocker or a receiver? Multiple dilemmas for opposing defenses.
Blocking. Unlike many other top-tier receiving tight ends, Kittle is an exceptional blocker, giving guys like Christian McCaffery some breathing room.
YAC (Yards After Catch). His physicality and agility make him dangerous after securing the catch. He is always turning short passes into massive gains.
Matthew Stafford's career has been a roller coaster of highs and lows. Nobody will deny that. However, when healthy, he remains one of the most talented quarterbacks in the league. Again, something nobody will deny. After a stellar 2023 season he made the Pro Bowl and was a runner up in the AP MVP race, only to lose out to Lamar Jackson.
Stafford's arm strength and veteran savvy make him a QB to watch for prop bets related to passing yards, touchdowns, and completions. His ability to make big-time throws, especially in high-pressure situations, can yield significant payouts for bettors. Going beyond just prop bets, he can run a high-octane offense to give you wins on the moneyline and point spread.
Arm Talent. Stafford can make all the throws, from deep bombs to precise short passes. He’s versatile in any offensive scheme.
Experience. His years of playing at a high level in the NFC and AFC and give him an edge in reading defenses and making quick decisions. His experience makes this offense unstoppable when he’s healthy.
Comeback Ability. Stafford has a history of orchestrating game-winning drives, making him one of the most exciting players to bet on for fourth-quarter performances. Keep an eye on those live-betting situations.
As we approach the 2024 NFL season, these five players stand out not only for their on-field dominance, but also for their betting opportunities. Trent Williams has the dominance in the trenches. Tyreek Hill delivers explosive playmaking. Chris Jones showcases defensive disruptions. George Kittle brings all-around tight end excellence. Matthew Stafford's quarterback wizardry makes him the QB to watch.
By understanding their unique skills and roles within their teams, bettors like you can make better decisions and capitalize on their performances.