Every year in college football, there are true freshmen who burst onto the scene and make an immediate impact for their teams. The 2024 season promises to be no different. In this article, I'll highlight some of the top freshmen across the country—on both sides of the ball—who are poised to make their mark right away. 

Offense:

Dylan Raiola, QB- Nebraska

It's nearly impossible to discuss impact freshmen without mentioning Nebraska's likely starting quarterback, Dylan Raiola. While he hasn't been officially named the starter yet, given the other quarterbacks on the roster, it's almost certain that Raiola will be leading the Cornhuskers in their week one game against UTEP. As the highest-rated quarterback prospect in Nebraska history, Raiola steps into a role carrying immense pressure. Dubbed the "Chosen One," the question now is whether he can live up to the hype and steer Nebraska back to championship contention.

DJ Lagway, QB- Florida

While DJ Lagway may not start the season as Florida's starter like Raiola, don't be surprised if he eventually takes over. This isn't a knock on the Gators' current starter, Graham Mertz, who is coming off a solid season and is poised to have another strong year. However, it is no secret that Florida faces what might be the toughest schedule in college football history, and the grueling week-to-week grind increases the chances of a Mertz injury. Additionally, with Head Coach Billy Napier on the hot seat, turning to Lagway could be a strategic move to secure his future. One way or another, expect Lagway to see the field in 2024.

Jeremiah Smith, WR- Ohio State

All the buzz from summer and fall camp in Columbus is that Jeremiah Smith is poised to become the next great wide receiver at Ohio State. In a Buckeyes receiver room that’s stacked with talent every year, starting as a true freshman is a rare achievement. However, not only is Smith expected to start, but there’s also a strong possibility he becomes their number one guy. Standing at 6'3", he’s a force at the catch point and is already one of the best contested-catch artists in the country. He was also a track star in high school and with that height, speed, and ball skills, Smith will be a nightmare for Big Ten defenses over the next three years.

Cam Coleman, wr- auburn

Similar to Jeremiah Smith, all of the buzz coming out of camp in Auburn is that Cam Coleman is an absolute beast.  Coming in as the number two ranked receiver out of high school, behind the previously mentioned Smith, Coleman stands at 6’3” and has allegedly made ridiculous catches every day in practice for the Tigers.

Coleman could be one of the best receivers Auburn has ever had and we will see if he can elevate the passing attack from where it was in 2023.  

Defense:

Sammy Brown, LB- Clemson

You know you’ve got a freak athlete when your five-star freshman linebacker could have easily played running back at many other schools. Sammy Brown arrives at Clemson with the potential to become the next great Tiger defender, and I think he’ll have a strong chance to prove it early on. While Barrett Carter and Wade Woodaz form an excellent starting duo, Brown's talent might be too exceptional to keep off the field. Following in the footsteps of Clemson's standout linebackers like Trenton Simpson, James Skalski, and Isaiah Simmons, expect Brown to join that list in the coming years.

Ellis Robinson iv, cb- georgia

Ranked as the number two overall prospect and the top defensive player in the nation coming out of high school, Ellis Robinson seemed destined to join Georgia. Since Kirby Smart took over, the Bulldogs have consistently boasted one of the top defenses in college football, and Robinson is poised to help continue that legacy. A product of IMG Academy, the 6'2" Robinson brings exceptional length to the cornerback position—an asset in covering today’s dynamic receivers. However, Robinson also has high end speed and projects to be a future CB1 for the best defense in the country.  

Jayden Jackson and David Stone, DL- Oklahoma

I included both of these guys because reports out of Norman indicate that they’ve been absolutely lighting it up in camp and will undoubtedly see playing time as freshmen. Both products of the prestigious IMG Academy in Florida, Stone stands at 6’4”, 275 pounds, while Jackson is a 6’2”, 300-pound four-star talent. On the defensive line, where rotations are frequent and up to eight or more players are needed to maintain a high level of play, there’s plenty of opportunity for true freshmen like Jayden Jackson and David Stone to contribute early. While the Sooners added some solid defensive linemen through the portal this offseason, it’s almost certain that both of these young talents will make a significant impact this season.