Grading the progress of all 32 five-star prospects from the 2024 college football recruiting class is a complex task, but it's an important one for fans and analysts alike. Two years after signing day, the Class of 2024's five-star haul is starting to take shape, with some players exceeding expectations, others meeting them, and a few still in question. Here's a breakdown of each player's progress, based on their on-field performance relative to their recruiting hype.
Exceeding Expectations
Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State: Widely regarded as a 'generational talent', Smith is the only wide receiver to finish his class as the No. 1 overall prospect since 247Sports began ranking recruits in 2000. His immediate ascension into one of college football's most dominant players is impressive, with back-to-back 1,000-yard receiving campaigns in his first two seasons. Smith has more than lived up to the billing.
Dylan Stewart, EDGE, South Carolina: Stewart's first-step explosiveness and relentless activity off the edge make him one of the most dynamic defenders in the country. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 245 pounds, he shows rare bend and flexibility, allowing him to operate with freedom on the edge. Stewart has the ability to be the first defender off the board in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State: Sayin proved ready for the starting quarterback role after Ohio State's national championship victory. He responded with over 3,600 yards passing and 32 touchdowns, completing north of 77% of his attempts. His football intelligence and decisiveness make him a perfect complement to the Buckeyes' talented roster.
Colin Simmons, EDGE, Texas: Simmons' career is off to a blazing start, with 21 sacks and nearly 30 tackles for loss over his first two seasons. His elite first-step quickness, explosiveness, power, and closing speed make him nearly impossible to block off the edge. Simmons is one of the nation's premier NFL Draft prospects.
Meeting Expectations
Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia: Robinson aims to solidify himself as one of the premier corners in the country. He started 12 games for the Bulldogs as a redshirt sophomore, recording four interceptions. His development suggests he could be a top defensive back in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Sammy Brown, LB, Clemson: Brown possesses the most athletic profile amongst his peers and continues to develop into one of the best linebackers in the country. At 6-foot-2 and 235 pounds, he can play sideline to sideline and has steady growth in processing power.
KJ Bolden, S, Georgia: Bolden is an indispensable asset to Kirby Smart's defense. His combination of speed, toughness, and versatility has provided significant value. At 20 years of age, he has appeared in every contest in his two seasons, proving college-ready.
Justin Scott, DL, Miami: Scott was a key cog in Miami's defensive front last season, registering over 500 snaps. He appears on track to be one of the next Hurricane defensive linemen to be drafted in the NFL Draft.
Jordan Seaton, OT, LSU: Seaton anchored the Buffaloes' offensive line and became one of the most highly sought-after prospects in free agency. His steady pass-blocking prowess and starting experience should propel him into the 2027 NFL Draft.
T.J. Moore, WR, Clemson: Moore improved on his impressive freshman campaign, hauling in 52 receptions for 837 yards. He offers a dependable presence in Clemson's passing game and is capable of creating explosive plays.
Zabien Brown, CB, Alabama: Brown's polished playing style, forged at Mater Dei, quickly proved college-ready. He has started in every contest for the Crimson Tide, displaying instinctive play recognition in zone and man coverage.
Chris Cole, LB, Georgia: Cole has the look and feel of a defender who could blossom in his third season. His length and athleticism allow him to be deployed in various situations, showing three-down ability.
David Stone, DL, Oklahoma: Stone's emergence as one of the best interior defensive linemen was vital to Oklahoma's playoff berth. His combination of quick-twitch explosiveness and body quickness can overwhelm opponents.
Zavier Mincey, S, Alabama: Mincey transitioned to safety during his second season, bringing size and length to Alabama's secondary. His coverage ability and versatility should earn him increased opportunities.
Ryan Wingo, WR, Texas: Wingo's steady emergence in Texas' passing game has been a welcome development. His combination of size, speed, and run-after-catch ability gives him the physical tools to become a potential first-round NFL Draft pick.
In Question
DJ Lagway, QB, Baylor: Lagway encountered a series of injuries that derailed his critical offseason. He struggled to find his rhythm, leading the SEC in interceptions. Now back in Texas, he faces a make-or-break year.
LJ McCray, DL, Florida: McCray missed significant time due to a knee injury and a broken foot. The Gators remain hopeful he can be a considerable contributor this season.
Cam Coleman, WR, Texas: Coleman produced flashes that led many to believe he would become the first Auburn receiver to record a 1,000-yard season since 1999. He has the potential to develop into a dynamic playmaker.
Williams Nwaneri, DL, Nebraska: Nwaneri transferred to Nebraska after logging just 38 snaps with Missouri. He started nine games for the Cornhuskers, recording 2.5 sacks and 27 tackles.
Dylan Raiola, QB, Oregon: Raiola suffered a broken fibula and missed the remainder of the 2025 season. He will redshirt and serve as Dante Moore's backup quarterback in 2026.
Jordan Ross, EDGE, LSU: Ross logged just under 250 snaps for Tennessee before transferring to LSU. He needs to heavily relied upon to aid LSU's pass rush.
Justin Williams, LB, Georgia: Williams saw action in all fourteen of Georgia's games, recording just over 225 snaps. He figures to be a key part of the Bulldogs' defense.
Jaylen Mbakwe, CB, Georgia Tech: Mbakwe changed positions from corner to receiver, leading to fewer snaps. A change of scenery to the defensive backfield is expected.
Micah Hudson, WR, Texas Tech: Hudson has struggled to find his footing since arriving in Lubbock, totaling just 16 receptions in two seasons.
Elijah Rushing, EDGE, Oregon: Rushing has logged fewer than 100 defensive snaps at Oregon, spending much of his time adding weight and adjusting to the college game.
Gatlin Bair, WR, Oregon: Bair will resume his college career after a two-year LDS mission. He needs time to shake off the rust but has elite speed.
Luke Reynolds, TE, Virginia Tech: Reynolds has flashed talent but has yet to put it all together. He has the potential to develop into a complete tight end.
Amaris Williams, EDGE, Georgia: Williams transferred to Georgia after limited playing time at Auburn. A torn ACL will force him to miss the 2026 season.
This analysis provides a snapshot of each player's progress, but it's important to remember that the 2024 class is still in its early stages. The future holds promise for some, while others may need to prove themselves further.
