Dynasty Rookie IDPs in the NFL Draft: Day Three Review

Cedric Gray | Credit: Bob Donnan

Jason Abbey Posted On April 29, 2024

On day three of the 2024 NFL Draft, teams attempted to unearth overlooked talent who may require additional development before becoming significant contributors. From a fantasy perspective, the later rounds present savvy IDP managers with the opportunity to spot players with promising potential who have landed in favorable situations.

Let’s explore the top players that IDP managers should be eager to target:

Round Four

Pick 4.6 Cedric Gray, LB, TEN

The Tennesee Titans let Azeez Al-Shaair depart in free agency and immediately signed Kenneth Murray to help replace him. Jack Gibbens, who became a trendy IDP option in 2023, was also expected to contribute.

However, Gray has the skillset to suggest he could make an impact. A three-year starter for the Tar Heels, the 21-year-old exhibited the athleticism and tireless work ethic that defensive coordinators covet, leading to his ranking as DLF’s fifth-ranked linebacker in the 2024 rookie class.

We have got our green dot LB. Welcome to Tennessee Cedric Gray! pic.twitter.com/0Sr7b5Zu7J

— 𝓝𝓲𝓬𝓴 ⚔️ (@FeedKingHenry) April 27, 2024

Perhaps most importantly, Gray demonstrated proficiency in pass coverage, especially zone. Murray has struggled in this area, and if he continues to do so, the Titans’ new defensive coordinator, Dennard Wilson, may turn to the rookie’s way.

Even if Gray has to wait a year, he looks primed to take over in 2025. Gibbens is in the final year of his deal, and the Titans can save $7.5m by releasing Murray.

4.9 Brandon Dorlus, DT, ATL

Dorlus is unquestionably talented, possessing the desirable length, burst, and college production to suggest he can make an impact in the NFL. His positional versatility on the defensive line provided hope he would earn snaps early in his career regardless of where he landed.

Still, this was a curious selection by the Atlanta Falcons, who prioritized the best player available ahead of team needs. Dorlus’ opportunity to make an early impression may be limited by the presence of Grady Jarrett, David Onyemata, and the team’s second-round pick, Ruke Orhorhoro, and I don’t think Dorlus is best utilized or suited as an edge rusher. IDP managers may have to remain patient.

4.33 Jaden Hicks, S, KC

Mike Edwards’ departure to the Buffalo Bills created a vacuum that Hicks could immediately help to fill. The rookie has good size and can play deep or close to the line of scrimmage.

Jaden Hicks coverage on Ja’Lynn Polk here 👀 pic.twitter.com/jFl7oB8AAZ

— The Kingdom (@MahomeSZN) April 27, 2024

The selection of Hicks fills a need for the Chiefs, who struggled to find a consistent safety alongside Justin Reid. 2022 second-round pick Bryan Cook opened the season as a starter but played poorly. Hicks could open the season as the starter.

Round Five

5.9 Austin Booker, EDGE, CHI

In time, we may look back at the Chicago Bears’ decision to trade their 2025 fourth-round pick in order to select Booker as a shrewd move. He’s an explosive athlete with an incredible first step.

While he’s a developmental prospect who may initially contribute only as a situational pass rusher, he may help the team overcome its struggles generating pressure. Montez Sweat is the leader in the clubhouse at the Bears’ edge spot, but behind him, the competition is wide open.

Round Six

6.13 Mekhi Wingo, DT, DET

At 6’0”, 284 lbs, Wingo lacks the size to suggest he can hold down an every-down role, but as an interior pass-rushing presence with the quickness and body control to disrupt plays, he could develop into a disruptive player.

Unfortunately, Wingo will find earning snaps early in his NFL career challenging. Alim McNeill enjoyed a breakout season, and the underrated D.J. Reader joined in free agency. Still, as a late-round selection in DT-premium leagues, IDP managers could reap the long-term benefits.

6.43 Daequan Hardy CB, BUF

Every player is a dart-throw this late in the draft, and Hardy is no different. He’s undersized and will struggle to contribute in run defense. Furthermore, the Bills are stacked at cornerback with Rasul Douglas, Christian Benford, and Taron Johnson on the roster.

55 YARDS TO THE HOUSE. 😱@PennStateFball gets on the board thanks to Daequan Hardy's punt return TD.

📺: @BigTenNetwork pic.twitter.com/0mIgQjN3Zp

— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) October 14, 2023

However, Hardy’s ability as a kick returner may earn him a roster spot and offer value to managers in IDP leagues. He’ll need to see snaps on defense to warrant rostering in fantasy, but he’s worth keeping an eye on.

Round Seven

7.16 Myles Cole, EDGE, JAC

Cole is a raw prospect with a limited repertoire of pass-rush moves. His chances to see the field will be limited due to the presence of Josh Allen, who had had a career year, and 2022 first-round pick Travon Walker, who showed signs of development in his second season.

Still, Cole’s impressive size and first step may provide him an opportunity to contribute as a rotational piece. It’s a long shot that he’ll become a contributor in IDP, but as one of the best value picks in the seventh round, he deserved a mention.