7 Utah-related storylines to follow this NFL season
Sep 5, 2024, 8:00 AM
Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua smiles after a reception during game against the New Orleans Saints, Thursday, Dec. 21, 2023, in Inglewood, Calif. There is a lot of young talent in the NFL right now that can trace its playing roots back through the state of Utah. (Ashley Landis, Associated Press)
(Ashley Landis, Associated Press)
There is a lot of young talent in the NFL right now that can trace its playing roots back through the state of Utah.
From Puka Nacua to Penei Sewell, and from Jordan Love to Dalton Kincaid, as well as rookies like Jonah Elliss and Kingsley Suamataia, the Beehive State is developing football talent that is being showcased at the highest levels of the sport.
Going into the 2024 season, which starts Thursday with a showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens, there is nearly enough Utah talent to fill an entire NFL roster heading into the year.
Currently, there are more than 50 Utah ties on NFL active rosters, with another dozen-plus on practice squads.
What are the top names and storylines to watch for in the 2024 season?
What will Puka Nacua do for an encore?
Former BYU and Orem High star Puka Nacua took the NFL by storm last season, setting league rookie records after being a fifth-round draft selection.
He broke the NFL’s rookie marks for receptions (105) and receiving yards (1,486), was named a Pro Bowler and second-team All-Pro, and became one of the most marketable young names in the game, all while helping the Los Angeles Rams make a return to the playoffs.
Read the full story and more from Brandon Judd on deseret.com.
Related: Utah businesses involved in helping Paralympic athletes win gold medals this week
