As football enthusiasts eagerly await the start of the regular NFL season, anticipation mounts as experts unveil their projections for the offensive skill-position players selected early in the highly-anticipated 2024 NFL Draft. However, it's important to note that a couple of first-round quarterbacks, Michael Penix Jr. and J.J. McCarthy, will not be included in these projections. The exclusion of Penix Jr. stems from the Falcons' apparent plans to not start him as a rookie, while McCarthy unfortunately suffered a season-ending injury. In an effort to include running backs who may have felt left out, this year's projections also delve a bit deeper into the draft. Let us delve into what these projections entail for the upcoming NFL season.

With the absence of Penix Jr., who was not in the Falcons' immediate starting plans, projections for the quarterback position will focus on the other talented signal-callers drafted in the early rounds. These promising rookies are expected to make an impact and showcase their skills on the field. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how these quarterbacks adjust to the speed and challenges of the professional level.

On the other hand, the unfortunate injury suffered by J.J. McCarthy has left a void in the quarterback projections for this season. McCarthy's absence will undoubtedly be felt, as he was regarded as a potential game-changer for his team. However, the imposing obstacles presented by injuries are an inevitable part of the game, and teams will have to adapt and move forward without him.

Turning our attention to the running back position, it is worth noting that only one running back was drafted in the first two rounds of the April draft. Nevertheless, projecting the impact of this sole running back and other talented players selected later in the draft provides an opportunity to see their potential contributions to their respective teams. Fans will be keeping a close eye on these rookies, curious to witness their development and emergence as key playmakers during the season.

In conclusion, with the regular NFL season just around the corner, projections for the offensive skill-position players drafted early in the 2024 NFL Draft offer a glimpse into the potential impact these rookies might have on the field. While the absence of quarterbacks Michael Penix Jr. and J.J. McCarthy in the projections is disappointing for fans, their situations provide an opportunity for other talented signal-callers to shine. Additionally, the inclusion of running backs drafted later in the draft ensures that every position receives attention in these projections. As the countdown continues, all eyes will be on these promising rookies as they embark on their professional careers and strive to make their mark in the NFL.