Mizzou Football: 3 Players Poised to Breakout in 2024

With a new season right around the corner, Mizzou football has parted ways with a number of weapons from last season. Included were AP first-team running back Cody Schrader, first round draft pick Darius Robinson, second round draft pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr, and many others. While those who departed leave questions about what's to come, here are three Tigers bound to breakout in 2024.

1. Brett Norfleet

A true sophomore who only showed glimpses of what he's capable of last year, Norfleet was still named to the SEC all-freshman team. He accumulated 197 receiving yards, on 18 receptions, and added 3 touchdowns. This season, Norfleet has much higher expectations, and will likely surpass those numbers easily. He will begin the season as Mizzou's staring tight-end. He'll not only make an impact with his receiving, but also set the tone for Missouri's run game. His 6-foot-7 frame, mixed with quick feet, will enable him to be an above-average run blocker. Expect Norfleet to grow off his solid freshman season and have an immediate impact for the offense.

2. Marcus Carroll

Carroll is a 5-foot-10, elusive running-back transfer from Georgia State. He should have no problems filling in Cody Schrader's shoes. Carroll was an all-conference first team selection in the Sunbelt last season. He was also honored as a Doak Walker semi-finalist, running for 1,350 yards in 12 games last season, adding on 13 rushing touchdowns. Carroll will look to replicate his 2023 season behind an even better offensive line, which helped lead Mizzou to 2,246 rushing yards last season. It will be interesting to see how Carroll adjusts to SEC defenses. Fellow running-back, Nate Noel should compliment him beautifully heading into the upcoming campaign.

3. Toriano Pride Jr.

A Missouri native and former high school teammate of Luther Burden, Pride returns to his home state of Missouri this season. Pride was ranked the No. 6 corner-back in the portal according to On3. He'll help fill the corner-back void left by Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and Kris Abrams-Draine. Pride's full defensive ability can finally be put on display as he was limited at Clemson. In just one start at Clemson, he tallied 7 tackles (6 solo) against Wake Forest. Pride is well known for his speed and physicality at his size. The proper amount of opportunities could turn Pride into one of most exciting stories of the season.