2018 NFL Draft: 5 Players poised to make noise as rookies
This 2018 NFL Draft is loaded with talent. Here we take a look at the players that can make an immediate impact at the next level.
There is an abundance of talent across the board coming out of the 2018 NFL Draft class. On both sides of the ball, there are players that will have an impact in a big way at the professional careers.
However, while some players in this class may end up with more successful careers in the long run, these prospects are ready to make an impact on Sundays right now.
Let’s take a look at five such players that will hear their names called in the 2018 NFL Draft.
Saquon Barkley, RB
Perhaps the most talented player in his class, Barkley has all the traits of a Pro Bowl-caliber running back. At 5-11, 230 pounds, the Penn State product has the size, speed and athleticism to make an immediate impact on his future team.
Barkley torched the college football landscape with electrifying plays and versatility that has drawn comparisons to Barry Sanders. Time will tell if he will live up to the hype, but with rookie running backs like Alvin Kamara and Leonard Fornette helping to lead their teams to the playoffs this year, there is a strong chance Barkley will also find success at the next level.
Bradley Chubb, DE
Bradley Chubb, the senior defensive end from N.C. State, is ready to begin terrorizing NFL quarterbacks for years to come. Chubb recorded 25 sacks in his college career and has the size and strength to do more of the same on Sundays.
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With a lack of depth on outside pass-rushers in this year’s class, Chubb is a rare commodity that will likely pay off in the short term and the long term. If he can stay healthy, Chubb should be a force for a team looking to add defensive line depth.
Minkah Fitzpatrick, DB
Fitzpatrick, the do-it-all defensive back for Alabama’s championship defense, played nearly every position in the secondary for Nick Saban’s defense. Fitzpatrick proved he can cover speedy receivers, match-up against bigger tight ends and control the middle of the field as a safety.
At 6-1, 200 pounds, Fitzpatrick will most likely convert to a full-time safety in the NFL. However, teams will likely consider his unique athletism when determining his position.
Quenton Nelson, G
Nelson, the bulking offensive guard from Notre Dame, has all the tools to be a top-tier player in the NFL. Considered a can’t-miss product, the senior has a lot of expectations to meet, but with his size, strength, and experience, it shouldn’t be difficult for him to perform on the field.
Effective in both pass and run-blocking situations, Nelson could really help a team with front-line issues. Quarterbacks with unreliable offensive lines would love to have a guy like Nelson holding off pass rushers.
Calvin Ridley, WR
Another Crimson Tide player makes it on this list, but this time on the offensive side of the ball. Ridley was the lone bright spot on Alabama’s below-average passing attack. While his numbers don’t jump off the stat sheet, Ridley’s playmaking abilities proved why he is the best reviver coming out of the 2018 draft class.
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With great speed and football instincts, Ridley should have no problem fitting into any NFL system with a decent passing attack. Pairing him with a capable quarterback will make him a very effective weapon in the future.