NFL Draft 2018: Which rookie will make the biggest impact?
As the 2018 NFL Draft class tries to find their places in rookie minicamp, some players are already poised for a breakout season.
There is an abundance of talent across the board coming out of the 2018 NFL Draft class. While many players will take time to develop, a few rookies have a chance to make their stamp in the league right away.
With skillful players on both sides of the ball, this is one of the deepest rookie classes in recent memory. However, only a select few will have the chance to compete for Rookie of the Year honors.
Let’s take a look at five such players that will make an immediate impact during their rookie years.
Saquon Barkley, New York Giants
Perhaps the most talented player in his class, Barkley has all the traits of a Pro Bowl-caliber running back. While the Giants have struggled to run the ball, they haven’t had a back this talented in a number of years. New York also added Nate Solder in free agency and drafted Will Hernandez to help bolster their offensive line.
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As one of the most anticipated rookies in his class, Barkley has a lot of weight on his shoulders. However, with rookie running backs like Alvin Kamara and Leonard Fournette helping to lead their teams to the playoffs last year, there is a strong chance Barkley will also find success at the next level.
Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen slipped further than expected on draft night. After falling to the Buffalo Bills, the Wyoming product may have landed in the perfect spot. Buffalo is coming off their first playoff berth in 17 years and their franchise quarterback, Tyrod Taylor was shipped to Cleveland.
Allen has a chance to thrive in a promising situation. The Bills have a solid offensive line and weapons on the outside. If Allen can hold up his end, he may have a chance to lead the Bills back to the playoffs.
Bradley Chubb, Denver Broncos
Bradley Chubb, the disruptive 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 with the Denver Broncos.
Chubb lining up opposite Vonn Miller should scare the entire league. With so much attention paid towards Miller, Chubb will have a chance to notch double-digit sacks during his rookie season and beyond.
Josh Rosen, Arizona Cardinals
Arizona traded up to grab Rosen, who publically expressed his frustration with slipping in the draft. However, with an explosive offense featuring one of the league’s best running backs, Rosen is well suited for Arizona.
Considered one of the draft’s best pure passers, the UCLA product has a chance to make an impact as a rookie. With veteran Sam Bradford on the roster, Rosen can learn from an experienced starter before taking the helm.
Next: NFL 2018: Each team's biggest storyline pre-OTAs
Roquan Smith, Chicago Bears
With outstanding athleticism and speed, Smith has the skillset to match the NFL’s evolving versatile linebacker position. In addition to his speed, Smith can also lay down the hammer. The Georgia product led college football’s best defensive unit in tackles in 2017.
Having a chance to start on a young and rebuilding team like the Bears is an ideal situation for Smith. With the right development, Smith has all the tools to fall in line as Chicago’s next great linebacker.