NFL Training Camp 2018: 12 Rookies who can carve out significant roles
NFL training camps are getting underway, this is the time for players to earn their keep. Here are 12 rookies who have a chance to earn a starting spot.
The scorching summer heat that accompanies the month of July heading into August only means one thing to NFL fans, training camp is here. For the incoming rookies, this is their time to shine as they fight for playing time. Not every rookie has an opportunity to carve out a major role on their team. Rookies like New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley or Denver Broncos edge rusher Bradley Chubb don’t have to worry about fighting for a job.
Likewise, quarterbacks Baker Mayfield, Josh Allen, Josh Rosen, Sam Darnold, and Lamar Jackson have the benefit of being looked to as the future at the position. Other rookies have to fight and claw for a roster spot though. There are some second day and mid-to-late-round picks who have a great opportunity to make some noise in camp.
Today, we look at 12 rookies who have a chance to earn some significant playing time in camp.
1. Malik Jefferson, LB, Cincinnati Bengals
The former Texas Longhorn has all the traits of a starting NFL linebacker. At 6-2, 236 pounds, Jefferson has long arms and solid bulk. He’s a linebacker who plays fast and has the skill-set to drop into coverage effectively. His 4.5-second 40-yard dash at the Combine is a testament to his speed and athleticism.
Additionally, Vontaze Burfict’s four-game suspension clears the path for Jefferson to show what he can do early. It doesn’t hurt that Nick Vigil hasn’t proven he’s worth anything more than a backup spot in his short tuenure as a starter.
2. Royce Freeman, RB, Denver Broncos
The 6-0, 230-pound running back has the style that lends itself to offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave’s system. Freeman is powerful between the tackles runner like Lartavius Murray, who Musgrave coached to a Pro Bowl. Freeman, like his Denver Bronco teammate Devontae Booker, runs downhill.
However, over the last two seasons Booker’s yards per carry average hasn’t been impressive. Freeman can show off his power and tenacity as a between the tackles runner in camp. If he dominates, he could become the early-down back, giving the Broncos a deadly one-two punch.