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NFL Training Camp 2018: 12 Rookies who can carve out significant roles

By Michael Johnson

STILLWATER, OK - NOVEMBER 04: Wide receiver James Washington (Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images)
STILLWATER, OK - NOVEMBER 04: Wide receiver James Washington (Photo by Brett Deering/Getty Images) /
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BOISE, ID – OCTOBER 15: Wide receiver Michael Gallup #4 of the Colorado State Rams breaks into the open for a long run during second half action against the Boise State Broncos on October 15, 2016 at Albertsons Stadium in Boise, Idaho. Boise State won the game 28-23. (Photo by Loren Orr/Getty Images)
BOISE, ID – OCTOBER 15: Wide receiver Michael Gallup #4 of the Colorado State Rams breaks into the open for a long run during second half action against the Boise State Broncos on October 15, 2016 at Albertsons Stadium in Boise, Idaho. Boise State won the game 28-23. (Photo by Loren Orr/Getty Images) /

5. Michael Gallup, WR, Dallas Cowboys

Michael Gallup comes into the Dallas Cowboys offense as one of their best options at wide receiver. At 6-1, 205 pounds, he’s solidly built and has the speed to play outside and the quickness to play the slot. Gallup can get behind defenders on deep routes and separate underneath.

Additionally, Gallup does a great job as a run blocker. In camp, he has to continue improving as a route runner  The Cowboys added a couple of wide receivers in the offseason in Tavon Austin, Allen Hurns and Deonte Thompson, so Gallup has some work to do. 

6. Kalen Ballage, RB, Miami Dolphins

The Miami Dolphins were missing the power running game that got them into the playoffs in Adam Gase’s first season as head coach, but Kalen Ballage can change that. However, before he dominated at the Senior Bowl, some questioned his passive playing style.

At Arizona State, he showed flashes of the damage he could cause as a dynamic power back. Furthermore, his 44 catches proved he’s capable of being an every-down back. The 6-2, 230-pound runner has 4.4-second speed and the athleticism resembling Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson. If Ballage can prove he’s a true downhill runner, he could jump Kenyon Drake and Frank Gore on the depth chart. 

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