NFL Training Camp 2018: 2 Unsigned rookies that will be just fine

There are a dozen NFL rookies who have yet to sign their deals, but at least two of them don’t need training camp to make an impact in 2018.

All 32 teams are gearing up for training with the NFL preseason kicking off Aug. 2 for the Hall of Fame Game as the Chicago Bears face the Baltimore Ravens. Currently, there are 12 unsigned draftees heading into training camp.

Of the dozen players, 10 were selected in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Every season, a few rookies don’t sign their rookie deals in time for training camp. It’s not often that a rookie holds out throughout the duration of camp, but it has happened. In fact, in 2016, Los Angeles Chargers edge rusher Joey Bosa missed the first four weeks, but still became Defensive Rookie of the Year.

With that in mind, here are three unsigned rookies who don’t need camp to find success in their rookie seasons.

Darius Leonard, LB, Indianapolis Colts

Matt Eberflus’ defense desperately needs help at linebacker. To be more specific, the Indianapolis Colts lack the idea; fit for their transition from a 3-4 defense to a 4-3. Darius Leonard, however, is an automatic fit at linebacker in their new scheme.

Leonard is a rangy athlete with long arms, boasting a 6-2, 234-pound frame. The South Carolina State product has room to grow and add strength, however. Still, he’s an exceptionally fast linebacker laterally that excels making plays sideline-to-sideline. The natural athleticism and instincts Leonard displays is similar to Sean Lee, a player Eberflus coached from 2011-17. 

Similarly to Lee, Leonard is an ideal fit as a weak-side linebacker, but can excel inside because of his ability to drop into coverage. Leonard is a better athlete than Antonio Morrison and a better prospect than second-year man Anthony Walker. Given Leonard’s athleticism, intellect and coverage skills, he could dominate as soon as he steps on the field.