NFL 2018: 10 Rookie sleepers primed to shine

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AUSTIN, TX – NOVEMBER 24: Keke Coutee #2 of the Texas Tech Red Raiders celebrates with teammates after the game against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on November 24, 2017 in Austin, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /

4. Keke Coutee, WR, Houston Texans

The 2018 NFL Draft class was transcendent in terms of talent, but there were a few hidden gems like Keke Coutee, who the Texans drafted in fourth round. Coutee has the skill-set of an ideal slot receiver. Furthermore, there’s a need for a wide receiver with Coutee’s talents in Houston. He has amazing play speed with a fantastic second-gear that makes a dangerous threat underneath.

Before Watson was injured, the Texans had one of the most explosive offenses in the NFL. Add a receiver with Coutee’s speed and quickness they are likely to return to form. If Coutee can stay healthy, he could excel as a slot receiver.

3. Da’Shawn Hand, DL, Detroit Lions

Alabama players are always NFL ready, plug and play guys — Da’Shawn Hand is no different. For the Lions, Hand’s skill-set makes him an excellent pairing opposite Ziggy Ansah as a base defensive end. On passing downs, he can be fantastic inside as a tackle, where he’d excel using his quickness. Moreover, he should help improve their run defense.

Hand isn’t flashy, but he will shine in Paul Pasqualoni’s defensive scheme. Hand’s ability to play either end or tackle will likely get exploited by Pasqualoni and help him produce upon arrival in the NFL.

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