NFL Preseason 2018: 6 Unsung rookies dominating thus far

5. Tegray Scales, LB, Los Angeles Rams 

If there’s any undrafted rookie that has a shot to make the Los Angeles Rams’ 53-man roster, it’s Tegray Scales. He’s been the most impressive UDFA on the Rams roster. The former member of Indiana Hoosier made his bones with his tacking prowess. His last two years in college, Scales totaled 214 tackles and 13 sacks. Although the Rams have a number of inside linebackers they’re taking a look at, Scales stands out.

Scales has nine tackles and a pass defensed in limited action over their first two preseason games. Despite his inability to run a fast 40-yard dash, Scales has proven he’s athletic enough to play in the Rams defense. At the very least, he’ll make an excellent special teams player and adds depth behind Mark Barron and Ramik Wilson. Given time and opportunity, Scales could shock people as the Rams starting linebacker next season. 

4. Justin Watson, WR, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

When you think of the top receivers in the 2018 NFL Draft, Justin Watson’s name wouldn’t come up. Despite surpassing 1,000 yards receiving in each of his last three collegiate seasons and totaling 31 touchdowns, Watson went virtually unnoticed. He measures in at 6-3, 215 pounds and aposted a 4.4-second 40 and 40-inch vertical at his Pro Day. The lack of recognition is likely because he’s an Ivy Leaguer who played for the Penn Quakers. The Buccaneers saw something in him still and selected him in the fifth round.

In the first two preseason games, Watson has shined. In Week 1 against the Dolphins, he finished with three receptions for 30 yards. The following week against the Titans, he totaled 54 yards with four catches and one touchdown. Don’t expect him to take over the No. 2 spot right away. However, he could be lining up opposite Mike Evans with O.J. Howard on package plays — especially in the red zone.