Each NFL team’s rookie most primed to make an instant impact

New England Patriots – EDGE Chase Winovich

The Patriots have feasted on the AFC East for years and their rookie Chase Winovich will do the same on opposing quarterback. Winovich is a powerful base end who dominates at the point of attack. In the Patriots hybrid defense, Winovich will likely play with his hand both up and down. Bill Belichick will put him in the ideal position to make an impact.

As a pass-rusher, Winovich uses a plethora of pass rush moves. He’s strong enough to play in a two-gap scheme. Thanks to his savvy pass rush techniques, he’d perform well in a one-gap scheme as well. Winovich can end up with a high number of tackles and more than a few sacks.

New Orleans Saints – DB Chauncey Gardner-Johnson

The NFL shifted to a style of play that forces teams to draft guys that can perform multiple tasks. Chauncey Gardner-Johnson is the type of hybrid defensive back that the Saints need. Gardner-Johnson has the great length for corner and the ability to mirror receivers. He’s also capable of playing single high should the Saints opt to line him up at safety. Where he fits best is in the box and at the nickel.

Dennis Allen needed a player with Gardner-Johnson’s versatility. With a defensive backfield that has Marcus Latimore and Vonn Bell, Gardner-Johnson is ready to play several roles on the Saints defense.