NFL Spin Zone
Fansided

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

By Michael Johnson

TEMPE, ARIZONA - MAY 29: Quarterback Kyler Murray #1 of the Arizona Cardinals practices during team OTA's at the Dignity Health Arizona Cardinals Training Center on May 29, 2019 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
TEMPE, ARIZONA - MAY 29: Quarterback Kyler Murray #1 of the Arizona Cardinals practices during team OTA's at the Dignity Health Arizona Cardinals Training Center on May 29, 2019 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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SEATTLE, WA – SEPTEMBER 09: Tight end Drew Sample #88 of the Washington Huskies takes the field ;prior to the game against the Montana Grizzlies at Husky Stadium on September 9, 2017, in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA – SEPTEMBER 09: Tight end Drew Sample #88 of the Washington Huskies takes the field ;prior to the game against the Montana Grizzlies at Husky Stadium on September 9, 2017, in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Otto Greule Jr/Getty Images) /

Cincinnati Bengals – TE Drew Sample

The Bengals expect to get more than just a sample out of their rookie tight end. Coming into the draft, Drew Sample’s greatest strength was his ability to run block. One of his more forgotten is his reliability as a pass-catcher.

With new head coach Zac Taylor coming to town, Sample will see plenty of snaps. He’s not going to come off the field for a team that’s likely utilizing 11- and 12-personnel, especially with A.J. Green potentially missing time. Their offense will likely focus on timing and exploiting the middle of the field. Sample can do the dirty work on pop routes and catching the ball in tight spaces.

Cleveland Browns – CB Greedy Williams

During the draft process, Greedy Williams became overcriticized. In the end, he’s exactly what NFL teams are looking for in a corner. Williams is lanky with long arms and tenacious at the line of scrimmage. He also can recognize routes and does a great job disrupting them. Defensive coordinator Steve Wilks knows how to put his guys in the right position.

Plus, the Browns front seven is dominant and with Denzel Ward’s great rookie season; he’ll see plenty of passes thrown his way. Williams is greedy so he could lead all rookies in interceptions.

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