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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NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – APRIL 25: T.J. Hockenson of Iowa reacts after being chosen #8 overall by the Detroit Lions during the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft on April 25, 2019, in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE – APRIL 25: T.J. Hockenson of Iowa reacts after being chosen #8 overall by the Detroit Lions during the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft on April 25, 2019, in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Detroit Lions – TE T.J. Hockenson

T.J. Hockenson’s Iowa teammate, Noah Fant, may have been more dynamic but Hockenson is more complete. There wasn’t a player in the draft more pro read than Hockenson. Now he has Matthew Stafford throwing to him and an offense that throws the ball more than it runs.

Either way, Hockenson will shine. Since he’s an elite blocker, he’ll help the running game. His tenacity after the catch will help him rack up the yards after the catch. He comes in as a savvy route runner that understands how to utilize his 6-5, 251-pound, girthy frame.

Hockenson could see heavy volume in the passing game. Fantasy owners might want to keep an eye on him because he’ll undoubtedly make some noise.

Green Bay Packers – EDGE Rashan Gary

The Packers selecting Rashan Gary 12th overall put him in a position to make an immediate impact. Even if he doesn’t start right away, Gary could work well for defensive coordinator Mike Pettine’s 3-4 defense.

On third downs as a pass rush specialist, Gary’s elite speed and solid first step will be used. Pettine may have him rush from linebacker or he could put him down in the five-technique. He’s strong enough to hold the edge against the run, so he could see his snap count increase. Then he’ll prove his worth as a player who lives behind the line of scrimmage.

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