10 NFL youngsters ready to become stars in the 2020 season

6. Taylor Rapp, S, Los Angeles Rams

While some analysts viewed Taylor Rapp as a borderline first-round pick last year, teams didn’t agree. He fell to 63rd overall, where the Rams finally pulled the trigger. Los Angeles got lucky. John Johnson, who started five of the team’s first six games, suffered a season-ending injury six weeks into the year. Rapp stepped into the starting role alongside Eric Weddle.

In his 15 appearances and 10 starts, Rapp recorded two interceptions, eight passes defended, one defensive touchdown and 100 tackles. After the season, Weddle retired, leaving spots for Johnson and Rapp in the starting lineup.

5. D.K. Metcalf, WR, Seattle Seahawks

D.K. Metcalf turned heads in the pre-draft process. The 6-4, 229-pound Ole Miss product is one of the most imposing wide receivers in the NFL. At the combine, Metcalf ran a blistering 4.33-second 40-yard dash. For reference, Henry Ruggs ran the fastest time among wide receivers with a 4.27-second 40-yard dash this year. Ruggs is five inches shorter and 41 pounds lighter than Metcalf.

However, concerns about Metcalf’s route running dropped the workout warrior to 64th overall. When the Seahawks saw Metcalf falling, they traded up to the final pick in the second-round and gladly stopped the Ole Miss product’s slide. Metcalf repaid Seattle by producing 58 receptions for 900 yards and seven touchdowns as a rookie.

While Metcalf still needs to develop his underneath routes, the physical freak is already an elite deep threat. Plus, he’s paired with arguably the best deep passer in the NFL. In the Wild Card Round of the playoffs, Metcalf averaged over 22 yards per reception as he shredded Philadelphia’s secondary for 160 yards and a touchdown.

Expect plenty of explosive performances from Metcalf in 2020.