8. Darren Waller, TE, Las Vegas Raiders
Whether it was on HBO’s Hard Knocks or in the fantasy football community with people touting sleepers, Raiders tight end Darren Waller started to get buzz heading into last season. But how he lived up to that hype was impressive even still. He was the lifeblood of the silver and black’s passing game, catching 90 of 117 targets for 1,145 yards, though he somehow only had three touchdowns.
It’s worth noting that the newest natives of Las Vegas revamped their wide receiver room in the draft this offseason. That may seem like it could take away from Waller. However, with his talent as basically an oversized wide receiver, he’s going to play a big role still. More importantly, the more bodies may just open him up more and allow for him to get more open looks in the red zone. That should pave the way to the Pro Bowl in his home stadium.
7. Chase Young, EDGE, Washington Football Team
The first of two rookies who have the potential to be a first-time Pro Bowler in the 2020 season, the No. 2 overall pick in the draft to the Washington Football Team has some real potential to make an immediate impact. Chase Young’s talent is obvious as a polished and physically gifted edge rusher who led college football in sacks last year, despite being suspended for two games.
But what gives Young the inside track to the Pro Bowl is who he’s surrounded by. Washington’s roster has its share of flaws but its most bonafide strength is the defensive line, a unite bolstered by several first-round picks and a proven veteran like Ryan Kerrigan. If Young gets his opportunities with this group, his talent is too great to keep him from producing at a Pro Bowl level.