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One NFL rookie critical to every team’s success in 2021

By Michael Johnson

May 27, 2021; Florham Park, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) throws a pass during an OTA at Jets Atlantic Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
May 27, 2021; Florham Park, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Zach Wilson (2) throws a pass during an OTA at Jets Atlantic Health Training Center. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports /
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ORCHARD PARK, NY – JUNE 02: Greg Rousseau #50 of the Buffalo Bills during OTA workouts at Highmark Stadium on June 2, 2021 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY – JUNE 02: Greg Rousseau #50 of the Buffalo Bills during OTA workouts at Highmark Stadium on June 2, 2021 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /

Most Important 2021 NFL Rookies: AFC East

Buffalo Bills: EDGE Gregory Rousseau

A dynamic edge rusher is something all teams desire. When a rookie doesn’t have the pressure of playing right away, he can pin his ears back and go. The former Miami edge rusher Gregory Rousseau has that opportunity with the Bills. He’s not a projected starter but defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier will rely on Rousseau in passing situations.

The 6-foot-7, 277-pound former wide receiver has fantastic athleticism, hands and feet. He’s also explosive with a great first step and flexibility. Frazier will help refine Rousseau’s technique in the best position to succeed as a pass-rush specialist. A double-digit sack season could be in Rousseau’s immediate future.

Miami Dolphins: S Jevon Holland

Tua Tagovailoa will rely on a couple of rookies to take the next step. Jaylen Waddle, an explosive dynamic weapon, should provide a spark for the offense while tight end Hunter Long should help in the run game and red zone. Defensively, there’s a rookie who’ll shoulder the load in 2021 — and I’m not talking about the No. 18 pick, Jaelen Phillips.

Safety Jevon Holland is the rookie Brian Flores’ defense will rely on. Last season, Eric Rowe showed he’s a lock at strong safety but he needs a running mate. With uncertainty around Xavien Howard, Holland will have pressure to protect the back end.

Holland fits in a two-deep safety system. The 6-foot-1, 207-pound safety has excellent ball skills and good route recognition. He can line up in the nickel against big slots and tight ends. Holland could be the missing piece to complete their secondary.

New England Patriots: DT Christian Barmore

Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots are looking for a bounce-back season. Arguably no other team suffered COVID side effects like the New England Patriots, especially on defense. They’re getting a ton of guys back who’ll help that unit get back on track. However, 2021 second-round pick Christian Barmore will put his name in the mix as well.

Finding an interior pass rusher isn’t easy but Barmore has the skills desired for the position. He’s an ideal 3-technique, a gap penetrator who exploits creases. He’s explosive off the line with hand/feet movement. The Pats need a reliable pass rusher and Barmore could be that guy.

New York Jets: QB Zach Wilson

The New York Jets pressed the restart button on their franchise. In the 2021 NFL Draft, the Jets had back-to-back-to-back picks who will contribute immediately. Running back Michael Carter, offensive lineman Alijah Vera-Tucker and wide receiver Elijah Moore will play major roles for the Jets. However, the player with the most pressure is clearly Zach Wilson.

The Jets selected Wilson No. 2 overall to be the face of their franchise. No player aside from Trevor Lawrence will have more pressure on them than Wilson. Because of his athletic traits and arm talent, he’s compared to Russell Wilson. Can the former BYU quarterback do something his predecessor could not? We shall see.

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