A year out from the 2021 NFL draft, here are five sophomore players that already appear to be busts.
Being a rookie in the NFL has become a much harder task than in previous years.
Originally, rookies were given time to develop for a year or two before being asked to take on a huge role with their team.
That is no longer the case, as teams expect contributions early and often.
Unfortunately for these five rookies from the 2021 draft class, they already look like potential busts due to their poor rookie seasons and tough outlook in 2022.
2021 NFL Draft potential bust #5: Alex Leatherwood, OL, Raiders
It was a mild surprise when the Raiders took Alabama lineman Alex Leatherwood in the middle of the first round. Most expected him to be a late first or, likely, a day two pick. This was due to a variety of reasons, most notably his needing some time to develop into an interior option.
Yet the Raiders took a chance on him.
It worked out before when they grabbed Kolton Miller early, but the results don’t seem that great so far. Leatherwood was one of the worst-rated starting linemen in the league.
He couldn’t find a home along the interior of the line (where most saw his best fit as a player) and it now appears that he will be given right tackle duties in 2022.
While there is a chance that he improves, don’t be surprised to see similar struggles from Leatherwood as he had as a rookie.