The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL - Prospects to Pros: Rookies and second-year players to watch in the AFC

Episode Date: August 23, 2023

Nate Tice and Dane Brugler turn their attention to players already in the NFL this week. The guys highlight rookies they can't wait to watch and second-year players with something to prove in the AFC on this episode of Prospects to Pros.Follow Nate on Twitter: @Nate_TiceFollow Dane on Twitter: @dpbruglerSubscribe to The Athletic Football Show...AppleSpotifyYouTubeThe Football 100, the definitive ranking of the NFL’s best 100 players of all time, goes on sale this fall. Pre-order it here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is the athletic football show's Prospects to Prospects to Pros. Hello and welcome to Prospects to Pros. I'm your host, Nate Tice. Today, we're going to be talking about some second year players, some rookies. We got handful of superlatives that, not just because I want to say the word superlative, I actually just want to talk about these things and talk about these players. To help me do that today, I have the great draft expert from the athletic, Dane Bruegler. How are you doing today, Dane? I'm doing well. We have college football this weekend. So it's week zero, which, what is week zero a thing? You know, like I don't know how old that. And that we've accepted it. Yeah, right.

It just became part of the, you know, football world somehow. But there's not any good games. I mean, Notre Dame at Navy. USC has their home opener, but it's on Pac-12 network. So no one's going to be watching that. So, you know, it's going to have football on TV, but the real action won't start until week one, a week from this weekend with Labor Day, which is just going to crush with all the, what, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday, just five straight days of some football

action. So it'll be a lot of fun. But, yeah, top 50 comes out this week. So, yeah, I was going to say, that's the real holiday. Honestly, it's the college football. College football week one is always hilarious because that is, I mean, just like NFL week one. It's just overreactions. It's just everybody's back.

This guy's going to win the highsman. Ooh, we got a new number one pick potentially. Just every type of, every type of hype that you can hear. That's what we're going to hear in a couple of weeks. It's better than preseason hype. Overreactions, though. I will say that. I'm getting a little tired of the overreactions that every single game and every single,

it's ready for some games, ready for some action. We're probably talk about a few of these rookies, and it's probably none of the ones that we've seen Twitter hype up over the last couple of weeks. That it's like, everybody's guy that, I mean, I'm guilty of it. It's like, man, one good play that I just watched. And it's just like, yep, Hall of Fame, Canton, write it right now. That's seventh round rookie that I had a fourth round grade on. Yep, he's an all-star. He's going to be great for the next decade.

But what we're going to do today, speaking of rookies, and speaking of guys getting hyped up, we're going to dive into some second-year players and rookies. and what we're going to do is we're going to go through some categories. I hit this at the top of the show, but we're going to talk about players with the most approved. Players that ready to take a big step for second year players, second year players that had a better rookie season that maybe we realized. A first round rookie that were most excited to watch and then a non-first round rookie who can make the biggest impact this year. And we're going division by division. I think going team by team might, you know, take a while.

And also it might, you know, some teams don't have first round rookies or players that are. interesting. So it's a nice way to kind of bucket this. To start, we're going to go, we'll jump right into the AFC East, a very competitive vision, also some teams that have kind of a grab bag of of kind of interesting rookies and second year players and guys that can make an impact or already had make an impact if you talk about the Jets. So just to start us off, AFC East, I'm going to go to you, Dane, second year players with the most approved in the AFC East. Who do you got? I'm going to go with cornerback, Kyrie Elam, Buffalo Bills. he was a first round pick.

Some of the bills traded up for, and he doesn't have a starting job blocked up. So, you know, he played a lot last year as a rookie, often way too frenetic, wasted steps, not trusting his technique. Some of the processing issues are there. And that's why I had a second round great on him coming out. I liked him, but I wasn't, you know, top 25 on Kyra Elam.

He had some nice moments, especially in the playoffs last year. But even this preseason, it's been a little rocky. And it sounds like Dane Jackson's the leader to start opposite Trey White. And so Jackson's fine. You know, even Christian Benford, who held his own as a late round rookie last year, is fine. But if you're Buffalo, you plan on being a Super Bowl contender, as long as you have Josh Allen, right? And on defense, you run more nickel looks than any other team in the league. You need depth at corner.

You need your early round picks, specifically your first round picks to hit. And with Elam, there's just a ton that you. he needs to prove here in year two. Yes, I, Elon was my answer as well because I, I liked him. I'm really not much to have here because I had a second round grand out of him as well. I really compared him to maybe Carlton Davis as his upside.

You know, kind of like physical, aggressive, maybe a little too handsy at times. I also liked him kind of like intangible as well. Like he seemed like a good teammate and everything at Florida. And there's some aspects of that that I really like. But also when you,

get into that bill situation, Trey White was hurt last year and you know, he's on for most of the year and then came on the end of the year once he got healthy. It's like Eon was supposed to come in and just be the number two. You're just supposed to be a good number two corner. And the fact that there's some issues and some struggles there so far, some, I'll just say inconsistencies. Because like you said, there are some flashes, but then there's, there's been some bad. So, but the fact, where the bills are at right now, it's nice that then maybe they have depth in name, you know, hey, it's a competition, the guy that doesn't win. We have death now. So that is nice to have, but you also don't take a guy in the first round for depth.

You take them to be a plus player. So I'm right there with you. With the, we're the bills, their aspirations, there's a true Super Bowl contender. They need guys like this to step up just to, you know, make sure that defense can stay a top tier unit. So Elon is my answer. And if it weren't Elam to be Terrell Bernard, their linebacker, they drafted in the third round.

Okay. These two guys. Like, these are names that need to step up this year for the bills if they want to take the leap that they want to take. Well, no, it's funny because we see Elam exactly the same. the final line of my report on him. Elam needs to tidy up his timing and processing issues. He's a good-sized athlete, natural cover talent, NFL ready intangibles.

He compares favorably to Tampa Bay's Carlton Davis when he's coming out of Auburn. So we're right there. Exactly. No, but that's why I liked him because I was like, I don't see that high-eye-ended traits with him, but I just thought he was physical and he was just, you know, an aggressive player. And I feel like you can tone that down. Yeah. He has got size, physicality.

So, yeah, no doubt. And Bernard's a good shout out, too. He's somewhat, you know, obviously that defense looks a little bit different with Edmonds a longer there. And so Matt Milano, obviously, you know, he's a good player, really good player, but there's going to be a lot on his shoulders, what other linebackers are going to step up. Really, I think you can point to both of the Patriots first two picks from the 2022 class, two players that I think you and I would probably agree were drafted, maybe a little bit earlier than they should have. Cole Strange in the first round, he was very up and down.

last year at Left Guard, and then Tyquan Thornton, who played in 13 games last season, but he managed only more than 40 receiving yards in just one of those games. And so you take into account who was drafted after him as well. George Pickens, Alec Pierce, Skymore, those were just, that's three of the four picks after he was drafted. So a little bit of pressure on Thornton to become at least someone that Patriots can consider someone that can count on, someone that can be reliable. I mean, I wouldn't say that he has to be a weapon.

I mean, I think the Patriots wish he could grow into that. But just to take a positive step to show that it's just not another wasted second round pick. Right. And another wasted receiver pick, skill position pick, I should say. Cole Strange is going to be my answer for the next category. But I think Taekwant Thornton, though, I totally agree. It's even the guys that you just listed, George Pickens and Alec Pierce, they're the same type of player in a way, the vertical X, you know, Thornton has track speed, Pierce can roll, and Piggins is a little slower, but he has great ball skills.

But it's like that type of player is what they're going after. So even it's like, that's the thing. It's like, and you're going into that tier of player and you kind of went with Thornton, who really was, I mean, he had a great shrine week. Like he was absolutely dominant during shrine week when I saw him. I even was like, oh, you know, and third, maybe early fourth on him because I could see the verticalness and he was a little tougher, even though he weighed like, what, 170-something pounds out, that's all he is. Yeah, so I'm with you on Thornton. So I don't want to, I already spoiled it a little bit, but let's get to the next category, which is second year players ready to take a big step.

So this guy, it could be one that maybe showed flashes their rookie year, that we want to see come from that because showed nothing could already been a good player. And like we want to just see him like maybe ascend on a national landscape. That's how I looked at it anyway. So I'll just give mine right away. It's Col Strange. You already mentioned as a guard. Saw some positive flashes, but also saw some struggles.

I'm just hoping with some competence at offensive coordinator, even though most of the coaches are the same there, just some calmness with that offense that he can maybe take a step forward this year. And good athlete, like actually had a little bit tested really well, but like even plays with a little pop. But again, his eyes were all over the place. You can tell NFL speed was a little bit different. So just spoiling my answer. I'll get it out of the way. But who did you have for this category, Dan?

Yeah. And I mean, coming from Chattanooga, FCS, you know, like that. But he played well against in the senior bowl. He had good tape against Kentucky's final year. So I think he has it, but yeah, it's a learning curve for him. For me, I went with James Cook running back for the Bills. The Bills were a little bit of a feast or famine rushing team last year. They ranked 25th in the league and running back EPA,

but they were second in the NFL and rushes a 20-plus run. So it's no secret they want to be a little bit more balanced. And James Cook, he's now at the top of that depth chart. And even with adding Damien Harris, Latavius Murray this offseason, it always felt like Cook was, they're going to give him the chance to be the guy. So of the seven backs last year, rookie running backs who had at least 100 carries, Cook finished first with 5.3 yards per carry. I think, you know, we really like his receiving talent.

Receiving. That was the, you know, kind of the main attraction coming out of Georgia was how he could be one of the best past catching backs in the league pretty early into his career. Plus now he's in the same division as his older brother, Dalvin. So that should be a lot of fun too. So just, yeah, interested to see James Cook, can he be that breakout that the bills are hoping he can be? Yeah.

And they, I mean, Ken Dorsey, his teammates, Latavius Murray even said it, I think, too, where they're like, he's a three down back, like, and we expect him to be that. It's not just a scat-back receiving type. It's while he can do that, he's got juice. That's just the best way to put it. Like he, he, just like his brother.

He can take a lot of runs. He can hit a lot of doubles, a lot of home runs. And that's, he also can catch some balls. He also, this preseason, he's not perfect.

He's not, I wouldn't even say he's even good. But he has improved already in past protection, which was a huge thing that I was worried about with him and with his brother coming out originally too. And already showed flashes of improving there, which is huge. Because that's why they have Latavius Murray there.

Latavius Murray is like a, he is a designated, Pass Protector. He is a bodyguard for the quarterback type and then just get some tough yards, maybe in short yardage. And Damien Harris, but the fact that if James Cook can really take up that role, that's more touches, more reps, more snaps. So totally get it. I think he's ready. He's primed for a big role this year.

And I think he'll take a run with it. He's only 200 pounds. So, you know, how many carries, how many touches will he get in that offense? That'll be something that's really interesting to track. I also want to shout out as kind of an honorable mention here. wide receiver Eric Uzakama for the Dolphins. Yeah. He's done some nice things this preseason.

He was pretty rough as a rut runner coming out of Texas Tech, but... A bit of a tweener, maybe? Yeah, yeah, right. But you like his toughness, you like his ball tracking skills. It's just, you know, do you have to manufacture touches for him to get open? If Waddle or Tyree Kills, if they miss any time with injury, you might be able to see more of him. So I don't know that he qualifies necessarily as a true breakout candidate, but just a guy to, you know, could be on the radar as someone that could make a little bit of noise this year and year two.

Yeah, he kind of hit the ground running a little better than I thought he would as a rookie. Like I thought he was going to be a practice squad candidate type, you know, figure out what position he is because he's a bigger body, if I remember correctly. Yeah, right. And yeah, it was just how are we going to use them. But no, that's a great shout out because he has. He had a good preseason game, I think, in the last game. It might have been the Falcons game. But one of them I watched, he did stand out.

So that's a great call. This is the last second year player category for the AFCEs. We'll be second year who had a better first year, better rookie year than most people realized or one that maybe just went under the radar. Do you have anyone that comes to mind right there for this category? Yeah, I could make an easy argument that Michael Clemens, the Jets defensive lineman, was the best defensive player drafted on day three from that 2022 class. He was a key role player that helped to make the Jets defensive line so productive.

He had the same number of sacks as Jermaine Johnson, who was the first round pick. And Clemens isn't really a pass rusher. He is one of the best run defenders from this rookie class. So I think Michael Clemens is a guy that is part of what makes that Jets front seven so productive, that the depth that he offers will see probably more snaps this year. So he was my answer. I also wanted to give a shout out to Cater Kohoo for the Dolphins. Yeah.

What did you think about him? because they're going to give him some run this year. So what did you think about it? Well, and he played a major role in Miami secondary last year. I mean, mostly in the slot. He literally saw the most targets of any defensive player in the NFL last season. He was number one. And so he gave up his fair share of catches.

Yeah. But he only gave up one touchdown. And this guy is 5, 10, 190 pounds coming out of Texas A&M Commerce. He did not, like, he was not a guy that you thought, all right, you know, draft him a player, you know, and he went undrafted for, reason, but seeing him on the field, going back and looking at some of the snaps, he's instinctive. He's so alert, so aware of route concepts and just different combinations. And it really helps him make plays.

So I think he was a little better than most people realize. No, that's a great shout out because he's going to probably have a role again this year. And it's a guy that until we did this offseason process, you know, once we do the division previews and top 10 defense, top 10 offense, all these shows, I really never. studied him. I never studied him coming out of college. And then I studied him finally a little bit. I actually, there's something there. Like, it's like, that's a player. Like, and I think that that is a great shout out, though. I'm glad you, I'm glad you gave him a little talent, though, because he's an interesting dude and that everyone, the dolphins are going to have a lot of eyes on him this year. So he's

definitely get a definitely get some recognition good and bad. I'm going to go with, I'm going to go with another day three player and I'm going to go with another DB, but I'm going to go with Jack Jones, uh, the corner for the Patriots, the fourth rounder. Um, might be missing a few games this year because he doesn't understand the firearm rules at the airport. But technically only started two games, but he played over half the snaps last year. But, you know, there's some noise with these stats, but you can kind of

give a nice kind of spot, you know, what's the word I'm looking for? A lot, nice kind of like general idea of how a guy did in defense on past coverage with looking at completion percentage while targeted or QB rating. It can be a little noisy, but I think in a system that the Patriots run, that makes sense. because there's so much man coverage and so much stuff on the outside where they have to lock down a guy.

But last year, among all corners, not just rookies, but just all NFL corners, Jack Jones ranked 12th among corners in QB rating while targeted. The next highest corner was Jaya Alexander at 11th. And then a completion percentage, he ranked 16th, so 89th percentile among all defenders. And you sandwich in between Soss Gardner, Tyson Campbell, and Trey White. Those are all the corners that are around them. So notable names, and maybe there is some truth with the completion percentage because those are all top players that are ranking high. So I'm kind of like, okay, maybe there's something here. But honestly, he's a little undersized, but he's quick.

He's got good instincts, good ball skills, a fun player to watch. The Patriots defense is fun in general. So that's a guy that had a better rookie year, especially for a day three corner playing in that defense and having that much of an effect. So another guy, better first year, once he gets back on the field, another guy to keep an eye on, especially with that Patriots defense. Oh, yeah. And I feel like we've been hearing about Jack Jones for.

a long, long time. You go back to, because he was in college for like six years because he started off at USC and had a great sophomore year, led the team of interceptions, got into some trouble, went to Jukau route,

resurfaced at Arizona State. He's small and he's not very fast. He's average speed for a corner, relative to most NFL corners. But, man, he's just, he's a dog. I mean, he's got that in him, Where. Knows for the ball.

Oh, yeah. He won't back down. So no, no, you're right. He had a really productive rookie year, especially in the start, the first two months of the season. I just hope he stays on the field, you know. Says on the field. That's the thing. That's the thing with Jack Jones because he is a NFL worthy player that can start and you just hope he stays on the straight narrow.

Yeah. I know. And the other player and this guy got pub. It's not like he's that under the radar. But he got hurt. And I just want to re-mentioned. them as Breece Hall because he was on a rookie the year path for the Jets. Just a really good player.

And I just had a fun stat for him and just for all players with 80 or more rushes last year, he finished second success rate and first an EPA per rush. And he was looking really good before he got hurt. So hopefully he comes back healthy. So getting to the rookies now for this division, kind of an interesting first round class. But I'm going to start off with the first round rookie that you're most excited to watch in the AFC East. Yeah, I'm feeling what might say the same guy here.

but we gushed about this pick on on draft night during our live show, Dalton Kincaid to the bills, yep. By all accounts, it sounds like they want Kincaid to be a substantial part of the offense from day one. No team in the league played less 12 personnel, one running back two tight ends, than the bills. So how they use Dawson Knox and Kincaid's receiving skills, it's going to be really interesting. All I know, Kincaid, he's going to see a lot of action, and it should have be a surprise, when he ranks top three on this team and targets. So it's going to be a lot of fun to watch how they use him this year.

It's already through two preseason games. They already are experimenting with where to use them at. It's been pretty cool. They already have them running choice routes, which means they're designing plays. And this is with the ones. This is with Josh Allen, the first O line, everybody out there.

And they're designing third down plays for him already. And so it's like, okay, all systems go. And he looks good. I mean, it looks exactly how he looked in college. You know, and they're figuring out how to, use them as far as blocking wise. This is my answer to, obviously. But so they're realizing, okay, maybe not in line.

But they're getting creative with it. Like they already had them in the backfield as a lead blocker where it was like he actually did okay, where they're blocking linebackers and safeties as opposed to D. And that's, that's the one area they're going to have to figure out. But as a pass catcher, it's like he has all the makings already to make an instant impact. As a route runner, ball skills. Yeah, the catch radius. how quickly he goes from catcher to runner.

That transition is seamless with him. So especially in the middle of the field. I mean, use it. If you get matched up against a safety or even a linebacker, take advantage of that. So we're going to see it this year. It's just how his role and how they use him, how that evolves throughout the season

and how defenses change to account for him. It's going to be something that's just fascinating week to week. It is. It's just the booster effect, a guy like this. going to have just like on every other things because then when defenses have to change their rules to guard certain guys, especially a guy like him. Okay, well, we have to have a safety on them. We can't have a linebacker. Well, then you're not going to be in zone coverage. Like just certain things get taken away. And that's what he can do. That's the upside. But it's kind of, it's cool to

see him even going against a Steelers defense that was playing their starters in the second preseason game. And he was like, yep, you look good. You do not look like a rookie in those routes. So he won on two choice routes already. So it was, yeah, he's going to be pretty interesting. I did think he worked. going to say Christian Gonzalez. Justin Kays. He was the honorable mention, yeah. Who's my honorable mention as well? Exactly.

I mean, a guy that should not have lasted to the, what, the 17th pick by a young player, but yeah, just too many tools to work with. And we talked about Jack Jones and, you know, the Patriots, they drafted a lot of smaller corners in that 2022 class where they get a guy like Christian Gonzalez, who's big, fast, a little more of that traits guy in the first round. So that'll be interesting to see how they use him. Belichick doesn't always get guys. like that at corners.

Most of them are undrafted or stay three guys. You know, you had Stefan Gilmore back in the day, but it's like you don't get, he doesn't get these types of guys. So I mean, I'm very interested to see him with the Patriots now. But the last one, the last one for the AFC East is what's the non first round rookie that can make the biggest impact in the AFC East? So Buffalo has been my answer for four of the five. They're going to be mine as well.

Yeah, I'm going Osiris Torrance. Yeah. The bills, I don't think they got a gift with Torrance. lasting until the 159th pick. I know some area scouts stand with first-round grades. He was a stud right guard in college. Sounds like he'll be the starting right guard for Buffalo when they opened the season. 6-5.

330 pounds. Not the most mobile guy, but he's wide, he's thick, he's powerful, didn't allow a sack in his college career. And so for a team, it's interesting.

Buffalo is considered, I think, pretty universally a top five team in the league, a realistic Super Bowl contender. Oh, yeah. And they're counting on their first. two draft picks as rookies to make a substantial impact. So it's just a really interesting storyline for this Buffalo offense that they just have such expectations for their first round

round pick and second round pick as rookies. This one, or Silence, Lawrence was my answer as well. And if I had to give out of room mention, it'll be Keon White from the Patriots, defense, another second round pick. But with Torrance, he's had a good preseason. But with Torrance, it's like, I love the attitude shift as well. He is the opposite of a finesse guard. He is a power gap guard, like as to the epitome of one. Duo, power. That's what they did at Florida. And he was good at it.

I had them, I think I did a mock draft, they had taken him in the first round. So like you said, where it was a gift getting him the second round? I absolutely agree with that. Yeah, I just think it's a signal change of mindset for the bills. I think he's already looked apart in preseason. He's looked better in pass protection that I was even anticipating. But he brings that just kind of nasty and that power and that strength. and the interior of their offense aligned,

which I think they needed that mindset, and then he's like the epitome of that right then and there. So I think pretty easy tab. I know just Bill's players left and right for this category. I also did want to mention Cam Smith for the Dolphins. Yeah. That secondary, Jaila Ramsey banged up a little bit. I mean, that's secondaries.

It's going to be interesting how they use, you know, who gets to start, who sees the most snaps and how do they use them inside outside? But Cam Smith should be making an impact pretty quickly as a a rookie, a guy that, you know, way too many penalties, way too aggressive. That's something that could maybe keep him off the field if that becomes an issue with the Dolphins, but he has the talent to start in this league. And so, Cam Smith, what kind of usage and impact does he have for the Miami as a rookie? That's definitely a good one, especially for aspirations the dolphins have.

Every team of this division, really. Moving on to another extremely talented division with a lot of interesting players. I'm going with the AFC North. And so let's just jump into the second year players. So which second year players to you have the most approved in the AFC North, Dane? Yeah, I really wanted to go with a kicker here with Cade York for the Browns because, like, he's a legit answer for this category. The Browns strapped him in the fourth round. And it's just been a roller coaster, even in the preseason.

Preseason. Yeah. And they have not brought in competition for him yet. But, I mean, he's got to do better than 75%. I mean, protect the pick, Dane. Got to protect the pick. I think they're trying to protect his confidence. I think they, like, they don't, they're afraid to bring in somebody in because they don't,

they don't want to rock his confidence. They want him to fight through it and see what he can do. But, I mean, if we're talking, if we're week four and he's missing a field goal that costs them the game, people will lose their jobs. And so they need to do something there. But no, I can't go with the kicker here. I'm going to go with Kenny Pickett, steals quarterback. Because of the position he plays, you know, it's, first only quarterback drafted in the first 73

picks in that class. He was fine as a rookie. There were good moments of him moving the chains, also had a lot of rookie mistakes. His adjusted completion percentage was near the bottom of the league last year. He had the same number of dropbacks as Kyler Murray, but Kyler had double the touchdown throws last year. So in a lot of metrics, picket's numbers were more in line with Carson Wentz, which is not ideal.

But then again, he's a rookie. You know, bumps in the road should be expected. Wilson. Yeah, well, he was, Wilson was near the bottom in, I think, every category, unfortunately. That's what I mean. I know. He's like, it's my home's usually at the top right, every category. And then the back and the bottom left.

Yeah, they're the book heads. Yeah. Pickets, it'll be interesting because he has done a nice job this preseason. He looks like he's seeing things quicker. You know, the reason he was a first round pick. Yeah, the football IQ, the accuracy, especially from different platforms. That's why I feel strongly he's going to take a leap. this year, but is it a big leap or is it just kind of a, you know, a little jump? You know,

that's kind of the big question that I have with him. And, you know, it's kind of, that's why he has the most approved. He plays quarterback. He's a first round pick. The Steelers plan on being contenders this year. So what does that jump look like? Is it just small? Is it moderate? Is it large? Because the Steelers will probably go depending on what that jump is. Yeah, no, that's a great answers. I had to, just in case I wanted to see what you said. So pick it was one of mine as well. And just what you're saying, also a better athlete that maybe I even gave him credit for. Like when he gets into creation, he was getting, we talked about this on our AFC North preview pod, but getting to the edge and in the corner when he's scrambling a little easier than I

anticipated at the NFL level. And he has some juice in his arm. And yeah, like you said, accuracy. Like he kind of, he hits all the benchmarks as far as traits. And yeah, I think it's just in that offense, he maybe has one hand tied behind his back with that system. And, Matt Canada's passing concepts. But you could really see the plays that he was comfortable with. He was getting quicker with and getting better as he got more reps, which is so natural. And then on top of it, it's like, okay, I'm hoping to see maybe a next step for those passing concepts. But yeah, no, I think Pickett's a great answer for it because, like you said, Steelers have aspirations this year, especially with that defense.

I totally get it. I'm going with Dax Hill, the safety for the Bengals, their first round pick last year. Bengals lost both of their safeties. Hill, they ask a lot of their safeties. He was in the system last year, but he didn't have to play a bunch because of what they had. So seeing what he brings to the table, I'm optimistic about it. But he has a lot to prove for a Bengals team that also is looking at themselves as, or not even just playoff team, but Super Bowl contenders, that really is the only question mark on that defense. Is him and Nick Scott, the other safety.

And Robert and I were talking about this, but it's like they, they, they, yes, they hit the ground running because the rest of the team is hitting the ground running. So I am optimistic. I like Dax Hill, but I'm very curious to see how he, how he does is. a post safety or a deep safety and a system to ask a lot of their safeties. No, and that's a great, that's a great call. He was actually my answer for the next category. Okay. Second year player rated breakout because, I mean, they, they drafted him with the intention

that, hey, Jesse Bates, probably not back, not in the long term plan. So, Dax Hill, you know, sit as a rookie or, you know, not have to see substantial reps. But now, okay, hit the ground running. And it's his time to shine. And we saw the speed, the range in the preseason that was against the Packers when that clip went viral. It was the high safety cover one, made up a ton of ground, knocked down the pass at the sideline. I was a big Dax Hill fan coming out. He was, I think, a top 20 player for me overall in the class.

So really, I love this versatility, I think, the most, right? He could play deep. He could play the nickel. He was not shy laying licks in the run game. He could cover the slot. So he might not be the big. in terms of just pure size, but he has the FBI, he has toughness, he has range. It's all above average in those areas.

So I don't know. If he ends up leading the Bengals and interceptions this year, would it be a surprise? I don't think so. So to me, I think he does fit both categories. He was a first-round pick. He's kind of being handed the keys here. There's a lot to prove. But I also think he fits the players ready to break out.

It kind of crossover for both these categories. No, it makes total sense. I liked him a lot. And like you said, you mentioned the versatility was because of that when he was playing in the slot, it was just saw a cover that he played against Wisconsin. He played really well against Wisconsin. So that was my first exposure to him. But you're talking about even the range and the deep end. Is there any comparisons between him and maybe Marcus Williams with the Ravens?

Like is there some kind of like, because Marcus Williams has a lot of range and he's a good in the post and everything. So like that's, I'm curious. I just want to see like that maybe. might be the comparison if he is playing in the back end there. But it matters because even they have Mike Hilton, who's great in the slot, if he gets banged up, he's missed a lot of games. He's missed games every year. He'll can bump down there.

And like you said, he has a football IQ where it might not, they can keep hitting the ground running. So I think that's a great choice. He just has a lot on him this year. And I think he's going to answer the call. I'm excited to see if he does. The second year player that I have ready to take a big leap is Travis Jones, defense tackle for the Ravens, third rounder. Yeah.

I wrote them down too, yeah. Okay. I know you're pretty high on them, right? Like coming out? Like, yeah, yeah. Only a two QB hits last year, you know, kind of rotational guy had some, I think he was banged up early in the year, but dominating this preseason, looking really good and looking. He had some, you know, draft steam building up with him last year and kind of faded. I think some character concerns was the issue. But looking at him now, he is motivated. He's playing well. He's explosive. He's got some real juice at the snap of the ball. Strong. He's disruptive. Surprised surprisingly quick. Just a lot of the traits and mindset and play style that you want from your interior guys. And Raven's got him in the third round and he definitely looks like a keeper. And I'm, I'm excited to see him with more playing time this year. Yeah, no doubt. I had very similar grades on him as I did Jordan Davis, who was drafted much, much higher. And they're different types of players and things like that. But I, yeah, big fan of Travis Jones of what he could be. Hopefully, yeah, he's, the concerns that Some teams had, hopefully that's not something that pops up at all this year and kind of blocks that potential that we think he has.

But I'm glad you mentioned it. He's the name I wrote down. I also wrote down George Pickens. I feel like everyone thinks he's going to be that breakout. So I just, you know, had to mention him. Also, David Ajabo for the Ravens. Yeah. Speaking of that Ravens defense, that front seven, you know, can he, you know, come as a rookie, didn't play as much working back from that injury that he suffered at his pro day.

What does he do now in year two? He was a raw player to begin with, but all kinds of potential. You know, think about that Ravens Pass Rush. Who's going to step up? Could it be O'Jabo? So he's definitely in that mix. And then Jerome Ford for the Browns. Nick Chubb, his name's on the movie poster.

And for a reason, arguably the best back in the league. But Ford, he's going to be part of that offense. Also starring and featuring. And introducing Jerome Ford, yeah. The movie doesn't happen without him. You know, the movie just doesn't work without Jerome Ford part of that. And so I'm interested to see his role. There's a reason, you know, they had no interest in bringing Kareem Hunt back.

You know, they believe Jerome Ford can fill that role. And so hopefully, you know, Nick Chubb starts all 17 games and we don't have to worry about Ford starting any games for the Browns. But if pressed into action, I think the Browns feel really comfortable with what he can give him. Yeah, I'm glad you mentioned that they didn't bring back Hunt or D.N. Johnson and it's like the fact both were tangibly good players and no new the system all those types of things that usually want when you're re-sign a guy and they're like no we're going with this guy he's like oh okay and i like drone form i think i had a third round grade on him when he was coming out you know a little stiff hip but he's like he's got some juice and size he catch the ball he's good

on screens um i know i just i just fell in love with everybody that Cincinnati offense it was him alec pyrs deswin ritter josh wiley this year it's like god maybe just something about that offense. It was really clicking for me, but I love that he shouted them out. The other guys I had for my honorable mentions on this were other, I said, I just said Ravens first rounders from last year, Winderball and Kyle Hamilton. Both were good players, I thought, and really got better in the second half of the year, Hamilton especially when they put them in the slot. They kind of calmed them down a little bit. They're moving them back. So we'll see how, what, how he affects the game there. But I think those two are going to settle in and really be plus players this year. That's why they were

first round picks at their spots. So second year players, Now, this is the last little one for the AFC North. Who had a better first year of most second year players than people realized during the rookie year? I'm going to stick with the Browns here and go Martin Emerson. I think it was a little too hard on him during the draft process. I liked his ability and aggressiveness. He just, he did not have elite speed. That bothered me.

He ran four or five at the combine and the pro day. And then he just didn't have ball production in college. And that's another thing that bugged me with him. But the Browns drafted him much earlier than I thought he'd go. And I think they were right to take him in a third round where they took him. Among all NFL cornerbacks last season who saw at least 80 targets, Emerson had the second lowest reception percentage allowed, only behind James Bradbury. So despite all those targets, he still, he didn't have an interception as a rookie.

So, you know, it's kind of the ball skill questions. Is that a trend or? Right. They kind of followed him to the NFL. So it's still a concern, something he needs to address. I don't know. He's a guy that ranked top five of the Browns and snaps play on defense last year. And guys get banged up in that secondary with Denzel Ward, Greg Newsom.

I mean, he's just going to be a valuable part of the back end for Cleveland, regardless of who's out there and the roles they play. I think he had a better rookie season than most realize. Yep. No, that's a great call. One of ones that made my short list, I kind of even, Quasi mentioned him as a breakout player on our AFC North Preview Pod for when we were talking about the Browns. Yeah.

Between him and Cam Taylor Britt, the corner for the Bengals, second rounder. Those are the two. Both could just list off the stats, like you said, they both ranked highly in advance metrics. I test. They both looked apart and played well. I'm with you on Emerson. I liked him, but I think the same things with you were just like he was an idea more than a player coming out of Mississippi State. So like seeing him now, it's like, oh.

Okay. And actually playing in that division that's needed, you know, that he's going to play the Bengals twice a year. Or the Browns are going to pay the Bengals twice year with their big receivers. They're going to play George Pickens that we just mentioned twice a year. So having a guy with size along with their other DBs, I really like that. And I just want to give a shout out to Jalen Warren. That was mine. Auditorial mention too. Undracted rookie running back, man. Fun player. He is so up my alley as a football player. Just awesome of pass protection, pass catcher, tough. Just a just a just. does everything well. Oh, yeah, sign me up. Jalen Warren. I'm buying all the stock of Jalen Warren. He's a good player for that. Well, if you listen to Twitter, he's the starter over Naji Harris, uh, right. Obviously isn't going to happen. But hey, he, he's a nice secondary option. He really is. And especially catch of the ball at the backfield. He had

second most catches among rookie running backs last year. Um, and so for an undrafted free agent, pretty good production. Yeah, he, he was, I was watching them last year in preseason and he was already like awesome in past protection. I was like, who the hell is? just little guy. Like this little running back for the Steelers. I was like, I don't remember this guy. And I was like, oh, he's on draft a rookie. But yeah, he's, you know, he's a good player.

I think you're right, though. Over Naja Harris, not so much. It's still that kind of probably going to be a 75, 25, 25 split between the two. But he's a really, really fun player. All right. Now, getting to the rookies for the AFC North, who is a rookie, first round rookie that you're most excited to watch? This answer kind of has to be Zayflil hours.

Yes, it's safe hours. It wrote itself. The Browns didn't have a first round. rounder and the Steelers and the Bengals, both their first round picks, they're going to be backups. You know, there were more picks for 2024 and beyond, right? Yes. So Flowers, he's going to play from day one. He's going to bring a lot of energy to that offense.

He's so good at getting open quickly. Yeah, we saw it last night. The opening drive against Washington, slow release from that bunch formation, that suddenness, that short area quickness to the flat, and then the athleticism takes over, make a guy miss, follows blocks in the end zone. So it's going to be interesting to see how much of a three-level threat he is for this offense, if they even ask him to be that. But he's going to see a lot of quick targets, a lot of catch-and-run opportunities. It'll be fun to see how his role evolves in that offense.

Yeah, that's, I said, by default, it has to be Zayflyar. It's just what you've laid out there. I'm excited to see him and really this passing attack with Todd Monkin, Zayfriars, OBJ, and Rashad Bateman. All of them can create some yak with the ball in their hands, which, I think is interesting with how I think Munkin will use Lamar and the passing attack. So I like the serengy of it all. Like like you said, as the intermediate kind of short intermediate guy, they kind of have three of those in a weird way, like these short intermediate route rudder types.

So he has a little bit more play strength than maybe I gave him credit for. But again, it's preseason. So we'll see. But, you know, he's smaller. So I'm never going to always bump those guys up too much. But no, he's got some real juice, though. Yeah, like he really does. And he's a lot of fun with the ball of his hand.

So, yeah, easy tout there. So getting a little bit more interesting non-first-round rookies that can make the biggest impact, the AFC North. There are some interesting names here. Andre Ushivas, the Bengals receiver, I think, could play a part if one of those starters goes down with an injury. Cedric Tillman, same thing with the Browns. It's not really a path for him to start right now. But at some point this season, I feel like we're going to see him in some type of role. Joey Porter Jr. with the Steelers, I think I'm going to go Nick Herbig with the Steelers.

who has had a nice, I don't know if you've heard of. He's from Wisconsin. Yes, Wisconsin. It's not Nate Herbick. It's Nick Herbick. Younger brother, right? Yeah.

With past Wisconsin linebacker, I'm a linebacker. But it's just, where do you plan? Because pass rusher in college and a really good pass rusher. But, okay, what does he do on early downs? What does he do when you ask it? Can you ask him to cover?

Can you ask him to play in space? It just there's a kind of a The confusion that what do you Where do you play him and can you trust them in these different situations And so there's still a lot we have to figure out with the Kirkig But I know he can get after the quarterback You see the bend, you see the flexibility The quickness around the edge

So I think even though his role might not be Totally defined from day one He's going to get some of those patch rushing snaps on obvious passing downs. And if he finishes his senior or his rookie year with, you know, seven sacks, would it be all that surprising? I don't think so. Especially the other juice that they have with those pass rushers,

that front that the Steelers have. It's awesome. I mean, him and then the Badgers had another guy that the Saints drafted. Zach Baum, yeah. Yeah, remember him? But it's like, he's undersized. These undersized guys, I felt like, I was like, am I going crazy? I felt like we had this discussion about the same player.

But, yeah, it's her big. he was a hell of a player, everything you laid out there. I'm going with a different Wisconsin Steelers rookie, and that's Keanu Benton, the second round pick, who both of these guys have a great rookie seasons, or rookie pre-seasones, I should say. Hi on both of them coming out anyways, of course, as a Wisconsin fan. Benton is seriously, and I say this half jokingly, but that's here actually, is that he was my favorite Wisconsin player to watch over the last three, four years ever since he got

there. He was just, he made an impact on almost every game I watch. So I think Benin's going to be a good player for them. Their front is going to be outstanding. Their defense is going to be outstanding. How is Pittsburgh using him so far? Three tech, and then they had a bump inside a little bit against the bucks, but it was just, you know, they're slanting them all the time.

And just they're using them as a mauler. It's like they're not too gaping them or anything. It's just, you know, go. So which I think is best for him. I liked it because he could. I figured he could maybe do both, but I think he would get unlocked as a go, go and maller, go hit the gap and go. So they're using them a little bit like that right now.

But kind of all over the place. And he's forced to be that nose, right, for the badgers defense. Yeah. And, you know, it's like because it's an attacking nose as opposed to a plugger. Yeah. Right. Exactly. But it just felt like, you know, if he has a chance to get those one-on-one opportunities, you know, attack gaps, he has the athleticism to do it. And he's still a young player.

And, yeah, he's that ability to play some different spots up front. It'll be interesting how they use their personnel because he gives you that. a little bit of versatility. Yes. Yeah, I was surprised that, you know, he fell a little bit as further than I thought he would. Yeah. He's a really good player. Yeah, I thought he'd go earlier in the second.

I know I was super high on him. I thought he was basically a DT2 after Carter. But it was, yeah, but he is, how they're using him was perfect. I just think also the help he's going to get with like Cam Hayward next to him. Like, it's just a perfect kind of combo if you got the, you know, Ironhead Hayward. And then you got him as kind of the mall or attacker. So I think also didn't he like in the senior bowl like tore it up in like pass rushing drills. And everyone's like, oh yeah, he could shoot.

One of one. Oh yeah. Yeah. Yeah. All right. So going on to the AFC South now. We'll start with the second year players again. Second year players with the most approved of the AFC South.

I think there's one one with a bullet that, uh, that kind of stands out to me. There's no shortage of candidates though because you have. There's not. Trailerborks. I need to make a lead in Tennessee. Pick a first round pick. Yeah. Same thing from Kenyon, uh, Kenyon Green.

Guard at Houston. But, I mean, the answer has to be Trayvon Walker, right? There's just, there are certain expectations that come with being the number one overall pick. And especially when that number two pick was the best pass rushing rookie last year, Nathan Hutchinson, someone who I know for a fact, several members of that Jaguar's front office wanted to draft at number one. And I don't want to paint a picture here that, you know, Walker was bad last season.

He wasn't. He had 10 fewer pressures than Hutchinson. So, you know, but you saw flashes. I think it was always expected that he was going to take time because he was a trait-based pick, remarkable-sized speed athlete, best football is in front of them. Okay, well, it's time for that investment to start paying off a little bit more in year two. So he had decent pressure numbers last year. You know, the biggest thing was the pass rush efficiency was below average on a per snap basis.

And the Jaguars, they ranked 26th in the league in Sacks. So the advanced metrics are a little bit better with their ability to get hurries and pressures. but the Jaguar still need Walker to take that another jump here in year two. Yep, everything you just laid out. Yeah, I kind of started the same place as I pick a first rounder and it was like, it has to be Walker because the Jags, a few of themselves as legitimately, and I agree with it as a playoff team. And they need pass rush help.

They really only brought back one plus pass rusher, and that's Josh Allen. And the other one is, smooth has a torn Achilles. Arden Key is gone. And that was like really the only ones that had an above average. average pressure pressure rate last year. I think Walker is right about average. But as a number one pick, you just need to be better than average, better than just a nice role player. And I think really watching Walker this year, it's like November onwards is like really when I want to focus on him. Once they, maybe they have their by week. I'm not sure when their by week is. After that,

I want to see if he makes a push and becomes a true force. Because there's, there's, like he's mentioned, it wasn't like he was bad. It's just that you expect more of that, that pedigree. And, you know, there's a playoff game where he's dominating a tight end that tries to block him. It's like, okay, but do that every time. That's supposed to do once a game. So I'm right there with you. I think Walker's the easy answer. And it's funny because his,

a lot of his pass rush metrics are similar to Kavon Tibodeau. And so, you know, if you take Trayvon Walker and switch where they were drafted with Kavon Tibodow, like how differently we think about the two players. You know, just because of seven picks and, you know,

but it's just when you're that number one overall pick, it just comes with this weight to it that you have to live up to. And fair or not, it's reality. And so it'll be interesting to see that next step that he takes this year. And that's how first rounders kind of go. It's like number one pick and then non-number one overall pick, first rounders. Like you could be pick five or pick 25. And it's like, well, you're a first rounder.

And that number one picks the only one that gets that kind of special designation when you talk about. But it does matter. I know that some of it's just narrative, but nope, it does matter. And even his teammate, Devin Lloyd, another first round pick. That's another one. You know, high, highs, low lows as a rookie. So better consistency out of him. And then I wanted to mention Christian Harris, a linebacker from Houston, who is a third-round

pick. So not first round expectations, but he puts some bad stuff on tape as a run defender last year. Late with his fit, struggling to work off blocks. The tackling was okay, not great. So just better things from Christian Harris this year and year two. That's a good shout up. My Roberts very high on the Texans defense. So he'll have to watch some Christian Harris as well.

So, all right, so second year players that you think are ready to take a big step in the AFC South. So, again, another, I think, a little bit crowded, guys that could potentially break out. I'm going to go with Chig of Conquo, the Titans tight end, led all rookie tight ends and receiving yards, yak, receiving touchdowns last year. And now with Austin Hooper gone, Jeff Swames gone, a lot more targets going to Chig. And no team in the NFL played with more multiple tight-end sets than Tennessee last season. A large part of that is the rushing offense they want to be. But there's no reason why Akonkwo shouldn't be top 15 tight end in the NFL this season. I think he's going to see the targets and he has the ability.

So top 15 tight end, I wouldn't be surprised if he takes that jump this year. It actually in my, I think, you know, usually when someone gets added like a D'Andre Haas, And everyone's like, well, that's going to eat all the targets and everything. It's like, I actually think that'll help a guy like chig because it's just, it's just going to loosen up things for him. He's so great on the move. I kind of underestimated his ability, like truly how good of an athlete he is. I know he tested well and everything. But even his college film, I was like, he's a tweener.

And I don't know, like, you can maybe get a John Hsu Smith type out of him. But it's like, I think he gives even more potential to John who showed with the Titans, which is saying something. So I think that's a great shout out. Are you going with the Colts player? No, I wanted to, but I can't become a total caricature myself. I can't stop time. Alec Pierce has gotten like 40 mentions in this. The Colts have like multiple guys.

Yes. Raymond. I know. Alex Pierce, Jalani Woods. But I figured you go Pierce. I almost did. He's my second mention. But my first one is Derek Stingley.

Corner for the Texans. Not crazy. Top five pick. But I had flashes, but also flashes in a defense that wasn't very conducive to what I think his skill set is. from a Lovie Smith defense to now going to D'emico Ryan's defense. And I think, I mean, honestly, I had him and Soss grade the same going in the last year. I thought it was 1A1B.

Sauce obviously has hit the ground, set a really high bar in his rookie year. Yeah, a bit of a head start. But Sting was playing well last year and then kind of got banged up and then maybe not the best defense for him. And I want to see him in this defense, a little more aggressive defense, a defense that lets him really man defend, man cover a lot of these outside receivers. And I think, you know, he's got some trades, some ball skills, some size. He's just been banged up. And that's been his biggest thing.

But I'm ready. I think he's ready to take a big step because I already thought he was a solid player as a rookie, which is saying something at that position. So I want to see where he can live up to that draft type. I think he can, where it's like, you know, sauce, again, is set a high bar. But I think Stingley can kind of maybe not come near it, but at least be a good player in his second year. Staying on the field, that's got to be first and foremost, you know, because he was hurt.

his last two years at LSU, hurt last year. Yeah, can he stay on the field? And that was part of the reason why he was my third corner that year. I like Trent McDuffie over him. I worried about the durability. But, you know, the ability is there. It's just, can he stay on the field?

So staying healthy. If he can do that, that goes a long way into living up to where the Texas drafted him. Absolutely. All right. So now, other second year player accolades here, or superlatives, the secondary player who had a better first year the most people realized in the AFC South. So I'm going to go with, give the centers a little bit of love here.

It wasn't always perfect, but Luke Fortner, he started all 17 games, regular season games at center. And then he started both playoff games. And I thought he more than held his own. There were 18 rookie offensive linemen who played at least 700 snaps last year. Fortner was the only one to allow two or fewer sacks. So he's smart. He's assignment sound.

The best way to put it, he just, he rides out the storm. And I graded him as an NFL starter. So that part's not very surprising. But I just don't think you hear a lot of Luke Fortner conversations going on. And I think he put together a pretty solid first year. No, absolutely. That's a great shout out. There's a game.

I really want to say it was against the Colts early in the year. And they had a bust. And it wasn't, when I rewatch it, I was like, okay, it's probably a rookie center. You know, a lot of the guys aren't going to be wrong here. he was the one that was right and he's talking to on the film you can see him talking to Brandon Shurf and it's like you got a rookie center telling a guy that's been paid a lot of money and started a lot of games and he's correcting him and I was like ooh there we go you don't really see that all too often but center has to be the leader in that room and that's yeah no

that's a great shout out I had a couple here um man I and I really want to narrow it down but I'm gonna go Roger McCreery a corner for the Titans second rounder way better than I ever thought he could be and he did it as a rookie. I thought he was a nice solid player. There's a couple of games where he got torched a little bit, you know, maybe some not the greatest matchups and maybe just also some scheme stuff and other guys getting knocked down or injured. But yeah, good player. Really, really high on him. And I think he can keep ascending as a good starter in this league. And yeah, I'm pretty high on the Titans defense overall. But other, two other DBs actually in my little short list, Jalen Petrie. But I think he got a little

bit of hype, but he was so, so disruptive. Such a fun player. I think plenty of people realize that one. And the last one I'm going to throw out there is from the Colts is Roddy Thomas. Their seventh round, Yale draft pick that played safety for them. But yeah, I've already played some flashes of like plus play, solid play last year. I don't think he's going to be a star or anything. But I think if you can get a seventh rounder that can actually be a solid starter, that's a win. And yeah, already was shown that as a rookie.

Just to piggyback on your Roger McCre. I think you're absolutely right. He led Tennessee and snaps on defense last year. He gave up seven touchdowns as a rookie, but only one came in the slot. And it sounds like that's going to be his full-time position here coming up this year. And that's probably what fits his skill set the best. And so I think he could be in for a really nice year, too. So that's a great shout out. That's awesome. Yeah, I know. That's the thing. He was on the outside. He was okay. It was just, I've been joking about this is that sometimes corners are like pitchers where the guy I could throw 90 pitches and they've given up no runs.

And then he just gets blasted for a 450 foot home rod because of one. That's what corners sometimes could be. And that's what happened. Same thing with offensive linemen, right? Yeah, yes. You remember the two or three misses more so than, yeah, no question. I know with McCurry, it's like he got dunked down a couple times. It's like, no, no, he's good, though.

He's a solid player. But going into rookies here for the AFC South, first round rookie, you're most excited to watch. There's a couple fun ones here. I mean, we got to do the two quarterbacks, right? Yeah, that's where I was. I think, yeah, I'm excited to see how Skoronsky does at Guard, helping anchor that Titans Offensive Line.

Same thing with Anton Harrison in Jacksonville, a guy that is pretty young, and I think ideally you'd ease him into that starting role, but the Chaguars need him to grow up quickly with Cam Robinson suspended. And then Will Anderson in Houston. You know, they're betting on him. Obviously, they invested a lot with the trade-up. They're betting on him becoming that cornerstone of the defense, what, you know, Nick Bosa is for the 49ers, or Miles Garrett.

it is for Cleveland. He's so twitchy. He's so skilled. We should see him jump off the tape pretty quickly from day one. But yeah, it's got to be the quarterback. C.J. Stroud, Houston, Anthony Richardson in Indianapolis, pretty surprised if, I mean, we know Anthony Richardson is going to start. We expect C.J. Stroud to start. What does this season look like for both these guys? Two teams that have, we don't expect either to be, you know, competing for playoffs, but we want to see progression. You want to see these guys hit the ground running, limit mistakes, develop. So what do we see from the first round quarterbacks?

It makes both of these teams worth watching this year. And that's not something you could really say about the Texans and Colts last year. You avoided watching those teams. But with Stroud and Richardson, there must see TV now. It really, especially the Colts for me. It's just with their stuyken and just with other offensive pieces. is Alex Pierce going with both going with Richardson, some of the other young guys that they have.

But that was my answer to. It has to be the quarterbacks. Richardson and Stroud and just, especially for the Texans team that even for this, for my work for this podcast and writing about it, I feel like I haven't had to talk about them for two years. And so it's so nice to talk about them in positive ways and all these players to highlight and starts with the quarterback and Will Anderson as well.

I mean, but those guys have to be up there. And yeah, just really excited to watch them develop, especially Richardson, especially second half the year. But even seeing like Stroud from the first preseason game to the second preseason game and already seeing growth, it's like, oh, like rookie quarterbacks can be a lot of fun to watch when you watch these kind of steps, ups and downs that they go through. Yeah, progression. Right. Progression. This is the next, it's never linear. So that's, I'm very excited to watch those two.

So how about the non-first round rookies that you think could make the biggest impact? A couple of these receivers are interesting. They, you know, Tank Dell in Houston, Josh Downs. This one had me squint a bit. I'm not going to lie. for this division. This one, have me squint. Even a guy like Tank Bigsby, you know, if he gets, you know, a lot of those carries in the red zone. But I'm going with Darius Rush, corner in Indianapolis. I liked him quite a bit as a prospect.

I actually liked him better in Cam Smith, his South Carolina teammate who was drafted before him. I think the Colts got to steal with him in the fifth round. But he's my pick out of pure opportunity. You look at the cold secondary. That outside cornerback. spots. They're up for grabs. Rush is 6-2, 200 pounds,

Premier athlete, ran on the 4th, reason of 40, love his fluidity, he's long, he can run with receivers. They're going to be rough patches,

just with any corner. His route anticipation needs to continue and develop, but I'll bet on those athletic traits and size. And again, the opportunity that could be there, this is a guy that has yet

to play his best football. I really believe that his ceiling could be solid NFL starter, and he might be able to reach that ceiling at some point this year. That's awesome. No, that's a great shout. They might have two rookie corners starting for him between him and Brents,

which is, yeah, it's very interesting team. I know this, for this category, like you mentioned Tank Bigsby and Tadje, maybe even Tadier Spears for the Titans. I just said, yeah, the third round runnyback duo between those two. You know, starter gets hurt or their roles expanded. Yeah, Bigsby, they both have had nice preseason. So they look like they're, they got drier. drafted, I think, right where they should have, so it all makes sense.

For me, I just kind of went through a dart throw out here. And I went Yasserra Abdul, Abdul, the edge from the Jags. He has a nice game against the Cowboys, as I watched. But also, they need some pass rush help. They got to find it. And he might hit, and he's super undersized, but he's got some Twitch. So, yeah, just maybe he gets that five sacks this year as some day three rookie that go out there, make a biggest impact.

But that's the one I'm going to tout. He had some underlying metrics that were polished. positive about him coming out. So that's a guy that have to throw it out there because they need it. He was fun to watch at Louisville. So no, that's a great shout out. All right. Now moving on to the west as we migrate to the West here. Second year players with the most approve in the AFC West. I'm going with Zion Johnson, the Chargers guard. A lot of people, including myself, loved him coming out of Boston College. He was my top break guard in the class, strong college tape. He was great at the senior bowl, generally viewed as a plug-and-play type.

Double-digit starts at left tackle, right-tackle, left guard in college. So, of course, the Chargers, that's going to play right-guard, a position he never really played before. And the results were rocky, especially in pass protection. But, you know, following our Chargers reporter, Daniel Popper, it sounds like Zion's moving the left guard full-time this season, which I think should make a big difference for him in year two. Yeah, no, that was the exact player I had, too. I had Zion Johnson. Yeah, any battles, some injuries, the offensive lines, falling apart around him.

Like, that's tough. That's tough for any rookie. Even a guy that I thought his floor was super high. Like, it was like, this guy is solid at the very least. Like, yeah, like, does he become a star? Who knows? But it's like, I mean, you can picture it. It was easy.

But I was right there with you. I actually thought mentally, I was kind of a little disappointed because, like, he has a little bit more MEs and mental errors than maybe I was, missed assignments that I was expecting as a rookie, but then watch him in the preseason way better. So going to the left side, probably some calmness around him, not shuffling parts and different guys he's communicating with every week. Helps so much. And they're also using him as a polar a lot.

And he is fantastic. As a polar. Yes, he can. So maybe Call him more some competency as a play caller getting him in the right spot. Yeah, I think the arrow is still pointing out for him. But he still has to prove that high position, especially this always, we talked about this with Walker and Aiden Hutchinson too. You know, Zion Johnson, the

guard that got drafted after was Tower Smith who's playing well. So it's like, you know, that's always going to just kind of crop up when you talk about these types of positions. And I'll talk about another Chargers, offensive linemen here in a little bit, but just having Roshan Slater back, that's just going to make a world difference on that

line as a whole. One other honorable mention for this category, J.T. Woods, speaking of the Chargers, he was a third rounder. So again, not a super high pick, but someone that I think belongs in this category most approved because the Chargers need him. No more Nisir Adderly. I think Alohi Gilman's probably going to be the starter opposite Derwin James,

but he's been banked up. Never really been a plus player, especially in coverage. Woods will get his chances this year. And he doesn't need to be a pro bowler, but can he give the Chargers quality snaps, which might be a lot to ask considering he really didn't play last year as a rookie, but that's what they need out of him. So I think there's a lot to prove from J.T. Woods. That's a good one.

Yeah, definitely a good one, especially with their, that defense asks a lot of their safeties. So that's another thing, too. It's like he's going to, if he does have a role, it's going to be a huge role because of what they do. But second year players that you think are going to take a big step this year. I have one team I know I'm focusing on, but I want to hear what you say here. Is the Chiefs?

Yeah, because they have about 20 guys. I can name off here. I know. Which guy did you go with as the main guy? guy. Carl Office. Okay. Yeah, the Greek freak is, I'll just get my one stat out and let you, and then let you cook. But had the same pressure rate last year as Alex Highsmith and Robert Quinn, but also had a bunch of PbUs, you know, getting his hands on the ball. Solid against the run. He really came in his own second half of the year, kind of settled in a little bit.

But I think he's a good player. I think still my upside with him is maybe a high end number two. But as a pass stretch, it's just kind of a nice three-down guy. But I think I like that defensive front this year. They have Chris Jones, obviously, but a men in who they signed. Their first round pick, FAU. I'm not saying his full name, Felix NEDK Uzama. That's good. Yeah. But I actually like him a lot.

I think he could do some damage as a kind of a designated pass rusher type. But yeah, so I went with Carl Lofus among the five chiefs second year players. I narrowed it down to. As you say, yeah, we could have said Brian Cook, core special teamer last year. It played a lot of defense. And played a lot at the year, yeah. Yeah, one, Thornhill is now gone, so Cook needs a step up.

And then Sky Moore, I'm somewhat of a pre-draft darling for a lot of people, including myself. I think it's top 40 for me in that class. But last year was a learning year for him. Oh, yeah. And then not a huge surprise. He was an underclassman. He played in the Mac. So a learning curve was expected.

But I'll bet on. A very simple offense going to an Andy Reed, 40-word play call offense. Yeah, that's a big jump. Yeah, exactly. So I think at the end of the day, you're going to bet on the ball skills, the athleticism, to make him more of a weapon this year. They like them too. Yeah, right. And I think there's opportunity there.

You know, you look at the wide receiver depth chart and plenty of talented guys, but, you know, who's going to step up? We'll see if Skymore can do that. I went with Leo Chanel. Yeah, nice. Speaking of Wisconsin defensive players. Love this. Yeah. Like, he played really well over the final, what, month and a half of his rookie year.

exceptional instincts downhill versus a run. Love his ability to key and diagnose. That was the M.O. on him coming out of college. The big question, could he hold up in coverage? Can he be that any downbacker? And really, I think the only thing that could stop him from having a breakout sophomore year this upcoming season, it's just a depth that linebacker that the Chiefs have. Nick Bolton doesn't come off the field.

They added Drew Tranquil. Willie Gay is still there. So I'm definitely a fan of Chanel and what he can do. And if he gets the chance, I think he could be that breakout for the Chiefs. Love that. He was exceptional in the playoffs, especially the Super Bowl. Yeah. Yeah, he usually a big issue that Spagnola has had,

Steve Spagnola, defense coordinator for the Chiefs has had, is that when they get into base into a three-linebacker look, they're very basic. You can take advantage of it. Chanel, like, single-handedly wiped that away, because he was just so good against the run and such a better athlete could set the edge.

And honestly in the preseason it looks exactly the same. So great, great shout out, not only because he's a badger, but he's a hell of a player. And what you're talking about with the coverage stuff was,

that was one of everyone's favorite fits last year was Leo Chanel to the Patriots. Because it was just plugger downhill, like go get him. But he's a better athlete than I think people realize. It's not just these. He was off a lot of boards around the league

because it just didn't fit exactly what they want at that position. And that's why he fell out of the top 100. This guy was an easy top 60, top 75 player in terms of just going to rank the players in a generic way. But because he doesn't meet to a T what a lot of teams are looking for, a linebacker, he just wasn't on their board. And so the chiefs ended up getting a steal at Pick 103. That did. No, but we're talking about their depth.

It's such a great point, though. But all right, now, so second year player who had a better first year than most people realized. there's probably a couple chiefs players here you can mention too but I think we might mention the same guy here so I'm actually curious what you say uh Jammari solier yes it is uh I mean this was the most surprising slip in the draft uh I mean you and I were sitting sitting together watching the day three of the draft that year and you kept mention them as like one of your best players remaining and it's like we felt like there forever for the fourth round's over and he's why is he still the fifth round what is going on he lasted until the mid

sixth round. He was my number 54 overall player in the draft, mid-second round pick. I had a third round grade on. He was a left tackle for Georgia's national championship team. And look, he wasn't an elite athlete or anything as a prospect, but this is the type of guy you trust the tape. He played in the SEC. He gave up only one career sack. It was to Will Anderson, perfectly excusable. So it's not like you had a big projection with him in terms of competition. Now, is he super explosive? No, but you love the body control. I specifically love how he, yeah, he stays centered through contact. And, you know, that that allows him to ride the bull and stay connected and just lose slowly. So the Chargers got him way later than I

thought he should have gone. They drafted him as a guard, which I think that's his best long-term position. But then Rashon Slater's hurt and Sawyer steps up and he's the start. left tackle and I thought he did a pretty nice job protecting Justin Herbert's blindside. So he did more to, I think, earn the confidence of that team, that offense. And it sounds like he'll be the starting right guard this year for the Chargers. So I think they absolutely found a steal in the sixth round. Just, I don't know. So very, very surprised he lasted as far as he did.

I'm right there with you. I had a day two grade on him. And sometimes I've learned, especially being on the media side, is when a guy falls, it's like, all right, there's something I don't know about him. But when you are going like, I don't get it either, that makes me go like, okay, okay, I'm not a total fool. But watching last year, when he had to start at left tackle, I was like, okay, this might not end well. And just everything you just said, he was a solid left tackle in the NFL as a six-round rookie who wasn't even supposed to be drafted as a tackle. That's so notable.

So it's, yeah, they're bumping him to guard. And the fact that he can provide depth at the tackle spots is not a negative. that is such a positive that he can at least be tolerable there. So great shout out and really makes you more optimistic about this Chargers offensive line that you probably have been in a while, especially if they can get Slater back and healthy because remember, he was an old pro as a rookie. So pretty interesting offense aligned with actually some talent.

So yeah, great shout out. I totally agree. That's my pick as well. My other one was Jalen Watson's seventh round rookie for the chiefs, who was a fine starting corner as a seventh round rookie. But going into rookies, first round rookie for the AFC West that you're most excited to watch. So I'm going with Quentin Johnston. You know, I think that the Chargers, they drafted him in the first round for his big play potential at receiver.

More so the big play potential than the polish, right? Like, he's not the seasoned player, but how will his role change throughout the season? He's an awesome size speed athlete, burst at the top of his routes. After the catch, he can make guys miss. I think we'll see plenty of, you know, curls. We'll see plenty of runway routes. We'll see any opportunity to get the ball in his hand so he can show off that pull away gear, the run instincts. So how does Quentin Johnson fit?

I thought, you know, Robert made a great comparison on last year. It was such a good one. Yeah, and the lead up to the draft, one that I did not consider. But when he said it and you think about it for five seconds, you're like, yeah, it makes a lot of sense with Brain and I, you as a player cop. They're not. Me and you were stunned. We both sat in silence for a second. Yeah, that's good.

Yeah, no, because again, stylistically, it's a lot. It fits. Like, size fees a little different. And so if you just, raw, but yeah, you can line up some of the, the, the numbers that doesn't necessarily fit. But stylistically, the way they win, what you like most about them as a player, it's like, yeah, that, that's why, you know, we're drafting him. And I think that's why the Chargers made him their first round pick.

Yep. They, they need a juice, I mean, at their past catchers. He's my, my answer to, I've one other guy, I'll mention in a sec, but he's, yeah, he has juice that they haven't had with their past catchers. Like he is more, the guy's still there, but he's more of a replacement for what Gerald Everett has done in that offense than maybe a receiver has done. Everett's still there. Don't get me wrong.

But crossers, digs, inbreakers, catching all that, you already have, you have your ball winner and Mike Williams, and then you have your crafty route runner in Keenan Allen, who's moving to slot a bunch. You need a yak guy. And this is your yak guy, but he's built differently than most yak guys are. We picture the five, nine Tweety Bird types. This guy, no, is a monster. So, yeah, I'm just very interested to see.

I know even a preseason and practice I saw there, they're trying to use him vertically. And, you know, his ball tracking is inconsistent. I'll put it, put it that way. You know, sometimes the ball tracking there. But his catcher run ability is that. Showed at college. It showed on the preseason. It's carried over.

Yes. Right. There's been no like, oh, I missed that. It's like, nope, that's exactly what he looked like at season. Right. No surprise there. The other thing, too, like we mentioned that there were. four receivers taken in a row there in that late first round with JSN, but then the Chargers

to Quentin Johnston. The two guys taken right after him, Zayflowers, Jordan Addison. So how the, and you could have made a case for Zay Flowers or Addison to be in that role for the Chargers. So how each one of these receivers plays as rookies and, you know, we compare the two. It'll be interesting to see at mid-season, end-a-season, you know, how all those receivers play out. that's what's kind of fun too is with especially where a lot of these receivers are getting picked into 20s.

It's like usually they're getting drafted to be number two's like, you know, or like with maybe some potential. So it's kind of fun too. It's like that's where you can see some eye the beholder and team fit stuff too. But my other rookie that had was Felix, Andy D.K. Usama, the edge for the cheese because I just want to say his name one more time. But I had a nice first preseason game against the Saints. I don't think he kind of really showed up in the box score, but like watching him on film, kind of what you expected. You know, run game was a little inconsistent, but he was better than I was expecting.

But, you know, had some real pass rush juice with some good hand usage. He had some, you know, some polish, which he showed in college as well. But, yeah, I'm interested to watch him because I think on a chief's team that were a lot of offenses are going to be passing against them. Like, they needed a guy that, oh, bendy DPR does any pass rush or type. And I think he can do that. I'm high on him. Higher than I thought I was, maybe even when I first, first watched him like in February. So those are first round guys.

I know, but there's a couple of teams or team without first rounders, that kind of limits that scope. But so non-first round rookies in the AFC West that you think could make the biggest impact. So I thought about going with another TCU receiver going to the Chargers and Darius Davis, who they took in the fourth round. He's on my short list. Oh, yeah. I mean, punt returns, you know, whatever kind of gadget way they find to get him the ball.

Darius Davis, one of the fastest players in the draft. So I will hear his name come up this year. There's no doubt about it. He'll take one back this year. Yeah, I agree. That's a bold. That shouldn't be a bold take, but it, yeah, it sounds like a bolt take, but it should be. I think he takes one back this year.

I think Marvin Mims from Denver, even with their depth chart, wide receiver depth chart, I think he, we could see some, he'll make some noise this year as a rookie. I'm going to go with Aiden O'Connell, though. Quarterback for the Raiders. I really liked him coming out of Purdue. He's just a guy that's going to play in the NFL the next 10 years. Absolutely. I tell you what, this year.

If he wins more games as a starter than Jimmy Garoppolo, that really be surprising? I don't think so. I mean, I'm not saying he's going to be a legit long-term option, but he can come in and help win games. He's shown it this preseason. He showed it on tape at Purdue. He'll push the football.

He's really smart. He reads coverage as well, stares down the gun barrel. He's really tough. And he's an older guy, but I think that's a positive. I mean, he's a mature guy ready to, you know, step in the NFL life.

He's just the type of guy you want in your quarterback room. So again, I'm not saying that Aiden O'Connell is the answer for the long term for this team. But if he wins more games as a starter than Jimmy Garoppolo this season, I won't be surprised. No, I totally get what you're saying. Jimmy G, who barely passed his physical, I'm like his 10th try too. So I was with an iffy offensive line standing in front of him. I know, that's a great shot. He's just looked great this preseason.

And the tape against the 409ers was like clinic tape. As far as like where he was mentally and just progression-wise, it was exactly what you want to see in a guy with his first NFL experience. So good shout out. I almost wanted to do Michael Mayer, the Raider's second round pick because it's just right away, he looks exactly how we thought. And what we talked about in the pre-draft process is he's a better athlete than people realize.

And I tweeted a clip of him stacking a corner, running a go route. And it's like, yeah, I told you guys, he's a good athlete. But I'm going to go with Drew Sanders, so linebacker for the Broncos, third rounder. I liked him coming out, athletic. He's a good blitzer, and he's going to a defensive coordinator in Vance Joseph, who likes to use his guys in blitzes.

So I think they're high on them. They're talking about how they're trying to hide his role already because they want to wait until they see in the regular season. A lot of coaches say that about players, so we'll see what actually happens. But I don't know. I think he's going to be a day one starter for him. I think he's going to be a tangible player for them and a defense that should be pretty good. Yeah.

So Drew Sanders is for me, their third round pick for the Broncos. That's a great pick. I mean, he went much later than I thought he would. I thought he'd be a top 40 pick. He's just, he's a do everything front seven guy. He's got size. He's got athletic range. You know, he has the ability to be a matchup player.

You want him to drop. He can rush and get after the quarterback. It's just he needs to be a little more consistent with as a tackler, with his reads, with his first step, getting off blocks. It's more, it's not that he can't do it. It just needs to be more consistent doing those things. So, but still, surprised that he fell as far as he did. And no, that's a good one because he wouldn't be surprised if he finds a role pretty quickly.

And even if he's not technically a starter, he's going to see plenty of reps in these different personnel packages they use because he's too good to keep off the field for too long. Yeah. Yeah, I should clarify, I say, even if he's not a day one starter, I should say, he's going to be on the field. Because it seems like they're high on them and just everything you're late. out there is just that's why it's like there's going to be some packages where it's not going to be just like oh he's playing special teams it's like he's going to be on the field they liked him for a reason and took him for a reason all right i think think that covers it we we got under an hour and a half i'm pretty proud of that i was excited getting into this i had to narrow down my

list even as we were talking i was like i can't have seven guys so i was sitting here but i knew you would be the same kind of junky uh tear as me to make some of these guys off but uh i hope you guys enjoyed this. This is a lot of fun for, I know for me, and I think Dane as well. We're going to be coming to the NFC. I'm going to be doing this all again with the other conference, the NFC. It's not the junior circuit, like we say in National League and American League for baseball, but it's the senior circuit. But we're going to be talking about the NFC next week, same exact categories,

talking about East Division. We'll be coming out next Wednesday. As always, Prospects of Prospects, and I'll see you guys next time. This was the Athletic Football Show's Prospects to Prospects Podcast.