- Each season, NFL teams invest loads of time and money into their college draft picks. Some hit, and some miss. During the 2008 season, FG will track the progress of the top 5 offensive, and the top 5 defensive prospects. Some people will fall off, and some will rise onto the Rookie Watch list.
2008 NFL Rookie StandoutsBy: Gary Alleva NFL Analyst
Top 5 Offensive Rookies - Darren McFadden-RB-Oakland Raiders(Arkansas)- He will share carries with running back Justin Fargas, who rushed for over 1,000 yards last season. His electrifying speed and bruising power combination already makes him one of the most feared backs in the league.
- Felix Jones-RB-Dallas Cowboys(Arkansas)- He will backup star running back Marion Barber III in Dallas, but look for the former Razorback to make some big plays for the ‘Boys this season. He will return kickoffs and be a threat in the passing game out of the backfield.
- Eddie Royal-WR-Denver Broncos(Virginia Tech)- Just look what he did on Monday night. He single handedly tore up DeAngelo Hall and the Oakland Raiders’ secondary.
- Steve Slaton-RB-Houston Texans(West Virginia)-With the injury to Ahman Green, look for an increased role for the speedster, especially as a receiver.
- Matt Ryan-QB-Atlanta Falcons(Boston College)- Had an outstanding debut leading Atlanta to a victory over the Lions. He is mature beyond his years.
Top 5 Defensive Rookies 1. Leodis McKelvin-CB-Buffalo Bills(Troy St.)- Look for this guy to be a lockdown corner in this league, as well as a pretty decent return guy. Has great ball skills for a corner. 2. Sedrick Ellis-DT-New Orleans Saints(USC)- His size and speed combo is going to cause nightmares for interior offensive lineman. 3. Keith Rivers-OLB-Cincinnati Bengals(USC)- This combine freak has all the tools to be a pro bowl caliber player in this league. He just needs to keep his mind on football. 4. Aqib Talib-CB-Tampa Bay Buccaneers(Kansas)- Great size and ball skills, but plays out of position sometimes. 5. Lawrence Jackson-DE-Seattle Seahawks(USC)- Undersized, but has a great explosion off the ball. Also a very smart defender.
Please send all comments and questions to
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
|
|
NFL Power Rankings
 Patrick Willis and the 49ers look to take over the NFC West using great defense as its weapon. FG Ranks the top NFL teams, from the leagues best, to the cellar dwellers.
NFL Team Pages and Analysis
 The experts at FG breakdown your favorite team every week. Click below to see what observations have been made concerning your team.
NFL Rookie Watch
 Check weekly as Football Gameplan tracks the progress of this season’s impact rookies.
|
|
