{"id":64610,"date":"2018-05-02T08:57:37","date_gmt":"2018-05-02T08:57:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.biphoo.com\/bipnews\/?p=64610"},"modified":"2018-05-02T08:57:37","modified_gmt":"2018-05-02T08:57:37","slug":"nfl-drafts-instant-impact-rookies-saquon-barkley-should-make-big-splash","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.biphoo.com\/bipnews\/sports\/nfl-drafts-instant-impact-rookies-saquon-barkley-should-make-big-splash.html","title":{"rendered":"NFL draft’s instant impact rookies: Saquon Barkley should make big splash"},"content":{"rendered":"

NFL draft’s instant impact rookies: Saquon Barkley should make big splash<\/span><\/strong><\/h2>\n

For NFL teams, taking the long-term view is essential in executing a draft plan. But developing a first-round pick can take many different forms.<\/span><\/p>\n

Some of the most prized selections in this year’s draft might be in for a gradual introduction into the league, as teams look instead to rely on established veterans at the position for the time being. Yet other first-year players are in line to take roles as starters right away and could have the skill set to find success against a higher level of competition.<\/span><\/p>\n

Here\u2019s a look at nine rookies sure to make an instant impact in 2018.<\/span><\/p>\n

Saquon Barkley, RB, New York Giants, No. 2<\/span><\/p>\n

As a potential focal point of the Giants’ offense, he’s the runaway favorite for offensive rookie of the year. Barkley is an every-down back who demonstrates speed, elusiveness, vision and power as a runner. He also will comfortably create mismatches in the passing game and should be a frequent target of Eli Manning. In both impact and output, he could set a high bar for this class.<\/span><\/p>\n

Quenton Nelson, G, Indianapolis Colts, No. 6<\/span><\/p>\n

Colts quarterback Andrew Luck must have rejoiced when he found out about Indy\u2019s selection. Nelson projects to step in right away at left guard and should be counted on as a stabilizing force inside the interior of the Colts line. Though he should make a difference in pass protection (Indianapolis gave up an NFL-worst 56 sacks), his best asset early on for Indianapolis may be his comfort opening holes for a ground game game that generated only 103.8 yards per game game last season.<\/span><\/p>\n

Roquan Smith, LB, Chicago Bears, No. 8<\/span><\/p>\n

With excellent instincts, range, coverage skills and hitting ability, Smith projects to be an early contender for defensive rookie of the year. He should start alongside veteran Danny Trevathan from Day 1. And with Bears defensive coordinator Vic Fangio\u2019s propensity to move inside linebackers around the formation in different blitzes, Chicago may utilize Smith all over the field.<\/span><\/p>\n

Josh Rosen, QB, Arizona Cardinals, No. 10<\/span><\/p>\n

Rosen was widely considered the quarterback in the class most ready to play right away, and he might get the chance to show why if Sam Bradford falters or has more knee issues. He\u2019s accurate and displays refined mechanics and footwork \u2013 all of which are essential for rookie passers to get on the field and play well. With the Cardinals in a bit of a rebuild, the new coaching staff may opt to get that transition kick-started early if Rosen shows he’s up to the task.<\/span><\/p>\n

Derwin James, S, Los Angeles Chargers, No. 17<\/span><\/p>\n

Many mock drafts projected James to go far earlier than he did, but he might have the best fit of any rookie defender despite his slide. Defensive coordinator Gus Bradley was seeking a hard-hitting, swift and versatile safety for a unit already replete with young talent. He helped Kam Chancellor shine in Seattle, and James \u2013 who has a very similar skill set to that of the Seahawks standout \u2013 could blossom into a star in Los Angeles.<\/span><\/p>\n

Dallas Goedert, TE, Philadelphia Eagles, No. 49<\/span><\/p>\n

The Eagles still have Zach Ertz, but Philly loves using two-tight-end sets. Filling in for Trey Burton, Goedert will have plenty of opportunities in the passing game. He is a dynamic threat who should be able to create mismatches for a deep and varied offense.<\/span><\/p>\n

Derrius Guice, RB, Washington Redskins, No. 59<\/span><\/p>\n

Guice tumbled to the second round, but he lands in a spot where he likely becomes the starter right away ahead of incumbent Robert Kelley. Many saw as the class\u2019 second-ranked running back behind Barkley, and coach Jay Gruden has already talked about using him on first and second downs as Washington emphasizes improving a 28th-ranked rushing attack.<\/span><\/p>\n

Royce Freeman, RB, Denver Broncos, No. 71<\/span><\/p>\n

Though he registered 1,026 touches at Oregon, Freeman should still have plenty left in the early part of his career. He was slowed by a knee injury in 2016, but he has the power, vision and speed to make plays in Denver\u2019s offense. With only Devontae Booker as his main competition for the starter\u2019s role, Freeman should see plenty of work early and could become one of the surprises of the draft.<\/span><\/p>\n

Harrison Phillips, DT, Buffalo Bills, No. 96<\/span><\/p>\n

Veteran Kyle Williams turns 35 in June, and Buffalo drafted his eventual replacement late in the third round with Stanford\u2019s Harrison Phillips. With a wrestling background, Phillips was ultra productive at Stanford. Don\u2019t be surprised if he plays a significant role as the Bills look to elevate their 29th-ranked run defense.<\/span><\/p>\n

Source:-https:\/\/www.usatoday.com\/story\/sports\/nfl\/draft\/2018\/05\/01\/nfl-draft-instant-impact-picks-rookies-saquon-barkley\/568544002\/<\/span><\/p>\n

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