Impressive job by Rookies this season

Post #1 » by **Celtics_Champs** » Mon Nov 3, 2008 7:13 pm

I can't remember a season where all these rookies came in and made in impact on the NFL, then this year.

Matt Ryan-leading the Falcons to become a playoff team. Been a long time since a top 3 pick that was a QB did that.

Chris Johnson/Matt Forte/Steve Slaton/Felix Jones-Every year you have a great running back, this year, it looks like four stars are in the making.

Donnie Avery/Desean Jackson-Great wideouts.

I am not even getting into all the defensive rookies. Or the O-lines. But you have guys like J. Long. C. Long. Mayo. Horton. Lofton.

Go Rooks!

Post #2 » by **Icness** » Mon Nov 3, 2008 7:22 pm

I like how so many of these guys keep getting better too. Mayo has improved light years from the Miami debacle. Donnie Avery is learning quickly from Holt. Chris Johnson has learned how to set up his blocks better. Chris Long has learned how to play off the inside guys and use them. Jake Long is getting better at picking up counter moves.

Some other rookies who are quietly making a real good showing:
Cliff Avril in Detroit, more than just a pass rusher
Carl Nicks in New Orleans, who was better than Nesbit in replacing him
Mike Jenkins played very well the last couple of weeks for Dallas
Dan Carpenter is a legit kicker with range. Just don't ask him to kick off
Ray Rice is emerging
Dom Rodgers Cromartie has worked his way to the starting lineup on merit
Bryan Kehl has been very good

Post #3 » by **Basketball Jesus** » Mon Nov 3, 2008 7:45 pm

Not to mention how many NDFAs are playing quality ball this season. The Patriots have two that have made rather large impacts so far: Gary Guyton (who looked mighty impressive last night) and BenJarvus Green-Ellis (aka BenVince Wilfork-Ellis).

BJG-E, especially, looks like he has a solid career ahead of him, in the mold of a Leon Washington-type change-of-pace back.

Post #4 » by **J.Kim** » Wed Nov 5, 2008 2:52 am

Haven't been able to watch too many games outside of the Titans games this season, however, I love what I've seen out of Chris Johnson. Awesome runner, who not only is able to break it to the outside and go for big gains, but is also able to run tough behind Center and Guards, and blocks bigger than his size.