Photo Credit: Thomas Graning / AP
With OTA’s underway, rookies are finally able to show teams their skills. The real test will come when the season actually starts, but it’s never too early to make predictions. This draft had a lot of talent at all positions. Here are my predicted impact rookies of the 2016 NFL Draft Class:
Ezekiel Elliott: Just hear me out for a second! Maybe Elliott shouldn’t have been drafted fourth overall, but the Cowboys needed a young running back. McFadden only has a few more good years left in him, if that, and the team is still in need of replacing DeMarco Murray’s production. If Elliott is able to pick up the playbook before the season starts, he’ll be a star running back especially since he will be running behind one of the best offensive lines in the entire league.
Myles Jack: When Myles Jack slid out of the first round, a lot of people counted him out. However, he’s still one of the best defensive players taken this draft. The Jaguars truly got a steal with Jack and pairing him with Jalen Ramsey will help beef up an already loaded defense. Jack is a former running back, so he has an unique edge over other defensive players. However, he is really a jack of all trades who can cover a multitude of different players. The only drawback for Jack is his knack for getting injured but if the Jaguars can keep that under control, he will make a huge impact on the field.
Laquon Treadwell: With a comparison to DeAndre Hopkins, there was no doubt that Treadwell will make an impact and he’s exactly what the Vikings need. With the heavy reliance on Adrian Peterson, the Vikings needed a receiver who could help balance their offense. Physically, he is an amazing specimen since he is tall, has large hands and caught almost 50% percent of passes thrown at him. Treadwell is capable of running almost any route and will give Teddy Bridgewater security because he tries to run routes that will benefit himself and his quarterback. Consistency is key in the NFL and that’s exactly what Treadwell can provide.
A’Shawn Robinson: The Detroit Lions are currently rebuilding their franchise and A’Shawn Robinson is the perfect guy to make an impact. Defensively, the Lions have been lacking at tackle and Robinson can plug that hole. Physically, he’s a beast. He is well-known for being an extremely heavy tackler and if he sets his sites on a target, it’s hard for him to miss. He’s the perfect addition to the less than stellar Lions defense.
