With the 2024 preseason within the rearview, groups are nonetheless figuring out whether or not they have rookies who can grow to be quick difference-makers. This is how every first-year class within the AFC South has fared to this point:
Second-round decide cornerback Kamari Lassiter and third-round security Calen Bullock seem like affect gamers for the Texans on Day 1. The thrilling rookie duo have made a stable argument to start out and provided a potential glimpse into the longer term, combining to make a play throughout a joint observe with the Los Angeles Rams that resulted in an interception of quarterback Matthew Stafford, a two-time Professional Bowler and Tremendous Bowl champion.
Tight finish Cade Stover has caught the eye of head coach DeMeco Ryans, who advised Will Kunkel of Fox 26 that the fourth-round decide has been “probably the most constant participant” since camp started. Now, after grabbing 5 of seven targets for 58 yards (11.6 YPC) over three preseason video games, it seems the previous Ohio State product could have a chance to earn a big position, particularly with starter Dalton Schultz out for the 12 months after struggling a season-ending ACL damage.
In the meantime, Houston’s potential future left deal with, second-round decide Blake Fisher, has already impressed present starter Laremy Tunsil. The four-time Professional Bowler not too long ago advised Texans reporter Cody Stoots that Fisher was a “canine” whereas praising how he processes data on the sphere whereas transitioning from school to the professionals. | Full class from ESPN
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars first-round decide, wideout Brian Thomas Jr., showcased his super ability set early, catching 3-of-4 targets for 93 yards through the preseason whereas serving to produce the ninth-highest passer score (116.7) amongst rookie wideouts, in line with Professional Soccer Focus. The rookie has thrilling potential, particularly because the ability set he brings appears to align completely with the strengths of quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
Second-round decide defensive deal with Maason Smith has carried out properly, displaying uncooked however attractive traits. By means of the preseason, he proved able to shedding blocks, proudly owning the very best pass-rush win price (20.8) amongst rookie inside linemen, per PFF. | Full class from ESPN
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts rookie class options a number of gamers who may make a direct affect, together with defensive finish Laiatu Latu, wideout Adonai Mitchell and offensive lineman Matt Goncalves.
Latu has turned the heads of teammates like linebacker Zaire Franklin, who described the first-round decide as a “timeout ready to occur,” when talking with James Boyd of The Athletic. In the meantime, after tallying his first sack within the Colts preseason finale, he revealed a lofty aim, telling Nate Atkins of the Indianapolis Star that he needs “to get that gold jacket.”
Likewise, Mitchell confirmed flashes of what he might be throughout restricted preseason snaps, catching three of six targets for 29 yards and a landing. On the similar time, Goncalves has in all probability performed his means into the swing-tackle position for Indy, because the versatile six-foot-six, 320-pound lineman held his personal, taking reps on each the best and left sides. | Full class from ESPN
Tennessee Titans
After enjoying proper deal with at Alabama, No. 7 decide JC Latham has seamlessly transitioned to left deal with. By means of two preseason video games of motion, he is appeared like the answer to defending quarterback Will Levis’ blindside alongside 2023 first-rounder Peter Skoronski at left guard.
On the opposite facet of the ball, second-round decide T’vondre Sweat has made a case to be part of the Titans’ inside rotation, displaying the flexibility to stuff the run and put strain on the quarterback up the center.
Nevertheless, Cedric Grey (fourth-rounder), competing for one of many open linebacker spots, has struggled and handled accidents, whereas Jarvis Brownlee (fifth-rounder) hasn’t stood out amongst defensive backs. | Compete class from ESPN
