NFL
HomeScoresDraftRumorsFantasyB/R 99: Top QBs of All Time
Featured Video
EPIC NFL Thanksgiving Slate 🙌

NFL Rookies from Each Team with the Most Upside and Potential

Jon DoveJun 7, 2018

A team's top pick doesn't always turn out to be the most successful player out of a draft class. The best example is Tom Brady, who was the New England Patriots' seventh player taken in the 2000 draft. This draft will feature plenty of prospects who outperform players selected ahead of them.

There's a team that will have someone outperform a player they selected in the top 10 of this draft. It doesn't mean this player won't have a successful career, but just that someone else will be far more productive.

Dallas Cowboys

1 of 32

Potential Star Player: Morris Claiborne, Cornerback

The Dallas Cowboys secondary desperately needed an infusion of talent, but their ability to land Morris Claiborne was a surprise. I had Claiborne rated as one of the top-five players available in the 2012 draft, and the fact he fell to No. 6 was a shock.

Claiborne gives the Cowboys an instant upgrade and a potential shut-down cornerback. His combination of size, quickness and fluidity makes the sky the limit for this talented player.

Sleeper: James Hanna, Tight End

James Hanna wasn't targeted all that often at Oklahoma, but there's no denying his potential. At 6'4" 254 pounds, he ran a blazing 4.49 40-time at the combine. If he can improve his route-running ability he can develop into a real difference maker.

New York Giants

2 of 32

Potential Star Player: Rueben Randle, Wide Receiver

Rueben Randle has the size, speed and athleticism to develop into a No. 1 receiver. His limited production in college was due to poor quarterback play, not lack of talent. Look for the New York Giants to immediately get him involved in the offense.

Randle has a great opportunity to seize the opening left when Mario Manningham signed with the San Francisco 49ers. Don't be surprised if Randle has a very productive rookie season, as he'll likely get a lot of one-on-one opportunities because of the presence of Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz.

Sleeper: Matt McCants, Offensive Line

Matt McCants slipped to the sixth round because of his lack of polish. However, he's very athletic and has the potential to develop. It may take several years, but McCants has the makeup of a potential left tackle in the NFL.

Philadelphia Eagles

3 of 32

Potential Star Player: Fletcher Cox, Defensive Line

The Philadelphia Eagles defense is about generating pressure from the defensive line. This is one of the main reasons they decided to select Fletcher Cox in the first round. Cox is a versatile player who can penetrate the pocket from several positions.

Look for the Eagles to rotate Cox between defensive end and tackle in order to find potential mismatches. This is a player capable of topping the 10-sack mark and making plenty of game-changing plays.

Sleeper: Nick Foles, Quarterback

Michael Vick is still the future in Philadelphia, but his struggles with injuries could cut that future short. Nick Foles has the size, arm strength and work ethic needed to develop into a top-notch quarterback. I had him rated as a second-round prospect, above players like Brock Osweiler and Russell Wilson who came off the board earlier than Foles.

TOP NEWS

Colts Jaguars Football
Rams Seahawks Football

Washington Redskins

4 of 32

Potential Star Player: Robert Griffin III, Quarterback

This is a pretty obvious choice, but it's still important to recognize Robert Griffin III's star potential. This is a player with a ton of physical talents who also as that "it" factor. The Washington Redskins were wise to immediately name him the starting quarterback. This decision will allow him to hit the ground running and not have to worry about fighting for his job.

Washington's push to surround Griffin III with weapons will also help his development. Pierre Garcon and Griffin III will make for a very dangerous deep-threat tandem.

Sleeper: Keenan Robinson, Linebacker

Keenan Robinson dropped to the fourth round because of a lack of consistency and production at Texas. He seemed to never fulfill the expectations his athleticism created. However, the NFL features some top-notch coaches who know how to get the most out of players. If he can remain focused, Robinson could develop into a future starter.

Buffalo Bills

5 of 32

Potential Star Player: Cordy Glenn, Offensive Tackle

The Buffalo Bills are giving Cordy Glenn an opportunity to win the starting left tackle spot. There's little doubt in my mind that he fails to seize this opportunity. Glenn is a massive player with surprising quickness and athleticism.

His time at Georgia prepared him to potentially fill multiple roles at the next level. However, his quick shuffle and balance make him a good fit at left tackle. Don't let his size fool you. Glenn is more than capable of protecting the edge against speed rushers.

Sleeper: Zebrie Sanders, Offensive Tackle

Zebrie Sanders is a player that has the potential to develop into an above-average NFL starter. He's quick off the ball and to the edge which will allow him to protect the quarterback. The only issue with his game is his limited strength and anchor. This could be fixed with focus on weight training and proper eating habits.

Miami Dolphins

6 of 32

Potential Star Player: Ryan Tannehill, Quarterback

As much as I doubt Ryan Tannehill's ability to develop into an effective starter, there's no doubting his raw talent and upside. Tannehill has a very strong arm capable of making all the necessary throws. His athleticism allows him to extend plays and roll outside the pocket.

Tannehill's good size helps him see clearly over the offensive line and locate open targets. However, he needs to improve his feel for the game and decision making. He'll have a very short and unsuccessful career if he's unable to harness his skills.

Sleeper: Lamar Miller, Running Back

Lamar Miller is an ultra-fast and explosive running back. He's capable of scoring from anywhere on the field by outpacing the defense. In the right role, Miller could develop into one of the more dynamic playmakers in the entire NFL.

New England Patriots

7 of 32

Potential Star Player: Chandler Jones, Linebacker/Defensive End

Chandler Jones will make plenty of plays just because of his athleticism and non-stop motor. However, the more he develops the more dangerous he'll become. Jones has the potential to develop into one of the more disruptive forces in the entire league.

His versatility will also make him tougher to defend. Expect to see Bill Belichick use Jones at both outside linebacker and defensive end. He'll move Jones all around the field to create the best mismatch.

Sleeper: Alfonzo Dennard, Cornerback

If not for a run in with the law, Alfonzo Dennard would have been selected in the third or fourth round. However, that incident caused many teams to drop him from their draft board. The New England Patriots felt that in the right environment, Dennard could excel.

Adding Dennard in the 7th round is well worth the risk, as he could potentially develop into an above-average starter.

New York Jets

8 of 32

Potential Star Player: Stephen Hill, Wide Receiver

Stephen Hill has quickly made a mark in the New York Jets offseason workouts. His size and speed combination make him a dangerous playmaker. Opposing defenses will have a tough time matching up with Hill. However, he still needs time to develop as a route runner and gain a better feel for the game.

Hill's time at Georgia Tech didn't prepare him very well for the NFL. He was used mainly as a blocker and deep threat. However, he has the raw ability to develop into a legitimate No. 1 receiver. Until he's fully developed, Hill will still be able to make plays down the field and give the Jets an excellent deep threat.

Sleeper: Antonio Allen, Safety

Antonio Allen is a big-hitting safety who has some coverage skills. As a seventh-round pick, Allen brings both athleticism and size. He could easily develop into an effective starter in the next couple of years. This could be New York's eventual replacement for the newly-signed LaRon Landry.

Arizona Cardinals

9 of 32

Potential Star Player: Michael Floyd, Wide Receiver

The combination of Michael Floyd and Larry Fitzgerald will be a tough tandem to stop. Floyd's good size and quickness help him make plays all over the field. He'll also benefit from the coverage Fitzgerald will draw away from his side of the field.

Only the play of the quarterback could stop this tandem from being successful. Either Kevin Kolb or John Skelton need to step up and provide starting-caliber play. Whoever ends up starting should find their job easier because of the weapons in place.

Sleeper: Bobby Massie, Offensive Tackle

I was surprised to see Bobby Massie fall to the fourth round, as I had him projected as a second-round prospect. Massie is a big, strong and athletic offensive tackle who'll immediately contend for a starting spot. In a few years, he could develop into one of the better right tackles in the NFL.

San Francisco 49ers

10 of 32

Potential Star Player: LaMichael James, Running Back

LaMichael James' quickness and determination give him the chance to develop into a dynamic playmaker. We've seen players like Darren Sproles impact the game in many ways, and James is in the same mold as Sproles.The San Francisco 49ers see the type of potential James boasts.

Initially, James will play a complementary role to Frank Gore. However, it won't be long until Jim Harbaugh feels compelled to ensure James gets 25 touches per game. The most explosive players need to touch the football as much as possible.

Sleeper: Cam Johnson, Linebacker/Defensive End

Cam Johnson is a little raw, but has the tools to develop into an effective pass rusher. At Virginia, he lined up mostly at defensive end, but figures to transition to linebacker in San Francisco. With the right adjustments, Johnson could become an excellent complement to Aldon Smith.

Seattle Seahawks

11 of 32

Potential Star Player: Bruce Irvin, Linebacker/Defensive End

Despite the criticism of his draft position, Bruce Irvin possesses as much potential as any player in this draft class. He's ultra-quick off the ball and explosive attacking the edge. With a little more coaching, Irvin could consistently reach the 15-sack range.

The biggest issue facing Irvin and the Seattle Seahawks is where he'll lineup on the field. At 6'3" 245 pounds, Irvin is undersized for defensive end and has little experience at linebacker. Seattle will have to get creative to find ways to put Irvin in a position to succeed.

Sleeper: Robert Turbin, Running Back

Robert Turbin was an underrated prospect and could have come off the board much earlier. He has deceptive speed helping him break off long runs. Turbin also does a good job keeping his pads low and picking up yards after contact. Don't be surprised if he starts the season as Marshawn Lynch's primary backup.

St. Louis Rams

12 of 32

Potential Star Player: Janoris Jenkins, Cornerback

Without the off-the-field issues, Janoris Jenkins would have been drafted somewhere within the top 15 picks. He's a smooth athlete with an excellent short-area burst. However, it's his ability to read the quarterback that makes him so dangerous.

Based on pure ability, Jenkins is the second most talented cornerback in the 2012 draft class, just behind Morris Claiborne. A fresh start and strong coaching staff could be what Jenkins needs to re-focus on the game of football.

Sleeper: Isaiah Pead, Running Back

Isaiah Pead isn't exactly a sleeper, but he isn't as known as the other running backs in this draft. However, he's more than capable of putting up big numbers for the St. Louis Rams. Pead's quick-twitch ability allows him to quickly press the hole. Because of his low center of gravity, Pead can break tackles and gain yards between the tackles.

Steven Jackson's career might get extended a little because of the presence of Pead.

Denver Broncos

13 of 32

Potential Star Player: Ronnie Hillman, Running Back

The age of Willis McGahee and injury issues of Knowshon Moreno make Ronnie Hillman a candidate for a strong rookie season. Hillman brings both quickness and toughness to the roster. He's capable of quickly pressing the hole and picking up yards after contact.

Look for the Denver Broncos to give Hillman a chance to establish himself as the team's top back. Landing a potential starting running back in the third round would be a major win for the Broncos. It means they were able to address other needs with their earlier picks, and still answer their questions at running back.

Sleeper: Malik Jackson, Defensive Line

All throughout the draft process, I've been a strong supporter of Malik Jackson. He's capable of impacting the game from both defensive end and defensive tackle. His quick first step allows him to get up field and work his way into the backfield. Don't be surprised if Jackson makes a bigger impact than second-round pick Derek Wolfe.

Kansas City Chiefs

14 of 32

Potential Star Player: Dontari Poe, Nose Tackle

The Kansas City Chiefs have already inserted Dontari Poe into the starting lineup, which bodes well for this young defensive lineman. Poe's draft stock was as much about his potential than it was about his NFL readiness. However, it appears that the Chiefs feel he's ready enough to make an impact.

Poe's future looks brighter because the Chiefs will be using him at nose tackle. He might not rack up a ton of stats, but it's the position that best suits his skill set. Playing nose tackle will curb some of the expectations, as he'll be asked to occupy blockers not penetrate the pocket.

Sleeper: Devon Wylie, Wide Receiver

Devon Wylie is a smooth route runner with a ton of quickness. He's built to succeed out of the slot, and could develop into a major threat. Initially, he'll have to battle Jon Baldwin, Steve Breaston and Dexter McCluster for snaps. However, this is a guy that will quickly force his way onto the field.

Oakland Raiders

15 of 32

Potential Star Player: Jack Crawford, Defensive End

A flurry of trades limited the amount of draft picks at the Oakland Raiders disposal. However, they were still able to land promising players like Jack Crawford. Crawford has ideal size and quickness for the position, but still needs to develop more rush moves.

He might not ever develop into a superstar, but out of the Raiders draft picks he has the most upside. In the right situation, Crawford could provide Oakland with a strong edge rush and solid run defense.

Sleeper: Juron Criner, Wide Receiver

In the past, Oakland targeted speed receivers who wowed at the combine. Juron Criner doesn't have that elite speed, but does know how to get open. He uses his feel for the game to locate open zones and give his quarterback a good target. Criner might not be able to out run defensive backs, but his ability to change speed helps him create space.

San Diego Chargers

16 of 32

Potential Star Player: Melvin Ingram, Linebacker

Melvin Ingram might not have the elite measurables, but this is a guy who knows how to disrupt the timing of an offense. During his college career, Ingram brought pressure from multiple positions including defensive end, linebacker and defensive tackle.

Look for the San Diego Chargers to utilize Ingram's quickness and strength to get after the quarterback. He'll get most of his playing time at linebacker, but expect to see him moved around the field to create mismatches.

Sleeper: Ladarius Green, Tight End

If able to remain healthy, Ladarius Green could turn into the heir apparent for Antonio Gates. Green possesses good height and quickness which allows him to make plays down the field. He's not a skilled blocker, but could be a weapon in the passing game.

Chicago Bears

17 of 32

Potential Star Player: Alshon Jeffery, Wide Receiver

At this time last year, saying that the Chicago Bears could land Alshon Jeffery in the second round would've made people laugh. However, a sub-par season diminished his draft stock making him available for the Bears. Despite some question marks, Jeffery still possesses the ability to develop into a game changing playmaker.

Jeffery's size and leaping ability make him a tough cover. Defenders will need to prepare for his box-out skills and big-play potential. He's the type of receiver who can even make a play on poorly thrown footballs.

Sleeper: Evan Rodriquez, Fullback/Tight End

Mike Tice and Jeremy Bates will need to get creative in order to properly utilize Evan Rodriquez's skill set. However, his speed and good hands make him a potentially dangerous pass catcher. He's listed as a fullback but will also be used in a H-back role.

Detroit Lions

18 of 32

Potential Star Player: Riley Reiff, Offensive Tackle

Riley Reiff is the future starting left tackle for the Detroit Lions. His sound technique and balance is what will allow him to protect Matthew Stafford's blindside. Reiff's development will be crucial to the future success of this franchise, as this team only succeeds if Stafford can remain healthy.

The presence of Jeff Backus provides Reiff with a good mentor and someone to hold down the starting job until he is ready to take over. Learning the ins and outs of the position from Backus will go a long way towards Reiff finding sustained success.

Sleeper: Tahir Whitehead, Linebacker/Defensive End

At 6'2" 237 pounds, Whitehead is undersized for both the defensive end and linebacker positions. However, that doesn't mean the Lions won't find a role for him in this defense. While at Temple, Whitehead used his explosive first step to attack the edge and get pressure on the quarterback. Detroit could use him in a role similar to the way they use Willie Young.

Green Bay Packers

19 of 32

Potential Star Player: Jerel Worthy, Defensive Line

Jerel Worthy only needs to remain engaged in the game in order to develop into a star. He's extremely talented, possessing a rare combination of size and quickness. Worthy can not only hold at the point of attack, but also penetrate the pocket.

His draft stock dropped a little because of questions about his stamina and tenacity. However, those concerns were a bit overblown. Worthy could benefit from better conditioning, but he did show a good enough motor. This is a player that will help the Green Bay Packers both stop the run and pressure the quarterback.

Sleeper: Mike Daniels, Defensive Line

Mike Daniels didn't get enough attention for the success he had at Iowa. He's an underrated athlete who is constantly working his way to the football. His heavy and violent hands help him keep clean plays. He's someone that will fit nicely at the five-technique position. Don't be surprised if he quickly earns a significant role in the defensive line rotation.

Minnesota Vikings

20 of 32

Potential Star Player: Matt Kalil, Offensive Tackle

The ability to land an elite left tackle can change the entire makeup of an offense. Matt Kalil's skill set gives him the ability to increase the production of the Minnesota Vikings offense. He's a good athlete with enough of a mean streak to finish off plays.

He'll immediately upgrade the Vikings' pass protection while also helping open running lanes for Adrian Peterson. Because of the improved protection, look for Christian Ponder to feel more comfortable this season.

Sleeper: Greg Childs, Wide Receiver

Greg Childs had a very productive career at Arkansas, but saw his draft stock drop because of lingering effects from a knee injury. However, his impressive 4.55 forty-time at the combine showed that he's finally fully recovered.

However, Childs isn't successful because of his speed but it's his route running and feel for the defense that allows him to make plays. The lack of depth in the Vikings' receiving corps should provide Childs with plenty of opportunities.

Baltimore Ravens

21 of 32

Potential Star Player: Courtney Upshaw, Linebacker/Defensive End

Courtney Upshaw might not wow anyone with elite explosiveness but this guy is a football player. He brings an excellent all-around game to the Baltimore Ravens defense. Upshaw will provide a strong anchor against the run and bring some pressure off the edge. He reminds me a lot of Jarret Johnson, who he looks to replace this season.

This Baltimore Ravens defense knows how to breed star players. Ray Lewis and company will expect a lot from Upshaw right from the beginning. This type of pressure and motivation will key the start of a long and successful career.

Sleeper: Tommy Streeter, Wide Receiver

At 6'5" 219 pounds, Tommy Streeter possesses elite size for the wide receiver position. He combines that size with exceptional speed, running a 4.40 forty-time at the combine. At this stage of his career, Streeter offers more upside than the will production.

However, if he's committed to improving his route-running ability and feel for the game, Baltimore will have a future star.

Cincinnati Bengals

22 of 32

Potential Star Player: Kevin Zeitler, Guard

Kevin Zeitler will be one of those players most are unaware of but play at a very high level. He's a tough player who uses proper technique. Zeitler not only does a good job opening running lanes but holding up in pass protection.

His addition will help improve the overall efficiency of the offense. The Cincinnati Bengals should be able to feature a more consistent ground attack, while Andy Dalton will have more time to search for open targets. Just because he's a guard doesn't mean he won't have a major impact on the team. Don't underrate the importance of winning the battle along the line of scrimmage.

Sleeper: Orson Charles, Tight End

Orson Charles isn't built like a traditional tight end, and is closer to a big-bodied wide receiver. However, his quickness and ball skills will make him a tough matchup for defenses. He's the type of player opposing teams will struggle to cover, especially with AJ Green and Jermaine Gresham also on the field.

Cleveland Browns

23 of 32

Potential Star Player: Trent Richardson, Running Back

Obviously, Trent Richardson is the expected star player of the Cleveland Browns draft. He's not only expected to be the top new player, but also the biggest playmaker on the team. Anytime a team drafts a running back in the top-five they expect him to be an instant star.

Richardson's well-rounded ability will allow him to fulfill all expectations. He'll provide the Browns with a consistent running attack, while also breaking of plenty of long runs. However, the little things like solid pass protection and reliable pass-catching ability is what will make him such a special player.

Sleeper: James-Michael Johnson, Linebacker

I had James-Michael Johnson rated as a second-round prospect, and someone capable of making an immediate impact. He's a versatile defender able to lineup at either inside or outside linebacker. His tenacity and closing speed make him a threat to make plays sideline to sideline.

Pittsburgh Steelers

24 of 32

Potential Star Player: Mike Adams, Offensive Tackle

Despite some character concerns, Mike Adams possesses the most upside of any player the Pittsburgh Steelers drafted. He's an athletic tackle with the anchor and strength to open holes in the running game. However, it's his quick feet and balance that make him a high-upside player.

Those quick feet help him reach the edge against speed rushers, and the balance helps him react to counter moves. Because of the top-notch pass rushers in the AFC North, Pittsburgh needs a left tackle capable of protecting the quarterback.

Sleeper: Alameda Ta'amu, Nose Tackle

Eventually the Steelers will need someone to replace Casey Hampton on a full-time basis. Alameda Ta'amu has both the size and anchor to fill that role. Look for Ta'amu to be a part of the rotation this season and take over for Hampton as early as next year.

Ta'amu has more explosiveness than Hampton which might be something that earns him more snaps they expected.

Atlanta Falcons

25 of 32

Potential Star Player: Peter Konz, Center/Guard

Look for Peter Konz to not only provide above-average run blocking and pass protection, but also excellent leadership. Konz's ability to read a defense and properly communicate with his teammates is a very underrated attribute. The entire offense will run more effectively with someone like Konz in place.

However, his ability to generate a push off the line will help the Atlanta Falcons continue their run-oriented offensive attack. This team is at its best when Michael Turner and company can establish a consistent and effective ground attack.

Sleeper: Jonathan Massaquoi, Defensive End

The Atlanta Falcons defense likes their ends to fit the mold of John Abraham, in that they are a bit undersized and quick. Jonathan Massaquoi has both the quickness and suddenness to develop into a consistent threat off the edge. He may need some time to fully develop, but he shows plenty of upside.

Carolina Panthers

26 of 32

Potential Star Player: Luke Kuechly, Linebacker

I fully expect Luke Kuechly to be an annual threat to lead the league in tackles. He has a great feel for the game, and does a good job reading his keys. His instincts combined with underrated athleticism help him reach the football.

Opposing offenses will have a tough time keeping both Kuechly and Jon Beason away from the football. These are two players that will feed off each other and consistently be in position to make a play. Don't count out the leadership factor, as Kuechly will help those around him get better.

Sleeper: Joe Adams, Wide Receiver

Joe Adams is going to give the Carolina Panthers the speedy slot receiver they thought they got when they drafted Armanti Edwards. Unlike Edwards, Adams has a lot of experience running pro-style routes and finding open holes in the defense.

I expect to see Cam Newton and Adams to quickly form a relationship and take advantage of the one-on-one situations brought on by the presence of Steve Smith.

New Orleans Saints

27 of 32

Potential Star Player: Nick Toon, Wide Receiver

If not for injury concerns, Nick Toon could have come off the board much earlier than the fourth round. He has both good size and quickness. His ability to locate open holes in the defense and pluck the ball out of the air makes him a reliable target.

He reminds me a lot of Marques Colston, and could end up developing into that type of contributor. The presence of Drew Brees means any wide receiver on the New Orleans Saints has a chance to put up impressive numbers.

Sleeper: Marcel Jones, Offensive Line

At 6'6" 320 pounds, Marcel Jones has the size needed to succeed in the NFL. However, some injuries durning his college career hurt his overall development. Still, Jones offers some upside as a seventh round pick.

It's tough to overlook the success New Orleans has had with later-round offensive line prospects such as Carl Nicks and Jahri Evans.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

28 of 32

Potential Star Player: Doug Martin, Running Back

I have no doubt that Doug Martin will quickly become the starting running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He's way more talented and versatile than returning starter LeGarrette Blount. Martin is the type of runner that moves the chains and fights for tough yardage.

His combination of quickness and balance make him a well-rounded running back. He's capable of both breaking off a long run and picking up yards between the tackles. Don't be surprised if Martin is in the running for offensive rookie of the year.

Sleeper: Lavonte David, Linebacker

It's hard to call a second-round player a sleeper, but in terms of how successful he could be, Lavonte David is a sleeper. Despite his lack of ideal size, David finds a way to always be around the football. His explosiveness and tenacity make him a threat to make plays from sideline to sideline.

David is going to be one of the steals of this draft, and really emerge as one of the better linebackers in the entire NFL.

Houston Texans

29 of 32

Potential Star Player: Whitney Mercilus, Linebacker

Top-notch pass rushers always get a lot of attention and can quickly develop into stars. Just look at last year's draft; both Von Miller and Aldon Smith quickly made a name for themselves because of their ability to get after the quarterback. Look for Whitney Mercilus to receive the same type of attention as those two players.

The Houston Texans plan on using Mercilus at outside linebacker and let him attack the edge. Having Connor Barwin and Brooks Reed already in place as the starters will allow Mercilus to be used mainly in passing situations. This will help with his transition and help him make an instant impact.

Sleeper: Jared Crick, Defensive Line

Injuries are what caused Jared Crick to drop into the fourth round. However, this is a player that possesses some upside as a five-technique in the Texans defensive line rotation. He'll share time with JJ Watt and Antonio Smith, but mainly as a fatigue-based substitution. However, Smith is 30 years old and will be a free agent in 2014. It could be at this time when Crick will be ready to take over the starting duties.

Indianapolis Colts

30 of 32

Potential Star Player: Andrew Luck, Quarterback

An obvious choice, but Andrew Luck deserves to be mentioned among the rookies with the most potential. We all know about his exceptional talents and football IQ, but it's his poise that will help him develop into a star.

Luck handled the pressure that followed him all of last season. He was faced with the expectations of being labeled the best prospect since John Elway, dealt with the expectations of a Stanford football team looking to win a national championship, all the while knowing he might be one injury away from losing a chance at being the No. 1 overall pick.

It's that ice-cold poise that he showed under pressure that makes him such a special prospect.

Sleeper: Tim Fugger, Linebacker

Tim Fugger will be making the adjustment to linebacker alongside Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney. Fugger isn't ready to unseat either in the starting lineup, but has the potential to make an impact down the road. He has an explosive initial burst and athleticism to develop into a dangerous pass-rushing threat.

Jacksonville Jaguars

31 of 32

Potential Star Player: Justin Blackmon, Wide Receiver

Despite his recent off-the-field problems, Justin Blackmon still has the potential to develop into a dynamic playmaker. His toughness and ability to find open holes in the defense gives him an excellent chance to succeed at the next level.

The fact that the Jacksonville Jaguars are so desperate for a play-making wide receiver means they'll be understanding of Blackmon's mistakes. This latest run in with the law isn't likely to cost him any games, and could be put in the rear-view mirror with a hot start to the season.

Sleeper: Bryan Anger, Punter

Yes, the Jaguars made a mistake by selecting a punter in the third round. However, there's no doubting the leg strength of Bryan Anger. It's also important to remember the important role punters have within the game, especially for a field-position oriented team like the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Tennessee Titans

32 of 32

Potential Star Player: Kendall Wright, Wide Receiver

During his college career, Kendall Wright proved that he knows how to attack a defense. His ability to stretch the field is something the Tennessee Titans desperately need in their offensive attack. This skill set will be especially important when the strong-armed Jake Locker takes control of the team.

Wright's versatility will also be an asset to the offense. He's capable of lining up in both the slot and on the outside. He'll be someone the Titans use in multiple roles to create mismatches. The tandem of Wright and Kenny Britt could produce some big-time numbers.

Sleeper: Zach Brown, Linebacker

Zach Brown received a lot of negative reviews because of his lack of strength and instincts. However, he's athletic enough to overcome some false steps here and there. A few more years spent learning the linebacker position could make Brown a very effective linebacker.

There just aren't many players that possess his type of athleticism and quickness.

EPIC NFL Thanksgiving Slate 🙌

TOP NEWS

Colts Jaguars Football
Rams Seahawks Football
Mississippi Football
Packers Bears Football

TRENDING ON B/R