NFL Preseason Games: Andrew Luck and Most Impressive Rookies in Exhibition Play

Andrew Luck looked like a No. 1 overall pick in his first preseason game. He was sharp and confident on his way to 10-of-16 passing for 188 yards and two TDs. The Colts won the game by the lopsided score of 38-3 as well.

Luck really couldn't have had a more impressive debut. His performance was the first step in making Colts' fans forget about their abysmal 2011 season.

Here are four other rookies who showed why their teams selected them. 

Robert Griffin III—Washington Redskins

RG3 wasn't quite as impressive as Luck, but he made a solid account of himself. He showed the discipline to check down and make plays looking downfield. 

He was 4-of-6 passing for 70 yards and a TD. Not bad production, especially considering he hasn't unleashed his legs yet. 

Vick Ballard—Indianapolis Colts

Ballard was a fifth-round pick, but this RB out of Mississippi State could push Donald Brown for carries. Brown did take a dump-off pass to the house for a 63-yard score, but Ballard had a nice game as well.

He had 28 yards rushing on six carries and an 11-yard reception. This kid can play, and he could be a feature back in the NFL. 

Dont'a Hightower—New England Patriots

When Hightower slipped to the Pats, I said to myself: "New England just got another draft steal."

His four tackles and one hit on the QB won't send him to the Hall of Fame, but Hightower is a beast. He was a load to handle for the New Orleans Saints' O-Line, and he's going to have a solid rookie season in New England. 

Alshon Jeffery—Chicago Bears

Barring an injury to Jay Cutler, the Bears are going to win the NFC North. I know that is a bold prediction, but offensively, the Bears finally have weapons. We all know about Brandon Marshall and Matt Forte, but rookie wide receiver Jeffery is going to be huge.

I wouldn't put it past him to take Devin Hester's starting spot, as I always thought Hester would be better in the slot and handling return duties exclusively.

Jeffery had four receptions for 35 yards in his preseason debut, and he hasn't even played with Cutler yet.

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