Updated NFL Rookie Report for All 32 First-Round Picks
As OTA sessions commenced over the previous month, it was an opportunity for rookies to make a positive first impression.
Some achieved the goal. Others did not. But the spotlight is always a little brighter on those players recently selected in the first round.
This year's class was viewed as the top two quarterback prospects and everyone else. While there is a bit of hyperbole in that statement, the draft didn't truly begin until Jameis Winston and Marcus Mariota were off the board, which allowed the first non-quarterback prospect to be selected.
Yet, the strength of this particular class wasn't the quarterbacks. It's a group of defensive linemen and elite wide receiver prospects that will likely define how this class will be viewed in the future.
A future that could be very promising in the short term.
Multiple first-round rookies impressed during their first days with their respective teams, and more than a handful will likely provide an impact from Day 1 if their performances during OTAs are any indication.
It's still very early in the process, but this is a talented class already turning heads.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: QB Jameis Winston
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers played the same tired (and completely transparent) game with quarterback Jameis Winston that all top prospects must endure.
Even after being selected as the No. 1 overall pick, Winston needed to "earn" the starting spot by working with the second team through the bulk of OTAs.
His role as the backup—behind Mike Glennon, who the team never envisioned as its future last year—didn't last long.
Winston finished OTAs at the first-team quarterback, according to ESPN.com's Pat Yasinskas.
The promotion was due to Winton's progress.
"Football is football," head coach Lovie Smith told Yasinskas, "but it is different (from college): the coverages he's seeing, barking out the plays, and we're asking him to do things at the line of scrimmage—just the overall play of the quarterback. You have to go through that process. He's handling it well."
The Florida State product and Heisman Trophy winner is now the face of the organization. It's only natural he would make a rapid ascension to the top of the team's depth chart.
Winston now needs to prove he belongs there.
2. Tennessee Titans: QB Marcus Mariota
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Despite having one of the remaining unsigned draft picks, the Tennessee Titans can't say enough good things about their new franchise quarterback, Marcus Mariota.
The narrative surrounding Mariota prior to the draft was that he needed time to adjust to an NFL system after playing in the Oregon Ducks' spread scheme. Thus, it was surprising when general manager Ruston Webster said Mariota would get "every opportunity" to start as a rookie, per ProFootballTalk.com's Mike Florio.
But the quarterback quickly picked up the Titans offense and has lived up to every expectation placed on him so far.
Head coach Ken Whisenhunt told the Tennessean's Jim Wyatt what he's already seen in the young quarterback:
"He is tough mentally. From when we did the interview with him at Oregon, he has done nothing to make us think any different about him. There's adversity every day, but that never seems to faze him. That's one of the things you like about him. He has made plays every day.
Marcus is just very driven to get it right. He works a lot outside just the scheduled time studying. He has a lot of questions, which is good.
"
Wide receivers coach Shawn Jefferson raved about Mariota's ability after last week's OTA sessions, per ESPN.com's Paul Kuharsky:
"He is deadly accurate. I am just giddy about his future going forward...
He's the real deal. A couple years ago I was back in Detroit and when Matthew Stafford stepped into the huddle the first time, once I heard his voice and the way he called a play, I said, 'OK, that's a real one right there.' Same way with this one. He's real. He's got the goods.
No. 1, it's his accuracy. No. 2, he's come in and grasped the offense. And No. 3 is the way the guys respond to him, the way he's able to go in that huddle and take control.
"
Mariota is already a favorite among fans, too. Super Mario currently claims the league's hottest-selling jersey.
3. Jacksonville Jaguars: OLB Dante Fowler Jr.
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Within hours of officially starting his NFL career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Dante Fowler Jr. suffered a devastating knee injury.
Fowler tore the ACL in his left knee during his first practice with the team. While it's a blow to the start of his career, the injury wasn't quite as bad as originally feared.
Fox Sport's Mike Garafolo reported the other ligaments in the knee remained intact. The defensive end had successful surgery May 27.
None of this is new regarding Fowler's current status, but he's progressing nicely during the early portions of his rehabilitation.
"I've already started the rehab and taking everything day by day," Fowler told Jacksonville.com's Ryan O'Halloran.
Rehab after a major injury can sometimes feel like limbo for players, but the rookie's teammates are keeping him involved as he continues to heal and readies himself for the 2016 season.
"They've been supporting me and cheering me on, and that's what I'll be able to do for them, too," Fowler said. "I'm going to keep my spirits up, and I'll be fine. I'm ahead of schedule, but we're taking our time with it."
There is absolutely no reason to rush Fowler back. The Jaguars expect him to become a big part of the franchise for a long time, and an inability to contribute during the upcoming season doesn't change anything.
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4. Oakland Raiders: WR Amari Cooper
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Amari Cooper has met and exceeded every expectation placed on him by the Oakland Raiders after the wide receiver was selected fourth overall.
The Alabama product was considered the most polished wide receiver prospect to enter the draft, and that's exactly what the Raiders have seen during the early OTA sessions.
"Real deal," a team source told ESPN.com's Adam Caplan. "Almost no mental errors. Runs great routes, consistent route-runner."
Cooper needs to show a maturity beyond most rookies, because the Raiders expect him to become the No. 1 target in their offense from the onset of his career.
In fact, the organization released last year's leading receiver, James Jones, shortly after drafting Cooper.
Not only will Cooper carry a heavy burden on offense, but he might become a focal point on special teams as well. After seventh-round pick Andre Debose tore an Achilles, the Raiders came to an injury settlement with the young player and released him. Debose was the favorite to be the team's primary returner this fall.
Cooper was seen catching kicks during OTAs, and special teams coach Brad Seely said the fourth overall pick is in the mix for a job, per ESPN.com's Bill Williamson:
"We brought in the young guy from LSU [Trindon Holliday] that, you know, he's got talent, has been talented here in the past in the NFL. So we're giving him an opportunity, too. Amari Cooper is another guy we're working back there. It depends on, you know, what exactly his role is on this football team if he's going to do some of that stuff, because he could because he's got a lot of talent. At this time of the year, you're really just trying to evaluate as many guys as you can.
"
When it's all said and done, Cooper's role on offense will likely limit his special teams contributions, but don't be surprised if the talented receiver returns a kick or two this fall.
5. Washington Redskins: OT Brandon Scherff
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The Washington Redskins approached this year's draft with a different philosophy under new general manager Scot McCloughan. The team's new plan was to become more physical at the point of attack. The addition of offensive lineman Brandon Scherff with the fifth overall pick was a major step in the right direction.
Scherff, who won the Outland Trophy as Iowa's starting left tackle, is projected to start at right tackle for the Redskins.
The former Hawkeye was generally viewed as the best offensive lineman in this year's class, and he's already shown during OTAs that he's prepared for the professional game.
Quarterback Robert Griffin III discussed Scherff's ability to adapt to the NFL with 247Sports.com's Jamie Oakes:
"He's learning the game is faster. The guys are bigger and might be a little more complex, but once he learns the offense and all the terms, and everything, it'll slow down for him. And he'll be okay.
I'm a believer that if you did it in college, you can do it in the pros. I believe in him. I believe in the rest of the guys up front. He's going to bring that tenacity and that finishing mindset. He's not going to be discouraged, no matter what happens.
"
Even with the addition of Scherff, the Redskins offensive line isn't expected to become a modern-day version of the Hogs, but the rookie did catch the attention of one of the team's former greats.
"You can just tell the guy's the ultimate offensive lineman," Raleigh McKenzie, who currently serves as a scout for the Oakland Raiders, told the Washington Post's Jake Russell. "He's a gritty guy. He's a tough guy."
Gritty and tough were exactly what the team needed along its offensive line, and Scherff will surely provide both.
6. New York Jets: DE Leonard Williams
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Where exactly does Leonard Williams fit in a loaded New York Jets defensive line rotation?
The odds are against the USC product starting as a rookie due to the presence of both Sheldon Richardson and Muhammad Wilkerson. As such, his early experience as a professional has been a little different than what he grew accustomed to in college.
"It's definitely different," Williams told ESPN.com's Rich Cimini. "When I was at USC, I was The Guy in the room. Now I'm starting from the bottom. I'm not used to it, but I'm definitely rolling with it. I know my role."
Despite the adjustment, the defensive end's talent was still apparent during the team sessions.
Richardson described his initial impression of Williams with Cimini:
"He's still a rookie. Has a lot to learn, but he's going to be great. He's going to be good, he's going to be good. His finesse game is up there. Can't wait to see him in pads and how he grows up. We have to throw him into the fire. That's how it goes. In pads, guys can hold you, do more dirty stuff to you. Can't wait to see him in that situation.
"
Williams' talent should be apparent even during these early stages. The defensive end was generally considered the No. 1 overall prospect in the class, and the Jets got major value by selecting him with the sixth pick.
As the Jets coaching staff figures out ways to get Williams on the field, the defensive coaches are currently using him at left end in the team's base packages and at nose tackle in pass-rushing situations.
Williams wasn't simply viewed as a valuable addition this year, but he becomes an automatic replacement for Richardson, Wilkerson or even Damon Harrison in the coming years if any of them were to leave the team via free agency.
While the rookie defensive end's full impact might not be felt this season due to the overabundance of talent along the Jets defensive line, he will still make his presence known this fall and beyond.
7. Chicago Bears: WR Kevin White
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As Amari Cooper is everything the Oakland Raiders hoped he would be, Kevin White's progression with the Chicago Bears has been much slower.
The biggest difference between the two is that Cooper needs to be "the man" in Oakland, while White can sit back and learn from teammates like Alshon Jeffery.
White received most of his snaps during OTAs with the Bears' second-team offense.
"You don't really want to rush it too much," the wide receiver told the Sports Xchange (via KSPR 33 ABC). "There's a lot on me right now. It'll happen slowly but surely. It'll all come together."
Cooper and White competed to become the No. 1 wide receiver selected in April. Cooper's polished game was the deciding factor when he came off the board first, but White continues to work very hard to refine his game after playing in West Virginia's simplistic passing attack.
"I'm hard on myself a lot," White told the Chicago Tribune's Rich Campbell. "I just don't want one play to beat me up twice. That's what I've got to get better at."
White has a major supporter in his teammate.
"He's a great player," Jeffery told the Chicago Sun-Times' Patrick Finley. "He's an explosive player. We can't wait for the season. What he's going to do on the field is going to be great."
As the mental hurdles get fewer and farther between, White's natural ability will take over and his talent can be fully realized. His combination of size and speed originally made him a top-10 selection, but there are learning curves for all rookies and it might take White longer than some to pick up on the nuances of playing wide receiver.
8. Atlanta Falcons: OLB Vic Beasley
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Twelve rookies remained unsigned Friday after Vic Beasley finally agreed to a deal with the Atlanta Falcons.
Rookie contracts are now slotted and long holdouts are a thing of the past, but it doesn't mean teams aren't a little anxious when their top prospects haven't been signed, sealed and delivered.
The timing of Beasley's deal proved to be of little consequence since he missed this past week's OTAs due to a lingering shoulder injury. His lack of presence on the field didn't stop defensive coordinator Richard Smith from heaping praise on the neophyte pass-rusher, per ESPN.com's Vaughn McClure:
"I hate to relate him to somebody else...he's got great speed and quickness, very similar to Von Miller. I'm not saying he's a Von Miller. You've got to go out and earn those things. But I think if you talk to Vic, he would tell you that [Miller] is one of the players who he's watched over the years. But he does have that elite quickness, very similar to what Von Miller had when he came out.
"
Smith certainly knows whether or not Beasley stacks up with Miller since the coordinator served as the Denver Broncos linebackers coach from the onset of Miller's career.
A draft pick with the potential to develop into a Miller-esque pass-rusher is an exciting proposition for any team, but even more so for the Falcons, one of the worst teams at getting to the quarterback last season.
9. New York Giants: OT Ereck Flowers
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Ereck Flowers was selected by the New York Giants with the intention of solidifying a porous offensive line.
He was meant to do so as the team's starting right tackle, but the best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry. For the Giants, the team's projected starting offensive line didn't even make it to training camp without a major injury.
In May, left tackle Will Beatty suffered a torn pectoral muscle during workouts. He will miss five to six months, according to NFL.com's Judy Battista.
As a result, a 21-year-old rookie who was supposed to ease into the right tackle position will take over the blind side.
Flowers is now taking a crash course on how to protect quarterback Eli Manning from one of the game's most important spots, per NorthJersey.com's Art Stapleton.
"Ereck Flowers getting reps at LT with 1st and staying there w/ 2nd team, an attempt to speed up his learning curve. #NYG
— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) June 8, 2015"
The Miami product was projected to the strong side because of his intimidating size (6'6" and 329 pounds), strength at the point of attack, a lack or refinement in his technique and an overall nasty disposition.
That project can be thrown out the window.
It's a good thing for the Giants that Flowers is completely comfortable at left tackle.
"Ive been playing left tackle since 11th grade, and I've always loved it," he told the New York Times' Bill Pennington. "I feel I have a high ceiling, and I'm trying to reach it."
There will be growing pains, and his teammates already understand the talented rookie will experience bumps in the road this season.
Marshall Newhouse will take over for Flowers at right tackle, and has plenty of advice for the rookie, per ESPN.com's Dan Graziano:
"You have to understand that it's going to get ugly. You look at the tape of the guys playing tackle in these college spread offenses, and it looks real pretty. You get out on your block, one-on-one with your guy, and you lock him up and it all works. But up here, when you look at the tape at the end of a play—even one that was blocked well, with everybody doing their job—it looks ugly.
"
It's now up to Flowers to make sure those ugly instances are few and far between.
10. St. Louis Rams: RB Todd Gurley
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One of the most anticipated rookie debuts will eventually come from St. Louis Rams running back Todd Gurley. However, Gurley's timetable to actually make an appearance this season is a complete unknown.
It's unlikely the draft's top running back will be available for the season opener against the Seattle Seahawks after he suffered a torn ACL in his left knee during a Nov. 15 contest against the Auburn Tigers.
The Rams still made Gurley a top-10 selection despite the setback, which should provide an indication of his overall talent level and the type of difference-maker he could potentially become in their offense.
As such, the team won't hasten his return to the field. Right now, Gurley's continued rehab is the most important part of the offseason process, and the Rams are happy with his progress.
"Todd's doing a great job with his rehab," head coach Jeff Fisher told ESPN.com's Nick Wagoner. "He's very anxious. He's probably a little frustrated, probably deep down inside not really happy right now, but he's anxious to get out there right now, so that's going well."
An ACL injury typically takes at least eight to nine months to fully heal. The running back is now seven months removed from the incident, but he's still not ready for football activities.
"I feel good. I just can't play football right now," Gurley said. "I'm running around and doing agility stuff. It's just day by day."
There isn't a reason to hurry when the Rams already have Tre Mason on the roster to carry the load until Gurley is cleared to play. Plus, the Georgia product is "still a ways away from practicing", according to Jim Thomas of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch.
11. Minnesota Vikings: CB Trae Waynes
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When the Vikings spent the 11th overall pick on Trae Waynes, expectations were heaped on the Michigan State product to team with Xavier Rhodes as the team's starting cornerbacks.
Two things could stand in Waynes' way.
First, the rookie needs to pick up the defense quickly.
"He's got work to do, like all young guys do, like all of the guys do," head coach Mike Zimmer said at the start of OTAs, according to ESPN.com's Ben Goessling. "He shows flashes of really good stuff."
As the practice sessions continued, Waynes improved. Defensive coordinator George Edwards discussed how the team is using the young corner with TwinCities.com's Chris Tomasson:
"He's doing good. We're putting a lot on his plate by playing him inside at the nickel and playing him outside at corner. So from that aspect, it's a lot of different concepts that he's learning, asking him to do some things that he probably hasn't done, especially playing him inside on the slot. For everything right now, I think it's kind of running together a little bit for him, but he has been working and doing a good job.
"
By playing the rookie inside and outside, it leaves an opportunity for veteran Captain Munnerlyn to retain his starting spot.
In order to expedite his learning curve, Waynes will spend his time between OTAs and training camp working with one of the game's best, Patrick Peterson. Waynes told Tomasson he hopes to pick up some things.
"Some tricks of the vet," Waynes said. "Because the vets, they know all the concepts and all this kind of stuff, like the little things that help slow the game down to make it easier. So hopefully that's something he can show me."
It's unlikely that the player Waynes is now will show up during training camp. He still has work to do, but his initiative to learn from veterans during his down time will only make him better.
12. Cleveland Browns: NT Danny Shelton
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The NFL has a rule that recent draft picks aren't allowed to participate in OTAs if their school has yet to let out for the year. Since the University of Washington operates under the quarters system, Shelton didn't officially graduate until Friday, which was entirely OK by him.
"It's something on my checklist I need to do and it's something my mom required for me," Shelton told ClevelandBrowns.com's Andrew Gribble. "She wanted me to have a degree before I went into the NFL. This is my way of kind of making her even more happy."
Shelton, who was the first member of the Washington Huskies football team to be named a first-team Academic All-American in 23 years, earned his degree in anthropology.
The Browns coaching staff, meanwhile, is anxiously awaiting his return to the team.
Cleveland finished 32nd against the run last year, and what the coaches saw in Shelton during rookie minicamp has them salivating over his potential.
"(Shelton) plays the game with the type of energy that you can't fake," defensive line coach Anthony Weaver said, per the Orange and Brown Report's Fred Greetham. "He plays every snap like it's his last play. Guys that big (are rare). You cannot just manufacture that (effort)."
At 340-plus pounds, the nose tackle still played over 900 snaps last season for the Huskies, according to ClevelandBrowns.com's Kevin Jones. His talent extends beyond being a simple two-gap run-stuffer, too.
"He's a big guy who can collapse the pocket," Weaver said. "The way he collapses the pocket will help us (in pass rush). I think he has all the potential in the world to be a three-down (player)."
Concerns arose over Shelton's ability to say on the field when he ran a 5.59-second 40-yard dash with a 1.90-second 10-yard split at the NFL combine in Indianapolis.
But Weaver downplayed those numbers in his conversation with Greetham:
"His (40-yard time) doesn't concern me at all. At the end of the day, put on the film.
Put on the tape. He plays a lot faster than his 40 time (might show). The most important thing is what type of fast (he is). There are a lot of 4.8, 4.7 guys who don't give the effort (that Shelton does).
You can't measure someone's heart.
"
An educated man-mountain holds the fate of the Browns defense in his bear-like hands. Once Shelton is back in Berea, Ohio, Cleveland's coaches will finally get to see how he fits into their plans this season.
13. New Orleans Saints: OT Andrus Peat
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This past week was life-changing for New Orleans Saints offensive tackle Andrus Peat.
Not only did he graduate from prestigious Stanford University, but he officially began his career as a professional athlete by participating in Saints OTAs.
Now, it's all about Peat's transition to the professional ranks and whether or not he can unseat veteran Zach Strief as the Saints' starting right tackle.
Head coach Sean Payton expects Peat's transition to be relatively smooth.
"He's coming from a pro system," Payton said, per NOLA.com's Evan Woodbery. "I think there will be some catching up to do and yet at the same time, knowing him, he's a pretty sharp guy. He just graduated from Stanford, so I'm sure he's had a few more challenges that are a little bit more difficult than that."
The rookie will receive help from an unlikely candidate. Strief will mentor his eventual replacement, according to ESPN.com's Mike Triplett:
"As of right now, my mindset is I'm still a starter. No one's told me otherwise. And yet, we've talked about it, you got a guy who you have to bring along, he has to learn and get reps.
Our jobs right now [as veterans] are to get better and help those guys along.
"
It'll be difficult for Peat to take over for Strief since the veteran has been one of the NFL's best strong-side blockers in recent years, but it's only a matter of time. If he proves to be too talented to keep off the field during training camp, the Saints will insert him into the lineup.
But right now, Peat can bask in his accomplishments in the realm of academia and try to pick up the Saints offense as quickly as he can.
14. Miami Dolphins: WR DeVante Parker
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The selection of wide receiver DeVante Parker was a dream scenario for the Miami Dolphins.
After the talented target become the 14th overall pick in the draft, he showed why he was considered on the same level as Amari Cooper and Kevin White.
The Miami Herald's Armando Salguero described Parker as a "mismatch nightmare" during the team's first OTA sessions.
Unfortunately, Salguero also reported on June 5 that Parker required surgery on his left foot. A source told Salguero that Parker is expected back before the season opener against the Washington Redskins, though.
Dolphins Executive Vice President of Football Operations Mike Tannenbaum confirmed the return date.
"He's going to be out for a while now with his foot but should be ready to go for opening day," Tannenbaum said.
NFL Network's Ian Rapoport added to the initial report: "DeVante Parker had a screw (from a broken toe as a [senior at University of Louisville] replaced in his foot after having pain yesterday. Simple procedure."
Parker missed the first seven games of his senior season due to the aforementioned foot injury. Upon his return, he was indefensible, amassing a whopping 855 yards in only six games.
The former Cardinal actually averaged more receiving yards per game than Amari Cooper and Kevin White last season.
Due to the repetitions Parker will miss during training camp, he'll fall behind to a degree. Once he gets up to full speed, though, Parker has showed during his collegiate career and his initial practices with the Dolphins that he can be a legitimate difference-maker.
15. San Diego Chargers: RB Melvin Gordon
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It's difficult to find a deficiency in a prospect's game after he rushes for 2,587 yards during his final season on campus, but Melvin Gordon wasn't viewed as a complete running back prospect.
It's a given that Gordon will take over as the San Diego Chargers' new feature back, but his time with the Wisconsin Badgers didn't shed much light on his ability to be a true three-down back.
During his three seasons in Madison, Gordon caught only 22 passes. But early returns in the Chargers passing game have been very positive.
"[Quarterback Philip] Rivers has been impressed so far with Gordon's ability to catch the ball out of the backfield, saying he hasn't dropped a pass so far during offseason work," ESPN.com's Eric D. Williams reported.
Soft hands is only part of the equation, though. What usually keeps rookie running backs off the field is an inability to correctly identify blitz protections.
Gordon admitted to NFL Network's LaDainian Tomlinson, who was recently named to the Chargers Hall of Fame, that he's struggled in this particular area.
"It's been good. It's been a little difficult, though," the rookie said. "The game is a lot faster. D-linemen are a lot faster. You've got a new playbook. There's a lot more that goes into protection."
Gordon may not be a complete back at this time, but he'll still be a weapon for the Chargers this fall. Once he gains a better understanding of the passing game and protections, he could prove to be unstoppable.
16. Houston Texans: CB Kevin Johnson
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Cornerback Kevin Johnson has quietly gone about his business since he became a member of the Houston Texans, but he also established a positive first impression.
The Texans aren't desperate to add Johnson to the starting mix with veterans Johnathan Joseph and Kareem Jackson still on the roster. However, the rookie's football intelligence and ability to adapt to situations made head coach Bill O'Brien take notice.
Johnson came prepared from the start of OTAs.
"He's a very bright player," O'Brien said, per HoustonTexans.com's Drew Dougherty. "If you ask him questions in the morning meeting, he really has obviously studied the night before. He's working out on his own and doing things to help stay up on material that's being installed."
A graduate of Wake Forest should be expected to pick things up quickly, but Johnson's physical skills also stood out, particularly his ability to drive on the football.
"This is a guy who's a very quick guy," O'Brien said. "He's a tall guy. He's a guy who has really good transition ability. He's got what I call really good recover transition. If he's getting beat, he can stick his foot in the ground and really make up a lot of ground."
Johnson's rapid adjustment to the professional game shouldn't come as a surprise. As ProFootballTalk.com's Mike Florio noted just prior to the NFL draft, "multiple teams" rated the Wake Forest product as the top cornerback in the class.
The Texans are already seeing early returns from the silky-smooth cover man, and his inclusion to the team will bolster a pass defense that finished 21st overall last season.
17. San Francisco 49ers: DE Arik Armstead
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With the way the 49ers' offseason is progressing, Arik Armstead could find himself in a starting role before too long.
After multiple surprise retirements, no one knows exactly how Jim Tomsula's squad will be constructed this fall.
Armstead should immediately contribute as part of the team's defensive line rotation. It's unlikely he'll start, though, with Darnell Dockett and Quinton Dial set to take over for the retired Justin Smith and Ray McDonald, who left via free agency.
There was an opportunity for Armstead to become a bigger part of the team's plans during OTAs, but he could not participate in practices since the University of Oregon had yet to finish its final exams.
As such, the defensive end was forced to wait at his home in Sacramento before he could join the team Friday.
Despite being an early entrant to the draft and forsaking his studies (at this time), the same rule applies to Armstead as well as prospects ready to earn their degrees.
There was nothing the Oregon product could do but bide his time.
"I like to keep myself busy," Armstead told the Sacramento Bee's Matt Barrows. "This rule has it that I can't participate, so I try to stay busy as best I can.”
Armstead added, "I'm a football player now. And I want to be focused on the season and playing football. I'm not in school right now. I think I have plenty of time (to get a degree). But that's not my main focus now.”
Once the 6'7", 292-pound defender is fully integrated into the program, he'll be a welcome addition to the 49ers' dwindling roster.
18. Kansas City Chiefs: CB Marcus Peters
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Marcus Peters is yet another prospect waiting for his time to come.
The talented, albeit combustible, cornerback laid in wait for his opportunity to join the Kansas City Chiefs after the organization made him the 18th pick in the draft.
Like former teammate Danny Shelton, Peters wasn't allowed to participate in recent OTAs due to the NFL's rule that rookies cannot participate in the sessions if their schools haven't completed their final exams.
Peters may have been an early entrant in the 2015 NFL draft, but the University of Washington didn't hold its graduation until late last week.
Due to missing vital repetitions, Chiefs defensive coordinator Bob Sutton told ESPN.com's Adam Teicher that there is some concern about Peters' development:
"You just hope they can get as many reps when they come back to the mandatory camp as they can. And it's just the way it is. There is nothing really they can do about it and nothing we can do about it, so you've just got to live with that, and those are the cards you're dealt with. We're going to coach them up hard and they'll come back prepared and go like that. And the biggest thing is you get that technique base that you'd love to have. But that's the way it is and we've just got to adjust.
"
But the rookie cornerback won't simply rely on coaches as he plays catch-up with the playbook. At least one fellow defensive back plans to help Peters adjust as quickly as possible.
"It's a big responsibility because when you're coming in trying to learn, the coaches might explain it one way, but then the players might be able to simplify it even more," Phillip Gaines told KCChiefs.com's B.J. Kissel. "I'll always try and make it simple as possible, let them know you don't have to overthink it. I'll definitely be ready to help them out."
Mandatory minicamp starts Tuesday for the Chiefs, and Peters will get his first real taste of being a part of the organization.
19. Cleveland Browns: C Cameron Erving
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Cameron Erving now has a new home in Cleveland after being selected 19th overall, but he won't truly be settled with the Browns for some time.
It's because the one thing the Florida State product can expect is becoming the offensive line's most versatile performer. Erving already received repetitions at right and left tackle with the first-team offense during OTAs.
Yet, he is most often projected as a guard, particularly as John Greco's replacement. Greco, who started 40 games for the Browns over the past three seasons, understands that no one's job is safe.
The veteran blocker discussed Erving's inclusion to the offensive line with ClevelandBrowns.com's Andrew Gribble:
"People are like, ‘Oh, you're benched,' or, ‘Oh, you're gone.' It just creates competition. I have to play hard no matter what. I have to essentially act like there's a first-rounder every year. You can't just become satisfied. There's never been a point in my career where I'm like, ‘OK, I'm the guy. There's no one knocking on the door behind me. It's just me and you can relax.' When you do that, you're going to play bad.
"
If Pro Bowl center Alex Mack decides to opt out of his contract after this season, Erving will then find a home snapping the football to whomever is the Browns' starting quarterback. Until that moment, he'll continue to play all over the offensive line despite concerns about stunting the rookie's growth.
Head coach Mike Pettine addressed this very issue, per Gribble:
"I could see the potential danger, but I think that's a risk worth taking. In our evaluation of him coming out, he certainly proved that he was able to do it in college. Just knowing the kid and his skill set and his ability to learn, there's no reason to think that he won't be able to do it. There will be signs when it's getting to be too much, and hopefully as coaches we can pick those up.
I think any time you have versatile guys who can play multiple positions that always puts you in a position to put your best 11 out there.
"
Erving's summer will be spent attempting to establish a comfort level, whether it's at guard, right tackle or any other position along the offensive line.
20. Philadelphia Eagles: WR Nelson Agholor
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While Chip Kelly's personality dominates the Philadelphia sports scene, the Eagles head coach remains consistent in the types of players he wants in his system.
Wide receiver, in particular, has been under tremendous scrutiny after DeSean Jackson was unceremoniously handed his walking papers over a year ago, and Jeremy Maclin seamlessly replaced him only to sign with the Kansas City Chiefs during free agency.
Yet for the changes the team endured, its top wide receivers produced at a very similar level each of the last two seasons in Kelly's offensive scheme.
With Maclin out of the equation, Nelson Agholor was selected with the 20th overall pick to become the Eagles latest playmaker, and he hasn't disappointed, the Eagles' former director of pro personnel and current ESPN analyst Louis Riddick tweeted.
"Two others standing out big time thus far in off-season work...rookie 1st rounder WR Nelson Agholor and vet DB Walter Thurmond. #makingplays
— Louis Riddick (@LRiddickESPN) June 8, 2015"
Not only did the USC product impress Riddick when he attended OTAs, the safety he mentioned in the tweet felt the same way about Agholor, per PhillyVoice.com's Jimmy Kempski.
"Receiver who has impressed Walter Thurmond the most so far: Nelson Agholor
— Jimmy Kempski (@JimmyKempski) June 9, 2015"
Agholor isn't a deep threat the caliber of Jackson or even Maclin, but the young wide receiver can be dynamic with the ball in his hands after the catch.
Last season, Kelly experienced success with another rookie receiver in Jordan Matthews. Jerry Rice's cousin finished second on the team with 67 receptions, 872 yards and eight touchdown catches.
Matthews is now helping Agholor transition to the pro game.
"We've developed a great relationship," Agholor told NJ.com's Matt Lombardo. "Rarely do you come into a situation where the guy in front of you who's proven himself opens his arms to you like Jordan has."
With Agholor and Matthews on the same page, the Eagles have the makings of a dynamic young wide receiver corps.
21. Cincinnati Bengals: OT Cedric Ogbuehi
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The Cincinnati Bengals weren't in a rush to sign first-round pick Cedric Ogbuehi, and they didn't need to be.
Ogbuehi is still recovering from a torn ACL he suffered Dec. 29 during the third quarter of the AutoZone Liberty Bowl against the West Virginia Mountaineers.
The two sides finally agreed to terms Thursday to round out this year's Bengals draft class. However, the organization has no plans to rush Ogbuehi onto the field and into the lineup.
"There's no timeline, there's no race," Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis said in May, per ESPN.com's Coley Harvey. "But he's able to stay up to speed with the things mentally and watch the techniques. He can't go out and execute them on the field right now, but he'll be fine when the time comes when he's released from that."
The Bengals can be as patient with Ogbuehi as they want to be this season. With Andrew Whitworth and Andre Smith still on the roster, plus the addition of Jake Fisher in the second round of the draft, it's highly unlikely that Cincinnati will need Ogbuehi at any point this fall.
The current plan is to place the Texas A&M product on the PUP list, and he'll have to sit out at least the first six weeks of the season before he can be added to the active roster, according to Bengals.com's Geoff Hobson.
"That's the plan. Bring him along slowly," Hobson wrote. "You won't see him in pads until most likely the seventh week of the regular season. But it seems that they think he's rehabbed well enough that he should be able to contribute in a limited role after that point."
The Bengals coaching staff is willing to wait for the crown jewel of its 2015 class to take the field. After all, Lewis said during Ogbuehi's post-signing press conference that he's "a guy who's worth a little wait," per an official team release (via CincyJungle.com's Josh Kirkendall).
22. Pittsburgh Steelers: OLB Alvin Dupree
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James Harrison might (insanely) believe he can play well past the age of 40, but the future of the Pittsburgh Steelers defense falls on the shoulders of fellow outside linebacker Alvin "Bud" Dupree.
The Kentucky product was expected to be a high pick before he fell into Pittburgh's proverbial lap with the 22nd pick.
Dupree was one of the more interesting prospects in this year's class due to his freakish athletic ability, but he never put it all together during his three years as a starter in the SEC.
However, he asked all of the right questions during OTAs, according to his position coach.
"He wants to know 'Is this good enough, did I do that right?'," outside linebackers coach Joey Porter—a mighty fine player for the Steelers during his time—said, per PennLive.com's Jacob Klinger. "And when you get guys asking those questions, you know it means a lot to 'em."
This year's first-round pick will be a part of an outside linebacker rotation that will include Harrison, Arthur Moats and former top pick Jarvis Jones.
Moats, who signed with the Steelers as a free agent last offseason, received the bulk of first-team repetitions, but Dupree isn't backing down from any type of competition.
"I mean we're asking him to go out there and play football at a high level, pick up the concept of the defense and learn it in a fashionable amount of time for us to be ready to play, and he accepts the challenge," Porter said.
The athletic potential is already there, it's simply a matter of Dupree understanding the defense and his role.
"Everything is starting to click," Dupree told ESPN.com's Jeremy Fowler last week. "(My goal is) to show them I know the plays and show them they can trust me."
23. Denver Broncos: DE Shane Ray
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Outside of the Dallas Cowboys' Randy Gregory, no other prospect had a worse predraft experience than Shane Ray.
First, the reigning SEC Defensive Player of the Year, who led the Missouri Tigers with 14.5 sacks last fall, was forced by doctors to sit out the NFL combine in Indianapolis due to a toe injury. Ray then didn't test quite as well as expected during his personal pro day. Finally, the pass-rusher was cited for marijuana possession just three days before the start of the NFL draft.
The Denver Broncos still felt Ray's talent superseded his recent issues, and the team even traded up to acquire the defender's services.
Ray will appear in court June 30 to address his legal issues, and a recent quad injury shouldn't stop him from participating in practice this week.
"I was coming back last week, just kind of pushing a little bit, and had a little tweak," Ray told DenverBroncos.com's Andrew Mason. "It's nothing serious at all. But as far as coming back from my foot injury, they wanted to make sure that there's nothing else that slows me down."
When a player is injured, he must remain mentally sharp since he's not receiving his share of repetitions. Ray continued to impress defensive coordinator Wade Phillips with his grasp of the game.
"He's so sharp on the board and in watching film, and then on the sideline, we have a coach with him every play, and he tells the coach what he's supposed to do on that play," Phillips said.
Another injury setback, albeit a minor one, isn't a major issue for the Broncos since Ray is expected to be a part-time player this fall behind the talented duo of DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller.
24. Arizona Cardinals: OT D.J. Humphries
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Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians is old-school in his approach to rookies. When Arians says the young players have to earn their playing time, he means it. It's not simply a talking point before he hands the job to a first-year player.
D.J. Humphries is expected to compete with Bobby Massie and eventually earn the starting nod at right tackle this season. The Florida product is a superior athlete and a welcome addition to the Cardinals offensive line, but he was also an early entrant who required a crash course on becoming a professional.
First, the former No. 1 offensive tackle recruit in the nation needed to add nearly 20 pounds to his frame to get to 307 pounds at the NFL combine.
Once he showed he could maintain bulk, Humphries became a serious first-round candidate and, eventually, the Cardinals' top choice.
Arians, however, didn't go easy on the talented offensive tackle at the onset of his professional career.
"He needs to mature a little bit," the Cardinals coach said on May 26, per ArizonaSports.com's Adam Green.
Humphries admitted it was a major adjustment after things came easily to him in college:
"That might just be a natural thing, me just trying to mature. Being a young guy, I'm just trying to learn that you've got to focus all the time. Not like in college, where you can just kick back and relax when you're not in. Even when you're not in, you've got to be getting mental reps. I think that's probably the main thing.
"
As the rookie became more comfortable, immediate growth in his game was evident.
"He really had a good last week," Arians said, per ESPN.com's Josh Weinfuss. "He settled down a little bit. He knows how serious this is."
Humphries was arguably the most athletic offensive tackle in this year's class, which gives him a natural advantage over Massie as a pass protector. But consistency throughout practice will be key for the rookie to eventually take over as the team's starting right tackle.
25. Carolina Panthers: OLB Shaq Thompson
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The NFL rule that prohibits recent draft picks from participating in OTAs until a school's final exams are compete also had an effect on Carolina Panthers linebacker Shaq Thompson.
Thompson, who was an early entrant to this year's draft, actually finished his finals early and was able to participate in OTAs last week.
"It's not really frustrating because I had school," Thompson told the Charlotte Observer's Jonathan Jones. "School comes first. I had to get that done. I really wanted to be out here, but at least I got two days in to mentally prepare and get reps."
Right now, it's all about adjusting to the pro game for the hybrid linebacker.
Assistant head coach Steve Wilks led Panthers practice Thursday instead of head coach Ron Rivera, who was attending his daughter's college graduation. Afterward, he talked about Thompson's early performance with the entire squad:
"I thought he played well. It's going to take some time for him to catch up with the other guys, but he's a smart guy. [Linebackers] coach [Al] Holcomb is working with him extra in the afternoons as well as in the morning, so he's going to pick it up. You see his athleticism is outstanding, and his movement. He's going to make a lot of plays for us this year."
"It's tough to get here late, but what he's done so far has been great. He's eager to learn. He works hard and he's got a great attitude. That's a good start for him."
I'll help him as much as I can. He's a quick learner. All the linebackers will get him caught up.
26. Baltimore Ravens: WR Breshad Perriman
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Jerome Bettis, who will go into the Pro Football Hall of Fame this year and also serves as an ESPN analyst, recently said during a telecast (via NFL on ESPN) that he felt Breshad Perriman is "the perfect player for this [Baltimore Ravens] offense."
One thing is certain: Quarterback Joe Flacco won't be able to overthrow this year's first-round pick. Perriman is an ideal deep threat with his size (6'2" and 212 pounds) and 4.2-second 40-yard-dash speed.
In that capacity, Perriman has been everything the team expected during OTAs. New offensive coordinator Marc Trestman discussed the wide receiver's performance during the practice sessions, per the Baltimore Sun's Aaron Wilson:
"What we saw on tape is what we are getting. We really liked what we saw on tape, obviously. And what we’re getting is a guy who is continually improving. He has a good understanding of the game. He’s not just a fast guy, he’s a smart guy.
He is going to learn how to use patience and use other aspects of playing the position, his size, his hand speed, to get off the line of scrimmage. So, that’s really awesome to see that he’s a quick learner, and he’s catching the ball and making plays just like we saw him do on tape.
"
The Ravens need Perriman to adjust quickly due to roster turnover this offseason. Torrey Smith served as Flacco's primary deep threat for the past four seasons, but he's now a member of the San Francisco 49ers. Jacoby Jones also left during free agency.
If Perriman continues to look like the guy the Ravens evaluated during the draft process, he'll earn a starting spot opposite Steve Smith Sr. and become an instant-impact rookie.
27. Dallas Cowboys: CB Byron Jones
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As last week came to a close, the Dallas Cowboys locked up their first-round pick, cornerback Byron Jones, to a four-year deal. It's now time for the UConn product to carve out a role in the Cowboys secondary, whether he plays cornerback or safety.
Jones already took some snaps at safety during OTAs, and defensive coordinator Rod Marinelli was pleased with his performance.
"He's done a solid job," the coach told the Dallas Morning News' Jon Machota. "He's smart. A big plus for us; it gives us great flexibility."
Bryan Broaddus, a former NFL scout and writer for DallasCowboys.com, couldn't help but notice Jones' versatility:
"I continue to be impressed by the growth of Byron Jones as a player and how he has responded to every challenge these coaches have put in front of him. In three weeks, Jones has lined up at every position in the secondary. He has played both corners, slot and now safety. On Wednesday, he lined up deep and then two plays later moved down in the box as a linebacker in coverage. What I really liked about Jones' day is that when he was lined up deep you saw that confidence in his communication and reactions—which you don't always find from a rookie in the secondary.
"
Jones was considered an ascending prospect as the NFL draft neared due to two factors. First, his athletic testing during the predraft process was off the charts. And second, the cornerback suffered a torn labrum during his senior season, which prevented him from finishing his final campaign.
The injury likely allowed the Cowboys to land Jones a little later in the draft than he might have originally gone had he been fully healthy and tested the way he did. Dallas should benefit from this fall when Jones is playing multiple positions.
28. Detroit Lions: OG Laken Tomlinson
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An offensive lineman, particularly an interior blocker, is the least sexy pick a team can make during the first round of the NFL draft. Yet, the league's best teams regularly invest high draft picks in the trenches.
The Detroit Lions decided to become more physical along their offensive line, and Laken Tomlinson is an ideal fit in the team's system opposite Larry Warford.
First things first, though.
The organization finally came to terms with the 323-pound blocker Thursday.
"It's great," head coach Jim Caldwell said after the rookie signed his deal, per the Detroit Free Press' Dave Birkett. "The good thing is he's been here all along."
During his time at Duke, the Jamaican-born blocker was entrenched at right guard, but he'll make the switch to the left side with the Lions.
Despite the change, Tomlinson is viewed as an advanced rookie already prepared to contribute. At the very least, Warford views his counterpart as being further along at this point in his career than he was, and the young veteran started every game during his rookie campaign.
"He probably is," Warford said, per ESPN.com's Michael Rothstein. "I was a mess when I came in. I don't know what was going on. It was like, 'God, I don't know what to do anymore, why am I here?'"
Warford added, "He's taking everything in stride and he's doing great, you know. Mentally, physically, he's the complete package."
Tomlinson has aspirations of one day becoming a doctor, and his intelligence translates to the field, according to Warford:
"He doesn't make a lot of mental mistakes. The last two years in the league I've seen the biggest thing is guys messing things up in the head because it's hard to learn. A lot of people don't understand how complicated offensive line play is mentally.
He's come in and he hasn't made many mental mistakes at all and he's a hard worker. He's going to be really good.
"
The Lions hit a home run when they chose Warford in the third round of the 2013 NFL draft, and it appears the team is on the right track to repeat their good fortune with Tomlinson at the other guard spot.
29. Indianapolis Colts: WR Phillip Dorsett
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Indianapolis Colts general manager Ryan Grigson has done everything in his power to surround franchise quarterback Andrew Luck with talent.
The first-round selection of wide receiver Phillip Dorsett is yet another weapon opposing defenses will have to account for this season. Dorsett has eye-popping speed, and early returns from practice already have team officials wondering just how good the Miami product can be in the Colts offense.
Opponents certainly won't be excited to game plan against this explosive vertical threat with 4.2-second 40-yard-dash speed, as Fox Sports' Ross Jones reported that "one scout believes[...]Dorsett has 'more upside' than T.Y. Hilton 'once Dorsett gets the offense down...'"
With Hilton, Andre Johnson, Donte Moncrief and Duron Carter already on the roster, Dorsett's opportunities appear to be limited. Yet, the team might do whatever it takes to get him on the field this fall and use him as an offensive weapon.
"He's going to be exciting to watch," Grigson told the Indianapolis Star's Zak Keefer.
With Luck on their side, there will be plenty of passes to go around for the Colts' talented group of receivers, and Dorsett should be expected to touch the ball multiple times during each contest.
30. Green Bay Packers: S Damarious Randall
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The NFL is difficult enough for rookies, but the situation is only amplified when they're asked to switch positions while making the transition from the amateur to professional ranks.
When the Green Bay Packers selected Damarious Randall with the 30th overall pick, the Arizona State product became the first safety drafted in the class—or so everyone thought.
Randall was actually the fifth cornerback chosen during the opening frame. The Packers plan to use the defensive back outside on an island instead of along the back line.
Due to a couple of injuries to veterans Sam Shields and Casey Hayward, Randall and fellow rookie Quinten Rollins actually got first-team reps during last week's OTAs, according to Ryan Wood of the Green Bay Press-Gazette.
The move to cornerback wasn't a major change for Randall, though.
"Really, no different," Randall told the Associated Press' Genaro C. Armas. "A lot of people say that I move like a corner, and that just feels like my natural position."
Randall flew up boards during the draft process due to his ability to cover ground and make plays on the ball from the safety position. But it wasn't long ago that Randall was playing cornerback for Mesa Community College.
After two years of playing free safety for the Sun Devils, Randall will now have an opportunity to show how good his cover skills really are.
31. New Orleans Saints: ILB Stephone Anthony
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New Orleans Saints brass placed a heavy emphasis on scouting linebackers during the predraft process. With the second of two first-round picks in this year's draft, the team selected Stephone Anthony.
The Clemson product has been everything the team expected.
"He has good instincts," head coach Sean Payton said, per the Advocate's Joel A. Erickson. "There's an installation each day or every other day, and there have been some real good plays and some plays where he'll go back, watch it on film and try to make the corrections."
Defensive coordinator Rob Ryan added, "He's been working really hard with (assistant coaches) Joe (Vitt) and James (Willis). You know, he's really looking good. And he loves football, so he's a guy we expect to win a job."
Ryan's final quote is important. Most teams expect their first-round picks to win jobs, but the Saints have multiple veterans on the roster capable of starting at inside linebacker this season.
During OTAs, David Hawthorne moved from weak-side linebacker to "Mike" linebacker in an attempt to replace veteran stalwart Curtis Lofton, who the Saints released in early March. Anthony has primarily practiced with the second team as Hawthorne's immediate backup, but if he continues to perform at a high level, then a shakeup at inside linebacker could occur by the start of the season.
Two other established veterans, Ramon Humber and Dannell Ellerbe, competed for the No. 1 spot at weak-side linebacker during OTAs.
Anthony's emergence could eventually force the coaching staff to insert him into the starting lineup and move Hawthorne back to his old position, which would be an ideal situation for the Saints due to the overall depth the team has built at inside linebacker.
32. New England Patriots: DT Malcom Brown
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Very little to no information regarding defensive tackle Malcom Brown has made its way out of New England.
It's basically status quo for the Patriots since the organization doesn't appear to be in a hurry to get the talented defensive tackle under contract.
As PatsCap.com correctly noted, last year's first-round pick, Dominique Easley, didn't sign his first contract with the team until June 23. Well, Brown still has a week to come in under that deadline.
There is one major difference in signing Brown as compared to Easley, though. The organization didn't need to rush anything with the Florida product because he suffered a torn ACL during his final season on campus.
Brown is fully healthy and ready to participate in all team activities.
Contract negotiations should accelerate this week with the team's first mandatory minicamp—even though cornerback Malcolm Butler learned last week pretty much all team actives are mandatory in New England—set to start Tuesday.
Once the defensive tackle is officially in the fold, the team can then start to develop his role in the defensive line rotation alongside Easley, Alan Branch, Antonio Johnson, Chris Jones, Sealver Siliga and Joe Vellano.
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