NFL Preseason: 10 Bold Predictions for the 2010 Rookies

Back to school commercials are beginning to congest the airwaves on every television set in America, which can only mean one thing…football season it right around the corner! Training camps are in full swing and the 32 teams that make up the NFL are gearing up for another hard-nosed season, hoping that this could be the year that they hoist the Vince Lombardi trophy over their heads.

And why would not they be dreaming of the ultimate prize? I mean it seems that it only takes one solid off season to change the whole outlook of a team, both negatively and positively. Take the New Orleans Saints for example. The 2009 Season was a dismal one and after pumping out an average 8-8 record they managed to revamp themselves and are the reigning champs. On the other hand though, some of the top teams of the 2009 season including the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants failed to carry their dominating play over through the off season and were both extremely disappointing last season.

One of the most crucial aspects of the off season is the ability to transition their rookies as quickly and seamlessly as possible so that they can have an impact on the field. In the past, there have been many rookies that have lived up to their hype, others that have surpassed it, and still others that have been complete busts. The 2010 season will be no different, and at this point we can just speculate on what teams will prosper the most from their newcomers as they prove they are worth every last penny on the huge contracts that they signed.

#10 Toby Gerhart, Vikings, RB

Even as the Heisman runner up, Toby Gerhart still has an endless number of doubters. Although he might lack the flashy foot work and jaw-dropping moves of other running backs in his class, he sure doesn’t lack toughness and desire. And remember, he did play centerfield for Cardinals baseball squad, which makes it pretty clear that he is a natural athlete. He has the ability to become a solid backup for Adrian Peterson and fill the void that Chester Taylor left.

#9 Dez Bryant, Cowboys, WR

Christian Petersen/Getty Images

STILLWATER, OK - SEPTEMBER 5: Wide receiver Dez Bryant #1 of the Oklahoma State Cowboys celebrates his touchdown with teammate Dexter Pratt #22 during the second quarter of the game against the Georgia Bulldogs at Boone Pickens Stadium on September 5, 20

If Dez Bryant can keep his focus on football and stay out of trouble off the field (a trend that has seem to become contagious among big-time player especially wide outs), he has the potential of being one of the most explosive receivers in the league. He has unbelievable open field speed and body control to come up with game-changing TD catches. He will be an excellent counterpart to the up-and-coming Miles Austin and a favorite target for Tony Romo.

#8 C.J. Spiller, Bills, RB

Although his smaller build made some teams weary, the size of C.J. Spiller’s heart makes up for it. Spiller is hands down the hardest working back in the draft and will fight for every last yard possible. Although he will never be a durable 25 carry/game back, he has the ability to make big plays especially once he breaks into the open field and confuse defenses.

#7 Ndamukong Suh, Lions, DT

When you think of a Defensive Tackle the first words that come to mind aren’t typically versatile, multidimensional, or flexible, but for the overall #2 pick in the draft, Ndamukong Suh, those are words that are used. He is smart, resilient, hard-working, and strong. The Jamaican native is undoubtedly going to make a sound transition in the big leagues.

#6 Jermaine Gresham, Bengals, TE

If having two infamously-feared targets for Carson Palmer to hit downfield in Terrell Owens and Ocho Cinco isn’t enough to give defensive coordinators a heart attack on the sidelines, now they must also stress about covering Jermaine Gresham over the middle. At 6’5” he is a huge body for Palmer to connect with and he also has the speed and agility to pick up the first down.

#5 Eric Berry, Chiefs, S

Jeff Zelevansky/Getty Images

NEW YORK - APRIL 22: Eric Berry from the Tennessee Volunteers holds a Kansas City Chiefs jersey after Chiefs selected Berry number 5 overall in the first round of the 2010 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall on April 22, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by

Eric Berry not only has the potential to make an impact his rookie year, but he also has the skill set and motivation to become a superstar. He has unbelievable instincts, which allows him to anticipate the pass jumps routes with the best of them. He will be a key asset to the Chiefs defense and will be looked upon to shut down top receivers.

#4 Golden Tate, Seahawks, WR

Despite falling to the second round, Golden Tate has the skills and the worth of an early first rounder. He and Matt Hasselback have seemed to have finally found their rhythm, which is going to be a deadly combination that will have teams scrambling for new coverages.

#3 Jahvid Best, Lions, RB

If Jahvid Best can stay healthy, he is going to be a dynamic back for the Lions. He has ridiculous speed and play-making abilities that will be key to his rookie campaign.

#2 Ryan Mathews, Chargers, RB

It seems the Chargers are more than ready to move on and who better than with Ryan Mathews. Although his game differs greatly from L.T. he is a much more complete back. He has quick and light feet for a back his size.

#1 Sam Bradford, Rams, QB

Sam Bradford has more riding on his shoulders than most veterans. But he has all the intangibles that will make him a solid rookie QB. He is finally healthy and confident and that matched with his pure skill set, he is going to have a breakout year.