Preseason Report Cards for the NFL's Top 100 Rookies

The 2011 NFL draft is little more than a memory today, but the lasting affect it will have on every NFL team is monumental. How are the rookies of the 2011 class fairing after two preseason games, and how would each player grade out at this point?

We are taking a look at the top 100 rookies, not necessarily the top 100 picks, and giving each a grade based on early play.

For some players, like Patrick Peterson, early expectations may have been too high. Others, like Ryan Mallett, are impressing with every snap of the ball.

How will your team's top draft-pick grade out?

* Players listed in order drafted. Stats courtesy of NFL.com and valid through Sunday, August 21.

Grading Scale Explained

A: Player is exceeding expectations

B: Player is playing as expected

C: Player is slightly disappointing

D: Player is very disappointing

F: Major issues and/or struggles

*Note that players injured for all or most of the preseason are not listed

Cam Newton, Carolina Panthers

Cam Newton is facing huge expectations as the No. 1 overall pick from the 2011 NFL draft, and so far he's doing well silencing critics (myself included) who thought he was a reach for the Carolina Panthers.

Newton will never be a Tom Brady-style passer, so don't get too caught up in his numbers just yet. What Newton can do is move around, pick up yards with his feet and create matchup problems in and out of the pocket. And that's what he's done so far.

Newton is still a work in progress, but the early signs are at least positive.

Grade: B

Von Miller, Denver Broncos

Rookie Von Miller's first preseason game was a showcase in how overwhelmed a player can look early in his career. Game 2 was more of what we all expect from the No. 2 overall draft pick—speed, aggression and a dangerous ability to get to the quarterback.

Miller has just five tackles in limited snaps so far, but he did notch a sack last week, which shows promise.

Miller should get extended playing time in Week 3, something I am looking forward to seeing.

Grade: B

Marcell Dareus, Buffalo Bills

Marcell Dareus was regarded as one of the best pass-rushing defensive tackles in the 2011 draft class, which left many disappointed when he was drafted to play defensive end in the Buffalo Bills' 3-4 defense.

The Bills have plans to put Dareus in a true five-technique position—which means he will be asked to anchor the edge of the defensive line and not necessarily asked to go after the quarterback often.

Dareus quieted doubters by picking up a sack in his first preseason game and another in Buffalo's second game. Dareus, even playing a position that doesn't generally pick up sacks, is attacking the backfield.

Grade: A

A.J. Green, Cincinnati Bengals

A.J. Green was the most electric wide receiver in the 2011 NFL draft. In Cincinnati, he may find himself as more of a possession receiver than anyone saw him being when he was an NFL prospect.

Green had a respectable four catches in his preseason debut, but fellow rookie Andy Dalton had trouble getting the ball deep after his first pass attempt, a go route to Green, was picked off.

Green's success is tied to Dalton. This story is one of the most compelling in the NFL season and is worth watching as the year unfolds.

Grade: C

Patrick Peterson, Arizona Cardinals

Patrick Peterson was viewed as one of the most NFL-ready players in the entire draft, which is why the Arizona Cardinals felt comfortable dealing No. 1 cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie to the Philadelphia Eagles in exchange for quarterback Kevin Kolb.

Maybe someone should have waited to see Peterson play in the NFL first.

Peterson is still not starting in Arizona, has notched just five tackles and has been generally disappointing.

Grade: D

Julio Jones, Atlanta Falcons

Julio Jones may have just four catches in two games for the Atlanta Falcons, but he's producing very well on limited touches.

Jones has accounted for 95 yards on four catches and one run. He looks like he's ready to become the playmaker the Falcons were hoping he could be when they traded up to draft him No. 6 overall.

Jones and A.J. Green will inevitably be linked forever as the best wide receivers in this class. So far, Jones is by far the better player.

Grade: B+

Aldon Smith, San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers skipped by quarterbacks Jake Locker, Blaine Gabbert and Christian Ponder to draft outside linebacker Aldon Smith. Suffice to say, the pressure is on Smith to perform this year.

Smith has done well, notching seven tackles, one sack and one forced fumble from the outside linebacker position.

As things fall apart in San Francisco this offseason, Smith looks like a legitimate building block.

Grade: B

Jake Locker, Tennessee Titans

Jake Locker was a surprise pick at No. 8 overall in the first round of the 2011 NFL draft. It would be safe to say that his play thus far has been surprising too.

Locker was considered a project at quarterback due to accuracy issues while at the University of Washington. He's shown in his two starts that his accuracy issues might be a smaller problem and the NFL game might be an easier transition for him than most.

Locker has looked crisp running Chris Palmer's offense in Tennessee.

Grade: B

Tyron Smith, Dallas Cowboys

An almost instant starter at right tackle this offseason, Tyron Smith will be a key piece in the Dallas Cowboys' plan to make the playoffs this year.

Smith has looked great in early reviews. He's getting beat occasionally, but that is to be expected from a player with limited NFL experience. What you can see is a mammoth tackle with the agility to meet outside linebackers off the edge and the power to stonewall rushers if he gets his hands on them.

Grade: A

Blaine Gabbert, Jacksonville Jaguars

When the Jacksonville Jaguars drafted Blaine Gabbert No. 10 overall, it seemed like they would ease him into the starting lineup behind veteran David Garrard.

An injury to Garrard this season has opened the door for Gabbert to impress with the first-team offense.

Gabbert's numbers haven't been great, and he has missed some openings, but let's remember he has played two very good defenses in New England and Atlanta.

Grade: B

J.J. Watt, Houston Texans

I am still not sure J.J. Watt was worth the No. 11 overall pick in the 2011 draft, and so far he hasn't played all that well at left defensive end in the Houston Texans' new 3-4 defense.

Watt has just one tackle in two starts this preseason, which is somewhat misleading due to the number of snaps he's been in on. However, Watt should be doing more than directing traffic.

Defensive ends in a 3-4 rarely have huge tackle numbers, but Watt is getting beaten at the point of attack and isn't forcing the ball back to the middle of the field.

Grade: C

Christian Ponder, Minnesota Vikings

Not much has been said about Christian Ponder since the Minnesota Vikings traded for Donovan McNabb, but the No. 12 overall pick is playing well in Minnesota.

Ponder, running the second-team offense, has produced well for a first-year player. He did take three sacks against the Tennessee Titans, but they could hardly be called his fault alone.

Ponder, perhaps more than any other top 100 quarterback, will not be expected to see the field this year.

Grade: B

Robert Quinn, St. Louis Rams

Robert Quinn's contributions haven't shown up on the stat sheet—he has just one tackle so far—but his play on the field has been inspiring.

The St. Louis Rams need Quinn to be a pass-rusher from the right side of the line, something he is showing he can handle.

Quinn is already penciled in as a starter.

Grade: B

Mike Pouncey, Miami Dolphins

It's hard to put a grade on an offensive lineman, especially at center where the player is rarely in a one-on-one situation. For Mike Pouncey and the Miami Dolphins, that is particularly true.

Everything that has been reported from Dolphin camp is that Pouncey looks incredibly polished. That's what we've seen in limited time seeing his snaps for Miami this preseason.

The Miami offense could struggle this year, but if Pouncey can play up to expectations, things could be very good.

Grade: B

Ryan Kerrigan, Washington Redskins

With four tackles and one sack in his first two preseason games, Ryan Kerrigan looks like the edge-rusher the Washington Redskins hoped he could be opposite Brian Orakpo.

Kerrigan is a menacing player when he's on. If Washington can get production from him, their linebacking core will be nasty.

Grade: B

Nate Solder, New England Patriots

Playing left tackle in the NFL is a hard job for anyone to do well—it's almost harder for a rookie. That's what the Patriots have asked Nate Solder to do, filling in for Matt Light. He's done it well.

Solder has looked very athletic in filling in for Light, in fact there is already speculation that Solder may be stealing Matt Light's starting job.

New England didn't draft Solder to sit for long. If he keeps up his solid play from this preseason he could be on the field in no time.

Grade: B

Corey Liuget, San Diego Chargers

I was openly critical of Corey Liuget being the San Diego Chargers' first-round pick. Liuget, a classic three-technique defensive tackle at Illinois, is being asked to play a five-technique position in the 3-4 defense.

The differences in style of play are striking.

4-3, three technique: Pressure the backfield by rushing the "gaps" between the guard and tackle. Also called an "under tackle." Is generally a quick player with exceptional burst.

3-4, five technique: Primary job is anchoring the edge of the defensive line and not allowing the offense to get outside his area. Is a "two gap" player, meaning he is responsible for the gap inside and outside the offensive tackle is he lined up in front of. Rarely rushes the passer.

Liuget is a poor fit here, which is why the breakdown above was needed to point out that Liuget's poor play was to be expected.

Grade: C

Adrian Clayborn, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Adrian Clayborn has stepped into the Tampa Bay Buccaneers locker room and immediately proven he belongs in the NFL.

Clayborn will be a starter for the Buccaneers for a long time based on his early play. Clayborn has notched just three tackles, but looked excellent against two of the NFL's best offenses, the Kansas City Chiefs and New England Patriots.

Grade: B

Phil Taylor, Cleveland Browns

Phil Taylor, the first of the Cleveland Browns' draft picks in 2011, is already starting on the revamped defensive line.

Taylor will be asked to fill the role of a nose tackle in the Browns 4-3 defense. He'll line up to the left of the center and draw double teams on every play, or as many plays as is possible.

Because of this, Taylor's impact will come not in stats, but in his presence on the field. That's something we haven't seen much of so far.

Grade: C

Anthony Castonzo, Indianapolis Colts

Anthony Castonzo was not drafted to protect Curtis Painter and Dan Orlovsky, but that's what he's been doing this preseason as the Indianapolis Colts wait for Peyton Manning to return from injury.

Castonzo is preparing for his future in the NFL by protecting backups who lack the pocket presence of Manning, which makes it harder to judge his body of work thus far.

Castonzo, even if by default, is the Colts' left tackle of the now and the future. That designation is reason to be critical of the play Castonzo has shown so far this preseason.

Grade: C

Danny Watkins, Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles are woefully thin along the offensive line, which means they will rely heavily on rookie right guard Danny Watkins to cover up weaknesses at right tackle.

Watkins, at 27 years old, should be ready for the NFL. Watkins has looked solid in protecting for mobile quarterbacks Michael Vick and Vince Young.

Grade: B

Cameron Jordan, New Orleans Saints

Cameron Jordan was a player I liked a lot before the 2011 NFL draft. I also thought the New Orleans Saints were a horrible fit for his style of play.

So far, Jordan is third on the Saints depth chart at left end, a position he's not suited to play very well.

Jordan is not a pure pass-rusher, but he's a great athlete who would be at his best moving around to different positions to find the best matchup. Ideally, I would play him at left end or even under tackle in a four-man front.

Grade: C

James Carpenter, Seattle Seahawks

James Carpenter was the surprise of the first round when the Seattle Seahawks made him the No. 25 pick overall. Carpenter is penciled in as a starter at right tackle for the very young Seattle offensive line.

Carpenter is a big, strong player, and he's a good fit for the Seattle offensive line. It also helps that he has offensive line guru Tom Cable helping him out.

Carpenter is in a position to surprise everyone.

Grade: B

Jonathan Baldwin, Kansas City Chiefs

Jonathan Baldwin was known as a knucklehead while at Pitt, and he even went as far as to throw his team and quarterback under the bus.

In the NFL, it's been much of the same, as Baldwin is now in a cast after getting into a fight with running back Thomas Jones. It's unknown how long Baldwin will be out, but rumors persist that he's out for the year.

Baldwin was supposed to headline the Chiefs' strong draft class. Instead, he looks like the butt of a bad joke.

Grade: F

Jimmy Smith, Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens found the potential steal of the draft when they picked up Jimmy Smith with the No. 27 pick in the NFL draft. Smith, who was a top 10 player at Colorado, fell in the draft after rumors that he failed multiple drug tests.

Smith has looked good early this season, good enough to enter the lineup as the Ravens' No. 1 cornerback. Smith's big body, ball skills and length make him an ideal playmaker in the Baltimore defense.

Smith will be under the microscope this season as the Ravens' cornerback crew is anchored by the rookie.

Grade: B

Mark Ingram, New Orleans Saints

There were concerns surrounding Mark Ingram's ability as an NFL running back from the moment he left Alabama to enter the draft. The former Heisman Trophy winner was seen as a player who lacked the speed and burst to hit holes and run away from NFL defenses.

In New Orleans, many expected big things from Ingram as a rookie, since he would be running behind one of the best offensive lines in the league.

Instead, Ingram has produced a pedestrian 3.7 yards per carry with a long run of 14 yards. It would seem those doubts from before the draft are legit.

Grade: C

Gabe Carimi, Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears may have made a Super Bowl appearance last year were it not for the play of their offensive line. With that in mind, the Bears' made tackle Gabe Carimi their No. 1 pick in this year's draft.

Carimi will start his career at right tackle, which is a little surprising considering his talent and the Bears' need for a left tackle. In the aggressive NFC North, the Bears just need Carimi to slow down talented pass-rushers like Cliff Avril, Brian Robison and Clay Matthews—as all three players line up on the left side of their defense.

Grade: B

Muhammad Wilkerson, New York Jets

Muhammad Wilkerson will make a tough transition from Temple to the NFL, but playing on a team featuring Rex Ryan at head coach will ease his acclamation time.

Wilkerson has played in just one game so far this preseason, but he showed impressive burst and acceleration off the line of scrimmage.

The Jets need players who can put pressure on opposing offensive lines. Wilkerson just might be that player.

Grade: B

Cameron Heyward, Pittsburgh Steelers

Not much will be expected of Cameron Heyward in his first season, as he'll line up behind Brett Keisel at right end.

Better than any team in the NFL, the Pittsburgh Steelers believe in drafting ahead of their needs. Much like their pick of Ziggy Hood at defensive end last year, Heyward is a pick for the future.

Grade: B

Derek Sherrod, Green Bay Packers

Derek Sherrod should be the Green Bay Packers starter at left guard right now. Instead, T.J. Lang is.

Sherrod, a great athlete who would be perfect in the Packers offensive system, has struggled in adapting to the speed of NFL defenders and finds himself listed No. 2 on the Packers depth chart right now.

Sherrod has two more preseason games to prove he deserves to be the left guard in Green Bay, as he's all but out of the running at either tackle spot, even if that is his more natural position.

Grade: C

This slide originally called Sherrod a tackle, his drafted position, instead of a guard. Our apologies for the error.

Ras-I Dowling, New England Patriots

On a loaded roster in New England, Patriots rookie Ras-I Dowling may not see the field much this season, which is most likely what Bill Belichick had in mind when he made Dowling the No. 33 pick overall.

Dowling is an aggressive cover man who has battled small injury issues this preseason. He's seeing work now mostly on the second-team defense, but could see an extended role once the season starts. He might even move to free safety.

Grade: B

Aaron Williams, Buffalo Bills

Aaron Williams has been one of the more productive rookie cornerbacks in the NFL this preseason. With seven tackles, one pass defensed and one interception so far, Williams looks like a starter in the making for the Buffalo Bills.

Williams will see major playing time behind Terrence McGee at left cornerback, and will likely be a dime-package player and special-teams ace to begin the season, but do not be surprised if he forces his way into the lineup.

Grade: A

Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals

It would be safe to say that Andy Dalton is struggling with the speed of the NFL so far. In his two starts for the Cincinnati Bengals this preseason, Dalton has been miserable.

It's hard to judge rookie quarterbacks in a preseason that saw NFL training camps shortened after a summer-long lockout. It's still safe to gauge Dalton in comparison with the other rookie quarterbacks. To date, he's coming up well behind the other quarterbacks drafted in the first three rounds.

It is way too early to write off Dalton, and it's not fair to use only the preseason to judge anyone, but the early signs are concerning.

Grade: C

Colin Kaepernick, San Francisco 49ers

While Andy Dalton struggles in Cincinnati, Colin Kaepernick is getting better every week in San Francisco.

The 49ers made Kaepernick the No. 35 pick overall, with the plans of installing him at quarterback either late this season or next year if and when Alex Smith proves he's not a long-term option at quarterback (again).

Kaepernick struggled predictably in his first game, but there were bright spots, especially when he was on the move. In Week 2, Kaepernick looked much better.

If this team struggles early, Kaepernick will see the field.

Grade: B

Jabaal Sheard, Cleveland Browns

Jabaal Sheard will be the opening day starter at right end for the Cleveland Browns, filling a role of the premier pass-rusher in the 4-3 defense.

Sheard's job will be to dominate the offense's best lineman on every play, in a one-on-one battle versus the left tackle. Sheard, who is an incredible athlete, has yet to show the burst many saw at Pitt.

Sheard's two games in the NFL so far have netted just one tackle and one forced fumble.

Grade: B

Akeem Ayers, Tennessee Titans

Akeem Ayers is your starting outside linebacker, Tennessee Titan fans. Like it or not, he's here to stay, ushering in a new era for the Titans defense.

Ayers left UCLA as an athletic dual-threat in coverage and in running down rushers. That's what he'll be asked to do in Tennessee as a three-down player.

So far, Ayers has just one tackle and zero passes defensed. He may be a starter, but he hasn't played like one yet.

Grade: C

Jarvis Jenkins, Washington Redskins

One of the most ideal defensive ends for the 3-4 defense in the 2011 NFL draft class, Jarvis Jenkins was the Washington Redskins' second-straight pick on the defensive side of the ball.

A great pick at the time, Jenkins will now have to fight for playing time with the signing of Stephen Bowen in free agency. The Redskins have Bowen and Adam Carriker at defensive end, so where does Jenkins fit in?

The answer is, he might not as more than a role player, and that's the level of talent he showed in his lone start versus the Indianapolis Colts.

Grade: C

Brooks Reed, Houston Texans

Brooks Reed is a bad mothertrucker.

Playing at right outside linebacker behind Connor Barwin currently, Reed won't be kept off the field for long. His two sacks versus the New Orleans Saints and constant pressure applied against the New York Jets proved that Reed belongs in the NFL.

Grade: A

Kyle Rudolph, Minnesota Vikings

The 40-some rookies drafted ahead of Kyle Rudolph are all expected to make a huge contribution in their rookie year. The one player that everyone should keep an eye on—whether it's for fantasy football or just as a fan of the game, is Kyle Rudolph.

Rudolph barely played the last two years at Notre Dame, so there is some rust present, but he's been an encouraging player in Minnesota thus far. If he can master the blocking schemes, he'll push for playing time very early on.

Grade: B+

Titus Young, Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions' first two picks from the 2011 draft, Nick Fairley and Mikel Leshoure, haven't seen the field due to injuries. The team's third pick, wide receiver Titus Young, has yet to make an impact outside of practice.

Young received rave reviews early on during training camp, but he has yet to leave his impact on game film. It could be in part due to bad chemistry with the backup quarterbacks, but Young needs to show up big in the final two preseason games.

Grade: C

Rahim Moore, Denver Broncos

Rahim Moore has made just one tackle this season, but the hit he put on wide receiver Donald Jones was felt around the NFL this weekend.

Moore is a big hitter and a clean player, so he should have nothing to worry about in the future. It's hard to fault a player for being aggressive.

Moore's play on the field has been good enough that Denver is starting him at free safety.

Grade: B

Orlando Franklin, Denver Broncos

Orlando Franklin was drafted as a replacement for free agent Ryan Harris at right tackle. So far, he's holding down the starting job at the position and looks like a long-time key at the position.

Franklin's first game was a mixed bag of ups and downs, and a great breakdown should be read by all Denver fans here (hat tip to our own Chris Benson).

Franklin might not be the next Rodger Saffold or Sebastian Vollmer, former second-round picks now owning the NFL, but he looks like a solid player.

Grade: B

Lance Kendricks, St. Louis Rams

Big things are expected of tight end Lance Kendricks in St. Louis this season. The Rams are hopeful the rookie tight end will become a threat in the red zone and the middle of the field, opening up opportunities for Steven Jackson and other offensive weapons in St. Louis' offense.

Kendricks hit the ground running, posting five catches for almost 50 yards in his first game. Quarterback Sam Bradford will become a big fan of Kendricks' if he can keep this up.

Grade: B

Stefen Wisniewski, Oakland Raiders

Many, myself included, believed that rookie center Stefen Wisniewski would walk right into the starting job at center for the Oakland Raiders this year, but he hasn't.

Wisniewski is stuck, for now, backing up Samson Satele and hoping his play will catch the attention of head coach Hue Jackson.

Wisniewski was expected to start, but it would be hard to fault him for not, with such a shortened offseason.

Grade: C

Marcus Gilchrist, San Diego Chargers

Marcus Gilchrist made a sizable impact in the San Diego Chargers season-opener versus the Seattle Seahawks. He showed the type of ability that will be valuable to San Diego as both a cornerback and possibly as a safety.

Gilchrist is currently backing up Antoine Cason, but he'll be an impact player in nickel situations.

Grade: B

Da'Quan Bowers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Da'Quan Bowers was regarded as a potential No. 1 overall pick before a knee injury scared NFL teams away from him. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers pounced on him in the second round and are hopeful they can see more of the prospect many were ready to draft first overall.

So far Bowers has yet to show much in terms of production, but he has had a few nice plays in getting pressures and beating the offensive tackles. He's also playing at full speed, which is probably most important.

Grade: B

Marvin Austin, New York Giants

Marvin Austin was a preseason pick to contend for the No. 1 overall title before the 2010 season began. And then he was suspended by the NCAA for receiving improper benefits from an agent, along with most of the North Carolina Tar Heels' best players.

Austin is a dangerous pass-rusher at defensive tackle, and will be even more so with the talent at defensive end the New York Giants are able to roll out.

Austin has been impressive early on. If he can learn to close on the quarterback faster, which may come as he gets in better shape, he'll be force.

Grade: B

Stephen Paea, Chicago Bears

One of the strongest men to ever participate in the annual NFL Scouting Combine, Stephen Paea is an ideal fit for the nose tackle position in the Chicago Bears' 4-3 defense.

To date, in the Bears' one preseason game, Paea looked overmatched by the Buffalo Bills offensive line. Paea has the strength to dominate, but he has to find a way to apply that strength to the game.

Grade: B

Jaiquawn Jarrett, Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles are a team of impressive players, which makes the standout play of Jaiquawn Jarrett all the more impressive.

Jarrett has been a key player for Philadelphia's defense in their two preseason games. He will make it very hard for Andy Reid to keep him at FS2 behind Kurt Coleman for long.

Grade: A

Rodney Hudson, Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs used a second-round pick on center Rodney Hudson, and then re-signed veteran Casey Weigmann to man the position for the 2011 season. Hudson will have the benefit of sitting for his first season, barring injury, and learning the ropes of the NFL.

In backup duty, Hudson has looked good. He continues to show the athleticism and smart play that made him one of college football's best players last year.

Grade: B

Torrey Smith, Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens drafted Torrey Smith to be their No. 2 wide receiver opposite Anquan Boldin—but then they made a trade for Lee Evans, pushing Smith down to No. 3 on the depth chart.

Smith will excel in a role that lets him move around pre-snap and that might also see him lining up in the slot, where his speed would be tough for NFL nickelbacks to compete with.

Grade: B

Greg Little, Cleveland Browns

The Cleveland Browns expected Greg Little to compete for their No. 1 wide receiver position this summer. Good news, Cleveland—he is.

Little has looked sharp in both camp and preseason games, finding his way to four catches and one touchdown while showing the possession ability to handle the flanker role in the west coast offense.

Grade: B

Brandon Harris, Houston Texans

The Houston Texans finished ranked dead last in pass defense last year, which is why they brought in new defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, cornerback Johnathan Joseph, safety Danieal Manning and drafted cornerback Brandon Harris.

Harris has been very solid thus far, and just might earn a starting job before the preseason ends.

Grade: B

Jonas Mouton, San Diego Chargers

Jonas Mouton has looked pretty solid in his limited time this preseason, but he was a wasted pick by the San Diego Chargers.

San Diego faced an offseason where they could potentially lose four inside linebackers to free agency, which led them to reach for Mouton in Round 2. Free agency did see Kevin Burnett and Brandon Siler leave, but the team picked up Takeo Spikes and loves Donald Butler. Where does Mouton fit in?

Currently No. 3 on the depth chart, Mouton may not see the field for quite some time.

Grade: D

Daniel Thomas, Miami Dolphins

Daniel Thomas got off to a rocky start in his first game with the Miami Dolphins—rushing for just five yards on four carries. Thankfully, for all involved, his second game was much better.

Thomas ripped off 52 yards on 12 carries against the Carolina Panthers in Week 2. It's also worth noting that Reggie Bush looked very good running the ball against Carolina. Either the Miami offensive line figured out what wasn't working, or the Panthers defensive line is pretty weak.

Maybe it's both.

Grade: B

Marcus Gilbert, Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers had ignored their need for offensive tackles in each of the last four drafts. This year they finally pulled the trigger on a potential left tackle of the future, but now he's battling injuries.

Marcus Gilbert was getting work at left tackle behind Jonathan Scott before leaving the Week 2 matchup versus the Philadelphia Eagles. There's a chance that Gilbert could see extended playing time, as Scott went down too.

Grade: B

Randall Cobb, Green Bay Packers

Good luck keeping Randall Cobb off the field this year. The Green Bay Packers may have to go five-wide at all times.

Cobb is an electric, exciting receiver/runner/return man/ass-kicker who brings a new level to the already scary Packers offense. This is a guy who is averaging 20 yards per catch right now.

If you saw Cobb play at the University of Kentucky, you knew he was dynamic. Fans of the NFL are about to see it too.

Grade: A

Terrell McClain, Carolina Panthers

If Terrell McClain is not starting at some point this season, it will be a pretty heavy disappointment.

The Carolina Panthers selected McClain with the intention of letting he and fellow rookie Sione Fua learn on the job. Fua is starting at nose tackle, McClain should unseat Corvey Irvin at under tackle any day now.

Grade: B

Nate Irving, Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos did a great job of adding defensive playmakers through the draft to stock their transition to a 4-3 defense. A big part of that plan is middle linebacker Nate Irving, drafting in the third round and expected compete at MIKE linebacker.

Irving has yet to live up to the promise the Broncos saw in him, as he's currently No. 3 on the depth chart and struggling to find playing time.

Grade: C

Rob Housler, Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals are set at tight end with Todd Heap now in Arizona, but finding a quality backup and No. 2 tight end was still a priority this offseason. The team may have found their man in Rob Housler.

Housler had a breakout game in Week 2 of the preseason, catching five balls for 68 yards against the Green Bay Packers and showing the type of athleticism and hands that will guarantee Housler sees the field.

Arizona currently has Housler fifth on the depth chart—that will change soon.

Grade: A

Justin Houston, Kansas City Chiefs

If Justin Houston continues to show the ability he's flashing this preseason, the Kansas City Chiefs will have found the ideal candidate to start opposite Pro Bowler Tamba Hali.

Houston has notched seven tackles and one forced fumble, both impressive, but he's also been a force crashing the backfield and pressuring quarterbacks.

Houston was a first-round pick before it was learned he tested positive for marijuana at the NFL Scouting Combine. His slide to the third round might be motivation enough for him to produce at a very high level.

Grade: A

Martez Wilson, New Orleans Saints

Martez Wilson is making the move not just from college to the NFL, but from inside linebacker to strongside linebacker in the New Orleans Saints' 4-3 defense.

Wilson is an athletic freak, and that much has shown on the field early on this preseason. He has seven tackles through two games in limited time and has flashed the same ability that made him a standout player at Illinois.

The key for Wilson is more reps, and more playing time—which are hard to get when you are third string.

Grade: C

Stevan Ridley, New England Patriots

It's almost easy to hate the New England Patriots for finding third-round steals like running back Stevan Ridley.

Ridley was the second running back drafted by the Patriots this year, behind Shane Vereen. It's Ridley though who is leading all rookies in rushing and receptions through two games this preseason.

Ridley has flashed the type of dual-purpose ability that Bill Belichick loves, and that will guarantee Ridley sees major playing time once the season starts.

You can't help but see a little Curtis Martin watching Ridley take the field.

Grade: A+

Ryan Mallett, New England Patriots

It is a little sickening that the New England Patriots may have found their post-Tom Brady answers on offense with back-to-back third-round picks when they drafted Stevan Ridley and Ryan Mallett with picks No. 73 and 74—but it's possible.

Mallett has looked sharp this year, leading all rookies in passing after Week 1 and showing the talent that had some calling him a first-round pick this spring.

Grade: A

John Moffitt, Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks think they have found their right guard of the next decade in third-round pick John Moffitt. While that remains to be seen, Moffitt is seeing major playing time with the first-team offense.

Moffitt was a powerful center at Wisconsin, which fits the Seahawks' mold of drafting versatile offensive linemen. He definitely has an opportunity to do well here.

Grade: B

Will Rackley, Jacksonville Jaguars

Drafted in Round 3 of the 2011 NFL draft, not many expected guard Will Rackley to compete for a starting gig with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Those people did not listen to Rackley, apparently.

As the preseason hits the mid-way point, Rackley is right in the mix for the starting job behind Jason Spitz at left guard and Uche Nwaneri at right guard.

It's most likely that Rackley would unseat Nwaneri. This is a position battle to watch over the next two weeks.

Grade: A

Jurrell Casey, Tennesee Titans

With five tackles in two games, Jurrell Casey is making a good case to be the starting nose tackle for the Tennessee Titans this season.

Casey is currently lining up with the second team behind Sen'Derrick Marks, but that's a position battle in name only. Casey has the talent to be an All-Pro with the proper coaching and patience, and if he's put in the right position. The Titans are great at developing defensive linemen. Casey is next in their long line of stars.

Grade: A

Austin Pettis, St. Louis Rams

Austin Pettis has what I like to call "dirty talent," but he's yet to show it in the NFL.

The St. Louis Rams saw Pettis as a dual-threat kind of player in the Percy Harvin mold, and he is, but he's yet to flash that skill in a game. Pettis has just one catch for six yards right now—in two games.

Grade: C

Leonard Hankerson, Washington Redskins

Leonard Hankerson just might become John Beck's new best friend.

In Beck's best showing of the preseason, and in the game that probably cemented him as the Redskins' starter, Hankerson caught three balls for 46 yards and showed the type of big play ability many predicted was possible.

Hankerson still needs to develop, and become more consistent, but early signs are very good.

Grade: A

Chris Culliver, San Francisco 49ers

Not much was expected from fans of the San Francisco 49ers, but Chris Culliver hasn't been quite as bad as many predicted.

Culliver has looked solid as the team's No. 3 cornerback, adding much needed depth to a position that could have been a weakness for the 49ers after the team cut Nate Clements.

Culliver's ability to play up against the run will be a great addition to the 49ers nickel package.

Grade: B

DeMarcus Van Dyke, Oakland Raiders

Not surprisingly, a cornerback weighing 174 lbs is struggling against the run and bigger wide receivers.

DeMarcus Van Dyke may not have been a direct answer to the loss of Nnamdi Asomugha, but he was the highest drafted cornerback by the Oakland Raiders, and he is lining up on Asomugha's old side. Nnamdi he is not.

Van Dyke has yet to impress, in game time or practices.

Grade: C

Jerrel Jernigan, New York Giants

Jerrell Jernigan will learn to love the No. 3 even more this season.

Jernigan is currently wearing jersey No. 3, as he did in college, he was a third-round pick of the New York Giants and he's also in a battle for the No. 3 receiver position now that Steve Smith is a Philadelphia Eagle.

Jernigan's first game was a good first impression for coaches and fans—Jernigan posted a nice 18-yard pick up on his sole catch of the game. He also flashed the quickness the team needs from its slot receiver.

Grade: A

Mason Foster, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Third-round pick Mason Foster has been good enough this summer to earn the starting MIKE linebacker job in Tampa Bay, something the Buccaneers had only hoped for when they picked him up in the 2011 draft.

Foster has been solid in terms of gameplay and also in setting up a very young defense. His ability to learn the famed Tampa 2 defense so fast is quite impressive.

Grade: A

Jah Reid, Baltimore Ravens

Jah Reid will go from college to the NFL, and likely right into a starting job on one of the best teams in the league, with a real shot at making the playoffs for a fourth straight season.

Reid was moved into the starting lineup at right tackle after Oniel Cousins was ineffective in Week 1. The job is Reid's to lose, and if Friday night's game was any indication, he has no plans to let go anytime soon.

Grade: A

Allen Bailey, Kansas City Chiefs

Allen Bailey, a third -pick by the Kansas City Chiefs, just might unseat one of the two top-five picks the Chiefs are currently using on their defensive line—Glenn Dorsey and Tyson Jackson.

Bailey impressed early, notching a sack against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers first-team offense in the Chiefs opener while working at left end.

Bailey is a much better pass-rusher than Jackson. Don't be surprised to see the two rotating early and often.

Grade: A

Drake Nevis, Indianapolis Colts

This just in: Drake Nevis is really good.

If you follow the Indianapolis Colts, you know this. If you are a fan of the St. Louis Rams or Washington Redskins then you probably saw this first hand.

Nevis has been a dominant force all summer, and that's showing up now that we're playing games.

Grade: A

Shareece Wright, San Diego Chargers

Now is not the time for slow starters, but that's what Shareece Wright looks like so far for the San Diego Chargers. The third-round pick has yet to make even a small impact in two preseason games.

Wright is third on the depth chart at left cornerback, behind Quentin Jammer and Dante Hughes. He'll be struggling for playing time once the season begins—if he makes the team.

Grade: C

Curtis Marsh, Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles are set at cornerback, with three potential Pro Bowlers at the position. This leaves rookie Curtis Marsh in an unfortunate situation, as he's battling for a roster spot at the team's strongest position.

Marsh could make an impact on special teams or as a the No. 5 cornerback, but as of now that looks like a difficult position to step into.

Grade: C

Joseph Barksdale, Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders are batting a solid .500 when it comes to draft picks. It seems that almost every other pick is a solid choice. In the case of their 2011 class, this is very true, as Stefen Wisniewski and Joe Barksdale look like rookie starters on the offensive line.

Barksdale was a bit of an underachiever at LSU, and he's far from being a great athlete, but he fits the style of play the Raiders prefer from their offensive linemen. If Barksdale can close the gap between himself and starter Khalif Barnes, he might be one of the draft's biggest steals.

Grade: A

Chris Conte, Chicago Bears

A strong, athletic free safety; Chris Conte looked impressive in the Chicago Bears' preseason opener against the Buffalo Bills.

Conte notched three tackles for the second-team defense and generally flew all over the field. While he may not be ready to take over for Major Wright in the starting lineup, Conte could be a valuable dime player and special-teams gunner.

Grade: B

Kenrick Ellis, New York Jets

Kenrick Ellis might just be the most physically impressive rookie for the Jets so far. The New York Jets should love what they have in their rookie nose tackle.

Ellis has virtually no chance of replacing starting Sione Pouha, but the Jets don't need him to. They need Ellis to work in rotation and possibly come in when the team runs a four-man front. He can handle that without issue.

Grade: B

Curtis Brown, Pittsburgh Steelers

Curtis Brown may have a starting job with the Pittsburgh Steelers before this season is over. He's that good, and their cornerback situation is that bad.

Brown has played well this preseason, showing the type of athleticism and toughness the Steelers need opposite Ike Taylor and in their nickel-and-dime packages.

Grade: A

Alex Green, Green Bay Packers

Expected to contribute and possibly steal carries as a rookie, Alex Green has yet to impress in the Green Bay Packers backfield.

Green will stay firmly behind Ryan Grant and James Starks this season if he cannot show the speed and power that led to his being drafted in the third round of the 2011 draft. He's fourth right now on the depth chart—not a good sign.

Grade: D

Sione Fua, Carolina Panthers

Already a starter on the Carolina Panthers defensive line, Sione Fua is well on his way to an impressive NFL career as a nose tackle in the 4-3 system.

Fua entered camp as a starter, which may not be as impressive considering the lack of depth or talent on the Panthers roster at tackle, but he's also looking good in camp and in one-on-one battles during the preseason.

Grade: A

K.J. Wright, Seattle Seahawks

Seattle Seahawks linebacker K.J. Wright is doing all he can to prove he belongs in the starting lineup. Wright posted nine tackles in his NFL debut Week 1, and followed that up with an impressive performance running the second-team defense versus the Minnesota Vikings.

Wright was an athletic linebacker at Mississippi State, and I believe he could play either inside or outside linebacker. I wouldn't wait for Wright to take a starting job from David Hawthorne, but he could be a great depth player early on.

Grade: A

Roy Helu, Washington Redskins

Has Mike Shanahan found his next Terrell Davis?

That might be a bit of a stretch, but Shanahan has his Washington Redskins running the ball very well this preseason, and rookie Roy Helu is a huge part of that system.

Helu is currently fourth among rookie running backs with 129 yards on just 22 carries. Expect to see much more of No. 26 during the regular season.

Grade: A

Christian Ballard, Minnesota Vikings

Playing behind All-Pro Kevin Williams is a great way for rookie defensive tackle Christian Ballard to get acclimated to the NFL.

A one-time first-round prospect, Ballard fell all the way to pick No. 106 after it was reported he failed a drug test at the NFL Scouting Combine. Ballard seems to have his head on straight now, and he's ready to prove his doubters wrong with solid play.

Ballard posted a sack in the team's opener versus Seattle and then showed great penetration versus the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2.

Grade: A

Kendall Hunter, San Francisco 49ers

Bring on the Frank Gore trade demands—the San Francisco 49ers have Kendall Hunter.

OK, I'm being slightly facetious, but Hunter looks like the real deal in San Francisco. Running against one of the best defensive lines in football, Hunter put up 105 yards on just nine carries.

While Hunter is nowhere near the all-around player Gore is today, he's also younger and healthier than the 28-year-old Gore.

Grade: A

Casey Matthews, Philadelphia Eagles

If you can manage to start at middle linebacker for the most talented team in the NFL after being drafted in the fourth round, well, you deserve a spot here.

Matthews has been on fire this preseason, and leading many to wonder why he fell so far in the 2011 NFL draft. We know this much—the Philadelphia Eagles are glad he did.

The rich get richer, it seems.

Grade: A

Jacquizz Rodgers, Atlanta Falcons

If you find yourself rooting for the underdog, then you are going to love Jacquizz Rodgers. The diminutive back is as underdog as they come, but he's also lightning in a bottle and the type of dangerous playmaker the Atlanta Falcons had lacked on offense in previous seasons.

Rodgers will be a contributor at running back, wide receiver and return man—any way the Falcons can get the ball in his hands.

Grade: A

Dion Lewis, Philadelphia Eagles

A small, scat-back style runner—Dion Lewis is making a big impact on the already stocked Philadelphia Eagles roster.

Lewis has shown an ability as a runner and receiver out of the backfield, something you must be able to do if you want to play running back for Andy Reid.

Lewis won't be stealing carries from LeShon McCoy any time soon, but he just might emerge as his primary backup.

Grade: A

Evan Royster, Washington Redskins

Roy Helu may be the one splitting carries with Tim Hightower immediately, but should either player wear out or face injury it will be Evan Royster taking over for them.

Royster could be the Redskins answer to a true backup for Hightower, as both have the powerful running style and one-cut ability Mike Shanahan loves so much.

Royster has looked great this preseason, rushing for 66 yards on 15 carries.

Grade: A

Tyrod Taylor, Baltimore Ravens

Tyrod Taylor was viewed by many as an athlete when he entered the 2011 NFL draft. Few thought he would ever contribute as a quarterback in the NFL. The Baltimore Ravens, however, saw something different. They believed.

Taylor has rewarded them, as he's one of the most talked about rookies so far this season. Taylor has been impressive, hitting on 61.5 percent of his passes and showing an ability to move around and make plays. He has thrown mindless interceptions, but that's part of the process for a late-round draft pick.

Grade: A

Greg McElroy, New York Jets

The New York Jets have been committed to slinging the ball around late in games, which has inflated the stats of rookie quarterback Greg McElroy. This has led to an almost cult following of the sixth-round pick.

McEloy has shown toughness, but he's also showing why he was a sixth-round pick. His arm strength is lacking and he fails to see the entire field.

McElroy is a great story, but let's slow down before giving him Mark Sanchez's job.

Grade: B

Darren Evans, Indianapolis Colts

Darren Evans may have absolutely no chance of making the Indianapolis Colts roster, but he is playing well enough to show others in the NFL that he deserves a shot in the league.

Evans put up an impressive 52 yards in his preseason debut, before slowing down to just 14 yards against the Washington Redskins on four carries.

Evans won't see many carries in Week 3, as the Colts play their starters longer, but look for Week 4 to be his chance to prove he belongs.

Grade: A

Bryan Braman, Houston Texans

Currently tied for second in the NFL among rookies with 1.5 sacks, Bryan Braman went from absolute anonymity to household name with a huge game on Monday Night Football versus the New York Jets.

Braman simply could not be stopped when lining up at left outside linebacker. He was in the backfield on virtually every play, even if it was against second- and third-team guys.

Braman came back down to Earth versus the Saints, with just one tackle, but he is worth another look.

Grade: A

Steven Friday, Houston Texans

Another of the Houston Texans' vaunted undrafted free-agent pass-rushers, Steven Friday is tied with teammate Bryan Braman with 1.5 sacks.

Friday, who played defensive end at Virginia Tech, was a player I had tabbed as a great fit in Houston before the 2011 NFL draft. He looks to be the fit many envisioned, and he's worth a look in Week 4 as the team gives backups more playing time.

Grade: A

Pierre Allen, Seattle Seahawks

Pierre Allen looked phenomenal in the Seattle Seahawks' preseason opener versus the San Diego Chargers, notching two tackles and a sack in limited duty. He had more trouble versus the Minnesota Vikings' second team, but he's still showing enough talent to warrant a deeper look and a spot on the 'Hawks' 60-man roster.

Not bad for a guy who went undrafted.

Grade: A

Armond Smith, Cleveland Browns

He may be No. 5 on the Cleveland Browns depth chart right now, but there is no doubting that Armond Smith is exciting. He's also someone I had never heard of before the preseason began.

That has changed, quickly, as Smith has accumulated 138 yards of total offense and an impressive 81-yard touchdown run against the Detroit Lions.

Smith might not make the Browns' regular season roster, but he's guaranteed at the worst a practice squad spot this year.

Grade: A

Dwayne Harris, Dallas Cowboys

Diehard fans of the NFL draft, or the East Carolina Pirates, knew who Dwayne Harris was two weeks ago. Now, everyone does.

Harris was the highlight of Week 1's preseason games—posting five catches for 127 yards and two touchdowns in the Dallas Cowboys' nail-biter win over the Denver Broncos. Harris may have earned himself a shot at the opening day roster and legit playing time with that one.

Grade: A