NFL Predictions Week 1: 3 Rookies Set to Shine in Pro Debuts

This is the moment they’ve been dreaming about their entire lives; a rookie’s debut will be memorable no matter how good or bad that athlete plays. 

Having success out of the starting gate, especially after a shortened offseason, is difficult, but the following first-year players will pull it off. 

Here are three NFL rookies that will shine in their debuts.

3. Mark Ingram

Against a secondary featuring Charles Woodson, Tramon Williams, Nick Collins and Sam Shields, it’s going to be difficult to pass the football, even for Drew Brees. Throw in Clay Matthews’ pass-rushing ability, and the Saints are going to have to establish the run to win against the Packers. 

Mark Ingram will get a nice chunk of carries sharing the spotlight with Pierre Thomas.

The former Alabama back will also get the goal-line carries and be relied on to finish off long New Orleans drives.

2. Julio Jones

No one runs on the Chicago Bears.  Brian Urlacher and company will not allow Michael Turner to win the game for the Falcons, so it’ll be up to Matt Ryan and the Atlanta passing game to come away with the win. 

Julio Jones will be a major part of that.

The Bears know they have to key on Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez, so the rookie will have some breathing room to catch a handful of footballs. 

1. Cam Newton

There aren’t many defenses better for a rookie quarterback to record his first NFL start against than that of the Arizona Cardinals.  They have a pitiful pass rush and a mediocre secondary. 

DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart will carry the offense, which will set Cam Newton up to make plays.

Newton is coming off his best preseason game by far against the Pittsburgh Steelers.  He went 3-of-5 for 25 yards and a touchdown while adding a 19-yard run.

David Daniels is a Featured Columnist at Bleacher Report and a Syndicated Writer. Follow him on Twitter.