NFL Predictions Week 3: Which Rookies Will Have Strongest Showings?

Each new season we look for the rookies who break out, as that can really tell you what direction that particular franchise is headed.

So far however, Cam Newton from the Carolina Panthers has stolen the show.

That being said, other than Newton there have been some solid play amongst the rookie class of 2011.

Here are three more that will continue to establish themselves in Week 3. 

Patrick Peterson: CB, Arizona Cardinals

He was arguably the best player coming into the 2011 NFL Draft, and easily one of the best defensive players.

Arizona's Patrick Peterson is a proven stud in the secondary, and although he still has a lot to learn about playing in the NFL (no rookie is an exception), this week could be his breakout game.

The Cardinals travel to The Great Northwest and play NFC West rival Seattle, who ranks No. 28 in averaging 144 pass yards per game, and dead last in gaining only 47.5 yards per game.

Peterson was a significant boost to the Cardinals' secondary, and this week he really begins to make strides as an NFL DB.

He has yet to pick off a pass, but will at least snatch one this week, if not two.

And don't be surprised if he takes a punt back for a TD, because Ted Ginn of the 49ers did so against the Seahawks as well.

Julio Jones: WR, Atlanta Falcons

Week 2 was a big victory for the Atlanta Falcons as they defeated the Philadelphia Eagles in a Georgia Dome shootout.

As for Jones, he has yet to score a TD, but he is currently second on the team with 100 receiving yards in two games.

He also has seven receptions, five of which have gone for a first down.

This week Julio and company travel to Tampa, FL. and take on the young, but vulnerable Buccaneers.

The Bucs have allowed over 250 pass yards per game so far, but have yet to face a Falcons' offense that is now in rhythm after dominating a strong Eagles' defense.

Week 3 is Jones' breakout game (five catches, over 100 yards, two TDs), and this time the cliche "keeping up with the Jones'" literally takes its meaning to heart.

A.J. Green: WR, Cincinnati Bengals

If you're wondering why the San Francisco 49ers currently rank No. 1 in rush defense, it's mainly because they allow almost 300 passing yards per game.

Which only plays into the strength of the Cincinnati Bengals and rookie WR A.J. Green.

He currently leads the team with 11 receptions and two TD for a total of 165 yards, nine of which have moved the chains.

In Week 2 the Dallas Cowboys exposed the 49ers' pass defense, and this week the upstart and young Bengals have even more in store.

Right now, San Fran is vulnerable because they let one get away at home last week. Now having to travel across the country will be difficult, and WR A.J. Green will be the best target they've faced in 2011.

Green catches seven balls for 125 yards, and reaches over the goal line twice to really put himself and the Bengals on the map.

Be sure to check out John on Bleacher Report.

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