Evaluating Novice Performances
The 2024 NFL draft class has had time to adjust to their new clubs, localities, and the fast-paced nature of professional football. It’s the ideal time to assess these rookies’ performance against some of the most formidable opponents they’ve ever encountered as the preseason moves into its third week. This assessment provides a preview of each rookie’s preparedness for the regular season by analyzing how they performed in Week 3 of the preseason.
Bengals vs. Colts: Jermaine Burton Lights Up Despite Early Problems
Rating: B+
Jermaine Burton, the rookie wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals, saw mixed success in his team’s game against the Colts. Burton had a difficult time at first getting space from opponents, as was evident in his inability to secure a deep ball. But as the game went on, he showed resiliency and skill. One of his highlights was a 21-yard touchdown reception that showed his attention and composure. Burton had some early problems, such as a discernible loss of energy as the game progressed, but his flexibility and ability to make big plays, like his touchdown reception, bode well for his future contributions.
Chiefs against. Bears: Carson Steele Shows Up as a Potent Opponent
Rating: A-
Undrafted free agent Carson Steele of the Kansas City Chiefs has impressed as a power back and special teams player. Steele’s power and quickness were on full display during the Bears game. He made several noteworthy gains, including a 31-yard run and a 1-yard touchdown, by avoiding an unblocked opponent. He had a similarly impressive showing on special teams, making crucial plays in punt and kickoff coverage. Steele’s play suggests that he may be a useful addition, particularly considering his versatility and influence on the offensive and special teams units.
Falcons at. Jaguars: Jarrian Jones Displays Defensive Intelligence
Grade: C+
Jarrian Jones, a rookie cornerback with the Jacksonville Jaguars, had a conflicting game against the Falcons. Although he wasn’t put to the test much through the air, Jones showed good leverage and a solid football IQ while playing in the slot. It was impressive how well he was able to convey defensive movements and hold his position. Nevertheless, Jones had trouble releasing himself from blocks, as shown by a noteworthy 20-yard run that he was unable to stop. Though there is still space for development in several areas, his special team’s contributions—such as blocking a punt gunner—brought his total performance to a higher level.
Dolphins vs. Buccaneers: A Difficult Task for Chop Robinson
Rating: C
Chop Robinson, a first-round selection of the Miami Dolphins, faced difficulties in his game against the Buccaneers. Early in the game, Robinson struggled to shed blocks as Buccaneers right tackle Luke Goedeke dominated him. Although Robinson showed hustle and some pass-rushing quickness, he still has to work on his ability to break free from blockers in order to be a more useful player. His performance serves as a reminder of the challenging learning curve that newcomers to the professional ranks frequently encounter.
49ers versus. Raiders: Rookie Tackle Delmar Glaze Makes An Impressive Show
Delmar Glaze, a rookie offensive tackle for the Las Vegas Raiders, had an outstanding game against the 49ers. Strong pass protection and a smooth kick slide were on display as Glaze successfully kept quarterback Nathan Peterman clean. He appears to be well on his way to being an important member of the Raiders offensive line given his ability to move defenders and block well in both the run and pass games. Glaze has shown that he has the potential to be a major player, either as a useful swing tackle or as a starter.
Edefuan Ulofoshio Shows Potential in Panthers vs. Bills
Grade: C+
Edefuan Ulofoshio, a rookie linebacker for the Buffalo Bills, displayed a range of strengths and shortcomings in his performance against the Panthers. Ulofoshio showed resilience and a knack for stopping plays close to the line of scrimmage. He had trouble, though, missing tackles and missing blitzes. Notable was his covering ability, despite allowing a big gain on a late pass. Ulofoshio’s performance shows promise, but it also points out areas where he needs to get better as he gets used to playing professionally.
Zach Frazier Shows Off His Value in the Steelers vs. Lions Game
Grade: A
Zach Frazier, a rookie center for the Pittsburgh Steelers, had a strong performance against the Lions. Standout highlights in Frazier’s performance included his ability to effectively block passes in both the run and pass game, demonstrating his ability to anchor the offensive line. He regularly managed defenders and helped an offensive effort succeed, demonstrating his aggressiveness and technical proficiency. Based on his performance, it appears that Frazier will be a valuable member of the Steelers’ offensive line.
Roger Rosengarten, Ravens vs. Packers Has Trouble Staying Consistent
Rating: C
Roger Rosengarten, a rookie offensive tackle for the Baltimore Ravens, performed erratically against the Packers. Rosengarten had trouble protecting the pass, giving in to pressure, and missing multiple blocks. In the run game, he had willingness and potential, but his play was hampered by poor footwork and technique. The difficulties rookies have acclimated to the NFL’s speed and physicality are highlighted by Rosengarten’s game.
Jamal Hill Shows Quickness and Agility Against the Texans
Grade: C+
Jamal Hill, a rookie linebacker with the Houston Texans, impressed the Rams with his quickness and agility. Hill struggled with strength and blocking, but his special teams performances and tight end coverage were noteworthy. He demonstrated good agility and pursuit skills, but his lack of power hindered his overall performance. Hill’s ability to continue using his speed and refine his physicality will probably determine how much more he can contribute in the future.
Eagles vs. Vikings: Cooper DeJean Displays Potential on Defense
Grade: B+
Cooper DeJean, a rookie defensive back for the Philadelphia Eagles, played well on defense against the Vikings. DeJean’s hamstring issue hindered him, but he still showed promise in his run-stopping and coverage abilities. He was physically strong and agile, yet he also exhibited inconsistent times. DeJean has obvious promise as a nickel corner, and his play makes it seem like he might contribute significantly to the Eagles’ defensive line.
Chargers vs. Cowboys: Impressive Versatility from Junior Colson
Grade: A
Junior Colson, a rookie linebacker with the Los Angeles Chargers, had an excellent game against the Cowboys. Colson showed off his physicality and adaptability by making several crucial tackles and displaying excellent coverage abilities. His ability to play well in a variety of game situations, such as run defense and coverage, emphasizes his potential to lead the Chargers defense in the future.
Giants vs. Jets: Despite Difficulties, Qwan’tez Stiggers Displays Potential
Rating: C
Qwan’tez Stiggers, a rookie cornerback for the New York Jets, had a conflicting performance against the Giants. Despite his notable performances—such as forcing a fumble back and displaying aggressiveness against the run—Stiggers suffered missed tackles and fouls. Although he needs to improve his technique and decision-making to maximize his effect on the field, his aggressive approach shows potential.
Browns vs. Seahawks: A Notable Performance by Christian Haynes
Rating: B+
Christian Haynes, a rookie lineman for the Seattle Seahawks, performed well against the Browns. Haynes showed agility and strength, especially when running blocking. His overall play, notably his ability to anchor and move defenders, was promising even with the holding penalty. Haynes has the potential to be a vital member of the Seahawks offensive line given his ability to compete against strong opponents and step up when it matters most.
Saints against. Titans: Taliese Fuaga Must Make a Difficult Transition
Rating: C
Taliese Fuaga, a rookie lineman for the New Orleans Saints, had a difficult game against the Titans. Fuaga encountered difficulties with toughness and pass protection after switching to left tackle. His performance made clear where he needed to improve, especially when facing more forceful defenders. As Fuaga continues to hone his skills and adjust to his new role, his progress will be vital.
Broncos vs. Cardinals: Xavier Weaver Establishes His Presence
Grade: B
Xavier Weaver, a rookie wide receiver for the Arizona Cardinals, had a noteworthy game against the Broncos. Weaver showed that he could split the defense and produce big plays, like a 43-yard gain. His work as a positional blocker and on special teams was particularly noteworthy. Based on his performance, Weaver has the potential to be a major asset to the Cardinals, particularly if he keeps improving and makes a meaningful contribution.
Commanders vs. Patriots: Drake Maye Displays Potential Despite First-Time Errors
Rating: B
Drake Maye, the rookie quarterback for the New England Patriots, had some promising moments against the Commanders. Maye showed promise as a future starter by making numerous excellent throws, showcasing his quickness and accuracy. But he also made rookie errors in terms of fumbles and missed throws during his play. As Maye continues to refine his skills, his capacity for learning and adaptation will be crucial.
Novices Leaving Their Imprint
The third week of the NFL preseason offered insightful information on the 2024 draft class’s performances. While a few rookies demonstrated their abilities and made noteworthy contributions, others had difficulties and pointed out areas in need of development. These assessments provide an early look at how these rookies are adjusting to the professional game as the regular season draws near, and several of them have potential going forward. Although it’s a difficult path from rookie to star player, their early results laid the groundwork for what may be an entertaining season.
