NFL Week 2 showcased impressive performances from rookie players, reflecting their growth and adaptability. With a minimum of 10 snaps played required to qualify, several newcomers made significant impacts on their teams, underlining the potential of this year’s draft class.
Quarterback Performances Shine
Leading the quarterback rankings is Cam Ward of the Tennessee Titans, who demonstrated notable improvement with a 68.0 PFF passing grade, up from 54.2 in his debut. Ward completed 19 of 33 passes for 175 yards, including his first NFL touchdown. His ability to extend plays while keeping his focus downfield led to a well-placed touch pass to rookie teammate Elic Ayomanor. Despite this progress, Ward suffered another five sacks, raising concerns about his protection.
Another standout is Cam Skattebo of the New York Giants, who recorded a 73.6 PFF rushing grade. After limited exposure in his debut, Skattebo carried the ball 12 times for 55 yards and scored a rushing touchdown in the Giants’ overtime loss to the Cowboys. His performance included three missed tackles and three first downs, showcasing his developing skills in the backfield.
Wide Receivers Make Their Mark
The wide receiver position featured strong showings from several rookies. Pat Bryant of the Denver Broncos caught both of his targets for a total of 18 yards, both resulting in first downs, leading to a 79.2 PFF receiving grade. Meanwhile, Isaac TeSlaa of the Detroit Lions made headlines with a spectacular one-handed catch nearly 30 yards downfield, setting up a crucial first-and-goal situation. TeSlaa earned a 76.4 PFF grade despite limited targets.
Elic Ayomanor, also from the Titans, contributed significantly with four catches on six targets for 56 yards and his first NFL touchdown. His two contested receptions demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure, securing a 76.1 PFF receiving grade.
At the tight end position, Jackson Hawes of the Buffalo Bills excelled with an impressive 85.3 PFF grade, primarily due to his blocking prowess. Although he caught only one pass for five yards, his blocking contributions were vital in the Bills’ victory over the Jets.
Offensive Linemen Show Their Strength
On the offensive line, Josh Simmons of the Kansas City Chiefs demonstrated resilience against a formidable Eagles defensive line, achieving an 87.8 PFF pass-blocking grade while allowing only one pressure. Conversely, his run-blocking grade was lower at 49.4. Similarly, Will Campbell of the New England Patriots also excelled in pass protection, earning an 81.3 grade while struggling in the run game.
The interior offensive line saw Dylan Fairchild of the Cincinnati Bengals emerge as a key player, boasting an impressive 84.9 pass-blocking grade after taking over as the starting left guard. Connor Colby of the San Francisco 49ers followed closely, achieving a 73.1 grade in just his second game.
Defensive Rookies Step Up
Defensively, Adin Huntington, an undrafted rookie for the Cleveland Browns, made a notable impact with an 85.5 PFF grade, despite playing only 13 snaps against the Ravens. His high pass-rush win rate highlighted his potential as a disruptive force.
At linebacker, Jihaad Campbell of the Philadelphia Eagles maintained strong coverage skills, permitting just one reception for four yards during the game against the Chiefs. Carson Schwesinger, also a linebacker for the Browns, continued to shine with consistent performances, although he traded places with Campbell on this week’s rankings.
In the secondary, Dorian Strong of the Buffalo Bills stepped up significantly in the absence of a teammate, allowing only one reception on 18 coverage snaps. His overall performance contributed to a solid outing against the Jets.
These performances illustrate the growing impact of rookies in the NFL, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead as they continue to develop and adapt to the professional game. The contributions from these newcomers are crucial for their teams as they navigate the challenges of the season.
