TIME TO BREAKOUT
NFL training camp can be a trying time for many rookies accustomed to the college play level who find themselves facing the world’s best players. Many rookies are discouraged by the intense constant battle for their jobs and crumple under pressure. However, these five rookies stand out for me, and they could be elite in camp and beyond.
Travis Etienne: RB, Jacksonville
The spotlight will be on Trevor Lawerence in the Jags’ training camp; however, Etienne could be their most impactful rookie in 2021. Etienne was drafted with the Jag’s second first-round pick as a running back. The former Clemson RB standout will split backfield carries with James Robinson, who rushed for 1,000 yards in 2020. But there are rumors that the Jags may use him as a receiver. Etienne could either be RB1 or WR3 in 2021.
Jaycee Horn: CB, Carolina
Jaycee Horn was somewhat of a surprise in this year’s draft when he was selected 8th overall by the Panthers. Truth is Horn has the potential to be an elite player in this league. Horn is a man-to-man specialist, which means he does better when pressing up against a receiver instead of backing off in a zone. Look to see the former Gamecock to cover the best receivers in the NFC South, including Calvin Ridley and Michael Thomas.
Creed Humphrey: Center, Kansas City
After a disastrous Super Bowl, the Chiefs have completely revamped their 2021 O-Line. Key pickups include Orlando Brown and Joe Thuney, and the newly unretired Kyle Long. Furthermore, when the Chiefs drafted Humphrey (Oklahoma) in the second round, they grabbed their center of the future. Humphrey is a raw prospect, but could end up with the starting job by the end of camp, and will be a long-term protector of Patrick Mahomes.
Greg Newsome: CB, Cleveland
Cleveland made a smart pick in the first round with Newsome, a long, athletic corner with potential to grow. Newsome was a part of the Northwestern secondary that allowed the second-most passing yards in the Big Ten; however, he was lockdown against most receivers and allowed only 56 yards per game. He will be paired with Denzel Ward and John Johnson in a secondary that borders on elite.
Trey Lance: QB, San Francisco
Trey Lance was the third overall pick in this year’s draft and he might be in the best situation for a rookie QB. For the time being, Lance will sit behind Jimmy Garoppolo. Lance, from North Dakota State, is a talented, but raw prospect. If he plays well in camp and preseason, Jimmy could be on the bench early in the season.
