With the 2024 preseason within the rearview, groups are nonetheless figuring out whether or not they have rookies who can develop into fast difference-makers. This is how every first-year class within the AFC South has fared up to now:
Second-round decide cornerback Kamari Lassiter and third-round security Calen Bullock appear like impression gamers for the Texans on Day 1. The thrilling rookie duo have made a stable argument to begin and supplied a doable glimpse into the long run, combining to make a play throughout a joint follow with the Los Angeles Rams that resulted in an interception of quarterback Matthew Stafford, a two-time Professional Bowler and Tremendous Bowl champion.
Tight finish Cade Stover has caught the eye of head coach DeMeco Ryans, who instructed Will Kunkel of Fox 26 that the fourth-round pick has been “the most consistent player” since camp started. Now, after grabbing 5 of seven targets for 58 yards (11.6 YPC) over three preseason video games, it seems the previous Ohio State product may have a possibility to earn a major position, particularly with starter Dalton Schultz out for the 12 months after struggling a season-ending ACL damage.
In the meantime, Houston’s potential future left sort out, second-round decide Blake Fisher, has already impressed present starter Laremy Tunsil. The four-time Professional Bowler lately instructed Texans reporter Cody Stoots that Fisher was a “dog” whereas praising how he processes info on the sphere whereas transitioning from school to the professionals. | Complete class from ESPN
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars first-round decide, wideout Brian Thomas Jr., showcased his large ability set early, catching 3-of-4 targets for 93 yards throughout the preseason whereas serving to produce the ninth-highest passer ranking (116.7) amongst rookie wideouts, according to Pro Football Focus. The rookie has thrilling potential, particularly for the reason that skill set he brings seems to align perfectly with the strengths of quarterback Trevor Lawrence.
Second-round decide defensive sort out Maason Smith has carried out effectively, displaying uncooked however engaging traits. Via the preseason, he proved able to shedding blocks, proudly owning the very best pass-rush win price (20.8) amongst rookie inside linemen, per PFF. | Complete class from ESPN
Indianapolis Colts
The Colts rookie class options a number of gamers who might make an instantaneous impression, together with defensive finish Laiatu Latu, wideout Adonai Mitchell and offensive lineman Matt Goncalves.
Latu has turned the heads of teammates like linebacker Zaire Franklin, who described the first-round decide as a “timeout waiting to happen,” when talking with James Boyd of The Athletic. In the meantime, after tallying his first sack within the Colts preseason finale, he revealed a lofty purpose, telling Nate Atkins of the Indianapolis Star that he desires “to get that gold jacket.”
Likewise, Mitchell confirmed flashes of what he could possibly be throughout restricted preseason snaps, catching three of six targets for 29 yards and a landing. On the similar time, Goncalves has most likely performed his method into the swing-tackle position for Indy, because the versatile six-foot-six, 320-pound lineman held his personal, taking reps on each the correct and left sides. | Complete class from ESPN
Tennessee Titans
After enjoying proper sort out at Alabama, No. 7 decide JC Latham has seamlessly transitioned to left sort out. Via two preseason video games of motion, he is regarded like the answer to defending quarterback Will Levis’ blindside alongside 2023 first-rounder Peter Skoronski at left guard.
On the opposite aspect of the ball, second-round decide T’vondre Sweat has made a case to be part of the Titans’ inside rotation, exhibiting the flexibility to stuff the run and put strain on the quarterback up the center.
Nonetheless, Cedric Grey (fourth-rounder), competing for one of many open linebacker spots, has struggled and handled accidents, whereas Jarvis Brownlee (fifth-rounder) hasn’t stood out amongst defensive backs. | Compete class from ESPN
