Three Rookies to Watch Out for This Season
Houston Chronicle
CJ Stroud: Quarterback, Houston Texans
The second overall pick has a lot to live up to this upcoming NFL season, seeing that Houston has already named the rookie quarterback the starter. The troubled franchise is hoping that Stroud is the answer to their quarterback struggles over the past decade. At Ohio State, Stroud was one of the best quarterbacks in college, the Heisman finalist won quarterback of the year twice as well as received first-team All-Big Ten honors and All-American second and third-team honors for the 2021 and 2022 seasons. The former Buckeye is an elite talent, standing at an impressive 6 foot 3, 214 pounds, he has a great build for the quarterback position. His decision-making and ability to deliver the ball in tight windows despite pressure from the pass rush make Stroud a dangerous addition to the Texans' offense.
IndyStar
Anthony Richardson: Quarterback, Indianapolis Colts
Drafted fourth overall, it makes complete sense as to why Richardson would be on anyone's radar for one of the best players in the draft this year. The former Florida Gator is an athletic miracle, scoring the highest Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of any quarterback ever in the draft. Standing at a staggering 6 foot 4, 244 pounds, while running a 4.43-second 40-yard dash Richardson is a massive dual threat to any defense he will face this upcoming season. Although Richardson may not have as lengthy of a resume as others drafted around his same position, his ability to create plays with his athleticism make him a player worth workshopping. When Richardson is ready to play, he will be an elusive and dominant asset to the Colts’ offense.
Atlanta Falcons
Bijan Robinson: Running Back, Atlanta Falcons
The former Texas running back was drafted eighth overall this offseason and ranked the best running back in the 2023 draft class. Robinson is a 5 foot 11, 215 pound back who has a great frame paired with astonishing speed, clocking in at a 4.46-second forty-yard dash at the combine. With a resume including the Doak Walker Award (for the nation’s best college running back), unanimous All-American, and 2x First-team All-Big 12, Robinson’s expectations are high this year. His elusiveness, vision, balance, and speed will make Robinson a versatile addition to the Atlanta Falcons this season.