NFL Preseason Week 1 Rookie Standouts
First round quarterbacks
The preseason is always an exciting time for fans to see a glimpse at their team’s newest rookies and this year was no different with the group of quarterbacks who were drafted in the first round of the NFL Draft. Justin Fields showed flashes of his dual threat ability accounting for both a passing and rushing touchdown while showing poise and confidence and quite frankly looked like the best QB on the field that afternoon. Zach Wilson and Trey Lance showcased their big arm talent including an 80 yard touchdown from the 49ers rookie and Mac Jones had a decent debut as he was accurate and calm in the pocket and could push veteran QB Cam Newton for the starting role sooner than later. #1 overall pick Trevor Lawrence did not have the flashiest debut but anyone watching him play could tell that he carried himself like the top pick in the NFL Draft and a future franchise QB.
Najee harris | rb | Pittsburgh steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers are known for having a physical run game and it looks to be continuing this year and beyond with rookie Najee Harris. Harris is steeping in as the team’s lead RB and he has looked the part through Pittsburgh’s two preseason games. While the team’s offensive line hasn’t been great, Harris is utilizing the space he has to create plays and gain yards on the ground. Harris should be a fun rookie to watch this year and should have good production in 2021.
Terrace marshall jr. | wr | Carolina panthers
The Panthers landing LSU standout Terrace Marshall Jr. was viewed as one of the better value picks in the draft and it showed last weekend when Marshall led the Panthers in receiving. Not only was Marshall the top receiver for the Panthers but he averaged almost 30 yards per reception. Marshall, DJ Moore and Robby Anderson could turn out to be a dynamic receiving group for quarterback Sam Darnold heading into the 2021 season.
Micah parsons | lb | dallas cowboys
The former Nittany Lion got a head start this preseason since the Cowboys played in the Hall of Fame game and in the last two weeks has looked every bit as good as he did in Penn State. Parsons is stout in the run game yet has the athleticism to cover on passing downs and should step in day 1 as a three-down LB for Dallas. If Parsons continues to show these types of traits during the regular season, mark him down as the defensive rookie of the year.
Patrick surtain ii | cb | Denver broncos
Broncos rookie Patrick Surtain II so far has looked like the future lockdown CB that Denver drafted him to be and it showed last weekend including a pick-6 for the former Alabama star. Head Coach Vic Fangio is one of the best defensive minds in the league and it should be no surprise that he is molding Surtain II into a future star on his defense and potentially one of the better CBs in the entire NFL.