Ranking the top NFL Rookies at midseason: Nos.10-12
RANKING THE NFL'S BEST ROOKIES: Nos. 13-15
The mid-point of the NFL is upon us, which means it's time to take a look at the league's top rookies. We continue our look at the top 15 today with Nos. 10-12, led by a former four-star running back.
The skinny: Chubb committed to NC State over several programs, including Duke, Iowa, Georgia Tech and Mississippi State. He had visited NC State only a couple of weeks prior to his decision. Chubb enjoyed an All-American career with the Wolfpack before being drafted with the fifth overall pick by Denver. He has not disappointed in Denver, with 24 tackles, six tackles for a loss, seven sacks and one forced fumble.
Farrell’s take: Chubb missed much of his junior season of high school due to an ACL injury, so he was under-recruited a bit and perhaps underrated because of it. He had a solid senior season and showed athleticism as a pass rusher, but also someone who could drop into coverage. His lack of natural length kept him rated a bit lower, but his relentless motor and technique make him an elite pass rusher in college and the best defensive end around. Now he’s already becoming one of the top linebackers in the NFL.
The skinny: Johnson committed to Auburn over Alabama and Florida State during a ceremony at his high school. Johnson had a memorable final season with the Tigers, ultimately being named SEC Player of the Year.
Being drafted in the second round by Detroit, Johnson has seen increased playing time in recent games. This has resulted in increased productivity. Currently with 466 yards and one touchdown on the ground, plus 21 receptions for 158 yards through the air, look for Johnson to get more opportunities through the end of the season.
Farrell’s take: Johnson was a terrific athlete, as evidenced by playing defensive back during Under Armour All-America week and that versatility and athleticism made him a dangerous weapon at Auburn. He can play receiver, running back and a hybrid combo position of both and he was the most important non-quarterback to any team in the country during his last year. He also showed his toughness and ability to handle fourth quarter carries, a question mark out of high school. He won the starting job in Detroit and hasn’t looked back.
The skinny: Nelson committed to the Irish in May after his junior season. He also considered Boston College, Ohio State, Penn State and Rutgers at the time of his decision. Nelson redshirted in 2014, received valuable playing time in 2015, earned a starting job in 2016 and was a unanimous All-American in 2017. Drafted with the sixth overall pick by Indianapolis, Nelson has started every game this season and last week became the first offensive guard to ever be name rookie Offensive Player of the Month.
Farrell’s take: I really liked Nelson on film out of high school, but when I first saw him in person at our New Jersey RCS Camp, I remember being wowed and felt he was a five-star prospect. He was huge, had good feet and physical. It’s not shocking to see him working inside at the next level, but he could play tackle as well if needed. He was raw as a prospect out of high school, but he has developed so nicely and there is still more room for growth in his game.
He was always trying to prove he should be higher ranked as a prep and I would imagine he’s still trying to improve his stock now. I felt he was the safest pick in the draft and he’s proving me right.
