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NFC North rookies who will make the largest affect in 2023

7 months ago 3 min read

Now that the NFL Draft is over, groups will conduct rookie mini-camps adopted by organized crew actions (OTAs). Listed here are 4 rookies who will possible have the largest affect within the NFC North:

Chicago Bears

Tyrique Stevenson, CB (Spherical 2)

Stevenson allowed a completion share of simply 42.5 in 2022, surrendering solely three touchdowns and 353 yards over 11 video games. He recorded two interceptions and quarterbacks had a passer score of 78.4 when concentrating on him.

The 6-foot, 214-pound Stevenson has the protection abilities to play within the nickel and the flexibility to jam and blanket receivers whereas taking part in Cowl 2. His presence may hold Kyler Gordon taking part in the slot and permit head coach Matt Eberflus to make use of extra numerous protection schemes with Stevenson, Jaylon Jones and Jaylon Johnson shadowing outdoors receivers.

Detroit Lions

Sam LaPorta, TE (Spherical 2)

Most draft consultants will most likely inform you working again Jahmyr Gibbs can have the largest affect of any Lions rookie, however fact be instructed, he’ll be splitting time with David Montgomery and the Lions have solely ever had three RBs rush for 1,000 yards as rookies (Barry Sanders, Billy Sims, Kevin Jones).

There’s a transparent path for LaPorta to be Detroit’s beginning tight finish from Day 1. The Lions bought simply 40 receptions and 389 yards from their tight ends final yr after buying and selling T.J. Hockenson to the Vikings. LaPorta is principally a sooner, extra bodily model of Hockenson, who was Detroit’s second-most focused weapon in 2020 and 2022. With Jameson Williams out for the primary six video games of 2023, LaPorta may very well be a safety blanket for Jared Goff ought to groups come heavy with double groups on Amon-Ra St. Brown.

Inexperienced Bay Packers

Luke Musgrave, TE (Spherical 2)

Whereas Jayden Reed is a good addition to Inexperienced Bay’s extensive receiver room with Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs, it may very well be argued that Musgrave has the potential for an even bigger rookie season. Tight ends performed a key function in 5 of the eight seasons that Aaron Rodgers threw 30 or extra landing passes, which is why Musgrave may very well be Jordan Love’s model of Jermichael Finley.

At 6-foot-6, Musgrave is an enormous goal that Love can have a tough time lacking. He had the fourth-fastest 40 time amongst tight ends on the mix, making him a legit vertical menace and including a brand new wrinkle to Inexperienced Bay’s passing assault. His massive fingers assist him win contested catches and he has the scale and physicality to win most of his matchups in opposition to linebackers and safeties in protection.

Minnesota Vikings

Jordan Addison, WR (Spherical 1)

Addison couldn’t have requested for a extra excellent touchdown spot than the pass-happy Vikings. And with Justin Jefferson on the alternative aspect, he’s certain to see a excessive variety of targets as a rookie (Adam Thielen averaged 103 targets per yr taking part in with Jefferson).

Addison’s elusiveness as a route runner permits him to create loads of separation in man protection and he can attain prime pace fairly rapidly off the road of scrimmage. Addison could also be small (5-foot-11, 175 kilos) however he wins extra contested catches than he loses and he has the flexibility to go up and snatch the ball out of the air in tight protection.