Rookie report cards with two weeks in the books
Ryan Mathews, RB, San Diego Chargers
Chargers running back Ryan Mathews has not looked comfortable playing the position and has not shown the big play ability seen during this pre-season. He has dropped a few passes out of the backfield and
fumbled the ball twice (both which were recovered by the opposing team) in just 25 carries. Although he is the only rookie to rush over 100 yards this season, he has not come close to matching the production numbers which were expected from him when San Diego
drafted him out of Fresno State.
Unfortunately for Mathews, he injured his ankle in the Chargers’ 38-13 victory of the Jacksonville Jaguars last week. He has been battling injuries all throughout his collegiate career, so this is a concern
for him moving forward. San Diego needs more production from their first round draft pick and he has struggled against quality opponents.
Sam Bradford, QB, St Louis Rams
It’s no surprise that the Saint Louis Rams are 0-2 to start the season, but don’t look at their rookie quarterback to place the blame. Sam Bradford, the former number one overall draft pick from Oklahoma,
has been solid as a signal caller. It’s the play of the offensive line that has been particularly debilitating. The Rams have allowed five sacks in just two games, and at times Bradford doesn’t even have the time to drop back, set his feet and deliver an accurate
throw.
When his line does provide him with time, he has shown why St Louis feels that he can be their franchise quarterback. Despite throwing four interceptions, Bradford has tossed a touchdown pass in each of
his starts and has three TDs on the season to go along with his 420 yards. He is doing just fine.
Dez Bryant, WR, Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys had high hopes for receiver Dez Bryant heading into training camp. But an ankle injury forced the rookie to miss all of this year’s pre-season matches and they did not get a chance to
see him play until week one of the regular season.
It didn’t take Bryant long to establish himself as a viable threat for the Cowboys as he hauled in eight catches in his NFL debut for 56 yards. In week two, Bryant showed his versatility on special teams
and returned a punt 62 yards for a touchdown in Dallas’ loss to the Chicago Bears. He has been the Cowboys’ lone spark-plug on the offence along with fellow receiver Miles Austin. The Cowboys might be 0-2, but Bryant is doing his part.
Antonio Brown, KR, Pittsburgh Steelers
Antonio Brown returned the opening kick-off 89 yards for a touchdown in the
Pittsburgh Steelers' win over the Tenneesse Titans.His kick-off return was huge for the Steelers because they are playing without their starting quarterback, thus the offence is not running up the
scoreboard and points are not easy to come by. He gave his team momentum and he was the only player from the Steelers to score a touchdown in that game.
Jahvid Best, RB, Detroit Lions
Best compiled 232 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns in a losing effort to the Philadelphia Eagles last Sunday. This was his break-out game and formal introduction to the league. His 78 yards rushing
and nine receptions for 154 yards should be enough to give him a license to start every game and gain experience in the NFL.
The Lions got a big game out of him and he leads his team in touchdowns with four, in receptions with 14 and in receiving yards with 170. Teams should be preparing for Best, as he is showing signs that
he can be a quality player in this league if given a chance.
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