Week 1 of the preseason has come and gone, and here are our top risers who stood out on film. From first-round blue-chip talent to undrafted gems, these are some of our favorite rookies to keep an eye on.
Chargers CB Eric Rogers, an undrafted rookie from Rutgers, wasted no time making an impression. In limited opportunities, he recorded two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown, along with a pass breakup on just four targets. A 50% interception rate is eye-popping, and it was the type of standout performance head coach Jim Harbaugh wants to see from his young secondary.
Giants EDGE Abdul Carter lived up to his billing as one of the biggest blue-chip prospects in this year’s draft. On just three pass rush snaps, he generated three quarterback pressures, all coming in under 2.5 seconds. With Carter joining an already loaded defensive line, New York’s front could be one of the most dangerous units in the league.
Bears WR Luther Burden, who missed much of training camp with a soft-tissue injury, wasted no time making up for lost reps. The former Missouri standout caught two passes on three targets for 29 yards in Sunday’s matchup with Miami, playing 25 snaps. Beyond the numbers, he displayed great awareness, whether it was fighting for a first down or getting out of bounds to conserve time, showing why Chicago was eager to get him on the field.
Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson turned heads in multiple phases of the game. He broke loose for a 100-yard kick return, ripped off an 18-yard run, and caught all three of his targets for 13 yards. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels raved about the rookie, calling him the fastest player he’s ever coached and saying he had “no negatives” to report. Henderson already looks like exactly what New England needs in its backfield.
Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan, the first receiver taken in this year’s draft, gave a glimpse of his big-play ability with two receptions for 43 yards, including a spectacular 30-yard grab. In college, he posted a 70.4% success rate against man coverage, 81% against zone, and 73.1% against press, ranking in the 80th percentile. If he carries that efficiency into the pros, it’s hard to imagine he won’t see around 120 targets in his rookie season.
Giants QB Jaxson Dart posted the highest PFF grade of all rookie quarterbacks in Week 1 of the preseason with an 80.7. He played with poise, commanded the offense, and looked comfortable making his own adjustments at the line. Dart stood tall in the pocket, moved when necessary, and showed the composure of a player ready to lead.
Ravens LB Jay Higgins, an undrafted free agent from Iowa, put together a performance that reflected the defensive pedigree of his alma mater. Higgins picked off a pass in the second half and helped limit opposing quarterbacks to a 47.9 passer rating. With Roquan Smith as his mentor and William Kwenkeu sidelined by injury, Higgins could see meaningful snaps early.
Patriots OT Will Campbell, taken fourth overall, entered the draft with concerns about his arm length. So far, those concerns look overblown. In his preseason debut, Campbell didn’t allow a single pressure, providing clean protection for second-year quarterback Drake Maye—a major point of emphasis for the Patriots this season.
Eagles LB Jihaad Campbell looks like another savvy pickup by general manager Howie Roseman. In just 15 snaps, Campbell recorded three tackles and nearly came away with an interception. Surrounded by an elite supporting cast, he has all the tools to put together a strong rookie campaign.
Seahawks G Grey Zabel may prove to be a cornerstone piece in Seattle’s offensive line rebuild. The former North Dakota State standout played limited snaps but impressed in every aspect, finishing his first preseason game without allowing a sack or pressure. Zabel already looks capable of stepping into a starting role in Week 1.