NFL predictions: Unlikely stars for all 32 teams entering 2019
Indianapolis Colts: Hale Hentges, TE
There is an argument to be made that the Indianapolis Colts have the best tight end tandem in the NFL today with Jack Doyle and Erin Ebron. Well, that duo could end up being the best trio, as rookie tight end Hale Hentges has been a true standout for the team in the early going.
Hentges played his collegiate ball at Alabama, where he had the unfortunate luck to be buried behind the likes of O.J. Howard and Irv Smith on the depth chart.
In fact, Hentges reeled in 4 catches for 34 yards in his second preseason game against the Browns, which are the same numbers he tallied in twelve games as a senior with the Crimson Tide.
He is clearly relishing getting a chance to finally showcase his skill and even if the Colts can’t find room for him on the final roster, he could be snagged off the waiver by a tight end needy team in no time.
Houston Texans: Roderick Johnson, OT
The Houston Texans have had offensive line issues for a while now and are looking for anybody to step up and help them get to the next step in 2019.
One surprising name that has turned heads thus far is Roderick Johnson.
Johnson is a former Cleveland Brown that was drafted in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL draft. He would never appear in a game for the Browns and eventually was claimed off waivers by the Texans during the 2018 offseason.
Johnson spent last year fluctuating between being on the practice squad and being promoted to the active roster but is looking to cement his place on the team in 2019.
Matt Kalil has been injured, allowing Johnson to get significant reps with the starting unit in camp and throughout the preseason and he’s been solid.
If he can continue to show steady play in Kalil’s absence, the Texans just may have another promising young tackle option to add to the mix.
Jacksonville Jaguars: C.J. Reavis, DB
The Jaguars defense is absolutely loaded with talent, particularly in the secondary. Jalen Ramsey and A.J. Bouye make up arguably the best corner tandem in the league and Ronnie Harrison is thought of as one of the better young safeties as well.
Well, if you’ve watched the Jaguars during the preseason, you would think that former Last Chance U star, C.J. Reavis, is right on par with those big names.
Reavis has been all over the field for the Jaguars accounting for 18 total tackles with two of them being for a loss. He’s shown versatility, instincts and an aggressive nature that should leave Jags fans feeling comfortable with their depth going into the regular season.
His physical play and ‘dog’ attitude are just what you want in a safety and he has not only earned a spot on the 53-man roster, but he could be pushing Jarrod Wilson for that strong safety job as we near week 1.
Tennessee Titans: Kalif Raymond, WR
Kalif Raymond has bounced around from team to team since coming into the league as an undrafted free agent back in 2016. In his career thus far, Raymond has just one career reception, as he was mostly used as a return man with the Broncos, Jets and Giants.
Raymond is now looking to finally prove he can win against NFL DB’s with the Titans and is showing out during the preseason.
The former Holy Cross standout is fourth in the NFL with 204 receiving yards during the preseason and has brought down a reception of 20 or more yards in each game.
He has been exciting to watch and although his future with the Titans is unclear, he has put enough on tape to earn a shot elsewhere if he isn’t able to solidify his spot.