NFL Draft: Odafe Oweh, Jaycee Horn Rise In Week 2 Rookie Rankings
11. Asante Samuel Jr., CB, Chargers
The second round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft got his first pick on an overthrow Sunday, and while he takes a bit of a tumble in the rankings, Samuel played well against a tough duo in Amari Cooper and CeeDee Lamb. He closed and attacked well from off coverage, and made a great breakup of a pass on Cooper in the red zone.
12. Jaylen Waddle, WR, Dolphins
Waddle won mostly underneath Sunday against the Bills, and he stays put in the rookie rankings despite a fumble. His explosiveness was still evident and could have a big week against the Raiders defense.
13. Nick Bolton, LB, Chiefs
Bolton wasn’t a flashy pick by the Chiefs in the NFL Draft, but he’s been good these first two games. He’s great moving downhill and takes good angles in the run game, and showed off the ability to dip around contact and take on blocks.
14. Payton Turner, DL, Saints
In what was a rough outing for the Saints, Payton Turner made the most of his reps, playing in multiple alignments and creating pressure from said alignments. He had good speed to power and collapsed the pocket on multiple occasions.
15. Trey Smith, OL, Chiefs
Trey Smith still looks like the best value of the 2021 NFL Draft so far, and he’s been crucial in keeping Patrick Mahomes protected. Smith is also finishing well at the point of attack and continues to improve with his balance.
16. Mac Jones, QB, Patriots
He was the final of the five first round quarterbacks in the NFL Draft, but Mac Jones has looked the best to this point. Jones has stayed patient and risk-averse in the Patriots offense, while showing good poise and maneuvering skills in the pocket.
17. Deommodore Lenoir, CB, 49ers
What a game for Lenoir, who showed promise against the Lions in week one. This week, he stayed sticky in coverage against Devonta Smith. His efficient movement skills and physical temperament have been crucial to a secondary that’s had holes.
18. Jevon Holland, S, Dolphins
Jevon Holland has been doing well in his role in the Dolphins defense so far, and got the start on Sunday. He’s kept his assignments, filled against the run with a quick trigger, and looked good in coverage. Holland should continue to make an impact.
19. Javonte Williams, RB, Broncos
Javonte Williams looked good against the Jaguars, rushing for 64 yards on 13 carries. He’s been a force in the committee so far, gaining plenty of yards after contact, something he did exceptionally well in college.
20. Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jaguars
The top pick in the NFL Draft struggled again against a top defense, missing high on some throws and throwing two more interceptions. He will settle down and figure out what he can and can’t get away with.