NFL Draft: Browns, Chargers Headline Rookie Rankings Through Week 4

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 19: Asante Samuel Jr. #26 of the Los Angeles Chargers during warm up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at SoFi Stadium on September 19, 2021 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 19: Asante Samuel Jr. #26 of the Los Angeles Chargers during warm up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at SoFi Stadium on September 19, 2021 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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Atlanta Falcons, Kyle Pitts
Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /

21. Javonte Williams, RB, Broncos

He’s been in a rotation with Melvin Gordon, but when Javonte Williams totes the rock, he rattles off some big runs. It’s not because of burst or explosion, but because his pad level and contact balance is fantastic. He stays decisive and is a great north/south runner.

22. Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Giants

He wasn’t the top edge rusher selected in the NFL Draft, but Azeez Ojulari has quietly had a good start. He has three sacks in four games, and has a good get off, great hand usage at contact, and enough counters to quickly create pressure.

23. Jaylen Waddle, WR, Dolphins

He’s cooled off a bit, but Jaylen Waddle is still a threat whenever the ball gets into his hands. His burst into his stem and reliable hands will make for a future WR1 in Miami.

24. Kyle Pitts, TE, Falcons

Kyle Pitts isn’t quite living up to the billing of a top five NFL Draft selection, but adapting to NFL speed as a tight end takes time. He also hasn’t gotten a ton of targets, but his body control and ability to maintain play speed through the catch point has been impressive.

25. Jaelan Phillips, EDGE, Dolphins

The first round pick is starting to heat up for Miami, as he had a great week against the Colts. Phillips can win in a variety of ways, from creating speed to power and winning with a wicked quick inside move. More opportunity should mean more production going forward.

HM:

There are plenty of others making an impact, but here are a few who just missed in the rankings. Michael Carter the corner has been impressive in coverage for the Jets, allowing very few completions and shutting down a side of the field. Kenny Gainwell is showing off the receiving chops, burst, and moves in space for the Eagles, giving Jalen Hurts a security blanket as a check down. Christian Barmore and Gregory Rousseau have both been defending the run well and generating pressure, respectively, in the AFC East.