NFL Rookie Rankings: Rashawn Slater plays well in big test
11. Devonta Smith, WR, Eagles
Devonta Smith is now starting to string together good performances production-wise. He’s still gaining separation with ease and had a couple big chances for splash plays Sunday. As the chemistry continues to build with Jalen Hurts, those plays will come.
12. Trey Smith, G, Chiefs
Another rock solid pick and a steal in the 2021 NFL Draft, Trey Smith is the top day three pick in these NFL rookie rankings. He’s helped strengthen the interior of Kansas City’s offensive line and the group will gel eventually as long as Smith is there.
13. Najee Harris, RB, Steelers
He’s been a dynamo as a receiver out of the backfield and dominant at contact, but Najee Harris really showed his strength as a runner Sunday, displaying better vision and stringing moves together between the tackles like he did at Alabama.
14. Asante Samuel Jr., CB, Chargers
A little fall in the NFL rookie rankings for Asante Samuel Jr., but he’s still playing like a top corner and future cornerstone for the Chargers secondary. Staying more patient in off-coverage at times will help.
15. Gregory Rousseau, EDGE, Bills
The reason to bet on athleticism and upside sits here. Rousseau continues to generate pressure on the edge for the Bills, and his landing spot with Sean McDermott was huge. He’s developing a rush plan quicker than expected and can use his athleticism to win as well.
16. Alijah Vera-Tucker, G, Jets
He wasn’t the flashiest pick, but Alijah Vera-Tucker has been the best lineman for the Jets this season. His heavy hands, powerful frame, and good anchor have limited pressures from opponents.
17. Azeez Ojulari, EDGE, Giants
Ojulari is still doing great work once he reaches contact against opposing tackles, and he’s certainly been a standout for the 2021 NFL Draft edge class in these NFL rookie rankings.
18. Samuel Cosmi, OT, Football Team
Lunging is still hurting him as a pass protector, but Samuel Cosmi is a dominant run blocker with the hip and shoulder strength to generate torque and get defenders on the turf. His initial quicks have been as advertised as well.
19. Rondale Moore, WR, Cardinals
The more Rondale Moore gets opportunity in the Cardinals offense, the sooner comes the breakout. Moore had another spectacular catch this week against the 49ers, where he got great position and showed great body control at the sideline.
20. Michael Carter, CB, Jets
While both Michael Carter’s are playing well for the Jets, their corner has done very well staying physical and in receivers’ hip pockets this season, and looks like one of the bigger steals in the 2021 NFL Draft.