NFL Rookie Rankings: Rashawn Slater plays well in big test
21. Javonte Williams, RB, Broncos
Dragging several defenders has become a weekly occurrence for Javonte Williams, as his contact balance along is worth carries in the timeshare. Still, as his vision and comfort in the offense gets better, the rise will come.
22. Kadarius Toney, WR, Giants
Kadarius Toney’s first appearance on the NFL rookie rankings comes after an unreal 10-catch, 189-yard performance. His agility and spatial awareness after the catch is special, and he made some tough catches in contested spots against Dallas, while making Trevon Diggs look silly in the process.
23. Penei Sewell, OT, Lions
He’s given up multiple sacks the past couple weeks, so the tumble in the NFL rookie rankings is warranted, but Penei Sewell is still extremely young with untapped potential. His best football is ahead.
24. Jaylen Waddle, WR, Dolphins
Drops have hurt Jaylen Waddle so far in 2021, but he’s still going to be the potential WR1 in this offense someday. His ability to separate is fantastic, and as Diontae Johnson has showed, fixing drops is possible.
25. Mac Jones, QB, Patriots
The lone quarterback on the list, Mac Jones is still the most consistent of the bunch, but he struggles mightily beyond 15 yards and needs to be more confident and consistent in that area to stress defenses.
Honorable Mentions
Joe Tryon-Shoyinka will be one of the rookies at center stage when the Bucs take on the Eagles, and he’s been an effective rusher in their rotation. Jaelan Phillips is making more waves lately and lining up all over the Dolphins front. Pete Werner is another to watch who could get into the top 25 very soon.