With a majority of the big name rookies forced to attend the NFLs Annual Rookie Premie weeks ago, many late round and undrafted free agents received the bulk of reps during the early stages of OTAs. However, since then first-rounders like Anthony Barr, Ha-Ha Clinton Dix, and Eric Ebron have all been going full speed in hopes of learning the ropes of the NFL and to get acclimated as quickly as possible. Here are what rookies that have caught the eye of coaches and fans alike.
Colt Lyerla, Green Bay Packers, Tight End: Stock Up
After a checkered and troubled past (to put it mildly) Lyerla has received a warm welcome from the Packers organization and fan base. Lyerla, who many agreed had first-round talent, went undrafted in last Mays draft because of multiple run ins with the law. However, thus far in camp, Lyerla has showed off the explosion and big play ability we saw on tape, as well as the versatility to do much more than the traditional in-line blocking tight end.
Antonio Richardson, Minnesota Vikings, Offensive Tackle: Stock Up
While most of the anticipation and excitement was built around guard David Yankey and the boost he will provide the Vikings offensive line, it has been Richardson who has stolen the spotlight. Like Colt Lyerla, Richardson went undrafted as well, but for different reasons related to poor physicals and bad knees. So far though Richardson has looked every bit as impressive as his college tape implied, showing off his long wing span and strength that engulfs his opponent off the edge. Richardson was already working with the first-team when Matt Kalil missed time because of an injury, not bad for a rookie free agent.
Kyle Fuller, Chicago Bears, Cornerback: Stock Up
When your selected in the first-round expectations are high right out of the gate, and the same can be said for Bears rookie cornerback Kyle Fuller. Fuller was chosen to help aid the Bears declining secondary while adding talent and youth. So far, Fuller has lived up to the first-round hype, displaying the talent and football IQ to hang with the big boys. Fuller has lined up both on the outside and inside for the Bears defense, next to Charles Tillman and Tim Jennings, giving the unit a solid 1-2-3 punch.