The 2015 NFL season is slowly approaching, which means that it’s time to evaluate the rookies and throw out a few predictions. This year’s draft class featured some intriguing players, but specifically, there are a few who have the potential to be immediate playmakers at the next level. Let’s check out a few of the top candidates to make some noise from the 2015 rookie class.
Amari Cooper, WR, Oakland Raiders
The Oakland Raiders are known for drafting wide receivers too early. This time, though, they got it right. Cooper is an absolute stud, and as long as he’s able to build a rapport with second-year quarterback Derek Carr, then I think he could be in the running for Offensive Rookie of the Year. Cooper has superstar written all over him and has hands that quarterbacks dream of throwing to. The combo of Carr and Cooper could be a fun one to watch for many years to come.
DeVante Parker, WR, Miami Dolphins
Many people are still sleeping on Parker for some reason. While he did miss half the season with the Louisville Cardinals last year, he showed us exactly how talented he is over just six games. Through those six games, he managed to haul in 43 receptions for 855 yards and five touchdowns, while falling below 120 yards in a game only one time. Parker was a touchdown machine during his sophomore and junior seasons, catching a combined 22 scores. If you think Ryan Tannehill isn’t drooling at the potential of throwing to Parker, then you’re just crazy.
Melvin Gordon, RB, San Diego Chargers
Say hello to the new lead back of the San Diego Chargers. Gordon gives you a little bit of everything and San Diego fans had to be thrilled to land him at No. 15 overall. The fact that Gordon is in San Diego means big things, largely because it’ll help take the pressure off Philip Rivers and the passing game. Gordon’s a workhorse back who can kick it into another gear whenever he needs to. Expect Gordon to have one of the best seasons of all the rookies.
Follow Jeff on Twitter @JSM8ith.
