Top Performing NFL Rookie Classes of 2013
With the regular season just over halfway complete, there are no doubt some inspired performances left to be seen from the 2013 NFL rookie class. Many of the 2013 draftees have come on strong during the first half of the season, while many others have failed to meet expectations. In fact, many single teams have sterling examples within their rookie selections. The St. Louis Rams found great value in Zac Stacy, a fifth-round pick out of Vanderbilt that has provided some competency to a depleted backfield. In contrast, their first round pick, Tavon Austin out of West Virginia, has failed to meet expectations through the first half of the season. Such a diverse result begs the question: Which NFL team has yielded the most success from their 2013 rookie class?
It’s hard to argue that the Chargers have netted a productive rookie class. All three selections from the first three rounds of the draft are currently starting for the Bolts, including OT D.J. Fluker (1st round, 11 overall), LB Manti Te’o (2nd round, 38 overall), and WR Keenan Allen (3rd round, 76 overall). Fluker has provided a capable option at right tackle, which has no doubt contributed to Allen’s ability to get open in the passing attack as the clear top target for Philip Rivers. Meanwhile, on the defensive unit, Te’o has been all over the field and is clearly meeting expectations as the future leader of San Diego’s defense.
Arguably the squad with the least need for impact rookie players on this squad, the Packers tradition of drafting and developing quality starters continues. Their most fruitful pick thus far has been RB Eddie Lacy (2nd round, 61 overall), whose fall from a projected first-round selection has left many general managers fuming. Lacy has been an absolute bowling ball since his return from injury early in the season, posting 669 yards over 8 games. Helping Lacy get through the first level of the defense is OT David Bakhtiari (4th round, 109 overall), who has provided stability at the tackle position and looks poised to remain in the starting lineup for the foreseeable future. To round out this highly successful draft, Datone Jones (1st round, 26th overall), RB Johnathan Franklin (4th round, 125 overall), and CB Micah Hyde (5th round, 159 overall) have all seen playing time and performed above expectations in spots.
After years of futile quarterback play, the Buffalo Bills hit the reset button and drafted their favorite prospect, Florida State QB EJ Manuel (1st round, 16 overall). Manuel has put together some promising drives this season, including a couple of late game comebacks that deliver hope to a long-downtrodden franchise. The real revelation has been on the defensive side, however, with LB Kiko Alonso (2nd round, 46th overall) making plays all over the field. Alonso currently sits at second place for most combined tackles on the season with 99. Through 9 games, Alonso has tallied four interceptions, tied for third among all eligible players. It’s rare for a rookie to be playing at Pro Bowl caliber, and the talent he adds to that defense cannot be overstated. Adding to their successful draft class are two rookie wide receivers who have come on strong to start their careers: Robert Woods (2nd round, 41 overall) and Marquise Goodwin (3rd round, 78 overall). If the Bills can build on what they’ve got in their 2013 rookie class, there is no doubt this team can be back in contention as early as next season.
The draft process can be a hit-or-miss prospect and often feels like a shot in the dark, with promising players not living up to their potential, while less noteworthy players emerge as stars. The season is still reasonably young, so be on the lookout for rookies to emerge. A draft class cannot be fairly evaluated for years to come, but with the start these rookies have enjoyed, it’s hard to argue with the results.
