- Joined
- May 6, 2014
- Messages
- 12,094
- Name
- Charlie
2023 NFL season: Day 3 rookies who could compete for starter snaps in Year 1
Chad Reuter identifies 12 rookies picked on Day 3 of the 2023 NFL Draft who could be in line for starter snaps in Year 1. Which newbies will take advantage of potential opportunities for playing time?
www.nfl.com
Rank
4
Nick Hampton
Appalachian State · OLB
Los Angeles Rams
Drafted: Round 5, 161st overall
Three Rams draft picks made this list because the team might need to lean on young talent given its lack of depth at some positions. Hampton fits the bill as a strong-side rush linebacker, holding the line against the run and attacking the quarterback when fellow rookie Byron Young and others force the action his way.
Rank
9
Zach Evans
Mississippi · RB
Los Angeles Rams
Drafted: Round 6, 215th overall
Cam Akers led the Rams in rushing last season, but he missed nearly the entire 2021 season due to injury and decision-makers were fielding trade calls for him last year before Akers and the team appeared to get back on the same page. I viewed Evans as a third-round talent, with the power and speed to be an excellent pro. He'll earn carries as a rookie and could eventually push Akers for the top job.
11
Puka Nacua
BYU · WR
Los Angeles Rams
Drafted: Round 5, 177th overall
Nacua gets open with physicality and crafty route running. He uses his frame to box out defenders and makes grabbing passes thrown outside his frame look easy. Matthew Stafford will love looking outside to Nacua on third down.