The 2025 NFL Preseason kicked off with impressive performances, especially from undrafted rookies who have made their presence felt on the field.
Leading the charge was Los Angeles Chargers cornerback Eric Rogers, who secured the top overall grade among rookies with an astounding 96.6.
Rogers not only shone in coverage but also showcased his run defense, recording a phenomenal 92.6 grade in that category.
His statistics for the game speak volumes: two interceptions, one of which he returned for a 43-yard pick-six, a pass breakup, and an outstanding performance against various targets.
Rogers was targeted four times, making both of his interceptions during zone coverage plays, while also excelling in single coverage by forcing one incompletion.
Following closely behind Rogers are the standout performances of guards Joe Huber from the Minnesota Vikings and Willie Lampkin from the Los Angeles Rams.
Huber earned an impressive grade of 94.7, leading all guards with a run-blocking grade of 93.9, particularly excelling in zone blocking.
While he did give up a sack and a quarterback hit during pass protection, Huber still managed to finish with a solid pass-blocking grade of 77.8 over 32 snaps, demonstrating his versatility in both run and pass protection.
Lampkin also impressed with a grade of 94.1, following Huber closely in overall performance.
The undrafted guard, who had previously excelled at the Senior Bowl, showcased elite run-blocking skills, particularly in gap schemes, where he recorded a 92.5 gap run-blocking grade.
Though he faced fewer pass-blocking situations—nine snaps—Lampkin did not allow any pressures and achieved a commendable pass-blocking grade of 78.6.
Another rookie making waves was safety R.J. Mickens from the Los Angeles Chargers, who achieved a PFF grade of 93.0, contributing to a strong defensive showing.
Mickens excelled in game tackling, tying for the position lead with an 85.7 tackling grade, and he also performed well in coverage, earning a solid 90.4 grade.
During the game against the Saints, Mickens was targeted twice, allowing only one catch for a mere 5 yards, while also recording five tackles and one stop over the course of 44 snaps in coverage.
Arizona Cardinals safety Kitan Crawford displayed his skills as well, earning a PFF grade of 92.5.
Crawford was only targeted once during the game, but he made the most of his opportunity, grabbing a leaping interception in the end zone while playing zone coverage.
This week marked a strong start for Crawford, as he was one of two rookie safeties to achieve an interception.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Nick Jackson delivered an impressive performance as well, earning a grade of 90.0.
Jackson showcased versatility both in coverage and run defense, being targeted four times and allowing only three catches for 14 yards, resulting in a 39.6 NFL passer rating against him.
He recorded three tackles, an interception, and a sack on limited pass-rushing opportunities, further solidifying his impact on defense.
Two fellow linebackers from the Baltimore Ravens—Jay Higgins and Chandler Martin—also left their mark this week, earning grades of 88.1 and 86.7, respectively.
Higgins excelled in coverage, recording an 85.2 grade and capturing an interception while limiting quarterbacks to a 47.9 passer rating.
Martin had a similar performance, making plays in coverage with high marks across multiple defensive metrics, including tackles and pass rush plays.
On the edge, Jared Ivey from the Seattle Seahawks ranked among the top performers with a grade of 84.4.
Ivey recorded four tackles, two assists, and three stops while demonstrating solid run defense, marking him as another standout among rookie edge defenders.
Trace Ford of the New York Giants showcased his potential with a grade of 84.3, making strides both in run defense and as a rusher with notable pressures.
As the preseason progresses, these performances from undrafted and rookie players continue to signal a competitive atmosphere in the league, setting the stage for an exciting 2025 NFL season.
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