NFL sophomores looking at bigger roles on defense
By Jeff Adcox
Many NFL rookies make immediate impact on their teams, while a number of others are brought along slowly by their clubs for any number of reasons. But no matter how their rookie season went, many second-year players are counted on by their team to make much bigger contributions as NFL sophomores.
NFL Around The League editor Gregg Rosenthal recently named seven such sophomores that are expected to see the field much more in their second season in the league.
Rosenthal began his list with Miami Dolphins defensive end Dion Jordan.
"The Dolphins’ defensive coaching staff brought Jordan along slowly last year. We’d argue that they were too cautious; at times it appeared they didn’t have a plan for him. Jordan is a rare talent, but his skill set isn’t that different from Jamie Collins, theNew England Patriots’ second round pick that exploded late last season. He can rush the passer, play multiple positions, and even drop into coverage.The Dolphins insist they have big plans for Jordan despite the presence of Cameron Wake andOlivier Vernon at defensive end."
Other sophomores listed in the article include:
Kevin Minter, Arizona Cardinals linebacker
Emmanuel Lamur, Cincinnati Bengals linebacker
Devin Taylor and Ezekiah Ansah, Detroit Lions pass rushers
Armond Armstead, New England Patriots defensive tackle
Sharrif Floyd, Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle