Even though Week 1 is still a month away, we’re getting an early look at depth charts and talent levels of young players. Some items to note:
The new Law Firm
The most impressive runner at Patriots camp has been Stevan Ridley. Similar to BenJarvus Green-Ellis,?Ridley is a power back that has a lock on goal-line and clock-killing work. BJGE rode that role to 1,675 yards and 24 scores over the last two years. Ridley is much more talented.
Martin on a roll
Any talk that Doug Martin would lose snaps to LeGarrette Blount has been squashed. Martin is showing why the Bucs traded up in the first round to draft him, drawing comparisons to Ray Rice as a three-down and goal-line back. Martin projects to push for 300 touches as a rookie.
Fresh corn on Cobb
The Packers have the most explosive passing game in the NFL. So even though Greg Jennings and Jordy Nelson are locked in as the starting wideouts, there’s room for one more to emerge. That man will be Randall Cobb, who is running circles around Donald Driver and James Jones at Packers camp. Cobb is well worth a flier.
NFL Busts
Frank Gore
RB, 49ers
Gore lacks explosion at age 29. He’s not a part of the passing game and will lose carries to Kendall Hunter and LaMichael James.
Philip Rivers
QB, Chargers
Rivers lost his best receiver in Jackson and is also showing signs of declining arm strength. His best days are behind him.
Michael?Turner
RB, Falcons
The Falcons are developing a pass-first philosophy that will feature no-huddle and screens. The aging, hefty Turner isn’t a part of that.
