There’s a reason the sports world stops for the NFL over three days in the middle of spring.
The annual NFL Draft delivers bundles of low-cost talent to Sunday rosters across the league. A single player can change the fortunes of an entire franchise. A stellar draft class in April can lead to a decade of playoff runs and Super Bowl appearances.
Some of these players will need time to adjust to the machinations of the pro game. We’re not talking about those guys today (but if you’re interested, here’s a look at this season’s veteran breakout candidates). Instead, let’s discuss the impact rookies who’ll make their Sunday debuts this fall and have an instant effect that ripples across their new rosters.