NFL Network analysts explain which 3 SEC players will be impact rookies in the pros
By Keith Farner
Published:
The Atlanta Falcons, Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins all received high marks for their drafting of Kyle Pitts, Patrick Surtain II and Jaylen Waddle.
But which one will be an impact rookie, especially at his position? The “Good Morning Football” crew on the NFL Network tackled that question.
Nate Burleson took the first shot at it and promoted Pitts, and first said the Falcons would have received credit if they picked Justin Fields as they conceivably plan for the quarterback to replace Matt Ryan.
“They didn’t overcomplicate things, they went Kyle Pitts, that was a fantastic selection,” Burleson said. “… Everybody is looking for that hybrid player. I’ll be honest with you, I’m tired of people describing him as a tight end. He’s not a tight end. He’s just a pass catcher, and you’re going to see more guys like this moving forward.”
Kyle Brandt spoke about Surtain as Vic Fangio’s Broncos look to carve out an identity.
“That’s the guy, they get the best corner in the draft, they’re excited and everything,” he said. “… They got a great corner, and we’ll see if that’s enough.”
Scott Pioli then spoke about Waddle, and mentioned his speed, quickness, ability, but also referred to another trait.
“What we don’t talk about with Jaylen Waddle is his ability to connect with teammates,” he said. “One of the finest young men that I met preparing for this year’s draft. Love his personality. He has this confidence that’s a quiet confidence, but he has humility. … He’s one of the most grateful people I’ve been around.”
“We’ll see come franchise tag time if he’s a TE or WR.”
Which rookie will be the best addition to his new team’s position group?@nateburleson ➡️ @kylepitts__ @KyleBrandt ➡️ @PatSurtainll @scottpioli51 ➡️ @D1__JW pic.twitter.com/EX74Xal2LD
— GMFB (@gmfb) May 1, 2021
A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.
