More and more NFL rookies are expected to contribute early in their careers. However, for them to make an impact they need to beat out a veteran player. We are going to analyze the situation of specific rookies and determine the likely hood of them winning a position battle.
Rookie Depth Chart Battles: Drake Nevis
Player:Drake Nevis
Team: Indianapolis Colts
Position: Defensive Tackle
Competition: Fili Moala, Daniel Muir, Eric Foster, Antonio Johnson
Chance of winning the battle: 60 percent
Thoughts: The Colts have been searching for a consistent inside presence for several years. They have consistently filled roll with reserve players while hoping for a surprise performance. They went out and added Drake Nevis in the 3rd round of the 2011 NFL Draft.
Nevis is the type of player that loves playing in the offensive backfield. He possesses a quick enough first step to shoot the gap and create pressure. He does a nice job of keeping low and uses his body to squeeze past blockers as he works his way to the football. Nevis is a nasty and hard working player that will do anything to get to the football. Look for Nevis to be utilized as a 3 technique and given the opportunity to penetrate. He will benefit from the presence of Dwight Freeney and Robert Mathis.
Eric Foster lead the defensive tackles with 3.5 sacks and Fili Moala lead with 4 tackles for loss. These numbers show the low impact provided by the defensive tackles. The lack of penetration by this group will no doubt have the coaches watching Nevis closely. The fact that Nevis can create pressure gives him a leg up on the competition. Nevis has a very good shot at opening the season as a starter because of his abilities and non-stop motor.
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