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: Justin Houston
Player: Justin Houston
Team: Kansas City Chiefs
Position: Linebacker
Competition: Mike Vrabel, Andy Studebaker
Chance of winning the battle: 40 percent
Thoughts: The Chiefs successful season had a lot to do with the improvements on the defensive side of the football. Arguably the biggest impact came from pass rush specialist Tamba Hali has he constantly created pressure in the backfield. However, Hali is going to be facing more and more attention and someone else needs to step up and help.
Justin Houston is a terrific athlete but will be facing a tough transition from defensive end to outside linebacker. He will need to learn to become more of a blitzer than a pass rusher which could take time to develop. However, his quickness and ability to create pressure will be tough to keep off the field.
As it stands, he will likely be competing with Andy Studebaker and Mike Vrabel for playing time. Houston possesses the most upside of this group and has the best pass rushing ability. He needs to enter training camp ready to work and learn because there is a real opportunity for playing time. I feel that even if he doesn’t land a starting gig he will see the field in passing situations.
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