The NFL free agency period has started with a fury and with each signing there is a rookie impacted. Due to the lack of a true offseason, rookies will be in at a disadvantage and the vets being brought in have a good shot of winning any camp battles. Below I breakdown some of the rookies impacted by recent agreements.
NFL Free Agency Impacting NFL Rookies
Matthew Hasselbeck has signed a multi-year deal with the Tennessee Titans which directly impacts Jake Locker. This signing is a great thing for Jake Locker as it wil provide him the opportunity to develop and learn behind a very good quarterback. However, Hasselbeck has struggled to stay healthy which could lead to Locker getting some early season playing time.
The Dallas Cowboys worked very hard and were able to retain staring left tackle Doug Free. Free's return allows rookie Tyron Smith to begin the season at right tackle. Smith was a right tackle at USC and being able to remain there will help his transition to the NFL. It is still expected that Smith will eventually make the move to the left side but Free's return allows for a slow transition.
Keep reading to see what other signings have impacted rookies...
Paul Pozluszny has left the Buffalo Bills to join Jack Del Rio and the Jacksonville Jaguars. His departure leaves a major hole in the Bills linebacking corps. If the Bills are unable to bring in some veteran help Kelvin Sheppard appears to be in line for a starting spot. Sheppard was selected in the 3rd round out of LSU.
The Minnesota Vikings and Washington Redskins have reached an agreement to trade Donovan McNabb to the Vikings. McNabb really struggled last season but many feel he still has a lot left in the tank. Minnesota drafted Christian Ponder but obviously feel more comfortable bringing in a veteran. Ponder was widely considered the most NFL ready quarterback in the draft but its not a good idea to begin your season with a rookie starter.
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