No preseason, no problem: NFL rookies shine in strange year
Young and Jefferson made the Pro Bowl, and surely more rookies would have joined them as alternates at the league’s now-canceled all-star game. “It’s crazy unusual for a rookie, I think, to have the type of leadership that Chase has, genuine leadership,” Washington quarterback Alex Smith said. “I think a lot of young guys, especially high picks, I think you feel pressure to do it some way or somehow. “Talk about a rookie coming in, starting every game and just being focused,” Browns Pro Bowl guard Joel Bitonio said of Wills. “We’re growing and we’re starting to get a hang of the game,” said Dolphins right tackle Robert Hunt, a second-round pick and one of six Miami rookies starting on offense.
Mock drafts favor defensive picks for Jaguars
A slew of mock drafts released over the past two days have the Jaguars doubling down on the defensive side of the ball with their two first-round picks. Only ESPN’s Todd McShay, who’s last mock was released more than two weeks ago, has the Jaguars using one of those picks on offense. Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons, Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown, and cornerbacks Kristian Fulton (LSU) and C.J. ILB Isaiah Simmons, Clemson20. OLB Isaiah Simmons, Clemson20.