 | Falcons running back Jerious Norwood ran for 633 yards last season while averaging 6.4 yards per carry. Simon Bruty/SI |
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JERIOUS NORWOOD, RB, ATLANTA
The second-year runner out of Mississippi State exceeded everyone's expectations by tallying two 100-yard games and averaging over six yards per carry as a rookie. With a dazzling combination of speed and quickness, Norwood has the big-play ability that Bobby Petrino needs to juice up his offense. And Norwood reportedly has bulked up in the offseason so he can stay on the field longer.
KERRY RHODES, FS, NEW YORK JETS
This ball-hawking safety has steadily improved during his first two seasons. After coming up with four interceptions and five sacks in 2006, Rhodes has shown glimpses of being the next great safety in the league.
JAY CUTLER, QB, DENVER
If his five game run as starter is any indication, Cutler is on the verge of becoming a big-time quarterback. Blessed with a great arm, he showed surprising accuracy and poise as a rookie starter. His 59 percent completion percentage and 88.5 passer rating were better numbers than Peyton Manning and Donovan McNabb posted as rookie starters. With free-agent signees Travis Henry and Daniel Graham joining Javon Walker in the lineup, Cutler could post big numbers this season.
KIRK MORRISON, LB, OAKLAND
Despite being the centerpiece on one of the league's top-ranked defenses, Morrison has flown under the radar during his first two seasons. But he is on the verge of solidifying his status as one of the top young players at the position. He has quietly posted back-to-back seasons with over 100 tackles.
DAVID MARTIN, TE, MIAMI
Signed by the Dolphins in the offseason, Martin will be a major part of Cam Cameron's rebuilt offense. Possessing the speed and quickness of a receiver, Martin gives them a bona fide threat down the middle. And while he has never caught more than 27 passes in a season, he has all of the tools to play the role of Antonio Gates (Cameron's tight end in San Diego) in the Dolphins' new offense. Moreover, new Miami QB Trent Green is used to throwing to a tight end after playing with Tony Gonzalez in Kansas City. It would not be a surprise to see Martin double his career high next season.
