5 Rookies That Can Be This Years's Adrian Peterson

It would be any GM's dream to have one of his picks turn out to be the next Adrian Peterson. Over the past few years, there have been quite a few rookies that have immediately become impact players. How about Big Ben in 2004? All he did as the 11th overall selection in the 04 draft was start his professional career 13-0. Not too bad of a pick for the Steelers right? Adrian Peterson, the 7th selection in 2007, rushed for over 1300 yards along with 12 touchdowns in 14 games. Mr. Peterson finished off an amazing rookie season by winning the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year along with being selected to the 2008 Pro Bowl. As if things weren't good enought...the man they call All Day ran his way to the 2008 Pro Bowl MVP.

Here is a look at the top 5 offensive rookies that have a chance of being the next Adrian Peterson type impact player:

5) Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta Falcons
I have to include a Quarterback on this list. Recently, I've heard a lot of people saying Matt Ryan is in one of the worst situations a rookie Quarterback could be. I actually disagree. The expectations down in Atlanta are about as high as Ricky Williams five minutes before an NFL drug test. Actually, nevermind...

4) Felix Jones, RB, Dallas Cowboys
I think this is the perfect opportunity for Felix Jones. He is joining a loaded Dallas Cowboys team who are rejuvenated and hungrier than ever after last years playoff disappointment. Jones' speed will be a great addition to the Cowboys backfield. If not for incumbent Marion Barber III still receving the majority of the carries, Jones could find himself higher up on this list. The kid has some serious jukes to go along with intense speed and agility.

3) Matt Forte, RB, Chicago Bears
Well, regardless of what you think of Matt Forte, how many other rookie running backs go into Training Camp as the starter. As of June 25, 2008, the Chicago Bears depth chart features Matt Forte as their starter. He will be one of the first rookies to immediately have a chance to make a real impact. A hot start like Adrian Peterson last year can get the ball rolling on a big time season for Forte and Da Bears.

2) Limas Sweed, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers
In my opinion, this was one of the best picks in the draft. There is no question that Limas Sweed has 1st round talent. Some GMs and coaches questioned his ability to stay healthy following a serious wrist injury in early 2007. The bottom line is this Longhorn Alum will follow in the footsteps of fellow Longhorn Receiver Roy Williams and produce a huge rookie season. At 53rd overall, Sweed will be making 31 other GMs really angry this coming season. Big Ben will have a field day with Sweed, Ward, Holmes, and Tight End Health Miller this season. Not to mention, Limas Sweed is also pretty clutch in big games...



1) Darren McFadden, RB, Oakland Raiders
McFadden's situation out of college is similar to that of Adrian Peterson's last year. Both were well groomed on campus, and both produced multiple years of elite college football. Going into his junior, and final, year in Fayetteville, McFadden was already amongst the top players in college football and was a preseason Heisman favorite. Going into the newly energized Oakland Raiders organization (see DeAngelo Hall, Javon Walker, Michael Bush) may be a great fit for Run DMC. With a still developing QB in Jamarcus Russell and a fan base who will be craving for some exciting star power, Darren McFadden looks like he can be in for a huge rookie year.