Super Bowl LI is rich with young players, especially on the Atlanta Falcons. Here’s a look at eight rookies who could make a huge impact when the Falcons and New England Patriots meet Sunday in Houston.
1. Falcons strong safety Keanu Neal
Age: 21
The first-round pick has taken on the Kam Chancellor role in former Seahawks defensive coordinator Dan Quinn’s D. He forced five fumbles and recorded 72 tackles in 14 regular-season starts.
2. Falcons linebacker Deion Jones
Age: 22
The second-round pick led the team with 75 tackles in the regular season while also intercepting three passes and scoring twice. He’s a stud in the making.
3. Patriots left guard Joe Thuney
Age: 24
The third-round pick has missed only four snaps in 18 regular-season and playoff games this season. However, he struggled at times as a pass protector and he took 10 penalties, which was more than any other left guard in the NFL.
4. Falcons cornerback Brian Poole
Age: 24
The undrafted Florida product somehow emerged as one of the best nickel corners in his rookie season.
5. Falcons tight end Austin Hooper
Age: 22
The third-round pick caught three touchdown passes while making three starts during the regular season and has three catches for 33 yards in two playoff games.
6. Patriots wide receiver Malcolm Mitchell
Age: 23
The fourth-round pick actually played 47 snaps in the Conference Championship game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, but he caught just one five-yard pass. It’ll be interesting to see if he again gets more work than veteran Danny Amendola in the Super Bowl.
7. Falcons linebacker De’Vondre Campbell
Age: 23
The rookie fourth-round pick had a monster game in Atlanta’s divisional round victory over the Seattle Seahawks. He’s one of four rookie starters on defense for Atlanta.
8. Patriots linebacker Elandon Roberts
Age: 22
The sixth-round pick has been a big part of New England’s front-seven rotation, starting six of 18 games and posting a positive Pro Football Focus grade.
