NFL Free Agency Impacting NFL Rookies: Updated

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.

The big news last night was the Texans bowing out of the Nnamdi sweepstakes and signing Johnathan Joseph.  This signing will impact rookie Brandon Harris.  Harris is a nice looking prospect but will definately benefit from having some time to continue to develop.  However, Harris could very easily take over Kareem Jackson's starting spot.  Either way the signing of Joseph drops Harris down the depth chart.

Miami was facing a tough situation with both their starting running backs hitting free agency.  They decided to move on from both Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams and brought in Reggie Bush.  The reports are that Miami has promised Bush the bulk of the carries.  This move impacts Daniel Thomas but I feel it is a positive impact because he will remain #2 on the depth chart.  Thomas is more of a power runner and will complement Bush and you could see a lot of formations with both on the field.


Keep reading to see what other signings have impacted rookies...

Carson Palmer will not ever play for the Bengals again so they were expected to roll with rookie Andy Dalton.  However, they went out and added vet Bruce Gradkowski who could very likely begin the season as the starter.  Dalton was given a vote of confidence from the owner but he still needs to prove he is ready.  I figure we will see Gradkowski starting the season and by game 4 or 5 Dalton will take over.

The Redskins are going on a spending spree bringing especially on the defensive line.  They added both Barry Cofield and Stephen Bowen both receiving decent sized contracts.  These signings impact 2nd round pick Jarvis Jenkins who was likely to see heavy playing time.  However, these additions could very well impact Jenkins snaps.