Two big names have left NFL teams in search of the next big stage. That leaves General Managers and coaches wondering how to fill holes. New opportunities will motivate players at training camps. But will they rise up and fill the void?
Here are profiles on two NFL players who are ready to step up.
Exit: Jimmy Graham The Replacement: Josh Hill
Courtesy: pixgood.com-
Josh Hill joined the team in 2013 as an undrafted player from Idaho State. He’ll get his chance to be the Saints #1 tight end (TE). That’s because Jimmy Graham is gone to the Seahawks–leaving NO after scoring 20% of the Saint’ offensive TDs last year and gaining 14% percent of the offensive yardage. That’s a massive hole to fill at TE.
Hill contributed modestly last year–176 yards and 5 touchdowns–in an offense that favors its TE. The Saints won’t have any room for error. That’s because the Saints also lost WR Kenny Stills, last year’s leading WRs. Drew Brees will need to replace those favorites and Hill should be the answer for Graham.
Exit: Jeremy Maclin Replacement: Jordan Matthews
Courtesy: philadelphia.cbslocal.com
Jeremy Maclin left the Eagles for the Kansas City Chiefs. His replacement is 2nd year receiver, Jordan Matthews. Matthews will need to avoid a Sophomore Slump and increase last year’s production by about 450 total yards. Maclin had 143 throws targeted at him last year, 38 more than thrown to rookie Matthews. Jordan will be an asset in Chip’s offense if he can take on a bigger workload. Maclin’s task, on the other hand, is to address the Chief’s big problem at WR–no receiving touchdowns in ’14.
Who’ll have the bigger chore in ’15, Matthews or Maclin?
