by Farrah Donaldson

Created on: August 12, 2009   Last Updated: August 16, 2009

The 2009 NFL rookie class has a few player that have the ability to make an immediate impression upon their teams. The First rookie for discussion would have to be Matthew Stafford. The former Georgia quarterback has a very good chance of making an immediate impression on the Detroit Lions. To be honest, any kind of positive impression would be and improvement on the Lions, who were winless last year. When most people think of immediate impact from rookies, they think about the rookie actually playing in the games early and hitting the ground running. This may not be how Stafford makes his impact initially.

Of course it is important for Stafford to perform well in practice drills and such, but his performance not only affects him but also the current quarterback, Daunte Culpepper. Stafford is viewed as the savior for the hapless Detroit Lions, but it is important not to rush the situation as not to ruin Stafford before he is really necessary to put him in the game. Of course Stafford is ultimately going to be the starting quarterback, but the competition between the two quarterbacks makes for stiff competition and a better overall quarterback situation, which has clearly been a problem area for the Lions for years.

The other NFL rookie who should have an immediate impression on his team is Percy Harvin. The former Florida Gator has become a part of the perfect system for his multiple talents. Unlike Stafford, he will definitely be on the field early and often. By Minnesota teaming Percy Harvin with a dominating running back like Adrian Peterson, the potential becomes limitless. Now teams can no longer stack the line against the run. Now teams have to respect the explosiveness of Harvin. And who knows where Harvin will line up? He could move all over the formation. From flanker to slot man to halfback or maybe in some type of wildcat formation set. And of course he will more than likely be apart of the kick and punt return teams. He's just a multiple threat player.

This article discussed the immediate impressions of two NFL rookies from the 2009 class. One rookie, Stafford, has the potential to make an impression on his team without necessarily starting the first game. While Percy Harvin may possibly start from day one. Two different situations, but they the outcome shall be the same. Both of these rookies have the potential to make immediate impressions on their respective teams. And their teams will be all the better for it.

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