News; 4 Young Players Who Can Impact '09

With NFL teams going though OTAs and minicamps this offseason, we look at 4 young players who can make an impact in 2009. These players have five years or less than NFL experience.

1. Donnie Avery, St. Louis St Louis Rams , WR. In his rookie year, Avery caught 53 passes for 674 yards with three touchdowns. Avery has the speed the Rams are looking for at this position, especially with Torry Holt off the roster. Four players had at least 20 or more catches with the Rams last season, and Avery led them with a 12.7 yards per catch average.

2. Steve Breaston, Arizona Arizona Cardinals , WR. Regardless of whether or not Anquan Boldin returns, Breaston can build on a strong third year. He caught 77 passes for 1,006 yards and three touchdowns, giving the Cardinals' passing game another threat if defenses slowed down Larry Fitzgerald and Boldin. Breaston also contributed on returns, fielding 33 kickoffs for 667 yards.

3. Nick Cole, Philadelphia, G/C. He can play three positions on the offensive line and coach Andy Reid said recently that he can compete for a starting guard spot. Cole will try to off-set Todd Herremans at left guard. He was used in some packages as a fullback and tight end and the coaches like him on special teams. The Eagles believe Cole has a future, giving him a second-round tender at $1.5 million in the offseason.

4. Jordon Dizon, Detroit Detroit_Lions , LB. Dizon started the season as a middle linebacker but moved outside toward the end of his rookie year in 2008. Dizon will maintain that spot this year and should see some time on passing downs in the nickel. Lions coaches like his physical play and he has good speed to get to the ball. He played in 12 games last year and will have to show new defensive coordinator Gunter Cunningham he can play a full season without getting hurt.

For More News