Predicting Every NFL Team's 2021 Surprise Rookie Gem

[Coach Andy Mac]

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jaelon Darden, WR, North Texas

While the Saints are loaded, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are even more so. The reigning Super Bowl champions are returning all 22 offensive and defensive starters and boast a roster that is virtually unchanged from the one that took home the Lombardi Trophy in February.

This doesn't mean, however, that rookie fourth-round receiver Jaelon Darden won't crack the rotation. While he's not likely to overtake Chris Godwin, Mike Evans, Scotty Miller and Antonio Brown on the depth chart, Darden has the short-area speed needed to contribute early as a sub-package player.

Darden—who posted a 4.46-second 40-yard dash and a 6.66-second three-cone drill at his pro day—can be a terror for opposing defenses focused on stopping the vertical passing game. He can create separation underneath and turn short passes into long gains. This past season, he caught 74 passes for 1,190 yards and an impressive 19 touchdowns.

READ MORE:  https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2943921-predicting-every-nfl-teams-2021-surprise-rookie-gem