This upcoming season is being heralded as the least rookie-friendly season ever. No rookie training camp, limited full-team training camp, or preseason leaves the rookies with minimal opportunities to carve out a role for themselves on the 53 man roster. Especially on a team that prefers veteran talent over developmental prospects, these players have a tough assignment even before they take the field.
With limited opportunity, these players must understand their role and how to maximize their chances of getting on a roster through specialization. Yes, O’Brien prefers versatility in his athletes, but when it comes down to it, each player must serve a purpose on this team that is unique to their skillset.