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Ell’s 2025 NFL Rookie X-Factors: AFC East

Patriots

Offense: T Will Campbell, LSU

Defense: DT/DE Joshua Farmer, Florida State

The Patriots have been looking for a LT for a few seasons and Campbell was picked to fill the spot hopefully long-term. Despite the short arms issue, he is an old school run-mauling lineman who can hold his own in the pass game and now he has a chip on his shoulder.

Rookie G/C Jared Wilson has been forced into a starting spot, but LT is very important for a young QB.

The Pats defense has added a lot of veterans in free agency so it would be tough for a rookie to standout. Farmer is an athletic player with good size and strength who could make an impact against the run with some pass rush. He has the versatility to play both inside and outside; he could play inside on passing downs.

Bills

Offense: TE Jackson Hawes, Georgia Tech

Defense: DT Deone Walker, Kentucky

The options are extremely limited, but Hawes has one of the best chances to see playing time as a blocking TE. He is 3rd on the depth chart behind Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox.  

The cornerbacks seemed like the obvious choice with the need for an upgrade, but Walker has gotten the praise for his size and mobility at 6’7 330. Walker has the respect of the veterans despite underachieving in college. The Bills have a deep D-line to allow him to get in the best position.

Jets

Offense: TE Mason Taylor, LSU

Defense: S Malachi Moore, Alabama

The Jets allowed starting TE Tyler Conklin to leave in free agency, so Taylor has a clear path to a starting job. Taylor has strong bloodlines as the son of Hall of Famer Jason Taylor and nephew of Hall of Famer Zach Thomas. He is a solid pass catcher who should be able to contribute early.  

Moore was a versatile piece in college moving between CB and S, despite the lack of speed seems to be in competition for the starting SS spot. Moore is known for his leadership and physicality. He is an upgrade at the position.    

Dolphins

Offense: G Jonah Savaiinaea, Arizona

Defense: DT Kenneth Grant, Michigan

The Dolphins O-line was already considered above average at best before the loss of LT Terron Armstead. Savaiinaea is a plug and play lineman that I really liked who should fit in at Guard but can also play RT if needed. He should be a welcome addition with his run blocking, size, and athleticism.

Grant was one of my favorite players in the draft and the Dolphins D-line has needed help since losing Christian Wilkins in free agency. Grant is a player known for his run stopping and double teams, but I believe he has 3-down potential.

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