10 scariest rookies the Patriots will play in 2024
By Matt Sidney
San Fransisco 49ers - Ricky Pearsall, WR
Ricky Pearsall is in an interesting position. The San Francisco 49ers already have Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk on the roster. Pearsall will be one hell of a third receiver for Brock Purdy. Pearsall is a route technician who makes some crazy circus catches. He won't wow with top-end speed, but he can separate.
The reason for fear here is Pearsall could easily take advantage of the matchup he's presented while playing the Patriots. The Pats' defense will already have their hands full with Samuel, Aiyuk, George Kittle, and Christian McCaffrey.
This presents a golden opportunity for Pearsall to show off his glue-like hands and versatility as a route runner.
Seattle Seahawks - Byron Murphy II, DT
It was once thought that undersized tackles couldn't be as effective as those slow-moving behemoths. Back in 2014, Aaron Donald obliterated that theory. Since then, undersized defensive tackles have been given a chance. Byron Murphy II can thank Aaron Donald for bucking the trend.
Murphy screams day-one starter. He is an athletic specimen who can win against offensive linemen with a multitude of moves. He's an intelligent football player who's agile and shoots gaps well. Murphy has the potential to be quite the disruptive force on the Seahawks defensive line.
The Patriots could struggle against this Seahawks' front with the number of pass rushers the team already possesses. Murphy can make life hell for opposing quarterbacks, which should strike some fear in New England.