On Saturday we ranked our top 40 players in the AFC West. Now, let's look at seven players who I think have a strong chance to break the elite list in 2014. Four of them are rookies. Here they are in alphabetical order.
Montee Ball, running back, Denver Broncos: The second-round pick looks like he will be a featured back immediately. The Broncos are beyond excited about him.
Vincent Brown, receiver, San Diego Chargers: He showed flashes as a rookie two years ago but missed all of last season with a broken ankle. The Chargers expect big things from him.
Eric Fisher, tackle, Kansas City Chiefs: The No. 1 overall pick should be a fixture for the Chiefs for many years.
Chris Harris, cornerback, Denver: One of the best young nickel cornerbacks in the NFL. A real comer.
D.J. Hayden, cornerback, Oakland Raiders: If the No. 12 overall pick can stay healthy, I expect an immediate impact.
Dontari Poe, nose tackle, Kansas City: He came on as a rookie and he has big skills. I expect we’ll hear his name a lot in 2013.
Manti Te'o, linebacker, San Diego: Rookie inside linebacker seems to be a perfect fit for the Chargers. I expect instant success.