For a rookie in the NFL, getting off to a rough start is expected. However, the rookies who hit it out of the park from Day 1 usually become very impactful players. The Philadelphia Eagles may have found that with USC Trojan receiver Makai Lemon.
In a recent article, Geoffrey A Knox provides an update on new Eagles receiver Makai Lemon. Here is what he had to say:
“One of the more encouraging signs for Philadelphia has reportedly been how quickly Lemon has adjusted mentally. It doesn’t hurt that DeVonta Smith is more than willing to add some guidance. Head coach Nick Sirianni has also recently praised him publicly, as well as fellow rookie tight end Eli Stowers. Both have impressed during meetings and have shown their ability to respond to coaching early in the process.
That may sound minor in May, but for rookie receivers entering one of the league’s most demanding offenses, handling the mental side matters tremendously. The Eagles ask a lot from their pass catchers. Route adjustments, timing, spacing, blocking responsibilities, and post-snap recognition all play a major role in whether rookies earn trust quickly. Lemon apparently is off to a strong start there.”
As a rookie getting off to a great start in minicamp and before the pads come on, it sets you up for success when things really begin to matter during the season. Makai Lemon had doubt placed on him due to interviews at the NFL combine, and many went as far as to question his character. So far in the early stages of his first NFL season, he has nipped that in the bud and is showing what a true professional he is. The early return on Lemon looks promising.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC’s Makai Lemon off to great start in Eagles’ NFL rookie minicamp