6 2024 NFL rookies to finish season strong after disappointing starts | News, results, highlights, stats and rumours

The amazing thing about the Minnesota Vikings’ turnaround this season is that they’ve gone 10-2 while getting almost nothing out of their two first-round draft picks.

JJ McCarthy’s season was over before it started after he suffered a torn meniscus that knocked him out for the year. However, Dallas Turner appeared to be the kind of fit that could make an immediate impact in an area of ​​need.

Turner, lauded for his ability as a blitzer at Alabama, appeared to be a perfect fit for defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ blitz-happy scheme in Minnesota.

Instead, he has proven to be a bit more of a work-in-progress. He has struggled to get on the field with players like Patrick Jones II playing well in Flores’ system. Ultimately, he has had just 95 pass-rushing snaps and generated just seven total pressures with one sack, per Sports info solutions.

However, it is best to exercise some patience with Turner. It’s easy to forget that he’s still only 21 years old, and it’s not always easy to pick up a system like Flores.

The good news for the overall election no. 17 is that he should have the chance to show some progress over the next few weeks. He’s seen an increase in his usage over the last two weeks with Jones out, and he’s starting to feel more comfortable.

“I’m starting to get it. With the great group of executives we have and the great group of coaches, I feel like the game is starting to slow down for me as a rookie at this point in the season,” he said. Andrew Krammer and Emily Leiker of Minnesota Star Tribune.

By getting on the field more and making a few splash plays, Turner should clear up any nerves surrounding his selection.