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Rookie Report: Bosa, Hill becoming major factors in AFC West

Scott Cunningham / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Each week, Rookie Report provides a running look at first-year standouts, surprises, and Rookie of the Year candidates.

Offense

Tyreek Hill, WR, Kansas City Chiefs

Tyreek Hill is arguably the fastest player in this year's rookie class, and displayed his world-class wheels on a 38-yard touchdown reception against the Saints, steering Kansas City to a 27-21 victory.

Hill, a former sprinter who once posted a 9.98 100-meter dash time, poses a threat every time he's on the field and should help free fellow speedster Chris Conley and standout Jeremy Maclin in the passing game. The 22-year-old also rushed for 23 yards on two carries and gives the Chiefs' offense another layer of versatility.

Peyton Barber, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Peyton Barber made a strong case for increased reps in a crowded Buccaneers backfield, rushing for 84 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries in a 34-17 victory over the 49ers. The former Auburn standout broke away for a 44-yard score, leaving a trail of defenders in the dust. Jacquizz Rodgers will remain the feature back with Doug Martin sidelined, but Barber's earned more snaps going forward.

Joe Thuney, G, New England Patriots

Joe Thuney was relatively anonymous prior to the draft but it seems like the Patriots unearthed another gem. The 23-year-old was outstanding in the running game against the Steelers, opening numerous holes for running back LeGarrette Blount and helping New England win 27-16. Thuney is currently ranked 26th among 78 eligible guards by Pro Football Focus, and the Patriots have to be thrilled with his contributions to date.

Defense

Joey Bosa, DE, San Diego Chargers

Joey Bosa is somehow exceeding his draft hype, immediately establishing himself as the Chargers' best defensive player through three games. The third overall pick recorded five tackles and two sacks in a 33-30 victory over the Falcons on Sunday, stabilizing San Diego's front seven. Bosa is graded as the fourth-best edge defender by Pro Football Focus and it's compelling to see him become the NFL's next pass-rushing superstar before our eyes.

Here is Bosa relentlessly pursuing Matt Ryan on one of his two sacks:

Emmanuel Ogbah, LB, Cleveland Browns

Emmanuel Ogbah is quietly developing into a quality pass-rusher for the lowly Browns, recording two sacks during the team's 31-17 loss to the Bengals. Selected in the second round, Ogbah looks like a key piece for head coach Hue Jackson. After playing 55 snaps Sunday, Ogbah should continue improving during his rookie year.

Matt Judon, LB, Baltimore Ravens*

Matt Judon recorded the first two sacks of his career in a 24-16 loss to the Jets. The linebacker displayed excellent awareness throughout the game, bringing down Geno Smith during the second quarter:

Judon played 31 snaps on Sunday and it's likely he'll gain more after getting into the Jets' backfield Sunday.

Your introduction to...

Tanner McEvoy, WR, Seattle Seahawks

Tanner McEvoy may not show up in the box score often, but he's making a tremendous impact on special teams during his first year. The 23-year-old blocked a punt during Seattle's 6-6 tie against the Cardinals on Sunday night, while catching a pass for 10 yards on offense. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll also said he'd try experimenting with McEvoy on defense, so it appears the rookie will be a jack of all trades for the NFC juggernaut.

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