This class of IDP rookies is packed with talent at the top. But who are some players with potential upside to target in the later rounds or as free agent pickups after the draft wraps up? In this article, we'll highlight 10 rookies who fit that bill, covering their profiles, depth charts on their new teams, and how they fit and their potential opportunities.
Jaishawn Barham, LB, Dallas
(Round 3, Pick 28, 92nd Overall)
The Player
Jaishawn Barham has been an impact player at both off-ball linebacker and edge rusher as he transitioned roles in his final season at Michigan. He brings size (6-foot-3 and 240 pounds), athleticism, and a physical temperament to his game. Barham is an edge/LB tweener type who has some things to clean up in coverage. However, he has the traits to get there.
The Depth Chart
DeMarvion Overshown and newly acquired via trade, Dee Winters, look to be the starters at linebacker for the Cowboys' defense. Winters had a solid year as a full-time starter in San Francisco last season, and Overshown made his way back to the field at the end of last year as he returned from a gnarly knee injury suffered in 2024. Shemar James will be a top reserve, while Marist Liufau is said to be making the switch outside in the new scheme.
The Fit/Opportunity
While Barham has an edge/LB tweener profile, Dallas has said they plan to start him at off-ball linebacker. New defensive coordinator Christian Parker comes from the Vic Fangio tree and saw what Fangio did with Zack Baun, a player with a profile similar to Barham's as a tweener coming out of college. There's an intriguing upside to Barham as a player that his new defensive coordinator can get creative with. The depth chart also isn't overly steep for him to push for a role as he progresses.
Kaleb Elarms-Orr, LB, Buffalo
(Round 4, Pick 26, 126th Overall)
The Player
Kaleb Elarms-Orr was a pre-draft riser, putting his name on the map after the NFL combine, running a blazing 4.47-second 40-yard dash and posting a 40'' vertical jump. Elarms-Orr has the athleticism to hold up in coverage and can cover the field sideline-to-sideline. While his eyes are still a work in progress, he has tantalizing traits as he gets coached up.
The Depth Chart
Terrel Bernard will occupy the lead role, and third-year man Dorian Williams looks to be the LB2 as things stand. After those two, Joe Andreessen would be the current top reserve.
The Fit/Opportunity
Other than Bernard, who has had his injury struggles, the depth chart isn't the steepest of hills to climb for Elamrs-Orr. Williams has yet to secure a stable role and is entering the final year of his rookie deal this season as a draft pick from the past regime. Elarms-Orr could push to get in the mix as he gets comfortable or be tasked with stepping up if injury strikes. It also doesn't hurt that he was a target of the new coaching staff in Buffalo.
Kyle Louis, LB, Miami
(Round 4, Pick 38, 138th Overall)
The Player
At 5-foot-11 and 220 pounds, Kyle Louis is on the smaller side. However, he's a rangy sound tackler who is adept in coverage. Louis is also a feisty blitzer with a knack for splash plays, posting 24 tackles for loss and 10 sacks over his past two seasons. While his size can be an issue, Louis fits today's game.
The Depth Chart
The Miami defense returns starters Jordyn Brooks and Tyrel Dodson. The Dolphins also brought in a big-time rookie prospect, adding Jacob Rodriguez in the second round. At first glance, the depth chart looks grueling for this upcoming season.
The Fit/Opportunity
The depth chart might be a steep hill for this season; however, Brooks and Dodson are both in the final year of their deals. Rodriguez looks like a future star. However, if Brooks and Dodson move on, there's room for both youngsters, Rodriguez and Louis, to find a role. If Louis is ready, new defensive-minded head coach Jeff Hafley could turn to his two rookies in 2027.
Bryce Boettcher, LB, Indianapolis
(Round 4, Pick 35, 135th Overall)
The Player
Bryce Boettcher is a former two-sport athlete who played both football and baseball while at Oregon. Boettcher is a solid athlete with range and the ability to close the distance quickly. He had a rock-solid final season at Oregon, posting 136 tackles (80 solos) and 5.5 tackles for loss. He's also shown enough in coverage to give some promise in that area.
The Depth Chart
The Colts added second-round rookie CJ Allen during the draft, who has the potential to function as the playcaller in year one. After that, it's the likes of Akeem Davis-Gaither, Jaylon Carlies, and Austin Ajiake. It's far from an intimidating group after Allen.
The Fit/Opportunity
Boettcher has a lunch-pail work ethic and will immediately contribute on special teams. After fellow rookie Allen, the depth chart is full of mediocre talent and question marks. Boettcher's experience and physical play style should make an impact on the coaching staff. It's not out of the question that both new Colts' rookie linebackers find significant roles as soon as 2027, if not at some point this season.