NFC North: 2015 NFL Divisional Preview

Aug 13, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions running back Ameer Abdullah (21) evades a tackle from New York Jets free safety Calvin Pryor (25) during the first quarter of a preseason NFL football game at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Which rookie on your team are you most looking forward to watching this season?

Payton, Lions: Without question it has to be running back Ameer Abdullah. He lit the city of Detroit on fire early in the preseason with quick cuts and explosive running. I’m looking forward to seeing if he can translate that into a regular season game. The Lions have not ranked higher than 17th in rushing since Barry Sanders retired, so the Lions need Abdullah to be the answer to help balance out this offense.

Roethlisberger, Packers: Wide receiver Ty Montogmery will be a name everybody hears of before the season is over. With Jordy Nelson gone for the 2015 season, Montgomery has the potential to step into a featured role with the team on offense. He also looks to be the Packers’ main return man on special teams.

Carlson, Vikings: Eric Kendricks. Despite only being 20 years old, he’s showing amazing maturity while playing middle linebacker. He has speed, athleticism and coverage skills. Even if he isn’t named a starter for the 2015 NFL season, Kendricks is a guy to keep your eye on.

Schmelzer, Bears: I would love to say Kevin White here, but who knows when or even if we will see him this season. I am excited to see nose tackle Eddie Goldman translate to the NFL game, but the rookie I am most interested in seeing this season is fifth round safety Adrian Amos. The Bears have struggled at safety for many years, but Amos has the coverage skills to help turn around their fortunes at the position.

Next: Most Important Player