On Wednesday Pro Football Focus released its top 10 surprise performances from NFL players through the first five weeks of the season.
With the Vikings being the only undefeated team left in the league, three players made the list. The complete list can be found here. Here’s what PFF said about each.
1. Sam Bradford
This should come as no surprise, Bradford has played turnover-free football since being the named the starter in Week 2. He’s also drawn MVP consideration for his play this season.
“Sam Bradford’s best season came last year with the Eagles, but there was the question of whether that was due to his own improvement, or a result of the boost nearly every QB experiences in Chip Kelly’s system. While many didn’t see the trade for Bradford to Minnesota as an upgrade, his play for the Vikings this season has been fantastic, with a passer rating under pressure of 108.6.”
6. Kyle Rudolph
Rudolph has been one of Bradford’s favorite targets in 2016. The tight end has hauled in 20 catches for 236 yards and he leads the team with 3 touchdown receptions. Most importantly, Rudolph is living up to his potential this season.
“Kyle Rudolph has always been one of the most athletically-gifted tight ends in the league. At his best, he can block well and be a force as a receiver. He is one of the few players at his position capable of playing like Rob Gronkowski, if not as well as Gronk, but to this point in his career, hasn’t lived up to his potential. This season, though, we’ve seen Rudolph start to climb that ladder, currently owning the fourth-best TE grade (82.2) in the league.”
7. Terrance Newman
Who would of thought that 38-year-old, Terrance Newman would turn his 15th season in the NFL into one of his best. Newman is the oldest defensive player in the NFL but according to PFF, he’s been a top 10 corner this year.
“High-level cornerback play should not be possible at 38 years old. Darrelle Revis is 31 and is slowing to the point that he can’t get it done anymore, but Terence Newman seems to be as good as ever for the Vikings. Last week, Newman held Texans rookie speedster Will Fuller without a catch when covering him, and didn’t give up a reception all game through six targets. He is currently the ninth-highest graded CB in the league entering Week 6, with an 84.6 mark.”
