5 things we learned from Day 1 of Buffalo Bills training camp
Rookies show off speed in first practice
The first few practices of training camp always have limited hitting as teams are not able to have players wear pads. This typically allows the game to open up and the faster players usually are the ones that stand out during these practices.
There were two rookies in particular that were able to take advantage of this in running back James Cook and linebacker Terrel Bernard, according to Matt Parrino with syracuse.com.
Parrino wrote about the former University of Georgia running back:
"The 22-year-old had a couple nice carries, including a red zone touchdown run that showcased his burst as he raced through the line of scrimmage. Later in practice he made his best play of the day on a dart from backup quarterback Case Keenum."
It is great to see observations early in training camp as this was exactly what many hoped James Cook would bring to this offense. He has incredible speed and can be a big threat in the passing game that can bring more versatility to the Buffalo Bills.
More importantly, he should help this offense in yards after catch which was a struggle at times last year.
As for Bernard, Parrino wrote:
"During 7-on-7, which puts the defense at a disadvantage working against the skill players, Bernard got locked up on Dawson Knox. The ball was catchable and Knox probably should have made the play, but Bernard had his say. He closed the gap on Knox and was able to force the incompletion."
This is probably the more newsworthy piece between the two rookies because it is hard to figure out exactly how Terrel Bernard might fit into this defense as a rookie. He is viewed as an undersized linebacker but has good athleticism and quickness. One way he may contribute is that he could help the team play more 4-3 defense if he can match up with some of the tight ends in the league.
The fact that Bernard was able to stay with Knox is no easy feat as he is an athletic tight end in his own right and created problems for defenses last year during his break-out season.
Again it is important to note that these practices are without pads so the smaller, quicker players usually stand out but it is good to see some rookies step up in their very first career training camp practice.