With two weeks in the books, the Blue Zone takes a look at how former Blue Devils have fared in the NFL thus far.
Laken Tomlinson, G, San Francisco 49ers
The start of the 2018 season has been a mixed bag for the most recent Duke first round pick. Tomlinson played a key role in Matt Breida rushing for 138 yards on Sunday and has only committed one penalty in the first two weeks. However, the 49ers have allowed QB Jimmy Garoppolo to get sacked nine times thus far, meaning the former All-American will need to step up in the coming weeks to prove he is worthy of his $18 million contract.
Jamison Crowder, WR, Washington Redskins
Perhaps Duke’s most notable presence in the NFL right now, Crowder has been relatively quiet to start to the 2018 season. The Blue Devils’ all-time leader in receptions has just five catches in his first two games, which is certainly a dip in production following his strong finish to last season. Crowder may need a few weeks to adjust to playing with new quarterback Alex Smith after spending the first three years of his career with now Vikings signal caller Kirk Cousins.
Vincent Rey, LB, Cincinnati Bengals
It’s been a disappointing start to the season for Duke’s current longest-tenured NFL player, as Rey has been hindered by an ankle injury that kept him out of preseason action. Although Cincinnati is currently without starting linebacker Vontaze Burfict, who is serving a four-game suspension, Rey has failed to capitalize on the opportunity to build off of his breakout 2017 campaign, logging just one tackle in two games.
Matt Skura, C, Baltimore Ravens
After a solid performance in the Ravens’ trouncing of Buffalo, Skura struggled in Week 2. Last Thursday night in Cincinnati, Skura was dominated up front by all-pro lineman Geno Atkins, as the Baltimore offensive line allowed four sacks to the Bengals. The Ravens brought in numerous offensive lineman lsst week to work out for a roster spot, and although none have been signed yet, the former All-ACC selection’s starting spot may be in jeopardy.
Shaun Wilson, RB, Tampa Bay Bucaneers
A surprise addition to the Buccaneers 53-man roster, Wilson was brought in to Tampa Bay as a return specialist. The rookie has also seen a bit of work on offense, with two rushes for 15 yards, as well as one kick return for 29 yards. Wilson, who ranks third in Duke history for kickoff return touchdowns, will have to make some noise in the return game this year to stay in the league long term.
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