Expect the Falcons to lean heavily on their 2015 rookie class

With Falcons rookie minicamp done for 2015, we're let with little in the way of specifics about how each rookie is faring and plenty of optimism flowing about the class. Given how heavily this team will rely on these players this season, it's justified.

The Falcons will be counting on their rookie class for contributions, from Vic Beasley as the team's premier pass rusher to Jalen Collins as the imposing cornerback opposite Desmond Trufant. Grady Jarrett can crack the defensive tackle rotation from Week 1, while Justin Hardy figures to be the team's slot receiver, so long as he has a good showing this summer. Jake Rodgers and Akeem King have the physical talent to crack the team, and are at the very least intriguing long-term prospects. You have at least three players here who will likely end up getting close to starter's snaps in 2015, which says as much about the strength of the team's draft as the work the team has ahead of it to be relevant once more.

That reliance on rookies could be troublesome, but on paper these guys all look like upgrades over what the Falcons were trotting out a year ago. The Falcons haven't given us much to be excited about the last two years, so it's natural to be a little wary of how this class will turn out. It's also natural to be legitimately thrilled about the prospect of this class contributing, however, and there's little question this has a chance to be the most impactful class from top-to-bottom since the Falcons brought aboard Matt Ryan, Sam Baker, Harry Douglas, Curtis Lofton and Kroy Biermann way back in 2008.

What are your expectations for the rookie class?