(S3) - PT #1 - Rookie Spotlight

[HalfEatenOnionBagel]

The rookie I am most interested in seeing this preseason is the young man from Hawaii that the Liberty drafted, Eli Kamaka. Kamaka declared for the draft pretty late and as such wasn't part of the big media wave that accompanies draft season. In fact, it wasn't until shortly before declaring that Kamaka was even sure he would be playing professional football at all. But, with DE Ottokar Von Gerhardt dealing with nagging injuries and unable to practice lately just as the Liberty have made some key acquisitions on defense, it was necessary to bring in another player that could step up.

Kamaka boasts a ton of untapped potential, but may need some time to develop in order to fully reach it. The preseason will provide him with a ton of opportunities to learn and grow, but also to show the Liberty that they can count on him to start at defensive end this season. Along with Mark Ramrio and Drew Davidson, a lot of weight rests on the rookie Kamaka's shoulders to help generate a pass rush that was absolutely non-existent for Philadelphia last season. The coaches are hoping to see Kamaka provide a spark on defense and be a part of the defensive unit that can help make them a playoff contender.