Louisville football: Expectations for every former Card in the NFL in 2019

Players fighting for roster spots and playing time

Colin Holba, San Francisco 49ers

Watching a long snapper may not be the most exciting thing to pay attention to when watching an NFL game. But if there’s ever a time do so, it’s while watching the San Francisco 49ers. Holba is typically the backup long snapper in San Francisco. But with veteran Kyle Nelson suspended for the first 6 games of this season, this is Holba’s role going forward.

Jaylen Smith, Baltimore Ravens

Smith is a long shot to make the Ravens squad this upcoming season, but he has a chance to be in a great situation if he does so. Jaylen’s success at Louisville was amplified when Lamar Jackson was there, and he just so happens to be the Ravens starting quarterback. We will see a lot of Jaylen in the preseason, but most likely not him and Lamar at the same time. If he does impress enough to make the roster, we could see that chemistry revived at the highest level.

Senorise Perry, Buffalo Bills

Senorise has been a special teams specialist in the league for years now. He’s returned kickoffs, covered kickoffs and has been in the gunner role during punts for the Bears and Dolphins. This year he’s headed to Buffalo for a similar role. The former Cardinal running back should make the team and be solid on special teams like he has been for his entire NFL career.

Cole Hikutini, Minnesota Vikings

Cole is a guy who’s been impressive in Vikings training camp so far. The job of backing up Kyle Rudolph at tight end in Minnesota is up for grabs. He’s already been in for some first-team reps for the offense and some second-team reps on the punt team. He should see plenty of playing time this preseason and his performance in those moments will determine his role for the Vikings in this upcoming season.