Time to step up. (NFL).

Deuce McAllister isn't the only unproven young veteran stepping into a position of prominence this season. These second- and third-year players, largely untested, also face the pressures of being first-time starters.

Drew Brees, QB, Chargers. He lacks height and big-time arm strength. But he's a steady leader and a cagey decision-maker, with just enough mobility. If he plays well this summer, he is expected to win the starting job from Doug Flutie.

"He's got the mechanics, the arm," an NFC scout says. "(Former Chargers offensive coordinator) Norv Turner says he can make all the throws." Brees also is working in a ground-oriented offense, ideal for a young quarterback.

Robert Ferguson, WR, Packers. He began last season in Brett Favre's doghouse and finished with the quarterback singing his praises because of his change in attitude and improved practice performance. Still, Ferguson's tangible output was two kickoff returns and one punt return. Now, in the midst of a big turnover at wide receiver, it looks like he'll be starting opposite Terry Glenn.

Ferguson is big--"our division size," says Vikings director of pro scouting Paul Wiggin--but one NFC scout points to Ferguson's sloppy routes. "I'm not sure he's not the third or fourth best receiver on that roster," the scout says. "I'll be surprised if he ends up starting."

Ian Gold, OLB, Broncos. It ain't easy replacing Bill Romanowski, who earned two Super Bowl rings during six seasons in Denver. But while Gold is taking Romo's spot in the lineup, he really is replacing John Mobley on the weak side as Mobley shifts to Romanowski's old strongside spot. The Broncos lose some bulk in the exchange; Romanowski weighs 245 while Gold struggles staying above 215.

But scouts seem to love Gold's game. He covers well and can terrorize quarterbacks as an edge rusher. "If people lock up on him, sure, he has problems," one NFC scout says. "But he's a good tackler. If you leave him unblocked, he's a pain in the ass."