3. Lauren O’Connell
Lauren is still very much the Kelley Wentworth stan on the island, but she is starting to play her own game in Survivor: Edge of Extinction. She’s crafting her own story in the tale of strong women in the game by finding an idol just like her hero, except this time she’s going to keep it secret from her unless it’s necessary. She hasn’t been driving the strategy talk, but Lauren does have a bright near future in this game.
2. David Wright
David’s social game is so impeccable that he has Wendy, someone who has been openly decrying returnees like Kelley, in front of him like she’s confiding to her brother. He’s been able to create strong bonds early, including partnering up with Rick Devens for what may be an important duo going forward. David is playing from the top early this time; let’s hope it doesn’t reverse the fate he saw starting from the bottom in Millennials vs. Gen X.
1. Rick Devens
Right now, Rick Devens may have the most secure spot in the game. Sure, he doesn’t have an idol, but he’s probably the last name on peoples’ radars, will likely have shields in front of him on Manu now and in a tribe swap scenario, and has players like David Wright (an established late-gamer) fawning over him to create an alliance. Rick’s social and strategic game is strong right now.