There are many aspects to an NFL season that excite fans throughout the year. While the football played on the gridiron in the lead-up to the postseason and Super Bowl is the main attraction, many become interested in what could happen during the offseason.
The summer builds up plenty of anticipation and excitement about what franchises can potentially expect, as free agents are acquired and new prospects come up through the draft. Teams make selections that generate a buzz and hype around the team, which can translate into exciting performances on the field.
Some players have been able to capture entire teams. You only have to look at the New York Giants and the rookie duo of Jaxson Dart and Cam Skattebo and how they galvanized the team before the latter’s unfortunate season-ending injury. Indeed, they made Big Blue a team many found exciting and entertaining, even from a betting perspective.
Which other players are among the leading candidates to take honors at the end of the season? Which men have had such an influential difference that they deserve recognition?
Offensive Rookie of the Year
When looking at the offensive rookie of the year (OROY) contenders this season, one name stands out above all: Emeka Egbuka. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver has been an exceptional weapon for the team this season, proving to have an efficient relationship with quarterback Baker Mayfield. If you think Egbuka will be the OROY, you can place a wager using the bet365 promo code through a trusted online website that will tell you all the details regarding the offer.
The wideout was selected #19 overall last summer, having finished his college career at the Ohio State Buckeyes as their career receptions leader. In his first 10 games for the franchise, he has had 45 receptions on 85 targets, tying him for 32nd in the league after 11 weeks. He has 717 yards (12th) and six touchdowns (tied sixth).
His performances have been all the more impressive as he has been the Bucs’ primary receiver following injuries to Chris Godwin Jr., Jalen McMillan, and Mike Evans. He has received plenty of defensive attention, but is thriving in his rookie year.
Other offensive rookies that have earned recognition this season include Dart for his contributions to the Giants, while Tetairoa McMillan (Carolina Panthers) is also earning praise. A wide receiver, McMillan has 54 receptions this season for 748 yards, and four touchdowns. His Week 11 performance against the Atlanta Falcons saw him have two touchdowns on eight catches for 130 yards.
Defensive Rookie of the Year
The Cleveland Browns’ Carson Schwesinger is the leading candidate to be named the defensive rookie of the year (DROY). He is leading all rookies with 85 tackles through the first part of the season, and has eight tackles for loss. Thirty-eight of his 85 tackles have been solo efforts, with 47 assist tackles. He has 1.5 sacks through 10 games, as well as two interceptions.
In their Week 11 match against AFC North divisional rivals, the Baltimore Ravens, he had eight tackles, two tackles for loss, and an interception.
Nick Emmanwori is another leading contender for the DROY award, with the Seattle Seahawks’ safety being superb throughout the season. He has 23 tackles for the season, and has managed to defend seven passes, ranking him tied for 29th in the league. One of those came recently in the NFC West divisional game against the Los Angeles Rams, in which they were beaten 21-19 in Week 11. He also had three tackles in that game.
