We are more than halfway through the NFL season which makes it the perfect place to stop and take stock of how the league’s rookies have fared so far.
There is still a long way to go before Rookie of the Year is announced, but there are already some frontrunners who have made an impact.
CJ Stroud
When it comes to rookie Quarterbacks, C.J. Stroud is at the head of the pack. He is the top passer and leading the way for attacking rookies and is even pushing more experienced players by placing third for passing yards and seventh in touchdown passes overall.
His impressive start to the season was topped off with a new rookie record for passing yards in a single game when he threw 470 yards in the Houston Texans game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
If he continues this form he will be one of the most sought-after players in the NFL, and he’s already a massive favorite for the Rookie of the year title, at -2000 or greater.
Devon Witherspoon
Devon Witherspoon was a first-round, fifth pick for the Seattle Seahawks and the young cornerback has been given a great level of responsibility by head coach Pete Carroll.
His impressive stats, including whittling down opponent reception completion rates to 54.9%, place him among the league’s top performers.
Their next match against the San Francisco 49ers sees Seattle as outsiders with moneyline odds of +375. Seattle fans can bet with licensed betting operators or explore offshore betting options. There are pros and cons for both, but offshore operators typically offer a wider variety of markets and impressive sign-up bonuses.
Will Anderson Jr.
Will Anderson Jr. was a first-round, third pick for the Houston Texans and joins teammate CJ Stroud as one of the standout rookies of the NFL season’s first half.
The 30 pressures on opposition QBs have made him an essential element of the Texans’ defense this year.
Jordan Addison
The potential of rookies is often not tested straight away, and this was the case with Jordan Addison, who had to bide his time this season. Justin Jefferson’s hamstring injury gave Addison the opportunity to show what he is capable of, and he has not disappointed.
Addison has shown his natural receiver attributes and his 7 touchdowns put him top of the rookies in this category. His excellent form has made sure the Minnesota Vikings haven’t felt the loss of Jefferson too badly, and he will hope that this great run of form continues. He’s not a favorite for Rookie of the Year, with odds of +3000 to +10,000, depending on where you look, but that’s not to say fans aren’t eagerly awaiting what he’ll pull off next.
Jalen Carter
Jalen Carter has had a big impact on the Philadelphia Eagles this season and has the ability to cause problems for experienced opponents. Howie Roseman, the Eagles GM clearly did his homework and pinpointed someone that could make an immediate impact on the team.
Sam LaPorta
The Detroit Lions have found a great attacking focal point in Sam LaPorta. His excellent athleticism has seen him achieve 4 touchdowns, 400 receiving yards, and 40 receptions, a first in the NFL for a tight end.
Bryce Young
Bryce Young was the No.1 overall pick in the NFL draft but the talented quarterback is yet to show his true potential for the Carolina Panthers. There have been flashes of the talent that made him the top pick, and the Panthers will still be confident that he will be a successful long-term project.
A poor offensive line this season has not helped and he has had to adapt his game to become effective. There is still a lot this rookie can achieve in the game and the second half of the season will be crucial to his development.
