The NFL rookie of the year race should be a close one on offense, as players like Todd Gurley, David Johnson, Amari Cooper, Jameis Winston, Marcus Mariota and Tyler Lockett all had strong seasons in 2015.
The offensive side of the ball has a number of players that could win, but right now it appears that Gurley is the favorite over the group to take the award. The defensive player of the year award on the other hand should be a landslide, as Marcus Peters had a standout season for the Chiefs.
Here is a look at the top candidates:
Todd Gurley, Rams
Gurley came out of the draft with concerns about his knee after tearing his ACL at Georgia, but he put those to rest with his play in 2015. Gurley gave Rams fane something to cheer about all year, as he put up 1106 yards in 13 games, averaging over 80 rushing yards per game. Gurley scored 10 touchdowns this season and quieted any doubters about his knee issues. Gurley went over 100 yards five times this season and he had some standout performances for the Rams, including putting up 140 yards on just 16 carries against the Lions in Week 14.
David Johnson, Cardinals
Johnson was the most versatile and explosive player of the group and his strong play down the stretch could get him some major consideration. Johnson scored 13 total touchdowns this season and his versatility was on display for the Cardinals, as he scored as a running back, receiver and on a kickoff return for the team. Johnson stepped in with Chris Johnson and Andre Ellington injured and put up solid numbers for the Cardinals in 16 games, rushing for 581 yards and added 36 receptions.
Jameis Winston, Buccaneers
The Buccaneers took Jameis Winston number one overall in the draft and he lived up to those expectations this season, keeping the Bucs in playoff contention for a while before trailing off. Winston put up solid numbers for a first overall pick, throwing 22 touchdowns and passing for 4042 yards. Winston deserves consideration for the award and he also added six rushing touchdowns while putting up 213 yards on the ground.
Amari Cooper, Raiders
Cooper had a great season for the Raiders, giving the team its first 1000 yard receiver in years and showing that he can be a number one option. Derek Carr put up his best numbers in two years with Cooper in the mix and Cooper also showed some explosiveness with five games with at least 100 yards. Cooper finished the season with 72 catches for 1070 yards and six touchdowns for the Raiders.
Defensive player: Marcus Peters, Chiefs
Peters helped the Chiefs have one of the best defensive units in the league and he put up eight interceptions this season. That total is the most for a rookie since 2009 and the strong play of the KC secondary should win Peters the award.
Prediction: Todd Gurley wins the award for offense. Marcus Peters for defense.
