NFL: Rookie preseason debuts, who will win Offensive Rookie of the Year?

Week one of the NFL preseason is in the books. This was the first time many of the rookies from this year’s draft class played in an official game for their new teams. Seeing how the rookies perform early in a season, preseason or not, can be intriguing. Although Atlanta Falcons rookie RB Bijan Robinson — and the betting favourite on NFL betting sites to win Offensive Rookie of the Year — did not play in the Falcons 19-3 victory over the Miami Dolphins on August 11, a bunch of the other favourites played. Here’s how they performed.

The Betting Favourite

Bijan Robinson is the betting favourite to win Offensive Rookie of the Year. Robinson has +255 odds to win the award on Bet99. Robinson is a complete running back with a lot of potential according to many experts.

In a league that has devalued his position, Robinson still managed to be a top 10 draft pick. He was selected eighth by the Falcons. The Falcons led the league in rush attempts last season and finished third in rushing yards. Running backs can have a huge impact early in their careers, so Robinson is a strong choice for OROY because the Falcons will probably make Robinson a huge part of their offense. 

Bryce Young

Carolina Panthers QB Bryce Young +390 has the second best odds. Young had some ups and downs in his first preseason game against the New York Jets. Young overthrew a couple of errant passes, but was accurate for the majority of his time in the game. Young completed his first pass to new Panthers WR Adam Thielen. He left the game after completing 4/6 passes for 21 yards.

Young should be a strong pick for this award because of his position alone. Two of the past four OROY award winners were QBs. But unlike the MVP award, a lot of players at different positions have taken home this award over the years. With RB Miles Sanders, Adam Thilen, and TE Hayden Hurst on the roster to help Young out, he can win this award if the Panthers shock some people in the NFC this year.

Anthony Richardson

Indianapolis Colts QB Anthony Richardson has the third best odds at +640. He threw an interception while under pressure after completing his first two passes against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. Before exiting the game after the first quarter, Richardson showed deep throw accuracy, athleticism, and a strong arm.

Two of his passes were dropped. Richardson might be a big risk, but he showed a lot of potential in his first preseason game. If the Colts stay healthy, Richardson may surprise a lot of people. He finished the game completing 7/12 passes and 67 yards to go along with the interception.

A couple of long shots

C.J. Stroud +740 has the fourth best odds to win the award. Like Young and Richardson, Stroud started his NFL preseason with a completed pass, but the night would get tougher. He was sacked for -15 yards and threw an interception during the same drive. Although he finished the night going 2/4 with 13 yards and 1 interception, Stroud showed off his athleticism and playmaking ability in his preseason debut against the New England Patriots on Thursday.

Seattle Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba has the best odds of the wide receivers, he has +1200 odds on Bet99. Smith-Njigba had a solid debut considering he did not play much. He finished the game with three catches and 25 yards receiving. He caught a couple of passes on slant routes, showing his hands and quickness.