The 2022 draft will go down as one of the best in recent years when speaking of defensive players. But on offense? To say that the class has not been as bright as in other years might not be saying a lot.
Unlike in other years where QBs are usually the most sought-after offensive commodities that teams look for, this year’s draft was one where the main focus for offense-needy squads revolved around wide receivers, running backs, and offensive linemen.
As the regular season continues to wind down, with NFL fans starting to pay more and more attention to finding the best Super Bowl betting strategies, let’s take a moment to shine a light on our picks for the top candidates to win the Offensive Rookie of the Year Award.
Let’s check the latest NFL picks, stats, injury reports, and NFL predictions. We’ve plenty of NFL expert picks for you to consider.
Garrett Wilson, WR, New York Jets
I think it’s time we give credit where credit is due and tip our hats to the New York Jets and the bounty of great players they got in this season’s draft. From defensive studs Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner and Jermaine Johnson, to rookie powerhouse rusher Breece Hall and standout receiver Garrett Wilson, the Jets can brag about finding some pivotal pieces for their foreseeable future.
Staying on offense though, while Hall got off to a roaring start, blazing through defenses, after suffering a season-ending ACL tear injury in week 7, all eyes turned to Wilson. The former Ohio State standout receiver took to his job as New York’s premier WR with ease and comfort, becoming Zach Wilson’s and now Mike White’s favorite go-to target for big passing plays.
With 868 receiving yards and 63 receptions, and four touchdowns Wilson has seen his OROY stock rise in the past five games where he has 439 receiving yards, with two touchdowns. His game against the Vikings in Week 13 especially saw the former Buckeye put the league on notice after getting eight receptions from 15 targets for 162 yards.
All and all, the Jets can be happy to know that they found their new franchise receiver to play alongside Elijah Moore, Corey Davis, Denzel Mims, and company. For now though, if Wilson continues to have more astounding performances in the remaining weeks of the season, his claim for the OROY award will only continue to gain more strength.
Kenneth Walker III, RB, Seattle Seahawks
How about those Seattle Seahawks huh? Between Geno Smith’s redemption tour, Tariq Woolen’s stunning start to his pro career as the team’s new cornerback, and the squad put on a season that nobody expected, it’s about time we talked about rookie RB Kenneth Walker III.
If there’s any question as to how much the Seahawks love having Walker around, check out some clips of his performances. He has 649 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, which include 239 yards, and five of those TDs coming in the last five games.
Considering that Walker missed the team’s last game against the Panthers because of an ankle injury, his award stock might take a bit of a hit. Still, though, he has proven over and over again his value, with projections having him reach under 900 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Dameon Pierce, RB, Houston Texans
If you had to say something good about the Houston Texans what would it be? It’s ok, I can wait. For me, rookie RB Dameon Pierce takes the place of not only the most exciting player on the Texans squad but the only player to talk about.
On a team where a lack of difference-making players is more than visible, Pierce has taken it upon himself to try and do the best with what’s given. If this award was given based more on true athletic and football abilities, instead of media exposure as well, Pierce would be a shoo-in to run away with the title.
Rushing already for 939 yards with four touchdowns, as well as 165 receiving yards with one touchdown, Pierce has shown he has the chops to be his team’s leader on offense. Pierce’s numbers could also go past the 1,000 rushing yard mark if he can bounce back from a sprained ankle injury in time to finish out the season strongly.
At the end of the day though, with how Pierce has been able to perform while playing in such a lackluster team like the Texans, it’s more than clear that Houston has its franchise RB for years to come.
