Ranking NFL Rookie of the Year candidates: Solak's way-too-early lists for offense and defense
Briefly

The 2025 NFL draft has concluded, prompting discussions on the 2025 Rookie of the Year rankings. Analysts emphasize that these rankings can be made even before the season begins by understanding patterns in how voters tend to favor players based on their draft positions and immediate playing opportunities. Historically, more quarterbacks win the Offensive Rookie of the Year award due to their significant impact in modern, pass-heavy offenses. The article discusses how recent trends affect rookie performances and anticipates the landscape for the 2026 season.
"Easily! Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year voters follow fairly predictable patterns that are heavily influenced by draft capital spent."
"Most rookies are instead dropped into depth charts and have to earn their way to playing time."
"In 2004, Ben Roethlisberger became only the second QB to win the award. But since Roethlisberger, nine of the 20 Offensive Rookies of the Year have been quarterbacks."
"It's much easier for quarterbacks to produce bigger numbers in modern offenses, which tend to skew pass-heavy."
Read at ESPN.com
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