With the completion of the 2026 NFL Draft, attention shifts to the upcoming regular season and the race for the AP NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Notably, only ten offensive skill players were selected in the first round, including quarterback Ty Simpson of the Los Angeles Rams, who is expected to play behind reigning MVP Matthew Stafford this season. The frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year award is Jeremiyah Love, a running back for the Arizona Cardinals, who was selected third overall. Love’s performance will be critical as he becomes a focal point in a restructured Arizona offense, although challenges such as an uncertain quarterback situation could hinder his chances. Following closely is Fernando Mendoza, the top overall pick for the Las Vegas Raiders, who may be the only rookie quarterback to start the entire season. Other contenders include wide receivers Carnell Tate and Jordyn Tyson, each with potential for significant early contributions.
Why It Matters
The NFL Rookie of the Year award has historically favored quarterbacks, with four of the last seven honors going to that position. Running backs, while impactful, have not won the award since Saquon Barkley in 2018, despite multiple rookies surpassing 1,000 rushing yards in subsequent seasons. The performance of players like Love and Mendoza will be closely monitored, especially in a draft year with limited quarterback talent. The dynamics of the Cardinals’ offense and the Raiders’ quarterback situation will play significant roles in shaping the narratives for this season’s rookie honors.
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