Offensive & Defensive Rookie of the Year Dark Horse Candidates
After every NFL draft, fans immediately begin debating who will take home Offensive and Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. This year, names like Ashton Jeanty and Abdul Carter are already part of those conversations. However, there are two players drafted outside the first round—both flying under the radar—who have a real chance to capture those awards.
These two players slipped in the draft due to questions about whether they could transition to the next level, as well as lingering injury concerns. But make no mistake—they have the talent and production to be true dark horse candidates for Rookie of the Year.
Kyle Williams (Wide Receiver) – New England Patriots
Kyle Williams was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round (69th overall). A dynamic pass-catcher with explosive speed, Williams has the ability to generate big plays before and after the catch. No matter how he gets the ball in his hands, he’s a true game-breaking playmaker. Williams combines incredible athleticism with an outstanding ability to track and secure the football. Despite some concerns about his consistency, he could surprise as a sleeper candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year.
When it comes to his role with the Patriots this upcoming season, Williams holds the potential to be the number one outside receiver. While Williams may begin as the third receiver, both Stefon Diggs and Demario Douglas operate primarily out of the slot. With an abundance of slot receivers, the Patriots need a reliable outside target—a role Kyle Williams is ready to fill.
The New England Patriots have long needed a consistent outside receiver. Kyle Williams fills a long-standing need for a consistent outside receiver. He provides the Patriots with a much-needed boost in the passing game and could emerge as a dark horse candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year. Because he slipped in the draft, Morrison could emerge as a sleeper candidate.
Benjamin Morrison (Cornerback) – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Benjamin Morrison was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the second round (53rd overall). A corner with outstanding athleticism, Morrison offers the flexibility to play man or zone at a high level. He possesses pro-level instincts that allow him to consistently make plays on the ball. In the run game, he has great physicality and a willingness to get involved. Before his season-ending injury, Morrison was considered one of the top corners in the draft.
Benjamin Morrison currently sits behind Jamal Dean on the Buccaneers’ depth chart. While he’s still competing for a starting role, Morrison has the tools to develop into an elite cornerback. With a combination of physical talent and high-level instincts, he is too valuable to keep off the field. Whether lined up outside or in the slot, Morrison is ready to be a key contributor.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have fielded a middling secondary over the past few seasons. If Benjamin Morrison is utilized properly, he has the potential to elevate this unit into one of the league’s best. With the right opportunities, Morrison could emerge as a dark horse contender for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Main Photo: [Eric Canha] – USA Today Sports
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