2012 NFL Season Predictions – Updated Offensive Rookie of the Year Rankings Following Week 3 of Preseason Games: While some position battles are won during training camp in practices, a majority of the big battles are decided on the field in preseason games. This is especially true when one of the players involved is a rookie. During the first three weeks of preseason play, there have been a few rookies that have stood out, and in some cases, even won starting jobs for the upcoming season. Throw in a knee injury that has kept highly-touted rookie rusher Trent Richardson off the field in Cleveland, and the major players for the Offensive Rookie of the Year Award have definitely changed. With that in mind, here is a look at the new frontrunners for top offensive rookie honors for the 2012 season.
2012 NFL Predictions: Updated Offensive Rookie of the Year Rankings Following Week 3 of Preseason Games
1. Andrew Luck, Quarterback, Indianapolis Colts
It Luck all of one pass to throw his first NFL touchdown, and he has showcased all the tools that had scouts drooling about him throughout his college career. From arm strength and accuracy to athleticism outside of the pocket, Luck appears to be the total package. He has also demonstrated the ability to scan the field and go through his progressions. Luck looks as NFL ready as advertised, and while the Colts don’t have a ton of talent, he does have Reggie Wayne, Austin Collie and former Stanford teammate Coby Fleener to throw to. His numbers should win over voters, even if Indianapolis’ win total doesn’t.
2. Doug Martin, Running Back, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
While LeGarrette Blount is finding various ways to end up in the dog house, Martin is showing off his all-around talent. He has been solid in between the tackles and has shown a burst once he gets into the open field. More importantly for his playing time, Martin has picked up on pass blocking quickly and has been a factor in the passing game. Blount will steal some carries, but Martin has already proven that he is better equipped to be an every-down back. With Trent Richardson dealing with a balky knee, Martin looks like the top rookie back in 2012.
3. Russell Wilson, Quarterback, Seattle Seahawks
No player has seen their stock rise more in the preseason than Wilson. After impressing in the second half of the first two preseason games, Wilson was dazzling when he got a chance to run with the first team in the third game. Despite being undersized, he has had no issues throwing the ball down the field for big plays. He has also flashed his athleticism, making plays outside of the pocket with his legs. Although Matt Flynn was paid a bunch of money in the offseason to play quarterback, Wilson has just been better. It is hard to imagine Pete Carroll not going with the player that has performed the best on the field, and that has been Wilson. He is a smart decision maker, and his arm strength and athleticism has been better than expected. Backed by a strong running game and solid offensive line, Wilson should put up solid numbers.
4. Robert Griffin III, Quarterback, Washington Redskins
While Griffin really hasn’t done anything to prove that he isn’t ready for the NFL, the play of Washington’s offensive line has been worrisome. It is going to be hard for him to make big plays in the passing game when he is spending a lot of time on his back as he has in the preseason. Granted, he has the athleticism to make plays on the run, but he isn’t the biggest guy. If he continues to take a beating during the regular season, his numbers are going to suffer, and he could end up getting injured. Griffin’s completion percentage has left a little to be desired, as well, and it looking less and less likely that he will have a rookie season that rivals Cam Newton’s year in 2011.
5. David Wilson, Running Back, New York Giants
It must be something about the last name because David Wilson had joined Russell Wilson as one of the big movers in the preseason. While Ahmad Bradshaw has been banged up and somewhat ineffective, Wilson has shined. His speed has been as good as advertised, and his vision and strength has exceeded expectations. Wilson was probably the best running back in the ACC in each of the past two seasons, and he looks ready to make an immediate impact at the next level. Playing for the defending Super Bowl champs, he could end up being the counterpunch for an excellent passing attack. The fact that the Giants are expected to win a bunch of games and make the playoffs will help his chances, as well.
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