Fernando Mendoza
+600
+700
Omar Cooper Jr.
+6000
+900
Germie Bernard
+7000
+1300
Jonah Coleman
+6000
+1500
Antonio Williams
+4500
+2500
De'Zhaun Stribling
+1000
+2800
Caleb Douglas
+6000
+4000
Jadarian Price
+500
+6000
Mike Washington Jr.
+2000
+6500
Seth McGowan
+15000
+7500
Malachi Fields
+8500
+7500
Ted Hurst III
+7000
+7500
Josh Cameron
+17500
+8000
Jalon Daniels
+8500
+8000
Emmett Johnson
+8500
+10000
Josh Cuevas
+20000
+10000
Bryce Lance
+12500
+10000
Cade Klubnik
+8500
+10000
Kevin Coleman Jr.
+12500
+10000
Brenen Thompson
+10000
+10000
Demond Claiborne
+10000
+10000
Kaytron Allen
+9000
+10000
Kenyon Sadiq
+7000
+10000
Zachariah Branch
+7500
+10000
Eli Stowers
+10000
+10000
Malik Benson
+10000
+12500
Nate Boerkircher
+15000
+15000
Deion Burks
+15000
+15000
Harrison Wallace III
+15000
+15000
Elijah Sarratt
+8000
+15000
Zavion Thomas
+15000
+15000
Kaden Wetjen
+17500
+17500
Jeff Caldwell
+17500
+17500
Reggie Virgil
+17500
+17500
Kendrick Law
+17500
+17500
Jack Endries
+20000
+20000
Michael Trigg
+20000
+20000
Carsen Ryan
+20000
+20000
Tyren Montgomery
+20000
+20000
J'Mari Taylor
+20000
+20000
J. Michael Sturdivant
+20000
+20000
Jamarion Miller
+20000
+20000
Dallen Bentley
+17500
+25000
Francis Mauigoa
+40000
+25000
Barion Brown
+17500
+25000
Marlin Klein
+20000
+25000
Riley Nowakowski
+17500
+25000
Tanner Koziol
+17500
+25000
Colbie Young
+17500
+25000
Olaivavega Ioane
+40000
+25000
Matt Hibner
+20000
+25000
Taylen Green
+22500
+30000
Will Kacmarek
+17500
+30000
Jack Strand
+20000
+30000
Spencer Fano
+40000
+30000
Garrett Nussmeier
+20000
+30000
Eli Heidenreich
+10000
+30000
Adam Randall
+12500
+30000
Gennings Dunker
+40000
+40000
Emmanuel Pregnon
+40000
+40000
Monroe Freeling
+40000
+40000
Max Iheanachor
+40000
+40000
Roman Hemby
+40000
+40000
Keylan Rutledge
+40000
+40000
Blake Miller
+40000
+50000
NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Odds Movement
Tate’s odds shortened from +600 in the preseason to +250, reflecting his consistent involvement in Tennessee’s passing attack. Concepcion made an even sharper move, shortening from +2000 to +600 following his 129-yard performance against Tennessee. Boston remains in contention, although his odds drifted from +400 to +600.
Love’s odds lengthened from +320 to +750 after an ankle injury sidelined him for multiple games. Meanwhile, Mendoza’s odds shortened from +2000 to +750 amid speculation that he could earn a starting role, despite seeing limited action this season.
NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Favorites and Contenders
The OROY race features several promising rookies who have emerged as leading contenders through their early-season performances.
Carnell Tate — Tennessee Titans
Carnell Tate (+250) leads NFL rookies with 34 receptions, 413 receiving yards and 51 targets through the first half of the season. His nine-catch, 145-yard performance against Baltimore established his ceiling, and he has remained a steady option in Tennessee’s passing game.
However, Tate has scored just one touchdown and lost two fumbles, while Tennessee’s subpar offense has contributed to the Titans’ 1-6 record. His consistent production keeps him atop the OROY market, but his limited touchdown production and Tennessee’s struggles could give other contenders an opportunity to close the gap.
KC Concepcion — Cleveland Browns
KC Concepcion (+600) climbed sharply after catching eight passes for 129 yards in Cleveland’s 27-24 win at Tennessee. He added 23 rushing yards, finishing with 152 yards from scrimmage in a breakout performance. Concepcion has 30 receptions for 315 yards and 34 rushing yards, but no offensive touchdowns.
Denzel Boston — Cleveland Browns
Denzel Boston (+600) has caught 20 passes for 372 yards and three touchdowns through seven games, averaging 18.6 yards per reception. His touchdown catches of 46 and 55 yards highlight his big-play ability, although he trails Tate and Concepcion in receptions. Boston has cooled off recently, managing just four catches over his last two games, which has contributed to his longer OROY odds.
Jeremiyah Love — Arizona Cardinals
Jeremiyah Love (+750), the third overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, has rushed for 245 yards and a touchdown on 67 carries through five games. He has also added 11 receptions for 36 yards and another score. His best performance came against San Francisco, when he rushed for 90 yards. However, an ankle injury has sidelined him for two games, causing his OROY odds to lengthen.
Fernando Mendoza — Las Vegas Raiders
Fernando Mendoza (+750), the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, has yet to make his first NFL start. His limited playing time includes completing six of eight passes for 48 yards against New England.
Omar Cooper Jr. – New York Jets
Omar Cooper Jr. (+1000) has made an immediate impact for the Jets, catching 12 passes for 248 yards and two touchdowns in just three games. His average of 20.7 yards per reception highlights his big-play ability.
Jacob Rodriguez
+1400
+650
Dillon Thieneman
+3500
+2200
Mansoor Delane
+1100
+2700
Josiah Trotter
+10000
+3000
Anthony Hill Jr.
+7000
+4000
Hezekiah Masses
+20000
+4000
Akheem Mesidor
+1400
+4500
Malachi Lawrence
+2800
+4500
Rueben Bain Jr.
+475
+5000
Jaishawn Barham
+12500
+5000
Treydan Stukes
+8500
+6000
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren
+5500
+6000
Davison Igbinosun
+12500
+6000
Gracen Halton
+20000
+6000
Chris Johnson
+8000
+7500
Keldric Faulk
+3500
+8000
Cashius Howell
+5000
+8000
R Mason Thomas
+7500
+8000
Brandon Cisse
+10000
+8000
Romello Height
+12500
+8000
Keionte Scott
+12500
+8000
Kayden McDonald
+10000
+10000
Avieon Terrell
+8000
+10000
Tacario Davis
+10000
+10000
Daylen Everette
+10000
+10000
Jermod McCoy
+8500
+10000
Devin Moore
+10000
+10000
Dani Dennis-Sutton
+10000
+10000
Kaleb Elarms-Orr
+20000
+10000
Will Lee III
+12500
+10000
Genesis Smith
+20000
+10000
Bryce Boettcher
+10000
+10000
Zakee Wheatley
+12500
+10000
Joshua Josephs
+12500
+10000
Charles Demmings
+20000
+10000
Michael Taaffe
+20000
+10000
Chandler Rivers
+10000
+10000
Harold Perkins Jr.
+10000
+10000
Jordan van den Berg
+7500
+10000
Caden Curry
+10000
+10000
Robert Spears-Jennings
+20000
+10000
Anthony Lucas
+10000
+10000
Vincent Anthony Jr.
+10000
+10000
A.J. Haulcy
+10000
+10000
Derrick Moore
+12500
+12500
D'Angelo Ponds
+6500
+12500
Keyron Crawford
+12500
+12500
Kamari Ramsey
+10000
+12500
Keith Abney II
+12500
+12500
George Gumbs Jr.
+12500
+12500
Nadame Tucker
+12500
+12500
Mikail Kamara
+12500
+12500
Tyreak Sapp
+12500
+12500
Christen Miller
+20000
+15000
Max Llewellyn
+10000
+15000
Tyler Onyedim
+20000
+20000
Chris McClellan
+20000
+20000
Albert Regis
+20000
+20000
Domonique Orange
+20000
+20000
Jalen Huskey
+20000
+20000
Jakobe Thomas
+20000
+20000
Julian Neal
+12500
+20000
Kaleb Proctor
+20000
+20000
Darrell Jackson Jr.
+20000
+20000
Jadon Canady
+20000
+20000
Jimmy Rolder
+20000
+20000
Wesley Williams
+20000
+20000
Ephesians Prysock
+20000
+20000
Keyshaun Elliott
+20000
+20000
DeMonte Capehart
+20000
+20000
Jalon Kilgore
+20000
+20000
Zane Durant
+20000
+20000
Tim Keenan III
+20000
+20000
Aiden Fisher
+20000
+20000
Rayshaun Benny
+20000
+20000
Red Murdock
+20000
+20000
Landon Robinson
+20000
+20000
Bishop Fitzgerald
+20000
+20000
Wesley Bailey
+20000
+20000
Taurean York
+20000
+20000
Cameron Ball
+20000
+20000
Deontae Lawson
+20000
+20000
Zxavian Harris
+20000
+20000
Thaddeus Dixon
+20000
+20000
Nick Barrett
+20000
+20000
NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Odds Movement
Bailey’s odds have shortened from +550 in the preseason to +180 as his sack and pressure totals have increased. Reese’s odds have shortened from +900 to +350, while Rodriguez’s have improved from +1300 to +650 despite losing ground after briefly leading the market. Downs and Bain, both highly regarded preseason candidates, have moved to +3000.
NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Favorites and Contenders
Several defensive rookies have emerged as leading DROY contenders, with their early-season performances helping shape the betting market.
David Bailey — New York Jets
David Bailey (+180) leads all NFL rookies with 5.5 sacks through seven games, adding 35 combined tackles and three forced fumbles. Bailey has also generated 34 quarterback pressures with a 20% pressure rate, further strengthening his case as the DROY favorite.
Arvell Reese — New York Giants
Arvell Reese (+350) has recorded 56 combined tackles, 1.5 sacks, one interception and four passes defended through seven games. His 13-tackle performance against Tennessee and interception against Arizona highlight his versatility against both the run and the pass. Although Reese trails Bailey in sacks and forced fumbles, his tackling and coverage contributions have established him as the leading DROY challenger.
Jacob Rodriguez — Miami Dolphins
Jacob Rodriguez (+650) has recorded 61 combined tackles through six games, including a season-high 18 against Minnesota in Week 4. His impressive tackling production and an interception helped him briefly emerge as the DROY favorite earlier this season. However, Rodriguez has yet to record a sack or forced fumble, putting him behind the leading contenders in those categories.
Sonny Styles — Washington Commanders
Sonny Styles (+800) has recorded 46 combined tackles, one sack, an interception, four passes defended and a forced fumble through six games. His consecutive 13-tackle performances in Weeks 5 and 6 highlight his consistent production and versatility in Washington’s defense.
Factors Influencing NFL Rookie of the Year Odds
NFL Rookie of the Year odds can shift dramatically throughout the season. Injuries, playing time, individual performances and upcoming high-profile matchups are among the key factors influencing both award races.
Playing Time and Starting Opportunities
Playing time is a major factor in the Rookie of the Year races. Tate, Bailey and Reese have established significant roles since the start of the season, giving them more opportunities to produce. Meanwhile, Mendoza has attempted just eight NFL passes. Even if Las Vegas names him the starter, he’ll have considerably less time to build a competitive OROY case.
Injuries to Rookie of the Year Contenders
Injuries can quickly change the Rookie of the Year betting markets. Love’s ankle injury has sidelined him for two games, contributing to his longer OROY odds. Bailey’s recent groin injury could also threaten his DROY lead, especially if he misses time while Reese and Rodriguez continue playing productive football.
Individual Statistics and On-Field Impact
Individual production plays a significant role in Rookie of the Year voting, although the most important statistics vary by position. Tate leads through receiving volume, while Boston has scored more touchdowns. Defensively, Bailey’s sacks, pressures and forced fumbles provide a different measure of impact than Reese’s tackles and coverage contributions.
Team Success and Supporting Casts
Team success can influence Rookie of the Year voting, but individual performance generally carries more weight. Tate remains the OROY favorite despite Tennessee’s 1-6 record. Meanwhile, Cleveland’s 5-2 start has helped showcase Boston and Concepcion, although sharing targets within the same offense could limit their individual production. That balance differs from the NFL MVP race, where team success has historically played a prominent role.
AP Rookie of the Year Voting Deadline
The Associated Press selects both Rookie of the Year winners through a panel of 50 media voters. Voting takes place after the regular season and before the playoffs, meaning only regular-season performances count toward either award.
Key Matchups That Could Shape the NFL Rookie of the Year Races
Several upcoming NFL matchups could have a significant impact on the Rookie of the Year races, giving leading contenders opportunities to strengthen their award cases and influence the betting markets. Comparing NFL game odds can help put the difficulty of those matchups in context.
Cleveland’s Two Offensive Rookie Contenders
Boston and Concepcion visit Pittsburgh on November 1 and host Cincinnati on December 6 before facing the Giants and DROY contender Arvell Reese on December 20. Both receivers have opportunities to strengthen their OROY cases, although sharing targets in Cleveland’s offense could limit their individual production.
Arvell Reese and the Giants’ Playoff Push
The Giants lead the NFC East and are well-positioned for a playoff run, giving Arvell Reese several opportunities to strengthen his DROY candidacy. New York hosts Washington on November 12 and Cleveland on December 20 before closing the regular season against Detroit, Dallas and Philadelphia.
Strong defensive performances in games with playoff implications could help Reese gain recognition from voters and improve his standing in the DROY race.
Carnell Tate and Jeremiyah Love’s Late-Season Matchups
Carnell Tate and Jeremiyah Love play for struggling teams, making their late-season performances important to their OROY chances. Tate faces Detroit on December 13, Las Vegas on December 27 and Pittsburgh on January 3. Love hosts the Jets on December 20 before facing Las Vegas on January 3 and San Francisco in Week 18.
Fernando Mendoza’s Potential Starting Opportunities
Fernando Mendoza’s OROY chances depend on whether Las Vegas names him the starting quarterback. With limited playing time so far, every start would be closely scrutinized as he tries to close the gap on the leading contenders. Late-season matchups against Tennessee on December 27 and Arizona on January 3 could also pit him against fellow OROY candidates Carnell Tate and Jeremiyah Love.
Late-Season Opportunities for Bailey, Rodriguez and Styles
David Bailey, Jacob Rodriguez and Sonny Styles play for losing teams that could be out of playoff contention by December. Bailey and Rodriguez face each other when the Jets visit Miami on November 29, while Styles gets a prime-time matchup against Arvell Reese and the Giants on November 12.
The closing schedule also offers opportunities for standout performances that could carry more weight with voters. Bailey faces Denver on December 13 and Buffalo in Week 18, Rodriguez meets Buffalo on January 3, and Styles closes the season against Dallas.
Previous NFL Rookie of the Year Winners and Historical Trends
The past decade of NFL Rookie of the Year winners reveals clear positional trends. Quarterbacks have claimed five of the last 10 offensive awards, while edge rushers have won six defensive honors.
Recent NFL Rookie of the Year Winners
| NFL Season |
Offensive ROY |
Team |
Defensive ROY |
Team |
| 2025 |
Tetairoa McMillan (WR) |
Carolina Panthers |
Carson Schwesinger (LB) |
Cleveland Browns |
| 2024 |
Jayden Daniels (QB) |
Washington Commanders |
Jared Verse (EDGE) |
Los Angeles Rams |
| 2023 |
C.J. Stroud (QB) |
Houston Texans |
Will Anderson Jr. (EDGE) |
Houston Texans |
| 2022 |
Garrett Wilson (WR) |
New York Jets |
Sauce Gardner (CB) |
New York Jets |
| 2021 |
Ja’Marr Chase (WR) |
Cincinnati Bengals |
Micah Parsons (EDGE) |
Dallas Cowboys |
| 2020 |
Justin Herbert (QB) |
Los Angeles Chargers |
Chase Young (EDGE) |
Washington |
| 2019 |
Kyler Murray (QB) |
Arizona Cardinals |
Nick Bosa (EDGE) |
San Francisco 49ers |
| 2018 |
Saquon Barkley (RB) |
New York Giants |
Shaquille Leonard (LB) |
Indianapolis Colts |
| 2017 |
Alvin Kamara (RB) |
New Orleans Saints |
Marshon Lattimore (CB) |
New Orleans Saints |
| 2016 |
Dak Prescott (QB) |
Dallas Cowboys |
Joey Bosa (EDGE) |
San Diego Chargers |
Which Positions Win Offensive Rookie of the Year Most Often?
Quarterbacks have won 11 of the 25 OROY awards since 2001, followed by running backs with eight and wide receivers with six. However, recent voting has favored receivers, with Ja’Marr Chase (2021), Garrett Wilson (2022) and Tetairoa McMillan (2025) winning three of the last five awards.
Saquon Barkley remains the last running back to win OROY in 2018. The recent success of wide receivers is particularly relevant to the 2026 race, with Carnell Tate, Denzel Boston and KC Concepcion among the leading contenders.
Which Positions Win Defensive Rookie of the Year Most Often?
Edge rushers have won 10 of the 25 DROY awards since 2001, followed by nine linebackers, three cornerbacks and three defensive tackles. The trend has shifted toward pass rushers, who have claimed six of the last 10 awards, including Nick Bosa, Micah Parsons, Will Anderson Jr. and Jared Verse.
Only two off-ball linebackers have won DROY since 2013: Shaquille Leonard in 2018 and Carson Schwesinger in 2025. The recent dominance of pass rushers strengthens David Bailey’s case, although Arvell Reese and Jacob Rodriguez could follow in the footsteps of those linebacker winners.
Does Draft Position Matter for Rookie of the Year?
First-round draft picks have dominated both Rookie of the Year awards since 2001, accounting for 19 of 25 OROY winners and 21 of 25 DROY winners. That trend has remained consistent over the last decade, with eight of the previous 10 winners in each category selected in the first round.
How Often Do Late-Season Rookie of the Year Betting Favorites Win?
Late-season betting favorites have won 75% of both OROY and DROY awards from 2018 through 2025. With approximately two regular-season games remaining, the market leaders went on to win six of eight awards in each category.
These results suggest that both Rookie of the Year races are typically well established entering the final weeks of the regular season, with three out of four late-season favorites ultimately taking home the award.
