Alright, let’s talk about trying to figure out these NFL Rookies of the Year. It’s always a bit of a guess, isn’t it? Like throwing a dart in the dark sometimes.
So, what I usually do, starting around draft time, is I make a little list. Nothing fancy, just names that pop out. You know, the big college stars, the guys everyone’s talking about. Then preseason hits, and you try to watch, see who flashes. But preseason? Half the time it means nothing. Remember that quarterback a few years back? Looked like Joe Montana in August, couldn’t complete a pass in September.
Getting Down to Watching
Okay, so the real season starts. This is where I actually try to pay attention. I pick maybe two offensive guys and two defensive guys I think have a real shot. Not always the highest draft picks, sometimes it’s a gut feeling.
- Watch their snaps: I try to catch their plays specifically. Not just highlights, but the regular downs too. See how they handle blocking, routes, tackling, you know, the basics.
- Check the stats, but don’t live by them: Numbers are okay, but sometimes a guy’s impact doesn’t show up neatly in a box score. Especially defensive players.
- Listen to the chatter: What are the coaches saying? What about the beat writers who see them every day? Sometimes you pick up little things.
I remember this one season, I was dead set on this running back. Drafted him in my fantasy league, told my buddies he was a lock for Offensive Rookie of the Year. He had a couple of good games early on, I was feeling pretty smart.
Reality Check Time
Then, bang. Mid-season slump. Teams figured him out. He started fumbling. Meanwhile, this receiver drafted way later just exploded onto the scene. Came out of nowhere, making crazy catches every week. My guy? Ended up splitting carries by Week 10.
It’s funny how that works. You can do all the watching, all the note-taking, and still be way off. That receiver I ignored? Yeah, he won the award. My “sure thing” running back was barely mentioned.
So, my whole process? It’s more about the fun of watching the young guys develop than actually being right. I just watch the games, see who looks good, make my guesses. Sometimes I’m close, sometimes I’m miles away. That’s just how it goes following the rookies. You just enjoy the ride and see who ends up surprising everyone.
