By Larry Rupp
The 2021 NFL season has been full of dynamic playmakers like Derrick Henry and Davante Adams. However, fans can’t forget to be grateful for what this rookie class has been bringing to the game each and every week.
Simply put, it’s hard to overlook the potential some of these young kids have, and keep in mind this is only the beginning. For now, let’s take a look at some of the best bets to make in the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year race, with all odds according to DraftKings Sportsbook.
Safest Best: Ja’Marr Chase (+300)
It’s no secret that wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase has burst onto the scene with the Cincinnati Bengals. The former LSU Tiger has been on fire ever since he reunited with his college teammate and starting quarterback Joe Burrow. Chase has quickly turned into one of the best deep threats in the NFL and leads the league with five catches of 40 yards or more.
The 21-year-old has wasted no time getting in the end zone, either. Chase has racked up five touchdowns through the first six weeks of play and is averaging an insane 20.5 yards per reception. There’s a reason that Chase leads all rookie with +300 odds to take home the hardware here: He is the safest bet to make given his ability to consistently fill up the stat sheet.
Just throw it up to Ja’Marr Chase and good things will happen 🚀
— PFF (@PFF) October 14, 2021
(🎥 @Bengals)
pic.twitter.com/DnDoY97uQw
Underrated Odds: Justin Fields (+850)
One player that has the opportunity to climb up this list throughout the rest of the season is Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields. The 2021 first-round pick has gained control of the starting gig and now has a chance to truly showcase his skills. It’s also notable to point out that a quarterback has won this award in three of the last five seasons.
Fields may not have the best stats through his first four NFL starts, but he has led the Bears to a 2-2 record during that span. The Bears are expected to be in the race for one of the two NFC wild card spots. If Fields can improve on his accuracy issues and secure a playoff berth, he has a legitimate shot to surprise some people here. He has great value at +850.
.@justnfields right on the Mooney. 🎯@Darnell_M1 | #GBvsCHI pic.twitter.com/FCVjjtrNSe
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) October 17, 2021
Long-Shot Bet: Kyle Pitts (+2500)
NFL fans looking to make a long-shot bet in order to receive the biggest payout may want to aim for Atlanta Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts. Pitts came alive in Week 6, hauling in nine of his team-high 10 targets for 119 yards and one touchdown. He proved how his ability to bring in contested balls and gain yards after the catch can be game-changing.
Moving forward, the 21-year-old should only get better as he figures out his role in the Atlanta offense. Pitts has the skills of a wide receiver, but has the size of a tight end. That combination alone gives him a chance to become the first TE in NFL history to be named Offensive Rookie of the Year.
#MattyIce❄️ ➡️ @kylepitts__ on loop 🔁
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) October 21, 2021
📺: #ATLvsMIA 1pm Sunday on FOX pic.twitter.com/4ENj9DpM04
Picture Credit: All-Pro Reels
