Every award in the NFL, whether its MVP or Coach of the Year, has its favorites. These favorites are usually the players experts pick to win the awards. Here is a list of my bold predictions for the various NFL Awards. Strap in, and expect the unexpected. (Written after Week 2)
Most Valuable Player
Lamar Jackson / QB / Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens quarterback will follow the “second year trend” going from decent to phenomenal, with the likes of Carson Wentz’s 2017 season and most recently, Patrick Mahomes MVP campaign. The duel threat Heisman winner has looked perfect through two games. He has shown the league he can throw the ball, and reminded them that he can run the ball better than most running backs in the NFL. He will be top 5 in passing yards and top 12 in rushing yards by the end of the season. Lastly, he will take the young Ravens offense into a deep playoff run.
Coach of the Year
Kyle Shanahan / San Francisco 49ers
The young coach finally has a healthy Jimmy Garropolo with which to work. Through 2 weeks, the ‘Niners are undefeated and have averaged 36 points per game. Their offense is going above and beyond, Shanahan is spreading the ball around to all his players. The had coach has perfectly managed an injury plagued running back room, getting players like Matt Breida to shine against an old but sturdy Bengals defensive line. Outside of the NFC West divisional match ups, their schedule is tough, taking on the Saints, Packers, and Ravens later in the season. If Shanahan can continue this under the radar offense, San Francisco could squeak out of the NFC West with a division title.
Offensive Rookie of the Year
Miles Sanders / RB / Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles have been deprived of a star running back since Chip Kelly shipped Lesean McCoy to Buffalo. Through two weeks, the Eagles coaches have been reluctant to give the rookie a snap count fit for the talent the he has. Once Sanders has a breakout game around weeks 3-5, he will be the starting back for the team. He will lead rookies in all purpose yards and touchdowns, but will be second in rushing yards to Oakland’s Josh Jacobs. He will also be one of the best pass blocking running backs in the league by the end of the season. Look for him to take the award, and boost the Philadelphia offense.
Defensive Rookie of the Year
Ed Oliver / DT / Buffalo Bills
Have not seen much of Oliver through two games. That being said, the Bills are 2-0 and have kept their opponents to under 20 points. This dude isn’t the biggest, but expect him to have a huge impact throughout the season.
Offensive Player of the Year
Dalvin Cook / RB / Minnesota Vikings
The third year running back is off to a great start through two weeks. He already has racked up 3 rushing TDs and is north of 250 rushing yards. Expect Cook to continue this dominance as Kirk Cousins if off to a rocky start. Cook is one of the few consistent pieces in the Vikings’ offense and is poised to lead the league in rushing touchdowns and yards.
Defensive Player of the Year
Fletcher Cox / DT / Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles star Defensive Tackle has been in the shadow of the superstar Aaron Donald the past few years. If anyone will win the award besides Donald or Chicago’s Khalil Mack, it will be Cox. Cox has dominated opponent offensive lines and a career year could get him the award.
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