Bo Nix and Jayden Daniels have been the frontrunners for the 2024 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. The Denver Broncos and Washington Commanders quarterbacks have each orchestrated impressive wins against tough AFC North opponents in primetime, placing them at the top of the rookie class. Daniels garnered early praise after his Week 1 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Nix’s win against the Cleveland Browns further solidified his place in the conversation. However, a third contender has emerged, and he’s not a quarterback.
Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders looks on before a game against the Pittsburgh SteelersAlt: Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels observes the field before a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Katie Mox Highlights Brock Bowers’ Rookie of the Year Potential
On December 4th, CBS Sports analyst Katie Mox identified Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers as a serious contender for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, placing him among the top three candidates. Mox stated, “Brock Bowers is perhaps the most impressive rookie of the season. Bowers leads all tight ends with 884 receiving yards and is third overall in receiving yards at any position.” She emphasized that the award race remains wide open, adding, “Now the Rookie of the Year award will be decided during this crucial December stretch.”
Alt: Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bowers advances downfield after securing a reception.
Interestingly, the Las Vegas Raiders selected Bowers immediately after the Broncos drafted Nix. Many speculated that Nix would have been the Raiders’ choice had he still been available. Regardless, the Raiders landed an impressive talent in Bowers.
Brock Bowers’ Late-Season Surge
Bowers had a relatively quiet start to his rookie campaign, failing to record a single 100-yard receiving game before November. However, he has since turned up the heat. According to Pro Football Reference, Bowers has amassed 126 and 140 receiving yards in two of his last three games. He has also found the end zone three times since November 3rd. At his current pace, Bowers has a strong chance to surpass 1,000 receiving yards in his rookie season, a remarkable feat considering the Raiders’ ongoing quarterback instability.
Alt: Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix throws a pass during an NFL game.
With the Raiders projected to have another high draft pick in 2025, it begs the question: how much better can Bowers become with improved quarterback play? The emergence of Brock Bowers adds another exciting dimension to the 2024 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year race, making it a compelling competition to watch as the season concludes.
