While many believe the race for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year will be between two players with five games remaining, the Los Angeles Chargers' star safety has made his own suggestion about a dark horse candidate.
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and Denver Broncos' Bo Nix are the frontrunners for the regular-season award, but Derwin James Jr. wants to add rookie receiver Ladd McConkie to the conversation.
“We got Rad McConkie. This is Rookie of the Year. We have Rad McConkie at receiver,” James said during an appearance on FanDuel TV's “Up & Adams” with Kay Adams.
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Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkie runs the ball during the second half of the game against the Baltimore Ravens at SoFi Stadium. (Gary A. Vasquez/Imagn Images)
James also gave a shoutout to quarterback Justin Herbert, rookie right tackle Joe Alto and left tackle Rashawn Slater.
But McConkie, who leads the team with 58 catches for 815 yards, has emerged as the true top receiver in Greg Roman's offense in Los Angeles.
James was asked why he thought McConkie started his career so early.
“Rudd is a great professional,” James replied. “He comes to work every day and sets his priorities off the field as well. I feel every day that he wants to be great and give his all to the team. I love Rudd so much. ”
McConkey ranks second among rookies in receiving yards. Rising Las Vegas Raiders star Brock Bowers leads the way with 884. The tight end also leads all rookie receivers with 84 catches on 113 targets.
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkie, 15, catches Atlanta Falcons cornerback Dee Alford, 20, during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Dale Zanin/Imagine Images)
There are still games left, so maybe McConkie can outdo Bowers.
However, the race will likely remain between Daniels and Knicks, considering both have led the team to playoff contention.
Nix leads all NFL rookies with 2,842 passing yards, and Daniels is right behind him with 2,819 passing yards. Knicks threw 17 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Daniels threw 15 touchdowns and six picks.
Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Ladd McConkey stands on the field before a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Dale Zanin/Imagine Images)
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Daniels also had six rushing scores and gained 590 yards on the ground. Knicks rushed for 304 yards and four touchdowns.
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