RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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Just weeks away from the start of the 2026 NFL campaign, rookies all over the league are gearing up for their very first season in the league and a chance at the elusive rookie of the year trophy.
While there are two trophies, one for offense and one for defense, these still signify two of the league’s future stars and potential household names for the next decade.
MORE: NFC power rankings for all 16 teams just days before 2026 NFL season
With that being said, let’s take a look at four players who could lead the offensive rookie of the year race early on in the 2026 season .
Carnell Tate, WR, Tennessee Titans
Jun 16, 2026; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans wide receiver Carnell Tate (14) runs with the ball after a made catch during day 1 of mini-camp at Vanderbilt Health Football Center. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Regarded as the most pro-ready receiver in his draft class, the fourth overall pick Carnell Tate kicks off his career as the unquestioned WR1 for his team; it’s now up to the Ohio State product to make th most of his opportunity.
A big season for Tennessee, alongside a growing quarterback like Cam Ward , could put Tate immediately on the radar, as three of the last five seasons a receiver has won the award.
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Las Vegas Raiders
Aug 20, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Fernando Mendoza (15) attempts a pass during the second quarter against the Houston Texans at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Whether or not Fernando Mendoza can find himself in the driver’s seat as Las Vegas’ QB1 by at least the start of October will remain to be seen.
Still, the ORTOTY award has typically favored quarterbacks. If he’s able to somehow make the Raiders a competitive team in his first season without a legitimate WR1, then a conversation will definitely be had about the former Heisman winner.
Jadarian Price, RB, Seattle Seahawks
Aug 15, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Jadarian Price (8) during warmups before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) Given that Zach Charbonnet is recovering from a torn ACL. He may not be ready to go by Week 1 of the regular season, Seattle’s rookie running back Jadarian Price could be in a premier spot to take on a heavy workload early and prove he can be the team’s top back of the future.
Of course, when Charbonnet does return, he’ll likely be involved in the game plan, but if Price can prove to be ready for the NFL at an early stage, why not let the rookie off the leash immediately?
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Arizona Cardinals
Cardinals running back Jeremiyah Love (4) sprints down the field during training camp at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on July 23, 2026. Credit: USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect (Reuters) One of the heavy favorites for offensive rookie of the year, Jeremiah Love is already in red-alert mode to start his career after suffering a high ankle sprain in the first preseason game for Arizona.
Now shut down until the regular season, it is unknown whether or not Love will be able to suit up for Week 1 . If he’s able to recover and have the electric year fans and the front office are hoping for, he’ll continue to remain a favorite throughout the season.
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