With the 2018 NFL season coming to a close, there has been plenty of speculation regarding this year's award races. It appears New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley and Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield are the two leading candidates for Rookie of the Year.
Barkley has been far and away the heavy favorite to take home ROY honors. According to BetOnline.ag, Mayfield has also managed to get in the running:
Saquon Barkley -400
Baker Mayfield +250
The names mentioned should come as no surprise. After all, they were the top 2 overall picks in the 2018 NFL Draft. The fact that they are leading the race for ROY is a testament to how well the Browns and Giants selected this year.
Barkley has perhaps already solidified his bid to win the award with a spectacular 2018 campaign. The Giants caught some flak for selecting a running back at two overall. However, he has quickly proven to be everything New York wanted and more. Not only has he been the best rookie in the league, but he has also already established himself as one of the most elite players at his position. It is safe to say he will maintain his status as the team's workhorse for years to come.
Meanwhile, Mayfield has managed to make quite an impact as well this season. Despite the late start to the year and substantial changes to the coaching staff, the Browns are still in position to potentially make the playoffs. Although their chances at making the postseason are highly unlikely, there is no question that things have started to turn around in Cleveland. Their resurgence can be attributed to the stability Mayfield brings under center.
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