2019 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year sleepers
D.K. Metcalf, WR, Seattle Seahawks
After an incredible showing at the 2019 NFL Scouting Combine, most people expected D.K. Metcalf to go in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, even the top-15 or top-10. The physical specimen fell to the end of the second round where the Seahawks traded up to snag the former Ole Miss receiver.
Although some questioned his route running and technique, likely leading to his draft fall, Metcalf has impressed thus far with Seattle. Already listed as a starting receiver across from Tyler Lockett, Metcalf should see the field early and often as a rookie.
Metcalf certainly has the physical potential to be an elite receiver in the NFL. If he can prove himself as a developed route runner with sound hands to go along with his crazy athleticism, D.K. Metcalf could thrive in 2019 and be a serious threat to win NFL offensive rookie of the year.
Tony Pollard, RB, Dallas Cowboys
With each day that Ezekiel Elliott continues his holdout, the more and more likely it is that Tony Pollard begins the season as the number one running back for the Dallas Cowboys. Dallas did sign veteran Alfred Morris and also drafted Mike Weber in the seventh round, but Pollard is the most versatile and explosive back in the stable.
A return specialist playing alongside Darrell Henderson at Memphis, Pollard is looking to develop as a true running back in the NFL. But his explosiveness and versatility make him a polarizing option for an offense that is still looking for playmakers.
The Cowboys feel that Pollard has Alvin Kamara-like potential, and many (including owner Jerry Jones) believe that he is more than capable of filling in for Zeke should he hold out into the regular season. Jones had this to say about Pollard, per David Helman of DallasCowboys.com:
"“I certainly thought he had a good account of himself. He looks confident out there, we know he’s inordinately understanding of what he does and can do. We’ve seen him do it, we know he’s capable of, if he really needs to, carrying the whole load.”"
This statement surely has a lot to do with trying to woo Elliott back to the team by saying the ‘Boys would be just fine without him, but I doubt he would say something like that if there wasn’t a degree of truth to it. Dallas likes Pollard, started him in the first preseason game, and believe that he could really develop into an elite running back in the NFL.