This is almost a “what running back gets the most touchdowns” award. Chubb is a top 5 back, and this Browns offense should be one of the top units in the league. The offensive line is great, the offense will put up points, and Chubb is the best player on that offense.
AFC OPOY: Devon Achane
We saw how the Dolphins wanted to run their offense season 1, and they only leaned in to that more with their offseason moves. Achane is only getting better, and is one of the best big play threats in the league from the running back position. If the Dolphins are going to go as far as they hope, Achane will be the reason why.
AFC DPOY: Deforest Buckner
The only AFC defender with inside stuff. We saw how valuable this ability is last season with Aaron Donald, Cam Heyward, and others. The Colts invested in improving their secondary, which will give Buckner more time to get home in the pass game as well.
NFC OPOY: DK Metcalf
Metcalf led the league in touchdown receptions last year, while missing some games. The Seahawks will likely have a new quarterback throwing Metcalf the ball, and DK’s deep threat ability with his speed and size is a young QB’s best friend. There are other threats in this Seahawks offense, but DK is the main piece for one of the top units in the league.
NFC DPOY: Aaron Donald
Donald was a monster all of last year. Probably still the top defender in the league despite his age. He is a monster in the run game and pass game. The key piece to the Super Bowl winning defense. If someone other than Donald wins this award I would be surprised.
AFC OROY: Riley Leonard
Leonard will be the focal point of the Patriots offense, with an improved group of weapons around him. This is an efficient, low turnover offense, which madden tends to reward in award voting. Caleb Williams is another potential candidate, but reigning MVP Dalvin Cook will likely be the focal point of that offense.
AFC DROY: JT Tuimoloau
JT is the second highest rated edge defender rookie in the AFC, and should be a solid player against the run and pass. The Titans offense should put this defense in some favorable situations, giving JT a chance to add to his stats.
NFC OROY: Marvin Harrison Jr.
The only other potential option here is Braelon Allen, but I’m not sure he will get enough of the workload to win the award. Harrison is the most talented rookie, and is going to a team that was in the NFC Championship last season. The offense is loaded with talent, and as long as the line holds up, should be one of the top point scorers in the league. p
