Electric Ja’Marr Chase an early odds makers’ fave for Rookie of the Year
The Cincinnati Bengals were criticized for passing on Penei Sewell to take Ja’Marr Chase fifth overall but he’s showed up big time in the first two games of the season. As a result of that, it’s not a surprise to see the former LSU wideout with the fifth-best odds to win Rookie of the Year with +750, per WynnBET.
Not only that, but Chase has the best odds of any non-quarterback in the rookie class, as he’s trailing Mac Jones (+275), Justin Fields (+500), Trevor Lawrence (+550), and Trey Lance (+600). I know Lance is a first-round pick but he’s barely even played so far so it’s strange to see him continue to be listed this high in Rookie of the Year odds.
Back to Chase though, he’s had seven catches for 155 yards and two touchdowns through two games. He silenced any critics who were coming his way for his preseason performance with his first two outings, that’s for sure.
Ja’Marr Chase leads non-QBs in Rookie of the Year odds.
Chase has seen his odds skyrocket with his stellar performances. He started the year with +1400 odds, jumped to +900 after last week’s dazzling debut, and now sits in fifth place when it comes to Rookie of the Year.
Other non-quarterbacks trailing Chase in the race are Najee Harris, Kyle Pitts, and Zach Wilson, who all have +1000 odds. Wilson, in particular, has plummeted, which isn’t too stunning considering he threw four picks during Sunday’s loss to the Patriots.
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It’ll be tough for Chase to be crowned Offensive Rookie of the Year due to quarterback being a more highly praised position than wide receiver. With none of these quarterbacks looking overly impressive through two weeks, Chase definitely has a shot.