Ultimate Rookie Report Week 19
It's the end of the season as we know it, and I feel fine
On first down, with the Saints up 41-17 and a minute 17 left in the game, Dennis Allen called the play any coach would in this situation: victory formation. The team did not abide. In the huddle, Jameis Winston decided to hand the ball to Jamaal Williams to get him his first touchdown of the season. On one hand, the team LOVES Jamaal Williams and wanted him to be successful. On the other, they ignored the wishes of their coach and completely infuriated everyone related to the Atlanta Falcons, especially head coach Arthur Smith. This is one of the most noble and yet funniest things that could happen at the end of the season.
Let’s be honest with ourselves. You probably didn’t play fantasy this week. These guys played the best for the final week of their rookie seasons.
Embed from Getty Images5. Aidan O’Connell (17.86)
Against a solid Denver Broncos defense, Aidan O’Connell completed 20 of 31 passes for 244 yards and two touchdowns. I am genuinely intrigued how the rookie quarterback rankings shake out. I can’t give a spoiler because I haven’t actually looked at it yet. Aidan O’Connell did a great (pretty good) job relieving Jimmy Garroppolo.
Embed from Getty Images4. Jake Browning (18.04)
I have no idea who actually played defense for the Browns this week, but Jake Browning ended his season 18/24 for 156 yards and three touchdowns (with an interception). The Bengals unfortunately did not make the playoffs, but Jake Browning deserves an overpriced contract for a QB needy team next season.
Embed from Getty Images3. CJ Stroud (20.56)
In a pressure packed, must win situation, CJ Stroud beat Gardner Minshew to take the Houston Texans to the playoffs. Stroud managed to go 20/26, passing for 264 yards and two touchdowns. When I first started to write this blurb, I was gushing about how much I love Stroud, but I’ll save that for next week. Congratulations, Houston. You picked a good one and will dominate a mediocre division for the next decade.
2. Tyjae Spears (21.6)
Even though Tennessee showcased Derrick Henry for his probable final game for the team, Tyjae Spears shined on limited touches. He may have only had three carries and three receptions for a total of 66 yards, but he also had two touchdowns. The torch feels like it has officially been passed for the next season.
Embed from Getty Images1. Bijan Robinson (26.1)
The top 10 pick had 11 carries in the final game of the season. Eleven. Carries. On the plus side, Bijan managed seven receptions off of 8 targets for 103 yards and a touchdown. Arthur Smith is supposed to be an offensive minded head coach and managed to ruin three different top offensive talents (Kyle Pitts, Drake London, and now Bijan) in his three years in Atlanta. Hopefully whoever Arthur Blank hires can figure out how to use these guys, especially Bijan. Consider all of these guys buy low candidates in redrafts next year, or trade targets in the offseason.
Another NFL regular season is officially in the books, folks. Thanks for following along and I hope you enjoyed it. Next week, we’ll look at our rookies of the year at each position! There will be an awards ceremony in my living room for all who are interested in attending.
Love,
@MeLlamoMoron
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