NFL Rookie Stock Watch Week 18: C.J. Stroud Is the Future In Houston
With one week to go, who reaches the playoffs and who goes home could squarely be on a few rookies.
This is certainly true for C.J. Stroud, who has led the Houston Texans to a 9–7 record. For Houston, a win next week over the Indianapolis Colts would earn one of the more unlikely playoff berths in recent memory, with the possibility of an AFC South title if the Jacksonville Jaguars lose to the Tennessee Titans as well.
Regardless, Stroud looks like a star for the Texans, who have been searching for stability since last making the playoffs in 2020.
What other rookies performed this past week? Let’s examine.
Nacua has been the NFL’s biggest surprise this season. A fifth-round pick expected to compete for the Rams’ roster, the former BYU star has 101 catches for 1,445 yards, helping Los Angeles reach the playoffs. Along with Cooper Kupp, the Rams have one of the NFL’s best tandems on the perimeter.
Bijan Robinson, RB, Atlanta Falcons
Last week: Rising
Robinson has been dynamic when given the chance. On Sunday against the Bears, the Texas product carried 15 times for 75 yards, including a long of 21. Robinson has rushed for 948 yards this season, giving him a chance to crack 1,000 in a Week 18 game against the New Orleans Saints.
De’Von Achane, RB, Miami Dolphins
Last week: Not rated
Achane is one of the most prolific backs in the NFL. Despite being injured and playing only in 10 games, he’s rushed for 744 yards and seven touchdowns on 8.0 yards per carry. If Miami sees opponents doubling receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle in the playoffs, Achane could carry the offense.
Sam LaPorta, TE, Detroit Lions
Last week: Not rated
Historically speaking, tight ends typically don’t have great stats as rookies. LaPorta has completely bypassed that standard barrier. The Lions have a great receiver in Amon-Ra St. Brown, but have an excellent second option in LaPorta, who has 81 catches for 860 yards and nine touchdowns. Without him, Detroit would be a good team, but not nearly as dangerous with him in the postseason.
Zay Flowers, WR, Baltimore Ravens
Last week: Not rated
After being relatively quiet for the majority of December, Flowers has exploded over the past two games with 12 catches for 178 yards and two touchdowns. Baltimore has clinched the AFC’s top seed and Flowers could rest in Week 18, but it’s been a tremendous initial campaign.
Rashee Rice, WR, Kansas City Chiefs
Last week: Holding steady
Rice has been a revelation for the Chiefs, who have been awful at wide receiver this season. The second-round pick from SMU ranks second among first-year wideouts with 938 yards and seven touchdowns. Against the Bengals on Sunday, Rice had a career-best 127 yards to help Kansas City clinch the AFC West.
