Welcome to the rookie report series. This will be a recurring series that highlights fantasy relevant rookies, how they performed in the prior weeks, and what that means for the future—all done with fun categories! Let’s dive in!
Rookie of the Week:
Ken Walker, RB, Seahawks
Field Gulls
There were a number of players this week considered for this award, however, I decided to show Walker some love as he had to miss the beginning of the season with an injury and has now pounced on the starting RB opportunity that has presented itself after the Rashaad Penny injury. Walker looked great on Sunday en route to 110 total yards and a touchdown. He was phenomenal running the ball as the Cardinals did not have an answer to his 4.6 yards per carry and his consistent shedding of tacklers. He had a number of explosive plays for big gains. Walker is showing why he was so highly regarded coming out of Michigan State and has a chance to be a real difference maker for Seattle rest of season.
Other Impressive Rookies:
Breece Hall, RB, Jets
Another week, another great Breece Hall performance. What is left to be said about Breece that has not already been mentioned in previous weeks? Hall was fantastic once again totaling 116 rushing yards and a touchdown while averaging 5.6 yards per carry. Hall has been fantastic for the Jets this year and is already becoming a fantasy football star.
Bailey Zappe, QB, Patriots
Bailey Zappe was excellent in his second career start for the Patriots. Zappe completed 24 of 34 passes for 309 yards and 2 touchdowns in Week 6. He led the Patriots in their dismantling of the Cleveland Browns to ensure his second career win in as many starts. He was putting the ball in the proper spots and was very efficient with his throws. Zappe looked really good and composed in the pocket and was able to move the offense down the field while getting everyone involved. He completed passes to 7 different receivers this week.
Tyquan Thornton, WR, Patriots
Tyquan Thornton broke onto the scene in Week 6 after missing several weeks with an injury and was heavily involved in the Patriots offense, totaling 53 yards and 2 touchdowns. He was utilized as a receiver but was also given opportunity in the run game where he was able to use his 4.28 speed to his advantage. I believe we are going to see him more involved in the offense going forward.
Disappointing Rookie of the Week:
Romeo Doubs, WR, Packers
It feels harsh to pick on Romeo Doubs when the entire Packers roster was disappointing in Week 6. Nonetheless, Doubs only finished with 21 yards in a game where the Packers trailed for a majority of the game and Aaron Rodgers threw the ball 41 times. Doubs continues to struggle to be a consistent option for Aaron Rodgers despite the consistent opportunities that he has received.
Honorable Mentions: Garrett Wilson, WR, Jets, George Pickens, WR, Steelers
Keep An Eye On This Rookie:
Wan’Dale Robinson, WR, Giants
Wan’Dale Robinson was finally healthy and active for the first time since Week 1 and he looked good. Despite playing just 15 total snaps in the game, he finished with 3 receptions for 37 yards and a touchdown on 4 targets. What really popped was his yards per catch average of 12.33 and his yards per target of 9.25. This bodes well for Robinson to continue to find success as the season moves on as he looks to grow his chemistry downfield with Daniel Jones.
Keep An Eye On This Potential Sleeper:
Greg Dulcich, TE, Broncos
Greg Dulcich is finally healthy and could definitely be a viable TE option if his first NFL game is any indication. Dulcich finished with 44 yards and a touchdown in his first game, while the presumed starter this offseason, Albert O, was a healthy scratch. While Dulcich was held catchless in quarters two through four, it was nice to see him involved in the offense early.
Big Play of The Week:
Alec Pierce Game Winning Touchdown vs Jaguars
The Colts were already in field goal range with less than a minute remaining in the game where a field goal would win it. Instead of settling, Matt Ryan took a third down deep shot, giving his impressive rookie wide out a chance in a 1-on-1 situation. Pierce delivered, winning the 1-on-1, scoring the game winning TD.
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By: Gianluca Martini
For a second straight season, I am betting against Mahomes.