Ad Disclosure
Former Georgia RB Nick Chubb a finalist for NFL Rookie of the Year Award
Published:
As Nick Chubb ran over and through SEC defenses during the last four years at Georgia, it seemed like he’d have a solid shot at a successful NFL career.
The success has come perhaps a little sooner than expected.
The NFL announced Thursday that Chubb is one of five finalist for the 2018 Pepsi Rookie of the Year Award following his standout season with the up-and-coming Cleveland Browns. He joined quarterback teammate Baker Mayfield, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, Denver Broncos running back Phillip Lindsay and Indianapolis Colts linebacker Darius Leonard in contention for the award.
The NFL has announced the five candidates for the 2018 Pepsi Rookie of the Year:
Baker Mayfield
Saquon Barkley
Nick Chubb
Darius Leonard
Phillip Lindsay— 247Sports (@247Sports) January 3, 2019
After being selected by Cleveland early in the second round of last year’s draft, Chubb found himself buried behind Carlos Hyde and Duke Johnson on the team’s depth chart. But after Chubb turned three carries into 105 yards and two scores against the Oakland Raiders in late September, the Browns traded Hyde and made the former Bulldog their starting running back.
He repaid the franchise’s faith by totaling 996 yards and eight touchdowns on 192 carries, a rate of 5.2 yards per rush. Chubb also caught 20 passes for 149 yards and a pair of scores.
Barkley and Mayfield are the presumed frontrunners given their production and popularity for two rebuilding clubs, but Chubb is worthy of the recognition after starting his career with a huge year.
Fans can cast their vote here.
Marcus covers SEC football for Saturday Down South.
