NFL midseason awards: Tom Brady takes hardware
By Staff
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Amari Cooper
The Oakland Raiders might make the playoffs for the first time since 2002, and they have the duo of Derek Carr and Amari Cooper to thank for that. Cooper has been tremendous since being the fourth-overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, showcasing an elite blend of size, skill and speed. Cooper has already caught 38 passes for 565 yards and three touchdowns, continually torching cornerbacks.
Coming out of college, Cooper was thought to be the best receiver in a very strong class for the position. Some said Kevin White would be that man, although White has been out for the season with shin problems. Others believed that DeVante Parker would be the top dog, but Parker has caught just four passes for 49 yards. Cooper has easily been the best of the class, proving general manager Reggie McKenzie correct.
If Oakland can keep Carr and Cooper healthy and together going into the future, it finally has a legitimate offensive combination for the first time in well over a decade. The Raiders are going to put pressure on other teams in the AFC playoff race, something that seems almost unbelievable after so many years of being dormant. Look for Cooper to only improve with each coming game.
Next: NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year