NFL: Best Rookie Performers

As the NFL midway point approaches, a few first-year players are starting to develop into legitimate stars. The race for Rookie of the Year definitely starts now. Today we look at three of the best rookie performers so far.

Kyle Pitts – Atlanta Falcons (Tight End)

Stats: 31 receptions, 471 yards, 1 TD

Drafted: No. 4 overall

One of the best rookie tight ends in a long time, Pitts has already recorded more yards in his first six games than any tight end in NFL history, with 471. He has helped the Falcons to a 3-3 record. His inline usage dropped significantly as the season progressed. The Atlanta coaching staff now view him as more of an X receiver. Pitts last two appearances have seen him deliver back-to-back 100-yard outings.

Mac Jones – New England Patriots (Quarterback)

Stats: 1,779 yards passing, 9 TDs, 6 INTs, 70.4% completion rate

Drafted: No. 15 overall

Mac Jones is playing at the top of his game right now. Some will even say he’s playing like a second-year player too. He’s the perfect fit for New England. He has great potential and sound coaching staff around him.

Jones has shown great resolve to bounce back from his three-interception performances earlier in the season. He bounced back for seven touchdown passes and three interceptions over the next four games. He also achieved his first career 300-yard game in a blowout win over the Jets this past weekend. Mac Jones continues to get better with each passing week.

Ja’Marr Chase – Cincinnati Bengals (Wide Receiver)

Stats: 35 receptions, 754 yards, 6 TDs

Drafted: No. 5 overall

The 21-year-old star leads the league in yards per catch (21.5), has three 100-yard games already. He also has a 200-yard performance and has the most receiving yards through seven career games in NFL history (754). He plays with a high level of intelligence and experience. A supremely gifted player who will keep opposing defenders on their toes every weekend. He’s on pace to shatter the rookie receiving yards record, with 754 yards so far.