Two of the most impactful rookies have been given pretty big awards by Pro Football Focus, and they happen to be college teammates. PFF named Tampa Bay quarterback Jameis Winston as rookie of the year. Winston in his first year in Tamps tied several records — not to mention in December he became the youngest quarterback in history to throw for 3,000 yards in his inaugural season. Here's what PFF had to say about handing Winston its rookie of the year award.
"He accomplished a 4,000-yard season despite a below-average offensive line in pass blocking efficiency. On paper, he has a strong receiving core around him, but Austin Seferian-Jenkins missed over half the season, and Vincent Jackson missed six games. The Buccaneers lacked consistency from their third and fourth wide receiver spots.
Where Winston was most impressive was his big-time throws. He had 39, which tied him for sixth-best alongside Tom Brady. If he can take away some of the negatives, the former FSU standout could be a Pro Bowler by his second season."
PFF also awarded a first runner-up for the rookie of the year award. They decided to give that one to former FSU cornerback Ronald Darby. Darby in his first season with the Buffalo Bills made a splash early — he was named NFL's rookie of the month during October. PFF gave some justification for awarding Darby with first runner-up .
"He allowed a low 54.3 percent catch rate and 11.6 yards per catch, which are both below the league average for cornerbacks." The site said. "His 11.9 tackling efficiency was also good for the top 20 at the position. Teams tried to take advantage of him by targeting him 105 times, which was fifth-most, but they rarely were able to beat him. His 660 yards allowed were the fewest among the 10 most-targeted cornerbacks."
Regardless of where you stand, you've gotta give props to these two former Seminoles for grabbing these awards.
