Chargers Star Derwin James Jr. Highlights Ladd McConkey in Offensive Rookie of the Year Race: ‘A True Professional’

The NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year race is heating up as the regular season enters its final stretch, and Los Angeles Chargers’ safety Derwin James Jr. has added a new name to the conversation. While quarterbacks Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders and Bo Nix of the Denver Broncos are widely seen as the frontrunners, James has voiced his support for an underdog: Chargers rookie receiver Ladd McConkey.

During a recent appearance on FanDuel TV’s “Up & Adams” show with Kay Adams, James confidently declared McConkey as his pick for the coveted award. “We’ve got Ladd McConkey. That’s the Rookie of the Year. Ladd McConkey is at the top,” James said, highlighting the young receiver’s remarkable contributions to the Chargers’ offense this season.

McConkey’s Impressive Impact

Ladd McConkey has quickly established himself as a standout player in the Chargers’ offense under offensive coordinator Greg Roman. Leading the team with 58 receptions for 815 receiving yards, McConkey has become a reliable target for quarterback Justin Herbert. His exceptional performance on the field has turned heads across the league, earning him recognition as one of the top rookies.

When asked why McConkey has adapted so well to the professional level, James didn’t hold back his praise. “Ladd is a true professional,” he said. “Every day, he comes to work prepared and focused. He takes care of his priorities off the field, and I feel like he wants to be great every single day. He gives everything to the team. I love Ladd a lot.”

McConkey’s stats place him among the best rookies this season. He ranks second among rookies in receiving yards, trailing only Brock Bowers of the Las Vegas Raiders. Bowers, a tight end, leads all rookies with 884 receiving yards on 84 receptions from 113 targets. However, with a few games left in the season, McConkey has the potential to close the gap and even surpass Bowers.

The Quarterback Battle

Despite McConkey’s impressive season, the race for Offensive Rookie of the Year is expected to remain focused on the standout rookie quarterbacks. Bo Nix and Jayden Daniels have both been instrumental in leading their respective teams to playoff contention.

Nix leads all NFL rookies with 2,842 passing yards, alongside 17 touchdowns and eight interceptions. Daniels follows closely with 2,819 passing yards, 15 touchdowns, and just six interceptions. Both players have also demonstrated versatility, with Daniels adding 590 rushing yards and six touchdowns, while Nix has contributed 304 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

A Dark Horse in the Race

While Nix and Daniels dominate the spotlight, McConkey’s emergence as a consistent playmaker for the Chargers cannot be ignored. His ability to excel in a high-pressure environment, coupled with his work ethic and professionalism, has made him an integral part of the team’s success.

James also took the opportunity to praise other standout players on the Chargers’ roster, including quarterback Justin Herbert, rookie right tackle Joe Alt, and left tackle Rashawn Slater, emphasizing the team’s depth of talent.

The Final Stretch

With a few games remaining in the season, the race for Offensive Rookie of the Year is far from over. Whether McConkey can overcome the statistical dominance of Nix and Daniels remains to be seen. However, his performance has undoubtedly cemented his status as one of the league’s brightest young talents.

As Derwin James Jr. aptly put it, Ladd McConkey is not just a promising rookie but a consummate professional, poised to make a lasting impact on the Chargers and the NFL. Whether or not he takes home the award, McConkey’s future in the league looks exceptionally bright.