2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year Race: Jeanty Leads, Ward Close Behind
As the NFL offseason rolls through May, the race for the 2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year (OROY) is already heating up. A handful of standout rookies are beginning to separate themselves as early favorites, and the competition promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.
Ashton Jeanty Sets the Pace
Leading the OROY race is Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty. The explosive runner has emerged as the favorite, with current odds listed at +230—giving him an implied 30.3% chance of taking home the award. Jeanty’s success is no surprise; he enters the league as the Raiders’ primary back, and his dominant college career has positioned him for a heavy workload right out of the gate.
Many analysts agree that Jeanty’s mix of opportunity and talent makes him the one to watch heading into training camp.
Cam Ward in Striking Distance
Not far behind is Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Ward carries odds around +330, making him a close second in the OROY rankings. As the Titans’ starting quarterback, Ward will have every opportunity to prove himself on the field and lead his team—an advantage that could weigh heavily in his favor come award season.
Ward is expected to be one of the most visible and impactful rookies in the league.
Other Contenders to Watch
While Jeanty and Ward headline the early conversation, the race is far from a two-man show. Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Travis Hunter and Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton are both considered strong candidates for the award as well.
Hunter, a dynamic two-way player in college, brings elite athleticism and playmaking ability to Jacksonville’s offense. Hampton, meanwhile, is expected to play a key role in the Chargers’ backfield and has earned high praise from many analysts.
A Deep and Competitive Field
With talented rookies across multiple skill positions, the 2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year race is shaping up to be tightly contested. While Jeanty may hold the early edge, quarterbacks like Ward and versatile threats like Hunter could easily surge as the season unfolds.
As minicamps and preseason action draw near, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see which of these promising newcomers will take control of the spotlight—and ultimately, the trophy.
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