We’re back with another edition of our rookies of the week series! This week was not short of high-flying rookie performances on either side of the ball, as rookies are settling into their prominent roles across the league a few weeks into the season. There are several new players being honored this week. Let’s check them out!
Offensive Rookie of the Week: Chris Olave, WR, New Orleans Saints
Chris Olave is HIM! pic.twitter.com/teb2P4Qiyj
— PFF NO Saints (@PFF_Saints) September 25, 2022
In a disappointing 22-14 loss to the Carolina Panthers, Chris Olave was a major bright spot for the Saints. After trading up to select him 11th overall in the 2022 NFL Draft, the Saints were hopeful Olave could have a rapid impact. He did exactly that on Sunday, recording nine receptions for 147 yards. Olave was open all day, exhibiting dangerous speed and route-running ability, as well as an impressive catch radius. Olave is emerging as a top two receiver on the Saints’ offense alongside veteran Michael Thomas.
Runners-Up:
Dameon Pierce, RB, Houston Texans
After a promising Week 2 performance, Pierce truly broke out in Week 3 to the tune of 20 carries for 80 yards, a touchdown, and 21 yards on two catches.
Romeo Doubs, WR, Green Bay Packers
One of our favorites in the scouting process, Doubs took a huge step towards earning Aaron Rodgers’ complete trust by catching all eight of his targets for 73 yards and a touchdown in a close win.
Defensive Rookie of the Week: Jalen Pitre, S Houston Texans
Hasn’t been talked about nearly as much as fellow rookie Dameon Pierce but #WeAreTexans safety Jalen Pitre is going to be a Pro Bowler, maybe as soon as this year. Texans know they got something special in the second-rounder.pic.twitter.com/mPCZr9dEt6
— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) September 26, 2022
Pitre may have put up the best single-game performance by a defensive rookie so far this season, despite the loss. Pitre was all over the field and put his playmaking ability on display as he recorded two passes defended and two interceptions in the passing game. Pitre showed that he could impact all facets of the game as he also recorded 1 sack and 8 tackles. Pitre is living up to his early second-round draft selection.
Runners-Up:
Devin Lloyd, LB Jacksonville Jaguars
Lloyd led the Jaguars’ defense in a surprisingly dominant performance against the high-powered Chargers’ offense while racking up 7 tackles, 3 passes defended, and 1 interception.
Kyle Hamilton, S Baltimore Ravens
Hamilton had the best game of his rookie season so far allowing only 1 reception for 10 yards while also forcing the game-winning fumble against the Patriots.
