2015 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year: Top Ten Candidates

9. T.J. Yeldon, RB, Jacksonville Jaguars

Jun 16, 2015; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars running back T.J. Yeldon (24) runs during minicamp at the Florida Blue Health and Wellness Practice Fields. Mandatory Credit: Phil Sears-USA TODAY Sports

There were two obvious names to lead the running back position in this draft class. We will get to them later, but both players went in the first round. The third running back was a much bigger question mark entering the draft. Taken third at the position early in the second round (36th overall) by the Jacksonville Jaguars was T.J. Yeldon.

Yeldon is a very balanced and patient runner whose skills should translate to the NFL game naturally. While his raw speed and athleticism do not jump off of the page, Yeldon has an impressive wide-ranging array of skills.

He is quick at the point of attack, changes directions easily and has more power than it seems from simply looking at him. Yeldon’s field vision and awareness is also a huge plus for him as a running back, and that is something that usually separates the good backs from the average ones in the NFL.

Yeldon should get an opportunity to shine with the Jaguars. With few other interesting options, he is expected to be their number one back. Yeldon is talented player who should see a huge share of opportunity. There is definitely some rookie of the year potential in that.

The biggest question surrounding Yeldon is probably the players surrounding him. If Blake Bortles continues to struggle, causing the entire Jaguars’ offense to sputter, Yeldon is unlikely to be a legitimate rookie of the year candidate. However, if Bortles starts to reach his upside this season, Yeldon will have an opportunity to make some noise.

Next: Number Eight