College football fans will tell you that one of the best aspects of that level of football is the opportunity to see the stars of the future and watch them develop. And that ability to spot talent early is a crucial element in a successful football betting strategy.
Futures betting is hugely popular with NFL fans, and sportsbooks offer a wide range of options – check out these DraftKings reviews to learn more. Whether you’re betting on the Super Bowl winner or the Rookie of the Year Award, looking ahead is key to futures betting.
So, with around a third of the season played, this is a good time to check in on the 2022 class of rookies to see which players are developing fastest and which show signs of becoming stars in future. Here is our top ten list of this year’s rookie contingent, based on what we’ve seen so far:
Ahmad ‘Sauce’ Gardner – New York Jets
It’s not a surprise to find the Jets represented by more than one rookie, given their strong start to the season, and the 2022 Draft fourth pick is one of their most impressive players. There have already been some special moments for Gardner this season, including his hit on Teddy Bridgewater against the Miami Dolphins. Despite being in his rookie year, his talent for knowing where the ball is going to go is remarkable and he is already one of the top cornerbacks in the league.
Garrett Wilson – New York Jets
The Jets have earned a reputation for strong defense, but their offense has also made some significant contributions, including from wide receiver Garrett Wilson. The 10th overall pick in the draft, Wilson made his debut in the opening game of the season against the Ravens, and in Week 2, he scored two touchdowns, including the crucial score that put the Jets level against the Browns to set up a memorable victory. Wilson already looks like a natural No. 1 wide receiver.
Breece Hall – New York Jets
It looks like the ACL injury he sustained in Week 7 against the Broncos is going to keep Breece Hall out for the rest of the season, which is dreadful luck for him and the Jets. But that doesn’t take away the impression that he has made, and he is set to be one of the best running backs in the NFL. He had already become the main runner on the franchise, and in seven games contributed 463 rushing yards with four touchdowns, and 218 receiving yards with another touchdown.
Chris Olave – New Orleans Saints
A stylish wide receiver, he already looks like one of the best route runners in the league, consistently showing an ability to create separation at all levels of the defense. Although the Saints have been struggling, Olave has been one of the few successes on the roster, contributing 495 yards on 36 receptions and two touchdowns, and his Week 3 performance against Carolina, in which he contributed 147 yards on nine receptions, was particularly eye-catching.
Travon Walker – Jacksonville Jaguars
The No. 1 draft pick, Walker came into the NFL with a weight of expectation on his shoulders but he has been going about his business well, despite the Jaguars’ mixed season thus far. At 6’5”, Walker is a formidable presence at outside linebacker and is already a dominant run defender, while his pass-rushing game is also developing. In fact, he stamped his presence on the league in his first game, registering a sack and an interception against the Washington Commanders.
Devin Lloyd – Jacksonville Jaguars
Another defensive signing for the Jaguars, Devin Lloyd was the 27th overall pick in the draft and although less of a physical presence than Walker, has been immensely effective at inside linebacker. In his first month in the league, he recorded 24 tackles, two interceptions and six passes defended, and was named Defensive Rookie of the Month for September. After seven weeks, he has increased his tackle count to 63, and his range and defensive instincts make him an exciting prospect.
Aidan Hutchinson – Detroit Lions
Detroit’s defense is lacking in talent but Aidan Hutchinson is their one standout performer. A multiple award winner in his college career with Michigan, he was the second overall pick by the Lions in the draft and he has rewarded their faith in him with a series of powerful performances. His physical strength and tenacity have been notable aspects of his game and he has the potential to become a key performer for Detroit over the next few years.
Romeo Doubs – Green Bay Packers
The Packers are having a rough time in 2022, and wide receiver Romeo Doubs has been given a baptism of fire on a struggling team in the post-Davante Adams era. Nevertheless, he has become Aaron Rodgers’ favorite pass option, playing more snaps than any other receiver and registering a team-leading 42 targets. His impressive speed has also been on display and he is not far from becoming a seriously dangerous route runner for Green Bay.