Saquon Barkley’s Dominant 2024-25 Season
Philadelphia’s Saquon Barkley had a record-breaking 2024-25 NFL season that solidified his status as one of the league’s premier offensive players. He rushed for an astonishing 2,005 yards, which included 14 games where he hit the 100-yard rushing mark, both during the regular season and the postseason. His relentless drive and exceptional skills earned him the coveted NFL Offensive Player of the Year (OPOY) award. The accolades didn’t stop there; Barkley’s historic efforts were recognized with a lucrative two-year, $41.2 million extension, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history. These feats have understandably made him the early favorite at +650 to win OPOY again in the 2025-26 season, according to DraftKings Sportsbook as of March 6.
Jahmyr Gibbs: The Lions’ Rising Star
Second on the list at +950 is Detroit’s Jahmyr Gibbs. Gibbs had a breakout season, scoring 16 touchdowns, the best in the NFL, and rushing for 1,412 yards, which placed him fifth in the league. His dual-threat capabilities as both a runner and a receiver make him a versatile weapon for the Lions’ offense. Gibbs’ performance last year not only contributed significantly to his team’s success but also positioned him as a strong contender for OPOY in the upcoming season. His dynamic playstyle and consistent production have caught the attention of both fans and analysts, making him a favorite to watch.
Ja’Marr Chase: A Consistent Standout
At +1000, Cincinnati’s Ja’Marr Chase rounds out the top three. Despite the Bengals’ failure to make the postseason, Chase’s individual performance was nothing short of phenomenal. He led the NFL with 127 receptions, 1,708 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns. These impressive stats earned him a place as a finalist for the OPOY award, alongside Barkley. Chase’s ability to stretch the field and consistently make big plays has made him a key figure in the Bengals’ offense. His four Pro Bowl selections and Rookie of the Year title in 2021 further underscore his talent and potential to repeat his 2024-25 success.
Emerging Talent on the Board
Further down the odds board, several young and emerging players are vying for attention. Puka Nacua of the Rams and Bijan Robinson of the Falcons are both listed at +1600. Nacua showed flashes of brilliance with his speed and agility, while Robinson impressed with his power and vision. Both players have the potential to break through in the 2025-26 season, especially if their teams provide the support and opportunities they need. Justin Jefferson of the Vikings, at +2000, continues to be a reliable threat as one of the league’s top receivers. CeeDee Lamb of the Cowboys and Nico Collins of the Texans, also at +2000, add to the list of skilled receivers who could make a strong case for OPOY. Their consistency and ability to produce in high-pressure situations make them formidable contenders.
Veteran Presence and Consistency
While the young guns are making waves, veterans like Christian McCaffrey of the 49ers, at +2200, and Tyreek Hill of the Dolphins, at +3000, bring a wealth of experience to the race. McCaffrey, known for his versatility and durability, had another solid season, contributing significantly both as a runner and a receiver. Hill, with his lightning-fast speed and elusiveness, remains one of the most exciting players to watch. His ability to create mismatches and make incredible catches continues to make him a focal point of the Dolphins’ offense. These players have proven their mettle over the years and could surprise with another stellar season.
Lamar Jackson: The Dual-Threat Dynamo
At +4000, Lamar Jackson of the Ravens is another notable name on the board. Despite a 27-25 playoff defeat to the Bills, Jackson’s 2024-25 season was nothing short of spectacular. He tied for fourth in the NFL with 41 touchdowns and ranked sixth with 4,172 passing yards. Jackson’s dual-threat ability, combining his rushing and passing skills, made him a finalist for both OPOY and MVP. His dynamic playstyle and leadership on the field have earned him a place among the top quarterbacks in the league. If the Ravens can build a stronger supporting cast around him, Jackson could very well find himself in the running for OPOY again.
Staying Informed and Following Your Favorites
For fans eager to stay updated on the latest news and developments in the NFL, creating or logging into a FOX Sports account is a great way to follow your favorite leagues, teams, and players. By doing so, you can receive personalized newsletters and real-time updates about games, news, and more. Whether you’re a passionate supporter of the Eagles, Lions, Bengals, or any other team, staying connected ensures you never miss a moment of the action. With the 2025-26 season on the horizon, the competition for OPOY is heating up, and it promises to be an exciting year for NFL fans.
