2011 NFL Predictions: 3 Contenders for Offensive Rookie of the Year Award

Every NFL team hopes the rookies they draft can step right in and make an impact from day one, but very few players can complete such a seamless transition. The ones who can become contenders for the Rookie of the Year Award. Here are three contenders for the offensive version of that award in 2011.

Cam Newton—Carolina Panthers

The Panthers drafted Newton with the first-overall pick in the draft, effectively ending the Jimmy Clausen era before it ever truly began. Newton was named the starting quarterback following the team's final preseason game and should start all 16 games, health willing.

He has a solid trio of running backs to support him in DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart and Mike Goodson and two good tight ends in Greg Olsen and Jeremy Shockey. Both of those components are key for a young quarterback.

While Steve Smith isn't the explosive, game-breaking No. 1 receiver he used to be, he's still a solid option in the passing game. The true key to success for Newton will be finding another receiver that emerges from the crowd to become a legitimate second option.

Julio Jones—Atlanta Falcons

Jones was so important to the Falcons offense that the team traded away a boatload of draft picks to acquire him on draft day. Atlanta targeted him early and often in the preseason to get him acclimated with the NFL game.

He has several things working to his advantage. Matt Ryan is among the upper echelon of quarterbacks in the league, so unlike Cincinnati Bengals rookie A.J. Green, Jones will be assured of consistent targets.

Also, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez will take the focus off Jones, especially in the red zone. Harry Douglas is a nice deep threat out of the slot and should open up some working space for Jones as well. Playing in a high-powered offense will definitely help his cause.

Lance Kendricks—St. Louis Rams

The sleeper selection, Kendricks has been impressive for the young Rams offense in the preseason and should continue to start while Michael Hoomanawanui continues to struggle with a nagging calf injury. By the time he finally heals, Kendricks should have the starting job locked up.

St. Louis should be throwing the ball a lot under the watchful eye of Josh McDaniels, who turned Kyle Orton isn't a fantasy-relevant quarterback. That bodes well for Kendricks, as Sam Bradford is still young and will utilize the dump off option quite a bit.

The Rams have a bunch of options at wide receiver, but that could mean a lot of change over at the position from week-to-week. If Kendricks can use his playing time to his advantage and build up a good rapport with Bradford, he'll be a surprise contender for the award at season's end.