Week 7 is officially in the books, and this year’s crop of NFL rookies is reaching the halfway point of their first season. After seven games, trends are beginning to emerge, both good and bad.
Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers continued the trend of being one of the best quarterbacks in the history of the game. Even in the absence of several wide receivers, including Davante Adams, Rodgers turned in a performance few quarterbacks have ever matched, including matching a career-high with 6 total touchdowns — one coming on the ground.
In New Orleans, the Saints continued the trend of winning despite the absence of Drew Brees. Teddy Bridgewater continued the Saints winning ways, pushing the team to a five-game win streak and to one of the top teams in the NFC.
Week 7 was also a week of bucking some trends in a positive manner. In Minnesota, it looked as if Kirk Cousins underwhelming play was becoming a lengthy trend. So much so he had begun to take (at least perceived) criticism from star wide receiver Stefon Diggs. After two weeks of over 300 yards and 4 touchdowns, those rumors have quieted down.
On the flip side, it was also a week of downward trends continuing. Week 7 was not kind in this regard for the city of Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Chargers continued finding new and exciting ways to lose football games. The Los Angeles Rams continued getting next to nothing from their “star” running back Todd Gurley.
Trends were also a theme this week for this year’s crop of NFL rookies. It’s only the end of Week 7, but we’re beginning to see some rookies separate themselves from the pack with their play. You’ll see some familiar names in the “Stock Up” portion of this column.
Similarly, some NFL rookies are repeatedly trending in the wrong direction. Who made the cut? Let’s find out!