Thursday 8 December 2016 10:24, UK
It has been a phenomenal season for the Dallas Cowboys, who sit atop the NFC at 11-1 with play-off qualification already confirmed.
The rookie combination of quarterback Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott have impressed all year, so much so that Elliott is a favourite for regular season MVP.
While the league may be focused on the feats of the Cowboys, there have been a number of rookies outside of Dallas who would be worthy of the title 'Rookie of the Year'.
After a tricky start, where club and player couldn't agree on the specifics of a bonus payment, Bosa finally made it on to the field in week five, and has been a revelation ever since.
The first non-quarterback selected in this year's draft, Bosa has shown himself as an elite pass rusher already, drawing comparisons with Super Bowl MVP Von Miller. He has 24 tackles and 5.5 sacks in eight games, and should be a shoe-in for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Despite being the sixth receiver picked, Thomas has excelled in New Orleans, leading all rookies in receptions, yards and touchdowns. He is a physical receiver and has also drawn comparisons to veteran Steve Smith. As the year progresses, it is clear to see the second-round pick growing in confidence.
If Thomas is to reach his projections for the season - over 1,100 yards and ten scores - he would be in good company. The only other first year player to do that is Odell Beckham Jr.
Behind a poor offensive line, the fifth-round rookie has been a bright spot in a dark and dismal season for the Chicago Bears. Since winning the starting job in week four, Howard has five 100+ yard rushing games and as many touchdowns.
It is likely the Bears will reset the machine next year, but they should look to build their immediate future around the young running back who has proved he can grind out yards as well as ripping off long runs.
The Washington Redskins have brought Cravens through, increasing his time on the field as he learns his craft in the NFL. The second round pick has been a playmaker for the play-off contenders, with an interception against the Giants and a sack on Andy Dalton to force a fourth down.
There is talk of Cravens also playing safety, demonstrating the versatility he could bring to a Washington defence in need of young leaders. He suffered a concussion in week five against the Cleveland Browns but if Cravens can stay healthy, he can be a difference maker for years to come.
After a slow start, Spence is becoming the dynamic pass-rusher that he showed at Ohio State. His improvement, which won him Rookie of the Month for November, has helped transform the Buccaneers into a play-off calibre team.
Spence was the unsung hero against Seattle, where six tackles and 1.5 sacks was integral to keep Russell Wilson locked down and leading Tampa Bay to a 14-5 win. If the Bucs do make the post-season - they currently occupy a Wild Card spot - Spence will have been as important as Jameis Winston or Mike Evans.
Notable mentions: Jalen Ramsey (Jaguars), Hunter Henry (Chargers), Tyreek Hill (Chiefs), Rob Kelley (Redskins)
