There were some more deserving players on the list for this week. The group listed below here is highlighted by a quarterback who had a special performance. A few of the other players remain the same as they continue their stellar starts. There are also a few new players this week. Let’s take a look at the 10 best rookies in the Week 5 NFL Rookie Rankings.
10. Kadarius Toney, WR, New York Giants
Finally, Kadarius Toney was on the field and proved his ability. He had six catches for 78 receiving yards. Toney helped the Giants get their first win of the season. He should keep the same role if not be even more integrated. Toney provides versatility and can be very dynamic with the football after the catch. This should be just the start for Toney in his rookie year.
9. Mac Jones, QB, New England Patriots
In a big game against former Patriots quarterback, Tom Brady, Mac Jones had a great performance. He was extremely accurate with his passes and took good care of the football considering it was in his hands most of the game. For Jones, he continues his very impressive rookie season early on. This game was probably his best yet. Jones should keep on improving.
8. Kenneth Gainwell, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
Kenneth Gainwell had a very nice breakout game for the Eagles in a tough home loss. He recorded 89 total yards on nine touches and had a touchdown. Gainwell had a big performance in the passing game as he had six catches. Gainwell is a dynamic, dual-threat player with speed. This last week, he showed how big of a contributor he can be. Expect even more from Gainwell moving forward.
7. Micah Parsons, LB, Dallas Cowboys
Micah Parsons had yet another big game for the Cowboys’ defense. He has been a big reason why their defense is much improved. In Week 4, Parsons had four total tackles and one sack. He continues to show his unique playmaking ability all over the field. He uses his size and speed to his advantage. For the Cowboys’ defense to continue at their current level, Parsons will need to keep his great play up.
6. DeVonta Smith, WR, Philadelphia Eagles
The second Eagles skill position player to make the list for this week, DeVonta Smith had another great outing. He had seven catches for 122 receiving yards, his first 100 yard game in the NFL. He had his biggest play of the season so far in this one as well. Smith is a special talent with his route running ability. He will continue to be the Eagles’ best wide receiver.
5. Rashawn Slater, OT, Los Angeles Chargers
Rashawn Slater had himself another tremendous game as he helped the Chargers get their second straight division win. He still has not allowed a sack, which is incredible. Slater has made a massive difference very early for the Chargers. To this point, the argument can be made he belongs in the conversation with the best offensive tackles in the league and the Offensive Rookie of the Year running.
4. Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
Similar to Slater and Parsons, Ja’Marr Chase is deservingly on the list another week. He helped the Bengals get a big comeback win and is a key reason why they are off to a 3-1 start. In Week 4, Chase had six catches for 77 receiving yards. He had one big play that went for 44 yards. Chase has been as good as any rookie through the first month of the 2021 season.
3. Eric Stokes, CB, Green Bay Packers
Eric Stokes is coming off a great game for the Packers as he helped them get their third straight win. In Week 4, Stokes had two pass deflections and one interception. Stokes has a special combination of length and speed. It gives him the ability to make big plays, which he did last week. The Packers defense needs all the help it can get. Hopefully, Stokes builds on this performance, he has the talent to do so.
2. Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, EDGE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Joe Tryon-Shoyinka was huge for the Buccaneers in their Week 4 victory. He showed his great pass-rushing ability as he made his impact felt with two sacks. Tryon has special traits with his speed and size. He looked very explosive in this game. Adding Tryon to this already talented defense has helped the Buccaneers early on. As they look to keep winning, getting big contributions from Tryon will be important.
1. Zach Wilson, QB, New York Jets
After two rough weeks, Zach Wilson had a special performance for the Jets helping get their first win. Wilson showed what makes him special and gives him the potential to be one of the best. His out-of-structure playmaking ability was evident in this one. He is exceptional on the move getting out of the pocket. He showed his accuracy and effortless arm strength in this game. Wilson had nearly 300 passing yards and two touchdowns. He made multiple big-time, exciting plays. Wilson should continue to improve for the Jets.
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