Chargers Rumors: Three bold predictions for the 2017-18 season
By Jason Reed
1. Mike Williams will win the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year
Starting off this list with a very bold prediction, the Chargers first round selection, and seventh overall, will take home the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. This will mark back-to-back years in which a Charger won the Rookie of the Year with Joey Bosa winning last year’s AP Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Mike Williams will be only the second Chargers to ever haul in the award; running back Don Woods being the only recipient back in 1974. Williams will be the fifth Rookie of the Year, as Shawne Merriman (2005) and Leslie O’Neal (1986) have both won the defensive honors alongside Joey Bosa.
This accomplishment will mirror what the Los Angeles Rams did in 2014 and 2015. In 2014 pass rusher Aaron Donald took home the defensive honors, with running back Todd Gurley taking home the offensive honors the year after. Now, joining the Rams in Los Angeles, Williams will give the Chargers another great rookie campaign.
With a plethora of great receivers in the Chargers system, there is no doubt that Williams will thrive. With the abilities to be a number one target in his NFL career, having opposing defenses focus on the likes of Keenan Allen and others will only give Williams the best looks he can get.
Add in the fact that Williams is playing with Phillip Rivers, who always makes guys better, and it is evident he will have a great rookie year. Williams may have competition in the likes of Mitch Trubisky, Leonard Fournette, and Christian McCaffrey, but he will inevitably end up on top.