2016-2017 NFL Season Award Predictions

Aug 27, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) celebrates after a sack in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 27, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) celebrates after a sack in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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Ezekiel Elliot: Rookie of the Year/Offensive Rookie of the Year

Sep 11, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) dives in for a touchdown against New York Giants free safety Nat Berhe (29) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Erich Schlegel-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 11, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) dives in for a touchdown against New York Giants free safety Nat Berhe (29) at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Erich Schlegel-USA TODAY Sports /

The pride of the Ohio State Buckeyes, running back Ezekiel Elliot is polished as any runner at that position to come out of this year’s NFL Draft. Elliot is the overwhelming favorite to win the Rookie of the Year and Offensive Rookie of the Year because of the supporting cast with Dallas Cowboys.

Offensive line for the Cowboys should be given a share of the award if Elliot runs for 1,400-1,500 yards during the 2016 NFL season. But let’s be honest, Elliot will win the award for the tough yards and ability to sustain a drive despite who will man the quarterback position for the Cowboys.

Elliot will be the second consecutive running back to win the Offensive Rookie of the Year after Todd Gurley won the award last year. And Elliot will be the last running back to win the Rookie of the Year since Adrian Peterson. Elliot has the makings to make as big an impact early in his NFL career as Peterson did coming from Oklahoma.

Next: Defensive Rookie of the Year