Could a franchise-record-setting performance finally earn Brian Thomas Jr. the NFL’s Rookie of the Week honor?
On Tuesday, Thomas was placed under consideration for the award for the sixth time this season, nominated for his 10-reception, 105-yard, two-touchdown showing in the Jacksonville Jaguars’ 32-25 loss to the New York Jets in Week 15.
Thomas established new Jaguars rookie season receiving records against the Jets, surpassing Justin Blackmon’s 865-yard mark from 2012 and Allen Hurns’ six touchdowns from 2014. Thomas is one reception short of tying Blackmon’s 65-catch rookie record entering Week 16.
Through 14 games, Thomas has caught 64 passes for 956 yards and eight touchdowns.
Thomas previously went up for Rookie of the Week in Weeks 1, 4, 5, 7 and 14. He combined to catch 38 passes for 535 yards and six touchdowns in those games, against the Miami Dolphins, Houston Texans, Indianapolis Colts, New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans and Jets.
“As the season progressed, you can see that he can handle more information. He can handle more responsibility. And each week we keep finding ways to load him up and he answers,” Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson described Thomas on Sunday. “That’s what you want from your top receiver.
“He’s just been such a bright spot. He’s been a workhorse offensively. There’s a lot of people we depend on and count on, but for a young player, he’s someone that you can dial the ball up and chances are he’s going to find a completion. Just been thoroughly impressed with Brian as the season’s gone on.”
Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels, New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye, Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker, New York Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers and Green Bay Packers linebacker Edgerrin Cooper were also nominated for Week 15.
Fans can vote for NFL Rookie of the Week here.
