The NFL offseason is a time of excitement, anticipation, and speculation. Fans, analysts, and bettors alike are always on the lookout for the next big star or surprise success story that could shake up the awards landscape at the NFL Honors ceremony come February. While many perennial favorites often dominate the conversation, the possibility of dark-horse candidates emerging is very real. As training camps roll around, this is the perfect moment to delve into some under-the-radar players who have the potential to turn some heads and perhaps even elevate their teams' success as the 2026 season unfolds.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Antonio Williams
Antonio Williams, a wide receiver drafted in the third round by the Washington Commanders, is one dark-horse candidate to keep an eye on for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Despite being regarded as a Day 1 talent, Williams faced adversity in his recent college season at Clemson, where he recorded 55 receptions for 604 yards and four touchdowns. Injury concerns marred his performance, yet with the right opportunity, Williams stands ready to prove the skeptics wrong.
With a troubled depth chart in Washington's receiving corps beyond star Terry McLaurin, Williams is expected to have ample opportunity. Commanders’ general manager Adam Peters has praised Williams’ football IQ, instincts, and athleticism, highlighting his potential to shine. If he quickly establishes a rapport with quarterback Jayden Daniels, he could post remarkable numbers—making his 30-1 odds for the OROY award particularly appealing.
Defensive Rookie of the Year: Dillon Thieneman
Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears found their missing piece in safety Dillon Thieneman, selected No. 25 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. At 27-1 odds for the Defensive Rookie of the Year, he is an exciting pick. Thieneman brings a wealth of collegiate experience, having recorded six interceptions in his freshman year at Purdue and accumulating a significant number of tackles throughout his college career.
The Bears are in dire need of playmakers on defense, and Thieneman's agility and speed (notably a 4.35-second 40-yard dash) make him a pivotal asset for a secondary that has struggled in recent years. If Thieneman can secure a starting role and impact games with turnover-creating plays early in the season, his odds for the award could quickly shrink.
Coach of the Year: Aaron Glenn
When it comes to the Coach of the Year award, Detroit Lions head coach Aaron Glenn is an underappreciated candidate sporting 30-1 odds. The New York Jets have not made the playoffs since 2010, creating a perfect storm for Glenn to make a significant mark. If he leads Gang Green to a postseason appearance—a feat that might not even require double-digit wins—he'll draw attention for the award.
Similar success has been experienced by previous winners who turned struggling franchises around, highlighting Glenn's viable path to receiving accolades if he can elevate the Jets from their current dismal trajectory.
Comeback Player of the Year: Tua Tagovailoa
After an injury-plagued stint with the Miami Dolphins, Tua Tagovailoa is getting a fresh start in Atlanta, making him an intriguing candidate for the Comeback Player of the Year award with odds set at 45-1. The former first-round pick is set to compete against Michael Penix Jr. for the starting quarterback position, and the odds are heavily in his favor if he can secure the role.
With support from first-round playmakers like Drake London, Kyle Pitts, and Bijan Robinson, Tagovailoa has the potential to reclaim his standing among elite quarterbacks. If he stays healthy and performs, he could surprise many and emerge as a strong candidate for the award.
Protector of the Year: Tyler Linderbaum
Turning our attention to the Protect of the Year category, Las Vegas Raiders center Tyler Linderbaum presents a solid bet at 22-1 odds. As one of the highlights of the 2026 free-agent market, Linderbaum's value and performance will be closely scrutinized. Coming off three consecutive Pro Bowl seasons, he will be instrumental in paving the way for the Raiders' offense led by first-round QB pick Fernando Mendoza.
Should Linderbaum live up to his hefty contract and bolster the run game while providing protection for Mendoza, he will elevate his chances of taking home this award, making him a compelling pick for bettors.
Defensive Player of the Year: Jared Verse
Last but not least, Jared Verse grapples with strong competition for the Defensive Player of the Year award with odds tied with T.J. Watt and Trey Hendrickson at 9-1. After being traded to the Cleveland Browns, Verse has the opportunity to showcase his potential as the centerpiece of their defense, similar to what Myles Garrett accomplished during his time there.
Verse's robust stats suggest he is already well on his way, having shown great promise in his rookie seasons. With an elevated role and the opportunity to influence games significantly, look for Verse to be a hot commodity for the Defensive Player of the Year award.
This offseason, while many discussions center around established stars, there is no shortage of promising candidates who could disrupt the status quo. As the 2026 season kicks off and progresses, it will be fascinating to watch how these dark horses perform and if they can turn the preseason speculations into award-winning realities.
