Saquon Barkley’s Historic Season and Offensive Player of the Year Odds
The 2024-25 NFL season has been nothing short of historic for Philadelphia’s Saquon Barkley, as he etched his name in the record books and solidified his status as one of the league’s elite players. Barkley’s record-breaking campaign earned him the NFL Offensive Player of the Year (OPOY) award, a testament to his incredible performance on the field. He rushed for an impressive 2,005 yards during the season, making him only the second player in NFL history to eclipse the 2,000-yard mark in a single season. Barkley’s consistency was equally remarkable, as he achieved 100 or more rushing yards in 14 different games, including postseason matchups. His efforts were rewarded with a two-year, $41.2 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid running back in NFL history. Given his dominant performance this past season, it’s no surprise that Barkley is the early favorite to win OPOY again next season, with odds of +650.
The Full List of Early Contenders for the 2025-26 OPOY Award
As of March 6, DraftKings Sportsbook has released the early odds for the 2025-26 OPOY award, and the list is packed with talent. Saquon Barkley leads the pack at +650, followed closely by Detroit’s Jahmyr Gibbs at +950. Gibbs had a standout season, scoring 16 touchdowns—tied for the most in the league—and rushing for 1,412 yards, which ranked fifth in the NFL. Ja’Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals rounds out the top three at +1000. Despite his team’s disappointing season and early postseason exit, Chase was a standout performer, leading the league in receptions (127), receiving yards (1,708), and touchdowns (17). These numbers made him a finalist for OPOY last season, further solidifying his status as one of the league’s elite wide receivers.
Rising Stars and Veteran Presences on the OPOY Odds Board
The list of early contenders also features several rising stars and established veterans who could make a strong case for OPOY honors next season. Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams and Bijan Robinson of the Atlanta Falcons are both listed at +1600, while Derrick Henry of the Baltimore Ravens follows at +1800. Henry, a consistent powerhouse in the league, continues to be a dominant force on the ground, and his inclusion on the list is a reminder of his enduring talent. Other notable names include CeeDee Lamb (+2000), Nico Collins (+2000), and Justin Jefferson (+2000), all of whom are explosive playmakers who could challenge for the award depending on their team’s performance and individual output.
Lamar Jackson and Other Long-Shot Contenders
Further down the board, Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens sits at +4000. Despite a playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills last season, Jackson had a stellar year, throwing for 4,172 yards and 41 touchdowns. His versatility as a quarterback and his ability to impact the game both through the air and on the ground make him a compelling long-shot candidate for OPOY. Other notable long-shots include Amon-Ra St. Brown (+2500), Tyreek Hill (+3000), and Malik Nabers (+3000). While these players face an uphill battle to win the award, their inclusion on the list highlights the depth of talent across the league and the potential for any number of players to step into the spotlight next season.
Analyzing the Odds and Placing Your Bets
For those looking to place a bet on the OPOY award, it’s important to consider both the odds and the context surrounding each player. Saquon Barkley’s dominance last season makes him the clear favorite, but injuries and team performance can always play a role in shaping the race. Jahmyr Gibbs and Ja’Marr Chase are both strong contenders, but their ability to replicate last season’s success will depend on their team’s overall performance. When placing a bet, consider factors such as team strength, offensive schemes, and individual health. Betting on a long-shot like Lamar Jackson could provide a significant payout if he has a breakout season, but it’s important to weigh the risks and rewards before making your decision.
The Road Ahead and the Excitement for Next Season
As the NFL offseason continues, football fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the 2025-26 season. With a plethora of talent across the league, the race for OPOY is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. From Saquon Barkley’s quest for back-to-back awards to the emergence of young stars like Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson, there are countless storylines to follow. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the combination of elite talent and competitive odds makes the upcoming season a must-watch event. As the draft approaches and teams finalize their rosters, the stage is set for another thrilling year of football, and only time will tell who will emerge as the next Offensive Player of the Year.
