Jags RB James Robinson named a finalist for Pepsi Rookie of the Year award

Jacksonville Jaguars rookie James Robinson was named a finalist for the 2020 Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year award the team announced Friday. If nominated, Robinson would be the first-ever undrafted rookie to win the award.

The undrafted star from Illinois State shocked the football community after becoming the Jags’ RB1, finishing the 2020 season with 1,414 scrimmage yards. Of those yards, 1,070 were rushing yards (good for fifth in the league) while 344 were garnered as a receiver. Robinson also finished the season with 10 total touchdowns, seven of which were rushing touchdowns.

While the Jags only won one game, Robinson made history by surpassing former Colt Dominic Rhodes for the most yards from scrimmage of any undrafted rookie in NFL history (1,328 yards). He also achieved several other accolades like becoming the first undrafted player in NFL history to accumulate at least 300 scrimmage yards and multiple touchdowns through three games.

Robinson joined quarterback Justin Herbert (Los Angeles Chargers), pass-rusher Chase Young (The Washington Football Team), receiver Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings), and tailback Jonathan Taylor (Indianapolis Colts) on the ballot. Fans can vote online here, or directly via Twitter starting today to January 25. To vote through Twitter, tweet James Robinson or @Robinson_jamess with the hashtag #PepsiROY.