Fields, the 3rd overall pick in last spring's draft, becomes the second rookie to win the award (Todd Gurley II won it for the 3GML back in 2015). A possible foreshadowing of things to come, Fields won the starting job at 49ers camp after one week. Once cemented as the starter, the Ohio St. prospect took command of Kyle Shanahan's offense throwing for over 3500 yards and 22 touchdowns. It was his legs, however, that took the San Francisco offense to the next level. Fields rushed for 750 yards and six more touchdowns in his 15 games played.
"I'm honored. To win this award as a rookie is unbelievable," Fields said. "I have to give credit to my coaches and teammates. I also want to thank GM CD for taking a chance on me. Finally, I want to thank the voters. To share the award with Mike Gesicki just reinforces what they thought of my play."
Gesicki becomes the first tight end in 3GML league history to win the award. He made it impossible for voters to overlook his contributions to the Texans offense. Gesicki tied the tight end receptions record held by Zach Ertz with 116 catches for the year. Many of these catches came at crucial moments in games including multiple on 3rd down. When all was said and done Gesicki racked up 1289 yards and nine touchdowns.
"Wow, man. What an honor," Gesicki said. "When I was traded here, I knew I was heading to a young franchise and wasn't sure what to expect. It was clear early on this team was special and headed for big things. I want to thank my teammates and coaches for setting me up for success. I also want to acknowledge how special it is to have a great connection with both Andy [Dalton] and Gardner [Minshew]. Most tight ends are lucky to have rapport with one guy, I had it with two."
Fields and Gesicki now get an opportunity to take their legacies to new territory, as both enter the playoffs for the first time in their careers. Could we see a MVP showdown in Super Bowl LVI? It's possible, but both San Francisco and Houston will only go as far as these two players take them.
Vote Breakdown:
(27 Votes): Justin Fields (San Francisco 49ers)
(27 Votes): Mike Gesicki (Houston Texans)
(24 Votes): Patrick Surtain II (Green Bay Packers)
(24 Votes): Patrick Surtain II (Green Bay Packers)
(21 Votes): Stefon Diggs (Green Bay Packers)
(17 Votes): Quinnen Williams (Green Bay Packers)
(14 Votes): Alvin Kamara (San Francisco 49ers)
(14 Votes): Clelin Ferrell (Houston Texans)
(11 Votes): Bilal Nichols (San Francisco 49ers)
(3 Votes): Denzel Mims (Houston Texans)
(3 Votes): Devin Bush (Green Bay Packers)
