Bengals RB Giovani Bernard nominated for Pepsi Next Rookie of the Year

Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard is one of five players nominated for the Pepsi Next Rookie of the Year award. The Pepsi Next rookie of the year is a fan vote and not the NFL's award that they hand out of offense and defense -- this one is similar to the Pepsi Next rookie of the week, except for this is the end-of-the-year honors.

Bernard generated 1,209 yards from scrimmage and scored eight touchdowns with five on the ground. Giovani Bernard won the award in week three for generating 99 yards from scrimmage with a touchdown during Cincinnati's 34-30 win over the Green Bay Packers.

Joining Bernard are Green Bay Packers running back Eddie Lacy (1,178 yards rushing and 11 touchdowns), Buffalo Bills linebacker Kiko Alonso (159 tackles, two sacks, four interceptions), San Diego Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen (71 receptions, 1,046 yards receiving, eight touchdowns) and Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson (469 yards receiving, four rushing touchdowns, 158 yards rushing, three rushing touchdowns, two kickoff returns for a touchdown).

Remember, this is a fan vote so vote now.