While the offense stole the show at the NFL Draft, there were some outstanding defensive players drafted. The first 14 picks were all offensive players but from 15 to 17, we saw three defensive studs selected, and it’s no coincidence, they are the betting favorites to win Defensive Rookie of the Year.
Laiatu Latu, Indianapolis Colts (+300)
The Indianapolis Colts were the first team to dip into defense and selected UCLA edge rusher Laiatu Latu with the 15th overall pick. In his senior year, Latu recorded 13 sacks and closed out his college career with back-to-back years with double-digit sacks. The 23-year old could be the new cornerstone on defense for the Colts who finished top five in pass-rush win rate last season. Indianapolis hasn’t had a pass-rusher with more than 9 and half sacks since 2019, but that could change with the addition of Latu.
Dallas Turner, Minnesota Vikings (+400)
Many experts had Dallas Turner as the top defender in the class and the Vikings were thrilled to see the edge rusher drop into their lap at No. 17. In his last season with Alabama, Turner recorded 10 sacks, two forced fumbles and 53 tackles. Over three seasons with the Crimson Tide, the 21-year old racked up 22.5 sacks. He’ll be a great fit for defensive coordinator Brian Flores who will use Turner to fill the void left by Danielle Hunter’s departure. The system in Minnesota could allow Turner to flourish and be a menace of defense, but more importantly, have a legitimate shot of taking home this award.
Byron Murphy II, Seattle Seahawks (+900)
Byron Murphy II may be in one of the best situations with Seattle as he should start on the defensive line with a new head coach who knows how to develop young talent. Mike MacDonald has helped several players turn into top defenders in the NFL (Roquan Smith, Justin Madubuik). He didn’t set the college world on fire in 2023, but did set career highs with five sacks and eight tackles for loss. He will get the opportunity to showcase his talent, and a productive season could land him as a finalist for this honor.
Chop Robinson, Miami Dolphins (+1200)
Sometimes it’s all about being in the right place at the right time. And that is the situation for Chop Robinson who could get the chance to contribute right away considering the Dolphins are plagued by injuries at the pass rush position. In his final season at Penn State, Robinson finished with 15 tackles (12 solo), 7.5 tackles for loss, four sacks, two forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, a pass breakup and five quarterback hurries. History is on his side as pass rushers have dominated this award as of late, winning four of the last eight.
Odds for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year
Laiatu Latu +300 Dallas Turner +400
Jared Verse +800 Byron Murphy II +900
Terrion Arnold +1000 Chop Robinson +1200
Quinyon Mitchell +1400 Junior Colson +1400
Darius Robinson +2500 Edgerrin Cooper +2500
Payton Wilson +2500 Cooper DeJean +3300
Nate Wiggins +3300 Kool-Aid McKinstry +4000
Jer'Zhan Newton +4000 Tyler Nubin +5000