With training camps underway, we’re getting our first real chance to see how this year’s rookie class measures up against pro competition. However, until the real games begin, all we can do is project how NFL newbies will fare in 2026, so that’s what I’m doing here. Below you’ll find my top 11 candidates to win the Defensive Rookie of the Year award, but before we dive in, here are four trends to note:
No safety has won the award since Mark Carrier in 1990.
No defensive tackle has won the award since Aaron Donald in 2014.
Five of the last seven winners were edge rushers, including hybrid edge/linebacker Micah Parsons in 2021.
Thirty-eight of the last 45 DROY winners (84%) were top-20 draft picks.
NOTE: The odds below, provided by DraftKings, are current as of 5 p.m. ET on Thursday, July 30.