DTs that could win DPOY
By: Jake Rajala
There have been unique players to win Defensive Player of The Year. There have been cornerbacks to win the award, such as Patrick Surtain and Stephon Gilmore. There has also been a DT by the name of Aaron Donald to win it a few times! With that said, I’m going to talk about the DT position and project which DTs could win DPOY!
Chris Jones
The sack numbers weren’t there (as he recorded five). However, his ability was noticed. He almost always took up double teams, similar to Maxx Crosby hogging double and triple teams. Jones was awarded first-team All-Pro for the third straight season. PFF gave him a grade of 89.7, which was third among DTs. Jones can kick outside on occasion.
Jalen Carter
Jalen Carter is a freak of nature. He has some of the quickest hands and power among DTs. Carter really shined in the playoffs. I believe Carter has the perfect opportunity with lots of prime-time games to win over the audience. Carter is also growing from a mental aspect. He had six pass deflections last season. PFF noted he had 53 pressures, too.
Cameron Heyward
Cameron Heyward refuses to lay down. He unleashed eight sacks, 20 QB hits, and 12 TFLs a season ago. Heyward should benefit from T.J. Watt taking all of the attention away. He also gets to play against the pedestrian Bengals and Browns in his division, which should help him a lot. Just ask Cincy how it was trying to block Aaron Donald.
Honorable Mention:
Bryan Bresee
Bryan Bresee had 7.5 sacks last season, which was first for the Saints. He really benefits from a rotation at DL. Bryan also lines up next to Chase Young and Carl Granderson often, so it’s hard to know who should be double-teamed. Similar to the other DL on this list, Bresee has a weak schedule, so that should really help his stat sheet.
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