The National Football League presents its prestigious Defensive Rookie of the Year award, which is chosen annually by a nationwide panel of sports media. This award recognizes standout performances by first-year defensive players in the league. Here’s a look at the most recent recipients of this honor:
In 2024, Jared Verse, an edge rusher for the Los Angeles Rams, took home the award. The previous year, 2023, saw Will Anderson, a defensive end with the Houston Texans, receive this accolade. In 2022, Sauce Gardner, a defensive back with the New York Jets, was recognized for his stellar rookie season.
The award has a rich history, with previous winners including players like Micah Parsons, who was named Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2021 while playing linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys. The 2020 honor went to Chase Young, who made waves as an edge rusher for Washington. Notably, Nick Bosa also earned this title in 2019 as an edge rusher for the San Francisco 49ers.
Darius Leonard, a linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts, won the award in 2018, while Marshon Lattimore, a cornerback for the New Orleans Saints, took home the award in 2017. Joey Bosa was recognized in 2016 as a defensive end for San Diego. The winners list features many formidable players, including Marcus Peters from the Kansas City Chiefs in 2015, Aaron Donald in 2014, and Sheldon Richardson in 2013, who played as defensive tackles for the New York Jets.
Further back, Luke Kuechly, the Carolina Panthers linebacker, received the award in 2012, while Von Miller, another linebacker, won it in 2011 for the Denver Broncos. The award also honors past legends like Ndamukong Suh in 2010, Brian Cushing in 2009, and Jerod Mayo in 2008, who were all influential figures for their respective teams.
The legacy of this award spans decades, honoring outstanding defensive performances from players like Patrick Willis in 2007, DeMeco Ryans in 2006, and Shawne Merriman in 2005. The tradition goes as far back as 1980 when Buddy Curry and Al Richardson of the Atlanta Falcons shared the award. Each honoree represents a significant milestone in their careers, often setting the stage for their future accomplishments in the NFL.
The Defensive Rookie of the Year award has not only celebrated individual talent but has also contributed to the rich history and evolution of defensive play in professional football. With the caliber of talent being recognized annually, it highlights the crucial role that rookies play in shaping the defenses of their teams and making an impact right from the start of their careers.
