NFL Tickets
This year’s NFL Draft class was deep on the defensive side of the ball, especially along the defensive line. With plenty of options to choose from, here are my top five candidates for Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2016.
5. Atlanta Falcons S Keanu Neal
Getty ImagesNeal was a reach by the Falcons in the first round (No. 17 overall), but he's in line for an immediate role as a Kam Chancellor-type for head coach Dan Quinn. Based on the possibility of good all-around numbers, Neal is a dark horse for DROY.
4. San Francisco 49ers DE DeForest Buckner
Getty ImagesTypically, a 3-4 defensive end would go mostly unnoticed. But Buckner is a big, physical force with untapped upside as a pass rusher, and he should start immediately for the 49ers.
3. Cleveland Browns OLB/DE Emmanuel Ogbah
Getty ImagesOgbah's place here is primarily based on immediate opportunity with the Browns, but he was also highly productive over his final two college seasons (24 sacks, 34.5 tackles for loss). It's easy to see a smooth transition to the NFL.
2. Jacksonville Jaguars CB Jalen Ramsey
Getty ImagesRamsey brings versatility and top-level measurables to what should be an immediate starting role for the Jaguars. He only intercepted three passes during his career at Florida State, but Ramsey should top that total quickly as an NFL rookie.
1. San Diego Chargers DE Joey Bosa
Getty ImagesThe No. 3 overall pick will be plugged into a significant role right away, and Bosa could make a J.J. Watt-level impact for the Chargers. A big sack total is easily within reach, and that automatically makes Bosa the top Defensive ROY candidate.
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