2016 NFL Awards: Who Wins Defensive Rookie Of The Year?

This year’s defensive rookie class has been disappointing so far. Some promising players such as Shaq Lawson, Reggie Ragland, and Myles Jack had trouble on the injury front. Other guys like Derron Lee, Kenny Clark, and Keanu Neal simply weren’t difference makers that their teams were hoping for. The race for defensive rookie of the year looks to be a two-horse race between Joey Bosa and Jalen Ramsey. Who should win the award?

1. Joey Bosa (San Diego Chargers)

I whiffed on Bosa big time when I said he would probably end up being a bust in the NFL. Bosa only had 3.5 sacks in college which made me question how good of a pass rusher he would be. Bosa did nothing but notch 10.5 sacks in just 12 games. Bosa has also graded very well in run defense as well. This was one of the best rookie seasons in NFL history. Bosa is probably the front-runner to win the award.

2. Jalen Ramsey (Jacksonville Jaguars)

Ramsey hasn’t gotten the recognition he deserves because he played for a 3 win Jaguars team. He also holds the edge over Bosa for playing all 16 games. (Bosa sat out due to a rookie contract holdout). Ramsey only had 2 interceptions on the season but teams started really throwing the ball away from him late in the season. Ramsey has a very bright NFL future and looks a lot like Patrick Peterson. Ramsey has proven he is a true number one corner as I was unsure if he could transition from being a safety in college.