TANTALISING NEWS:10 NFL defensive rookies you won’t be able to take your eyes off
Although the 2024 NFL Draft saw a record-breaking 23 offensive players selected in the first round, the defensive side of the ball is not lacking in star power. Here are 10 standout defensive rookies poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season:
Minnesota Vikings linebacker Dallas Turner
- Draft: Round 1, 17th overall pick
- Notable Achievements: SEC Defensive Player of the Year with 10 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss in 2023
- Potential Impact: Could be a strong replacement for former Pro Bowler Danielle Hunter
Indianapolis Colts defensive end Laiatu Latu
- Draft: Round 1, 15th overall pick
- Accolades: Led FBS in tackles for loss (22) and tied for fourth in sacks (13) at UCLA
- Comparison: Compares to six-time Pro Bowler T.J. Watt
Seattle Seahawks defensive tackle Byron Murphy II
- Draft: Round 1, 16th overall pick
- Athleticism: Impressive physical attributes with a 91.1 grade from Pro Football Focus
- Potential: Could surpass former Pro Bowler Justin Madubuike under new Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald
Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Quinyon Mitchell
- Draft: Round 1, 22nd overall pick
- Skillset: Record-setting pass breakups at Toledo, aiming to strengthen the Eagles’ secondary
Detroit Lions cornerback Terrion Arnold
- Draft: Round 1, 24th overall pick
- Praise: Nick Saban endorsed Arnold as a top NFL cornerback prospect
- Performance: Key player in Alabama’s College Football Playoff run with impressive stats
Miami Dolphins linebacker Chop Robinson
- Draft: Round 1, 21st overall pick
- Comparison: Athleticism likened to top NFL defenders Parsons and Garrett
- Pressure: Known for generating high pressure rates despite moderate sack numbers
Green Bay Packers linebacker Edgerrin Cooper
- Draft: Round 2, 45th overall pick
- Accolades: First-team All-American with standout performances at Texas A&M
- Opportunity: Poised to fill the gap left by De’Vondre Campbell’s departure
Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Payton Wilson
- Draft: Round 3, 98th overall pick
- Potential: Injury concerns aside, a Butkus Award winner with high upside if healthy
Washington Commanders DT Jer’Zhan Newton
- Draft: Round 2, 36th overall pick
- Impact: Expected to bolster Washington’s defense with impressive pressure stats from Illinois
Los Angeles Rams defensive tackle Braden Fiske
- Draft: Round 2, 39th overall pick
- Speed: Impressive combine performance with potential to fill the void left by Aaron Donald’s retirement
These rookies showcase a diverse range of talents and potential, promising an exciting season ahead for their respective teams.
