Imagine a season where the most feared defensive players in the NFL are all edge rushers, and one man stands above them all. That’s the reality this year, as Myles Garrett of the Cleveland Browns is poised to claim the Defensive Player of the Year title after shattering the league’s sack record. But here’s where it gets controversial: are we truly recognizing the best defensive talent, or are we just defaulting to the most visible names? Let’s dive in.
The NFL has unveiled its five finalists for Defensive Player of the Year, and every single one is an edge rusher. Joining Garrett in this elite group are Houston’s Will Anderson, Denver’s Nik Bonitto, Detroit’s Aidan Hutchinson, and Green Bay’s Micah Parsons. These players have dominated the season with their ability to disrupt offenses, but it raises a question: are we overlooking other defensive positions entirely?
Garrett’s 23 sacks are a testament to his dominance, while Hutchinson (14.5), Bonitto (14), Parsons (12.5), and Anderson (12) have also made their mark. Yet, the absence of interior linemen, linebackers, cornerbacks, or safeties among the finalists is striking. Last year’s winner, Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II, was a rare exception, as the award often goes to pass rushers. This year, the skew is so pronounced that it’s hard not to wonder if voters are simply playing it safe with big names.
And this is the part most people miss: the same Associated Press voters who select the Defensive Player of the Year also choose the All-Pro team. Interestingly, Hutchinson and Bonitto were ranked sixth and seventh, respectively, among pass rushers in the All-Pro voting. So, how can they be outside the top five at their position but among the top five defensive players in the league? It’s a head-scratcher that invites scrutiny.
While we’re nearly certain Garrett will take home the honor, the NFL Honors ceremony will confirm it. What’s clear, though, is who won’t win: any player not named an edge rusher. Is this a fair representation of defensive excellence, or are we missing the bigger picture? Let’s spark a debate—do you think the award is too focused on pass rushers, or is this the right call? Share your thoughts below!
