Imagine a season where the most feared defenders in the NFL are all chasing the same prize, yet the criteria for winning it seem oddly skewed. That's exactly what's happening with this year’s Defensive Player of the Year nominations. Among the five finalists, all edge rushers, Myles Garrett stands out as the frontrunner after shattering the league’s sack record with an astonishing 23 takedowns. But here's where it gets controversial: while sacking the quarterback is undoubtedly a game-changer, does this dominance overshadow the contributions of other defensive positions? The NFL’s announcement of the finalists—Garrett, Houston’s Will Anderson (12 sacks), Denver’s Nik Bonitto (14 sacks), Detroit’s Aidan Hutchinson (14.5 sacks), and Green Bay’s Micah Parsons (12.5 sacks)—raises questions about whether voters are truly evaluating the entire defensive spectrum or simply defaulting to the most high-profile pass rushers.
And this is the part most people miss: last year’s winner, Broncos cornerback Patrick Surtain II, was a rare exception from the secondary, proving that defensive greatness isn’t limited to edge rushers. Yet, this year’s list feels like a return to the status quo. What’s even more puzzling is the inconsistency in rankings. The same Associated Press panel that votes for Defensive Player of the Year also selects the All-Pro team, where Hutchinson and Bonitto were ranked sixth and seventh among pass rushers, respectively. So, how can they not be in the top five at their position but still be among the league’s top five defensive players overall? It’s a head-scratcher that invites debate.
While Garrett’s historic season makes him the likely winner, the NFL Honors ceremony will confirm it. One thing is certain: interior defensive linemen, inside linebackers, cornerbacks, and safeties won’t be taking home the trophy this year. But should they? Is the Defensive Player of the Year award truly recognizing the most impactful defender, or is it becoming a de facto Pass Rusher of the Year award? Let’s spark a conversation—do you think the current voting system is fair, or is it time to broaden the lens and give other defensive positions their due? Share your thoughts below!
