Analysis of the Most Promising Second-Year NFL Defenders
The offseason gives us the opportunity to analyze the performance of rookies in the NFL. After evaluating quarterbacks and receivers, we now focus our attention on the defense, an area where the impact of first-year players was notable.
In 2024, a total of 27 rookies played at least 500 snaps on defense, with 20 of them performing as defensive players. Not only was the number of rookies who played impressive, but so was their quality. Players like Jared Verse, Quinyon Mitchell, Mike Sainristil, and Cooper DeJean, along with others, defined the playoffs with their performance.
Below, we present the 20 most important second-year defensive players, analyzing their strengths and what makes them special, ordered by their draft position.
Byron Murphy II, DT, Seattle Seahawks
Murphy showed inconsistencies in his rookie season. A hamstring injury affected his explosiveness, and a back injury impacted his play late in the season. Despite this, his best plays were notable, showing the ability to withstand double teams and explode for impactful tackles. Although he didn’t have many opportunities to pressure the quarterback, his athleticism suggests a potential for productive penetration.
Murphy is expected to continue in the nose tackle role on the first plays, but his contribution is crucial to improving the Seahawks’ defense on early downs.
Jared Verse, Edge, Los Angeles Rams
Verse received praise from Terron Armstead, who highlighted him as a player he would rather not face. His effective “bull rush” technique and speed made him a play destroyer. Verse proved to be a disruptor in the running game, with an impact similar to that of T.J. Watt on the Rams’ defense. If he manages to translate his ability to finish plays from the running game to the passing game, he could rise to the elite of the NFL’s edge rushers.
Chop Robinson, Edge, Miami Dolphins
Following Jaelan Phillips’ injury, Robinson took on a full-time role and excelled with a pressure rate of 17.2%, ranking among the top edge rushers. Although his playing style didn’t translate into many sacks, his ability to pressure the quarterback is promising.
Quinyon Mitchell, CB, Philadelphia Eagles
Mitchell had a solid performance, with a low number of yards allowed per coverage and an ability to prevent rival receivers from being the focus of the offense. His ability to read plays and get to his position quickly makes him a key player. He is expected to continue improving and consolidating as an elite defender.
Terrion Arnold, CB, Detroit Lions
Arnold was put to the test, with a large number of snaps and targets. His ability to adapt to NFL rules and his physical style made him a valuable player. Although he struggled at first, his performance improved as the season progressed. He is expected to take on a more important role and improve his production in the passing game.
Nate Wiggins, CB, Baltimore Ravens
Wiggins is shaping up to be the Ravens’ CB1, outperforming Brandon Stephens. He is a physical and communicative defender, with movement and ball skills that allow him to make impactful plays. His potential is high and he is expected to continue to grow.
T’Vondre Sweat, DT, Tennessee Titans
Sweat, with his imposing physique, is a force in the middle of the defensive line. Although he still needs to improve his ability to pressure the quarterback, his ability to stop the running game is invaluable to the Titans. His presence allows the defense to be more creative.
Cooper DeJean, CB, Philadelphia Eagles
DeJean, a versatile player, excels in the nickel corner position. His ability to adapt and make plays in different situations makes him a key player. His performance is expected to make him an All-Pro.
Kamari Lassiter, CB, Houston Texans
Lassiter proved to be an effective defender, limiting the gains of rival receivers. His aggressiveness and ability to stop the running game make him a valuable player. If he manages to maintain his level of play, he will remain as one of the best CB2s in the league.
Edgerrin Cooper, LB, Green Bay Packers
Cooper showed a notable improvement in run defense. His side-to-side range of action and his ability to anticipate plays make him an impactful player. He is expected to continue growing and having a significant impact.
Kris Jenkins Jr., DT, Cincinnati Bengals
Jenkins is a key piece in the Bengals’ defensive line. Although his impact on run defense was limited, his potential is evident. He needs to improve his ability to make plays near the line of scrimmage and increase his pressure on the quarterback.
Mike Sainristil, CB, Washington Commanders
Sainristil showed a good performance, although sometimes he was surpassed by bigger players. His ability to be in position and his physical game are positive. He is expected to adapt to his new role in the slot and continue improving.
As Sainristil moves inside after the recruitment of Trey Amos and the signing of Jonathan Jones, I expect…
