2022 NFL Draft: Top Picks Lead Charge For Defensive Rookie Of The Year
By Kyle Edmond
No. 1: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, New York Giants
When you take into account opportunity and production there might not be a defensive rookie in a better position than Kayvon Thibodeaux. Once considered the top pick in the draft, Thibodeaux fell down boards and ended up with the New York Giants, which could actually be a blessing in disguise.
The knock I had against Hutchinson was teams being able to focus on him. For Walker, it was the baptism by fire that’s going to happen in Jacksonville. Thibodeaux might be able to avoid both of those with two teammates. Leonard Williams and Dexter Lawrence.
Veterans of the defensive line at this point, Williams and Lawrence will demand attention of the defensive line, drawing away the focus that teams would typically put on a talent like Thibodeaux. On top of that, they’ll be able to guide Thibodeaux through his rookie season.
There’s also the division. The NFC East isn’t the best and the opportunities for Thibodeaux to cause havoc will be plentiful. Washington and Philadelphia are both in stages of flux and changes to Dallas’ offensive line could create chances there as well.
What it boils down to is that of the defensive rookies, Thibodeaux should have the best combination of talent and chances to make a run at Defensive Rookie of the Year.