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One 2023 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate from each division

By Dave Adams

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 03: Defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah #91 of the Kansas State Wildcats reacts after making a sack against the TCU Horned Frogs in the second half of the Big 12 Championship game at AT&T Stadium on December 03, 2022 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - DECEMBER 03: Defensive end Felix Anudike-Uzomah #91 of the Kansas State Wildcats reacts after making a sack against the TCU Horned Frogs in the second half of the Big 12 Championship game at AT&T Stadium on December 03, 2022 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tim Heitman/Getty Images) /
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Devon Witherspoon, CB, Seattle Seahawks
Devon Witherspoon. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

In conclusion

These defensive rookies are a fun group to project and debate who could have the most significant impact this season.

Looking at the voting from last season, Sauce Gardner (CB NYJ) cleaned house, with Aidan Hutchinson (DE DET) and Tariq Woolen (CB SEA) running a distant second and third, respectively. Gardner had only two interceptions compared to Hutchinson’s 9.5 sacks.

While you can make an excellent argument for any of the players on this list, when considering opponents and specific situations, we could see cornerbacks take home this award in back-to-back years.

Next. 3 NFL head coaches on the hot seat entering the 2023 season. dark

Seattle’s Devon Witherspoon benefits from joining a defense already primed for success against NFC West foes. He’ll enjoy the benefit of lining up twice each against the rebuilding Rams and offensively challenged Cardinals, whose starting quarterback Kyler Murray is expected to miss significant playing time this season.

The 12s should have plenty of reasons to raise the decibel level at Lumen Field when the defense is on the field in 2023.

Who is your choice?

Who did I leave out?

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